fortresses

Citadelle Henri

March 7, 2025 by admin

Climb to the Citadelle and See the Fortress That Defended a Nation

A fortress like no other—Citadelle Henri is the largest in the Americas, a testament to Haiti’s determination to defend its freedom at all costs.

Citadelle Henri, known to locals simply as La Citadelle, is the largest fortress in the Americas. Haitians call it the eighth wonder of the world, and once you reach the summit of Pic Laferrière, you’ll understand why.

The mountaintop fortress is massive, rising 130 feet from Bonnet à l’Évêque, at an elevation of 3,000 feet above sea level. From here, you’ll take in unparalleled views in every direction—over jungle-clad mountains, winding rivers, and the shimmering Caribbean Sea.

Citadelle Henri in Milot
Photo: Angelo Miramonti

What You’ll See

Built to demonstrate the power of a newly independent Haiti, Citadelle Henri was also a defensive stronghold, designed to protect the country if the French attempted to retake the nation. The 100,000-square-foot fortress includes vast cisterns and storehouses, meant to supply the royal family and up to 5,000 people with enough food and water to withstand a year-long siege.

Armed with over 150 cannons, mostly captured from the English, French, and Spanish, the fortress once stored more than 50,000 cannonballs. With walls over 13 feet thick and rising 100 feet high, the Citadelle was built to be impenetrable.

Fortunately, the French never returned, the canons were never fired in combat, and the Citadelle is much the same today as it was 200 years ago. In recent years, restoration efforts have been supported by organizations like the World Monuments Fund, which works to protect this historic site for future generations.

Visitors can spend hours exploring the site—walking its ramparts, drawbridges, cannon batteries, and long corridors designed to outwit invaders. Many windows and ramparts drop off into sheer cliffs, offering breathtaking views of northern Haiti.

Inside the courtyard, you’ll find a brand-new museum, an art gallery, and modern restrooms, along with a small gift shop selling drinks and postcards.

A National Icon

Citadelle Henri is Haiti’s most popular historic site, visited by both Haitians and travelers alike. It holds a visible place of pride in Haitian culture—you’ll see its distinct triangular shape on 5 HTG coins, 100 HTG bills, and even the covers of school textbooks.

Citadelle Henri
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

The History Behind Citadelle Henri

Citadelle Henri was constructed between 1805 and 1820, following Haiti’s successful revolution, in which the formerly enslaved African-descended population overthrew French colonial rule and declared independence. It took 15 years and 20,000 people to build.

The fortress was part of a larger defensive network, which included Fort Jacques and Fort Ogé, all built to protect Haiti from future invasions by European forces from neighboring colonies. While earlier forts were constructed during the revolution itself, Henri Christophe ordered the construction of the Citadelle in 1805, just one year after independence, as a permanent stronghold against potential attacks.

Rising 130 feet above the mountaintop, the Citadelle not only provided strategic defense but also sent a clear message. Even from its base, the fortress offers uninterrupted views of the sea, but more importantly, it could be seen from miles offshore—a warning to any would-be invaders that Haiti was ready to defend itself.

Construction, personally overseen by Christophe, was completed in 1820, cementing the Citadelle’s place as one of the greatest military fortifications in the Americas. Today, it is not only a national symbol but also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized for its historical and architectural significance.

Getting there

The Citadelle is located in the town of Milot, just south of Cap-Haïtien, about a one-hour drive away.

The journey begins near the entrance to Sans-Souci Palace, where visitors must pay an entry fee of $10 USD. Here, you’ll find plenty of local guides offering tours of both Sans-Souci Palace and the Citadelle. Guide prices vary depending on your group size, but the fee is per person and covers both sites.

At the entrance, you’ll also find vendors selling drinks, snacks, and souvenirs—but be sure to bring cash, as you’ll need it for transportation, entry fees, tipping, and purchases. It’s also a good idea to bring water, especially if you plan to hike.

To reach the Citadelle’s summit, you have three options:

Take a moto (motorbike taxi) for around $10 USD.
Hike on foot (1 to 2 hours, depending on your fitness level).
Ride on horseback ($15 USD).

