Transportation in Port-au-Prince

Port-au-Prince moves on three main tracks: the ubiquitous tap-taps (shared minivans painted like rolling murals), motorcycle taxis that weave through gridlock for the price of a cold drink, and private car hires that cost multiples of both. Tap-taps follow fixed routes radiating from the downtown terminals near Champ de Mars. Flag one anywhere along the street, squeeze in, and pass your coins forward. They're cheap, hot, and stop whenever someone knocks, good for short hops, punishing for cross-city runs. Motorcycle taxis shave minutes off any journey but negotiate the helmet and fare before you swing on. No meter, just local knowledge. First-timers should download the local ride-hailing app (Digicel's "TchoTcho" or "Uber Haiti" depending on network) before landing, cell service at the airport is spotty but Wi-Fi works. Avoid unmarked taxis outside baggage claim. The official airport taxi desk inside the terminal arranges fixed-price rides to most hotels and is worth the premium. If you're feeling adventurous, the Route de l'Aéroport tap-tap passes the terminal gates. But luggage makes it awkward and evening arrivals mean you'll likely wait until the vans fill.