Port-au-Prince in March
March weather, activities, events & insider tips
March Weather in Port-au-Prince
Is March Right for You?
Advantages
- Peak dry season with minimal rainfall - only brief afternoon showers 60% of days, lasting 20-30 minutes maximum, making outdoor exploration highly reliable
- Post-carnival energy creates busy cultural atmosphere - local musicians and artists are most active, street art tours and cultural events peak during this period
- Optimal temperatures for walking tours - morning temperatures of 22°C (71°F) are perfect for exploring downtown markets and historic sites before midday heat
- Best visibility for mountain excursions to Haiti and Furcy - clear skies offer impressive views of Port-au-Prince bay from 1,500m (4,920 ft) elevation
Considerations
- High humidity at 70% makes midday heat feel oppressive - temperatures feel like 35°C (95°F) between 11am-3pm, forcing indoor breaks
- Tourist season pricing peaks in March with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than September-November low season
- Dust levels increase during dry period - harmattan winds carry Saharan dust, affecting air quality and requiring face masks for sensitive travelers
Best Activities in March
Iron Market and Downtown Walking Tours
March's dry weather makes navigating Port-au-Prince's bustling Iron Market and historic downtown districts ideal. Morning temperatures of 22°C (71°F) allow comfortable 2-3 hour walking explorations before heat peaks. Local vendors are most active post-carnival, offering authentic Haitian crafts and artwork. The low rainfall means cobblestone streets in areas like Rue Pavée remain accessible.
Kenscoff Mountain Region Day Trips
March offers the clearest visibility for mountain excursions to Haiti at 1,500m (4,920 ft) elevation. Dry season means reliable road conditions on the winding 27km (16.7 mile) route from Port-au-Prince. Cool mountain temperatures of 18°C (64°F) provide relief from coastal heat, while strawberry and vegetable farms are at peak harvest season.
Jacmel Colonial Architecture Tours
The 88km (54.7 mile) journey to Haiti is most comfortable in March's dry conditions. This UNESCO-considered colonial town showcases Haiti's architectural heritage with Victorian-era buildings and famous carnival mask workshops. March timing allows exploration of ateliers as artisans create next year's carnival pieces.
Boutilliers Gallery and Art Studio Visits
March's post-carnival period sees peak activity in Boutilliers' renowned art galleries and studios. The hillside location at 600m (1,968 ft) offers cooler temperatures and panoramic bay views. Many galleries schedule special exhibitions during this period, showcasing contemporary Haitian art movement.
Barbancourt Rum Distillery Experience
March's dry weather ensures optimal conditions for the 15km (9.3 mile) journey to Barbancourt distillery in Damien. This family-owned operation, dating to 1862, offers insights into Haiti's sugarcane rum heritage. March timing coincides with sugarcane harvest season, providing authentic production experiences.
Bassin Bleu Waterfall Expeditions
March's minimal rainfall ensures safe hiking conditions to Bassin Bleu's three-tiered waterfalls near Haiti. The 2km (1.2 mile) moderate hike through tropical forest benefits from dry trail conditions, while water levels remain sufficient for swimming in the famous blue pools.
March Events & Festivals
Rara Season Traditional Music
March marks the peak of Rara season, Haiti's traditional Easter preparation featuring street processions with bamboo trumpets, drums, and call-and-response singing. These weekend celebrations occur throughout Port-au-Prince neighborhoods, offering authentic cultural experiences rarely seen by tourists.
Port-au-Prince International Book Fair
Annual literary celebration featuring Haitian and Caribbean authors, poetry readings, and cultural discussions. Events held at various venues including Institut Français and cultural centers. Provides insights into contemporary Haitian intellectual and artistic movements.