The route from Sans-Souci to the Citadelle is only 4 miles (6.5 kilometers), but with an elevation gain of over 2,000 feet (700 meters), the climb is steep. Many visitors choose to stay overnight in one of the many hotels in Cap-Haïtien rather than making it a rushed trip. If you’re spending time in the city, be sure to check out the coolest things to do in Cap-Haïtien and beyond to make the most of your visit.

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published April 2019.
Updated March 2025.

Find Citadelle Henri

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Top things to see around Cap-Haïtien

The Coolest Things to Do in Cap-Haïtien and Beyond

March 1, 2025 by Anton Lau

Jet skiing in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

The Coolest Things to Do in Cap-Haïtien and Beyond

Looking for the best things to do in Cap-Haïtien? From coastal adventures to historic forts and Vodou ceremonies, discover unique activities beyond the Citadelle.

Cap-Haïtien, Haiti’s second city, is full of history, adventure, and cultural experiences waiting to be explored. While the Citadelle Henri and Sans-Souci Palace are the most famous landmarks in the region—and should absolutely be at the top of your to-do list—we wanted to highlight some other incredible experiences you won’t want to miss. Whether you’re looking for thrill-seeking adventures, cultural deep dives, or lesser-known excursions, here are nine of our favorite activities in and around Cap-Haïtien.

girl in bathing suit laying in transparent kayak in the ocean — Kayaking in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

1. Dive Into Coastal Adventures

Explore Cap-Haïtien’s stunning coastline from the water! Whether you want to zoom across the waves on a jet ski, paddle along the shore in a kayak, or take a boat trip to hidden beaches, there’s no shortage of fun.

Various local tour operators offer rentals and guided excursions. Check with your hotel or ask around at the waterfront in Labadie and Cormier.

Curious about Haiti’s best surf spots? Discover Haiti’s growing surf scene here!

Grand Marnier orange farm in Limonade
Photo: Herve Sabin

2. Explore the Orange Groves of Grand Marnier

Just outside Limonade, about a 20-minute drive from Cap-Haïtien, you’ll find expansive orange groves where the bitter oranges used in Grand Marnier and Cointreau are cultivated.

Walking through the fields, you’ll catch the scent of citrus in the air while learning about the drying and distillation process that makes Haiti an essential supplier for these renowned liqueurs. Some tours may be available upon request, so it’s worth asking locally if you’d like a closer look.

Taíno petroglyphs in Sainte Suzanne
Photo: Herve Sabin

3. Hike to the Taíno Rock Paintings in Sainte-Suzanne

Hidden in the commune of Foulon near Sainte-Suzanne, these ancient petroglyphs are a rare glimpse into Haiti’s pre-Columbian past. The carvings, etched onto large boulders, date back centuries and reflect the spiritual traditions of the Taíno people.

Sainte-Suzanne is about one hour from Cap-Haïtien. You can hire a private driver or take a taptap heading toward Fort Liberté, then arrange for a local guide in town.

white sandy beach on haitian island with azure blue ocean — Île à Rat near Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Ryan Bowen

4. Day Trip to Île-à-Rat

Often compared to a miniature Caribbean paradise, the tiny island of Île-à-Rat features pristine white sand beaches, turquoise waters, and excellent snorkeling spots. It’s an ideal escape for a relaxing day of sun, sea, and fresh seafood.

Boat trips depart from Labadie and other local docks. Arrange transport in advance with a local boat operator.

Looking for a full itinerary? Read How to Spend a Day at Île-à-Rat!

Bassin Waka in Port-Margot
Photo: Herve Sabin

5. Swim in the Turquoise Waters of Bassin Waka

This natural pool, located near Port-Margot, is a remarkable place surrounded by lush vegetation and filled with colorful fish. Believed to have spiritual significance, it attracts visitors seeking tranquility and connection to nature. June 21st is a particularly special day when believers gather for ceremonial baths.

From Cap-Haïtien, take a taxi to Port-Margot (about 40 minutes). From there, you’ll need a local guide to lead you to the basin on foot. Bring water shoes for easier walking.

Curious about more natural pools? Check out: Seven of Haiti’s Prettiest Waterfalls

view from inside a cave with vines in entrance — View of Dondon from inside a grotto
Photo: Franck Fontain

6. Explore the Mystical Caves of Dondon

Venture into limestone caves filled with stalactites, underground pools, and Taíno-era carvings. Dondon is also home to lush mountain trails and breathtaking viewpoints, making it a dream for hikers and adventure-seekers.

Guided tours can be arranged from Cap-Haïtien. You’ll need sturdy shoes and a sense of adventure!

7. Experience a Vodou Ceremony

Vodou is an integral part of Haitian culture, blending African spiritual traditions with Catholic influences. Attending a real Vodou ceremony (not a tourist show) allows you to witness drumming, dancing, and spiritual invocations in a respectful setting.

Ceremonies take place in rural communities or at Vodou temples outside Cap-Haïtien. You’ll need a local guide to arrange access and explain the customs. Tours can be arranged through cultural organizations or trusted locals.

Wondering what to expect? Read our guide on How to Attend a Vodou Ceremony in Haiti.

Fort Picolet in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

8. Walk Through History at Fort Picolet

Perched on a rocky cliff overlooking the Caribbean Sea, Fort Picolet is a striking reminder of Cap-Haïtien’s colonial past. Built by the French in the 18th century, it was designed to defend the city from naval invasions, standing as a key military outpost during an era of intense maritime conflicts. Though time and the elements have worn down its once-mighty walls, the fort still holds an imposing presence, with sections of its original stonework and cannons offering a glimpse into its storied past.

The fort is a 30-minute walk or a 5-minute drive from downtown Cap-Haïtien. If walking, take the scenic route along coastal Boulevard.

Architecture in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Franck Fontain

9. Discover Cap-Haïtien’s Architecture on a Guided Walking Tour

Cap-Haïtien’s colonial-era streets are a living museum, with beautifully preserved buildings, bustling markets, and historic squares. A guided walking tour lets you soak in the unique Haitian architecture, visit the Marché en Fer, and hear fascinating stories about the city’s past.

Walking tours typically start near the cathedral or Place d’Armes. Several local guides offer tours—check with your hotel or book in advance.

Bois Caïman near Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

10. Visit the Birthplace of the Haitian Revolution

Step onto the hallowed ground of Bois Caïman (Bwa Kayiman in Haitian Creole), where in 1791, enslaved Africans held a Vodou ceremony that ignited the Haitian Revolution. This gathering, led by Dutty Boukman and Cécile Fatiman, marked the beginning of the largest and most successful slave uprising in history, ultimately leading to Haiti’s independence in 1804. The site remains a powerful symbol of resistance, unity, and the fight for freedom, drawing visitors who want to connect with Haiti’s revolutionary past.

While no grand monuments stand here, the weight of history is palpable, and standing on the same ground where the revolution was born is a deeply moving experience. Many Haitians and visitors come to pay their respects, reflect on the country’s legacy, and honor the ancestors who fought for liberation. Locals sometimes hold commemorative ceremonies, keeping the spirit of Bois Caïman alive.

Kasav workshop in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

11. Make Your Own Haitian Kasav Flatbread

Haitian kasav is a delicious cassava-based flatbread traditionally made by hand. Visit a local kasav workshop, watch the age-old process of grating, pressing, and baking cassava, and try making your own! This labor-intensive process has been passed down for generations, with artisans carefully preparing each batch over an open flame.

Freshly made kasav is a staple in Haitian cuisine and is best enjoyed warm with manba, Haiti’s flavorful and often spicy peanut butter. Some workshops may also offer different variations, such as sweetened kasav with coconut or cinnamon.

So, which adventure will you try first? Whether it’s diving into the waves, exploring centuries-old fortresses, or discovering hidden caves, Cap-Haïtien is full of unforgettable experiences just waiting for you to take the plunge.

Written by Melissa Béralus.

Published February 2025.

Looking for Some Cool Things to Do?

Quiz – How Many Facts about Haiti Do You Know?

December 24, 2021 by Anton Lau

handpainted haitian boardgame with soccer players — Haitian board game in Lakou New York, Jacmel
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Test Your Knowledge – How Many Facts about Haiti Do You Know?

Haiti is a country full of rich culture, beautiful people, gorgeous beaches, mountains, and mesmerizing architecture. Can you name some famous fortresses or historical people? Here’s a great way to test your knowledge!

Ever been to Haiti? Yes, no, maybe so? Regardless, we hope you find this quiz fun and informative. If you’re a new visitor, hopefully this quiz will inspire you to experience Haiti up close! Let’s test your knowledge on the ins and outs with these 18 cultural facts about Haiti.

Let’s test your knowledge on these cultural facts about Haiti

<section><h2><h1>Test Your Knowledge – How Many Facts about Haiti Do You Know?</h1></h2><p></p></section><section><h2><h2>Which Haitian artist published his debut album “Lokal” in 2019?</h2></h2></section><section><h3><h2>Which Haitian born author wrote the Three Muscketeers & The Count of Monty Christo?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>What does the Haitian proverb ‘Dèyè mòn, gen mòn’ translate to?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Which of these isn’t the name of a fortress in Haiti?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Who was the first and only royal King in Haiti?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Haiti shares the Island of Hispaniola with which other country?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Which of these is not a popular dish in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>In Haiti Spaghetti is often eaten…</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is the name of the most famous Haitian rum brand?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>What type of seafood is the Haitian dish “Lambi”?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is the highest mountain peak in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Which is not a beach in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is the capital of Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>How many departments are there in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What are the official languages in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Which is the biggest airport in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Fet Gede is an annual Haitian celebration in the month of…</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Haiti celebrates its independence every year on this day…</h2></h3></section><section><h2><h2><strong>It’s a good thing we’re here to help!</strong></h2></h2></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Pa mal!</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Wow you must be from Haiti</strong></h2></h3><p>Ekselan</p></section>

How did it go? If you’re feeling brave like Toussaint Louverture our “How Haitian are you?” Quiz is just right for you! If you want to access your inner Captain Morgan try our “Can You Place 12 Haitian Cities on the Map?” Quiz!

Created by Zachary Warr.

Published December 2021.

Explore Haiti’s Culture & Art

Fort Ogé

December 28, 2019 by admin

fort oge fortress on mountain top with ocean view — Fort Ogè, Jacmel
Photo: Anton Lau

Explore Fort Ogé

This 200 year-old fortress site is cared for by the local community and offers visitors a personal tour through Haiti’s battle for independence

While most of us know the city of Jacmel as the picturesque home of Haitian art, culture, and popular beachfronts, it is also where you’ll find Fort Ogé.

Tiny compared to the towering Citadelle Laferrière, Fort Ogé often gets overlooked when it comes to adventurers’ itineraries, but comparisons aside, this fort is impressive and well worth exploring in its own right.

aerial view fort oge fortress in jacmel with football field inside — Fort Ogè, Jacmel
Photo: Anton Lau

Explore Fort Ogé

Right around the time Haiti was seizing its independence from the slave-owning colonial upper class, resistance leaders like Jean-Jacques Dessalines ordered the construction of forts all over liberated territories, built to provide safe refuge for the newly freed people and to deter counteroffensives, in case the French returned and tried to retake the island. This era became known as the fortification of Haiti, and Fort Ogé, built in 1804, is one of about 20 military sites fortified during this period. Fort Ogé was named after Vincent Ogé, one of the most popular Haitian revolutionaries.

Fort Ogé was undamaged by the 2010 earthquake and stands strong to this day. Built over two centuries ago, the still-imposing fortress will have you asking “how?” – how did independence leaders know to build a fortress in such a strategic place, and how was it done with the limited tools available at the time? How did they carry multiple heavy canons up the slope to the fortress?

Compared to Citadelle Laferriere, the largest fortress in Haiti (and one of the largest fortresses in all of the Americas), Fort Ogé is not as swamped by tourists, making it a great destination if you came to Haiti looking for an adventure away from the crowds but accidentally found yourself here during peak season.

ruins of haitian fort oge fortress in jacmel — Fort Ogè
Photo: Anton Lau

Guided tours

The real gem waiting to be discovered when you explore Fort Ogé is the history behind how it was built – hidden to most, but in plain sight for those who know how to look. This is why a personal guided tour is the best way to see the site – local guides can narrate the history of the fort as you explore, right down to the specific uses of the different dungeons.

As is the case at almost every landmark or sightseeing location in Haiti, children run around the site playing, and some members of local committees will most likely come up to greet you and show you around. The site is cared for and used by the residents of the area, as are many other national treasures, to help bridge the gap left behind by the Ministry of Culture. Locals are always ready to give a taste of true Haitian hospitality – which of course includes suggestions for where to get fed, what else you should see during your trip, and where to find the best entertainment.

You’ll find that at times where visitors are few and far between, the fort is an integral part of the townsfolk life; children play soccer there, and old folks wander around. By paying a small entry fee and/or hiring a personal guide, you’ll be contributing to the development of the area through community projects.

ruins of haitian fort oge fortress in jacmel with football field inside — Fort Ogè
Photo: Anton Lau

Getting there

Located about an hour east of Jacmel, Fort Ogé is close to other historical landmarks including Cap Rouge, as well as other top Haitian destinations like Bassin Bleu, Raymond le Bains beach and the charming fishing village of Marigot.

The easiest starting point to get to Fort Ogé is the city of Jacmel. If you are driving in your own car, start out towards Cayes-Jacmel. Once reach the Jacmel Airport (it will be on your left), make a left onto Avenue Gerald M. Mathurin. From there, it’s very simple; just follow the signs up to Fort Ogé! The road up to the fort is quite rough, though, and so your drive will be much more successful in a four-wheel drive vehicle.

If you do not have a car, don’t worry— you can still make it to the fort by moto! At the corner of the Jacmel Airport, you will find a throng of moto drivers, ready to go. The fee to get to the fort should be 500 HTG, and this should include your driver waiting for you at the fort— and therefore receiving payment from you when you are back in the city. Make sure to pick out a moto that can handle the rocky road and sharp inclines!

Written by Kira Paulemon.

Published December 2019

Find Fort Ogé

Explore the South of Haiti

Cap-Haïtien City Guide

December 13, 2019 by admin

church cathedral in cap-haitien, haiti — The Notre Dame Cathedral in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Verdy Verna

City Guide: Cap-Haïtien

As Cap-Haïtien’s 350th anniversary draws near, take a swooping dive down into the heart of the city, and learn how it earned its well-deserved title as Haiti’s second city.

The Paris of the Antilles

Cap-Haïtien is Haiti’s second largest city, popular with travellers because of its proximity to world-class beaches and UNESCO heritage sites.

A key city during the Caribbean colonial period, Cap‑Français (as it was then named) earned the nicknamed the Paris of the Antilles for its sophisticated architecture and artistic culture. It was the capital city of the French colony of Saint Domingue from 1711 until the Haitian Revolution, when it became the capital of the Kingdom of Northern Haiti under King Henri Christophe. Christophe renamed the city from Cap‑Français to Cap-Henri. When Christophe died in 1820, the whole island of Hispaniola was briefly unified, and it was in the early phases of this (re)unification that Cap-Haïtien was given the name it has today. Mostly, though, you’ll hear this beautiful city called simply “Le Cap”.

city street with traffic and old colonial buildings — Old gingerbread house in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Franck Fontain

What to see and do in Cap-Haïtien

The Cathedral
The early 20th century Notre Dame Cathedral (also known as the Our Lady of the Assumption Cathedral, Cap-Haïtien Cathedral and (French) Cathédrale Notre-Dame de l’Assomption.

Héros de Vertières
Héros de Vertières (Heroes Monument of Vertières) is an open-air sculpture park dedicated to the heroes of the 1803 Battle of Vertieres.

The Battle of Vertières was the last major battle of the Second War of Haitian Independence, and the final battle of the Haitian Revolution led by Jean Jacques Dessalines. It was fought on November 18, just south of what is now Cap-Haïtien.

An inspiring site that celebrates a remarkable moment in history, a visit to the Heroes de Vertieres is especially empowering for travelers from the Haitian diaspora. The monument is on the western outskirts of the city, within a five-minute drive of both Hôtel Impérial and one of our favorite places to eat in Cap-Haïtien, Lakay.

The Bottle Gate(s) (French: “Barrière Bouteille” / “Barrières Bouteilles”)
These iconic bottle-shaped structures mark the historic entrance to the city.

The Iron Market (French: Marche au Fer)
Named after the iconic Port-au-Prince Iron Market, this lively market is housed inside a Victorian-era cast iron pavilion. First built in 1890 under Haitian engineer Alexandre Bobo, Cap-Haïtien’s Iron Market has attracted tourists since the 1960s thanks to its impressive period architecture and the huge range of handicrafts sold here – especially colorful ritual objects associated with vodou practice. Today, the Iron Market is a chaotic sprawl of craftspeople and food vendors hawking their produce.

Dance to live music
Let your hair down like a local with these Cap-Haïtien musice scene stalwarts: Septentrional and Tropicana d’Haiti. Catch them at a venue called Versailles (named after the French royal palace).

yellow restaurant building in cap-haitien — Lakay, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Anton Lau

Where to eat

Lakay: Restaurant Lakou Lakay prepares excellent (and huge!) traditional Creole feasts – just be sure to make a reservation.

Boukanye: our favorite place to drink coffee in Cap-Haïtien, this pirate-themed hangout is a great bar by night but a cozy café by day.

Cap Deli: serving up some of the freshest food in the city, Cap Deli is the place to go in Cap-Haïtien for American-style burgers and pizza.

Lolo: a new Italian-Haitian restaurant, Lolo serves exquisite fresh pasta and fine wine.

Must-try local specialities: Cap-Haitien cuisine is particularly well-known for its cashew-based recipes, so be sure to try some local cashew dishes while you’re in town! Native to Brazil, cashew trees are now an important crop across the Caribbean, and most of Haiti’s are grown right here in the North Department.

Woman throwing a towel down to relax on the beach on Amiga Island, Ile-a-rat — Amiga Island, (Ile-a-Rat) close to Cap Haitien
Photo: Anton Lau

Best beaches

The best beaches nearby are Cormier, Labadee and Île-à-Rat Island (Amiga Island).

The beach at Cormier is one of the most under-appreciated on the island – and only a twenty minute drive from downtown Cap-Haïtien.

Labadee Beach is one of the crowning jewels of Haiti, with fine sands and crystal-clear blue water that attracts cruise ships from around the world.

Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island) is a tiny island off the beaches west of Cap-Haïtien. This little paradise is a microcosm of what makes Haiti one of the greatest little countries in the Caribbean, with fine white sand beaches, shady palm trees, warm turquoise waters, incredible fresh seafood – and fewer crowds. The swimming is superb, and snorkelers can find half-buried colonial artillery and anchors.

For USD $40 a boat taxi from Labadee will take you to Île-à-Rat, and for an extra USD $15 they’ll cook you up a fresh lunch of lobster, octopus, crab or fish, all caught locally. Make sure you take some ice-cold bottles of rum and Prestige with you for the trip!

Colorful boat taxis line the shore at Cap-Haïtien, Haiti — Boat taxis going to Île-à-Rat (Amiga Island)
Photo: Verdy Verna

Where to sleep

All-inclusive resorts:
Cormier Beach Resort

Ocean view hotels:
Top hotels include Hôtel Impérial, Hotel Satama, Habitation Jouissant, Habitation des Lauriers and Mont Joli

Hidden Gem:
Kay Lolo Plage

Only accessible by boat, Kay Lolo Plage is a boutique B&B secluded in a private cove and surrounded by tropical forest. The separate bungalows and villa are in great condition and offer travellers a private beach with gorgeous views, birdsong and very exclusive vibes. There’s no wifi or running water here, but you’ll find kayaks, paddleboards and a breakfast cooked just for you.

Aerial view of Citadelle Laferrière and mountain range, Haiti — Citadelle Laferrière, Milot, Haiti
Photo: Ricardo Lartigue

Awesome day-trips

South of Cap-Haïtien, Citadelle Laferriere is a hilltop fortress built by revolutionary leader Henri Christophe.

Sans-Souci Palace shares a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Citadelle Laferriere. A visit to both sites is considered essential for any trip to Haiti, and the hike (or horse-ride) from Milot to the Palace and then on to the Citadelle is well-worth the effort.

The city of Dondon is located about two hours south of Cap-Haïtien and has been settled since pre-colonial times when Haiti’s indigenous Taíno people lived there. This little corner of Haiti attracts a lot of tourists, and the main drawcard for visitors is the opportunity to explore the stunning system of grottoes nearby.

Getting there

American Airlines fly direct from Miami to Cap-Haitian, with fares starting at US $127 and a flight time of less than two hours.

From Port-au-Prince, Haiti’s capital city, Sunrise Airways will take you to CAP in 45 minutes for less than US $100, but it’s more fun, and you’ll see more of Haiti, if you jump on a cross-country bus or rent a car. On wheels, the journey from PAP to CAP will take four hours or more, depending on your route. Will you drive inland via Lake Peligre and Bassin Zim, or along the Caribbean coastline via Montrouis and Gonaïves?

Coming from the Dominican Republic? Caribe Tours, the most popular bus company in Dominican Republic, runs daily from Santiago to Cap-Haïtien. The journey takes roughly five hours: two and a half hours from Santiago to Dajabon, on the Dominican border, then another hour from Haitian border town Ouathamije to Cap-Haïtien. Return tickets cost US $25 per person, plus an extra US $25 border-crossing fee.

For more information, see our guides to getting to Haiti and transport within Haiti.

Written by the Visit Haiti team.

Published December 2019

Top things to see in Haiti

Sans-Souci Palace

April 11, 2019 by admin

Sans-Souci Palace

The ruins of Sans-Souci Palace are a UNESCO World Heritage monument to post-revolutionary opulence.

Sans-Souci Palace shares a UNESCO World Heritage Site with the Citadelle Laferrière. A visit to both sites is considered essential for any trip to Haiti, and the hike (or horse-ride) from Milot to the Palace and then on to the Citadelle is well-worth the effort.

Sans-Souci Palace, which translates to ‘the Worry-Free Palace’, dates back to 1811, just after Haiti had become the world’s first independent black republic. Despite the weight of time – and a significant earthquake during the nineteenth century – the ruins of the Sans-Souci Palace maintain an imposing air and stand as an inspiring testament to the opulent post-revolutionary era.

Visitors can spend an hour or two exploring the palace and grounds before heading onward to the Citadelle.

Sans-Souci Palace, Milot, Haiti
Photo: Angelo Miramonti

History

The Sans-Souci Palace was built to serve as a residence for the revolutionary leader Henri Christophe, who would become king in 1811, a year into the palace’s construction. The palace was one of many lavish constructions Christophe ordered at that time, including the Citadelle Laferrière.

Christophe used his reign as an opportunity to build up Haiti’s standing in the eyes of the international community – particularly its former colonizer, France. Christophe was well known for the luxurious parties and feasts he hosted at the palace, and the palace’s design – from the lush gardens to the intricate waterworks installation still visible in the ruins – reflects this luxury.

The name “Sans-Souci” itself came from another Haitian revolutionary, Jean-Baptiste Sans Souci, who Christophe had asked to form a united front with, but who refused out of mistrust. A decade or so before the palace was built, Christophe invited Sans Souci to visit him. When Sans Souci accepted, he was promptly assaulted by Christophe’s guards – and legend has it that the palace bearing his name was built where he was killed.

Visiting the north of Haiti is a great way to brush up on Haiti’s history; here, visitors can see many of the country’s important landmarks, historic sites, and monuments dedicated to the memories and visions of pivotal figures in Haiti’s history.

Aerial view of the ruins of Sans-Souci Palace, Haiti — Sans-Souci Palace, Milot, Haiti
Photo: Ricardo Lartigue

Where to eat

Restaurant Lakou Lakay prepares excellent, and huge, traditional Creole feasts – just be sure to make a reservation.

Where to sleep

Most travellers visiting Sans Souci and the Citadelle stay in Cap-Haïtien as accommodation options in Milot are fairly basic.

Getting there

Sans-Souci is located in Haiti’s North Department, close to the town of Milot.

Culturally curious travellers are well-advised to carve out a chunk of time for exploring the north of Haiti. While the capital city of Port-au-Prince and the entire South of the country are full of gorgeous destinations and exciting things to do, the North of Haiti is where a lot of the country’s history has its roots. Cap-Haïtien is the perfect base, and with the recent opening of the airport to international flights, visitors no longer need to arrive in Port-au-Prince first. Around a half-hour drive south of Cap-Haïtien is Milot, the jumping-off point for hikes to the UNESCO site.

For a small, negotiable, fee, a local guide will lead individuals or groups from nearby Milot up to the palace and guide you to the areas open to the public, which can otherwise be difficult to distinguish. A fair fee for a guide is US$20 to US$30, plus a fee for hiring a horse.

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published April 2019

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a touch of
haitian wisdom

start your day
the Haitian way

Go on a self-guided
tour of Haiti’s Gingerbread houses

a touch of
haitian wisdom

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols

Go on a self-guided
tour of Haiti’s Gingerbread houses

Go on a self-guided
tour of Haiti’s Gingerbread houses

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols