hiking

Seven of Haiti’s Prettiest Waterfalls

December 12, 2022 by Anton Lau

Bassin Bleu waterfall near Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

Seven of Haiti’s Prettiest Waterfalls

Unleash your inner adventurer and explore the hidden gems of Haiti – its stunning waterfalls!

Haitian landscape is a treasure trove of breathtaking and unforgettable wonders, and the waterfalls of Haiti are some of the most awe-inspiring and magical places you can visit. Imagine standing at the edge of one of these towering falls, feeling the thunderous roar of the water plunging down and the sprinkles on your face, and admiring the lush greenery and wildflowers surrounding you. It’s an intimate and exhilarating experience that will stay with you forever.

Haiti is blessed with an abundance of stunning waterfalls, each more beautiful and powerful than the last. From the misty heights of Bassin Bleu to the rainbow-drenched falls of Saut d’Eau, these natural sanctuaries offer a glimpse into the breathtaking beauty and majesty of Haiti’s wilds. Ready to explore these hidden gems and let yourself be enchanted and captivated by their raw and wild power?

Here’s a small selection of the most spectacular and awe-inspiring cascades in Haiti, just for you. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and prepare for an adventure of a lifetime. The beauty and magic of Haiti’s waterfalls await you!

tall waterfall splashing down mountain side into natural pool — Kaskad Pichon waterfalls
Photo: Franck Fontain

1. Kaskad Pichon

One of the lesser-known waterfalls Kaskad Pichon is nestled in the lush green hills of Belle-Anse. This natural wonder is formed by three crystal clear pools that cascade down a rocky cliff into a misty paradise. As you follow the small path through the dense forest, you’ll be greeted by the soothing sound of the water and the fresh mountain air.

The first pool, Bassin Choukèt, is a serene and peaceful oasis where you can dip your toes and cool off. The second pool, Bassin Dieula, is a wild and turbulent spectacle where the water plunges down in a frothy white curtain. And lastly, the third pool, Bassin Marassa, is a magical and mystical place with rainbow colors dancing on the water’s surface.

Getting there
To reach Kaskad Pichon, you’ll need to embark on a thrilling adventure. The journey starts with a drive from Marigot to Belle-Anse, where you’ll switch to a motorcycle and navigate through rough roads and narrow trails. After a bumpy ride, you’ll reach the edge of the forest and start hiking through the jungle, following the sound of the falls.

Four people and a motorbike at the shore of Bassin Zim, Haiti — Bassin Zim
Photo: Anton Lau

2. Bassin Zim

Located in the dry hills of Hinche, Bassin Zim is a turquoise oasis that sparkles like diamonds in the sun. The waterfall itself is a majestic and graceful sight. Instead of plunging straight down, the water flows down the rocky cliff, creating a shimmering curtain that bathes the basin in a soft, ethereal light.

But the magic doesn’t stop there: just a short walk from the basin, you’ll find a hidden network of caves that will transport you to a different world. These natural cathedrals of stalactites and stalagmites are a breathtaking display of the power of nature. You’ll even see petroglyphs caved into the cave walls by the indigenous Taíno Indians.

Getting there
From Port-au-Prince, you’ll drive towards Hinche crossing the Samana river. From there, you’ll follow a rugged road through the dry hills and small villages. Once you’re there, you’ll only have to walk a few minutes from the parking area to reach Bassin Zim.

Person swimming beneath a waterfall in Bassin Bleu, Haiti — Bassin Bleu waterfall near Jacmel
Photo: Franck Fontain

3. Bassin Bleu

One of the most famous waterfalls of Haiti, Bassin Bleu is a natural paradise that plays hard to get to. Hidden in the mountains just outside Jacmel, this hidden cascade is a series of four clear pools that flow down towards the Jacmel river.

The largest pool, Bassin Clair, is a spectacular sight (and also a bit tough to access). With a depth of over 20 meters and a waterfall that plunges down from a rocky cliff, this natural pool was made for adventure seekers. The other three pools, Bassin Doux, Bassin Froid, and Bassin Caché, are smaller and more intimate, but no less beautiful.

Getting there
To reach Bassin Bleu, departing from Jacmel, you’ll take a rough road through a riverbed and up the mountains towards La Vallée de Jacmel. Arriving at the entrance, you’ll have to hike the last stretch through a dense tropical forest. The journey is not easy, but the rewards are well worth it.

4. Saut-d’eau

Saut-d’eau (or sodo in creole) is a large waterfall that cascades down a tall mountain. Despite the lack of a large pool at the base of the fall, the beauty of this place is undeniable. Every year in July, thousands of Vodou pilgrims visit the site for a dip in the supposedly healing waters, where legend says the Miraculous Virgin of Saut d’Eau once appeared.

The event, which takes place from July 14-16, is a week-long festival filled with music, food, and Vodou rituals. If you prefer to explore without the massive crowds it’s best to avoid visiting during these dates.

Getting there
To get to Saut-d’eau from Port-au-Prince, take the road to Mirebalais and then follow the signs to the municipality of the same name. The drive takes around two hours from Port-au-Prince.

Aerial view of the waterfall at Saut Mathurine, Haiti — Saut Mathurine, Haiti
Photo: Ricardo Lartigue

5. Saut Mathurine

Located in the mountains of Camp Perrin in the South department, Saut Mathurine is the largest waterfall in Haiti. With a width of thirty meters, this majestic cascade forms a massive natural pool surrounded by lush vegetation. The water, which is fed by the Cavaillon river thunders over the edge of the cliff, plunging twenty-seven meters into a deep pool below. The force of the downrush creates a fine mist that hangs in the air, creating a mystical atmosphere.

Saut Mathurine not only provides a natural oasis for visitors but also plays a crucial role in the local community. The river’s powerful flow is harnessed to generate electricity that powers the town of Cavaillon and some of the surrounding villages.

Getting there

To reach the waterfall, you must embark on a journey to the quaint town of Camp-Perrin, located in the southern region. Once there, drive down road number 7 towards Marceline, and suddenly, you’ll find yourself in a picturesque waterworld.

Kaskad Boukan waterfall in Fermathe
Photo: Verdy Verna

6. Kaskad Boukan

If you’re a mountain enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to make a hike to the stunning but lesser-known Kaskad Boukan. Nestled in the heights of Fermathe above Port-au-Prince, this is a smaller waterfall in the mountains with a refreshing atmosphere that will invigorate your senses.

Getting there
To get to Kaskad Boukan, you can either take a taxi or hop on a motorcycle from Pétion-Ville. When you reach the mountain pass in Fermathe, you’ll have to set out on a short hike as the waterfall is only accessible by foot. We recommend hiring a knowledgeable local guide.

Bassin Waka near Port Margot
Photo: Hervé Sabin

7. Bassin Waka

Looking for a thrilling day-trip from Cap-Haïtien? Look no further than Bassin Waka. A natural pool tucked away in a dense tropical forest near Port Margot in the north of Haiti. Here, you can marvel at the colors of the exotic fish swimming beneath the surface, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The pool itself is a large expanse of turquoise brackish water, providing the perfect spot to relax and take a refreshing dip.

Getting there
Departing from Cap-Haïtien, you’ll drive towards the city of Limbe and then continue until reaching Port Margot. From here, you’ll need to embark on a hike through trails to the municipal section of Norvion. Located on the Morne Zombie mountain range, you’ll find Bassin Waka between the municipalities of Port Margot and Borgne.

Written by Costaguinov Baptiste.

Published December 2022.

Explore Haiti’s Wildlife & Nature

Top Birdwatching Sites in Haiti

March 31, 2021 by Anton Lau

two black birds on grass splashing water — Mèl Dyab / Greater Antillean Grackle at Pic la Selle (Quiscalus niger)
Photo: René Durocher

Top Birdwatching Sites in Haiti

Four spots to see Haitian birdlife at its best

The Hispaniola (Haiti & Dominican Republic) territory is home to over 300 kinds of birds of which 28 are endemic. The Haitian territory on its own is home to over 245 non-migratory birds of which 36 are only found in Haiti. Added to that are the sub-species specific to Haiti’s islands such as La Gonâve, La Tortue, Les Cayemittes and Île-à-Vache. A variety of migratory birds coming from North America to winter in Haïti, which makes the winter months a great escape from the cold for birds and birdwatchers alike.

Birdlife International recognizes ten different Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas in Haiti, plus one Endemic Bird Area, making Haiti a top spot for birdwatching.

Here’s a non-exhaustive list of where, when and how to enjoy a diverse selection of beautiful birds on your next trip to Haiti.

smaller yellow bird on a tree branch — Ti Tchit Dèyè Jon / Yellow-rumped Warbler at Wynne Farm
Photo: René Durocher

1. Wynne Farm

Wynne Farm is a gorgeous ecological reserve located in the mountain town of Kenscoff. Wynne Farm is dedicated to environmental protection through education. It was founded in 1956 by civil engineer Victor Ainsley Wynne with the goal of conserving Haiti’s rich biodiversity and building a more sustainable Haiti. Bird-watching is one of the farm’s experiences on offer, alongside an extensive list of activities such as yoga, camping or bee keeping. At an altitude of 6000 ft, Wynne Farm Ecological Reserve extends over 30 acres of land and is perfect for birdwatching, specifically for Haitian birds that prefer dense forests.

grey and yellow bird on a tree branch — Zwazo palmis / Palmchat
Photo: René Durocher

2. Parc National la Visite

Further out of Kenscoff you’ll find Parc National La Visite, a perfect place to experience Haiti’s green life while hiking and trailing near some of Haiti’s most protected species. Starting from Furcy you can hike through the park and up to Seguin through a steep but rewarding path. Once there, you have the option to go back to Furcy or walk down to Jacmel which makes for a beautiful day of hiking ending in one of Haiti’s most beautiful cities. This park has been described as a refuge, often the ultimate refuge for the country’s mountain birds. Species such as the La Selle Thrush or the Red-legged Thrush can be seen on this hike. There are over 74 species of birds living in the park, making it a top destination for bird watching.

foggy forest with ferns and oldgrowth trees — Macaya National Park
Photo: Claudio Contreras / Haiti National Trust

3. Macaya National Park

Established in 1983 The Macaya National Park is one of Haiti’s protected natural spaces. Described as a global biodiversity hotspot, Macaya is home to many endangered and endemic species of plants, birds and other Haitian wildlife. It is in the Massif de la Hotte in the South Department, bordering the department of Grand’Anse. This national reserve is home to 220 species of birds including the Antillean Mango and the Hispaniolan Trogon. The Macaya National Park is also home to some of the most beautiful scenery in Haiti and to some breathtaking waterfalls (and not far from Haiti’s largest waterfall, Saut-Mathurine).

black crow on a large stone — Ti kaw / Palm crow at Pic la Selle
Photo: René Durocher

4. Forêt des Pins

This top hiking spot is in the South-East department of Haiti and stretches between the border of Haiti and the Dominican Republic. It offers access to a wide range of birds that live in forests and prefer pine trees. Hiking through this forest offers a view of both countries and a characteristically Hispaniolan landscape. Check out our guide to safely hiking in the protected Forêt des Pins.

Haiti’s efforts to extend and reinforce protection of its green spaces is an ongoing movement. The activity of birdwatching continues to send the message that these species are valued and their habitat must be protected.

For an extensive resource on birding in the Caribbean, including an up-to-date list of professional birding tour guides based in Hispaniola, see The Caribbean Birding Trail’s website.

Written by Kira Paulemon.

Published March 2021

Top things to see in Haiti

Check out These 10 Amazing Haitian Birds

February 4, 2021 by Anton Lau

black and yeallow bird sitting on a branch among bright pink flowers — Bannann Mi Fran / Hispaniolan Oriole
Photo: René Durocher

Check out These 10 Amazing Haitian Birds

Did you know that you’ll see more Caribbean birds in Haiti than (almost) anywhere else? Which of these ten amazing Haitian birds have you seen?

Haiti is one of the Caribbean’s prime birdlife hotspots. Of the Caribbean’s 175 endemic species, 49 can be found in Haiti – the second-largest concentration of any nation in the Caribbean. Only Cuba, with 50, has more Caribbean birds on show. Haiti is also home to 28 species endemic to Hispaniola – more than any other island in the Caribbean. Birdlife International recognises ten ‘Important Bird and Biodiversity Areas’ in Haiti, and one Endemic Bird Area. Want to know more about Haiti’s wildlife? Read our list of Haiti’s most interesting animals here.

Here are ten Haitian birds to look out for on your birding adventure

hummingbird in air drinking nectar from pick flowers — Wanga Negès / Antillean Mango (Anthracothorax Dominicensis)
Photo: René Durocher

01. Wanga Negès

A relatively common hummingbird, Wanga Negès (or the Antillean Mango) is one of the most popular birds on the island, and is culturally important. Often found around beaches and in mountains of up to 2,500 m of altitude, this bird functions like other hummingbirds with a very large bill compared to its body, which is the reason behind it’s characteristic extremely fast flapping. The Wanga Negès is found throughout Hispaniola (both Haiti and the Dominican Republic).

bright yellow bird with black head in green vegetation — Ti Seren / Antillean Siskin (Carduelis Dominicensis)
Photo: René Durocher

02. Ti Seren

Also known as the Antillean Siskin, the Ti Seren is a small finch. Males are recognizable by their distinctive yellow body, black hood, yellow bill and yellow-green back. Females are less striking, with striped or spotted yellow-green head, back and wings, and pale yellow belly. They are most commonly found in and near forest-like environments, especially pine forest at altitudes between 1600 and 9800 feet. The Ti Seren is endemic to Hispaniola.

black bird with red spots eating fruit — Ti Kòk / Greater Antillean Bullfinch (Melopyrrha Violacea)
Photo: René Durocher

03. Ti Kòk

This bird is known in Haiti as Ti Kòk (which translates to small rooster). Also known as the Greater Antillean Bullfinch, it is mostly found in Caribbean islands such as Hispaniola, Jamaica, Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos Island. The Ti Kòk is recognizable by the vivid orange-red eyebrows, throat and vent which stand out against a stark black body. It eats grains, fruits, flower petals and even molluscs.

04. Bannann Mi Fran

Another endemic, the Bannann Mi Fran or Hispaniolan Oriole is a species of icterid or “New World Blackbird”, a little smaller than the (unrelated) North American common blackbird at 20 to 22 centimeters. Like the Greater Antillean Bullfinch, this slender bird is black overall, with distinctive yellow patches on its shoulders, rump, and under-tail coverts. It has been reported that while they are endemic to Hispaniola, they also live on nearby islands like La Gonâve, La Tortue and Île-à-Vache. They can be found in dry forests; however, they seem to prefer palm trees alongside banana trees (hence its Kreyòl name).

05. Mèl Dyab

The Greater Antillean Grackle – or Mèl Dyab in Kreyòl – is a very social bird, endemic to the Greater Antilles meaning Cuba, Jamaica, Hispaniola (Haiti and Dominican Republic), Puerto Rico and occasionally the Caymans. It is often found near human habitation and is therefore a great, accessible bird if you’re looking for an easy species to tick off your checklist. This black bird with a long tail and beak is described as gregarious and noisy.

yellow bird on branch with green leaves — Ti Tchit Kou Jòn / Cape May Warbler (Setophaga Tigrina)
Photo: René Durocher

06. Ti Tchit Kou Jòn

The Cape May Warbler or Titchit Kou Jòn is a migrating bird common to the Antilles. Common throughout Haiti, you’ll find it in forest-like habitats, where it winters. It hunts insects, sips nectar and eats fruits. The Kreyòl name “Ti Tchit Kou Jòn” is indicative of its most interesting feature – its yellow-colored neck (Kou Jòn). Adult males usually have a richer yellow color while females of this kind lack the vivid yellow and are more often found with a yellowish-green rump.

yellow and grey bird with black head on tree branch — Kat-je Tét Nwa / Black-crowned Palm Tanager
Photo: René Durocher

07. Kat-je Tét Nwa

The Black-crowned palm tanager is a common endemic bird spread throughout the Haitian territory. You’ll find it in all sorts of places such as desert-like arid areas, pine forests and even beaches. A beautiful tricolor, the Black-crowned palm tanager has a black face and crown, contrasting white spots on the face and a completely white throat, and yellow-green wings. The Kat-je Tèt Nwa primarily eats fruits but also grains and insects.

yellow and grey bird sitting on bamboo — Ti Kit Fal Jòn / Yellow Throated Warbler (Setophaga Dominica)
Photo: René Durocher

08. Ti Kit Fal Jòn

Similar to the Black-crowned Palm Tanager, the Yellow Throated Warbler is a colorful bird, with, as the Kreyòl name suggests, a yellow throat, a black face and white eyebrows. They are small birds, usually found hunting insects in pine forests. The Yellow Throated Warbler hops along tree branches and can even cling to Spanish moss while it hunts for food.

tiny bird with green head and red feathers on wings — Kolibri Mòn / Narrow-billed Tody (Todus Angustirostris)
Photo: René Durocher

09. Kolibri Mòn, Chikorèt

The endemic Narrow-billed Tody is a very popular bird in Haitian culture, yet potentially faces extinction because of habitat loss. Its narrow beak, red throat and sides, and vivid green upperparts make it a remarkable bird to observe. This species likes higher, wetter woodlands, and so can be found in forested mountains and coffee plantations.

two emrald green birds together on tree branch — Kanson Wouj / Hispaniolan Trogon (Priotelus Roseigaster)
Photo: René Durocher

10. Kanson Wouj

The endemic Kanson Wouj or the Hispaniolan Trogon one of only two Trogon found in the Caribbean. Its red belly, emerald back and black head, with contrasting orange eyes and yellow bill, makes it one of Haiti’s most colorful birds. The Kanson Wouj is named after the bird’s red belly. Usually found in mountains, but occasionally in mangrove swamps.

Written by Kira Paulemon.

Published February 2021.

Explore more of Haiti’s Wildlife & Nature

Photo Journal: Grand’Anse

July 18, 2020 by Anton Lau

haitians crossing the grande-anse river by foot and donkey — The Grande-Anse River
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Photo Journal: Grand’Anse

One of the country’s southernmost departments, and the home to cities like Jérémie and Abricots, Grand’Anse is where coastal cruising meets mainland adventures.

Between mountains and valleys, the people of the Grand’Anse department are open and eager to make a life for themselves. If you are ever hiking through a town outside the main cities, you will note that the trek some farmers and vendors accomplish to sell their goods every day is nothing short of a miracle.

older haitian man with machete and bag on head — A farmer on his way home from the field near Kafou Zaboka, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Modern infrastructure is not just a thing of Haiti’s big cities. In Jérémie, a massive bridge connects the two edges of the Grand’Anse river, allowing cars and motorcycles through, and for a very scenic drive.

traffic on large bridge crossing a big river — Bridge over Grande-Anse river to Jérémie, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

For those whose journeys are a little bit shorter, a brisk walk through the waters of the Grand’Anse river takes them straight to their destination. Farmers, vendors, and passersby can sometimes be seen quickly wading through, while early morning or late afternoon sunshine ripples over the water.

Some of these daily journeyers — when schools are open — are students. They often make the daily trip in small groups with their friends, to reach their schools in nearby cities. When school is out, they can be seen running and laughing down the same paths, in the soft summer heat.

haitian school boys in uniforms — Boys going to school near Moron, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

The bridge in Marfranc is one of those places that is part of daily scenery for students living in the areas around it, but that can add excitement to any visitor’s tour of the Grand’Anse department.

haitian school girl in uniform walking over suspension bridge — School girl crossing a bridge in Marfranc, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

As with any place in rural Haiti, the Grand’Anse department is chock-full of hotel, inn, and bed-and-breakfast options for you to choose from. Not sure where to stay? Easy: ask a local!

motorcycle with passenger driving past hotel building — Cash-Cash Hotel in Dame Marie, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

For these coastal cities like Corail, the importance of local fishing cannot be overstated. Wholesaling and retailing is how many individuals make a living, put food on their tables, and on those of their customers.

haitian woman with red head scarf and bowl of conch — Woman selling conch in Corail, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

The beauty of towns surrounding the Grand’Anse river is that they have learned to embrace and adapt to its natural architecture. All around the current, vegetable plots and small homes have sprouted, never so much as disturbing it.

aerial view of farmers fields, river, road and plantation — Landscape in Troupeau near Corail, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Fisher-men and -women alike are no strangers to the sharp art of scaling, gutting, and preparing fish in preparation for the day’s sales. The fresher, the better; often times, a morning catch will become a fried or stewed afternoon lunch or dinner.

haitian woman with straw hat cleaning fish — Woman cleaning a fish by the habour in Pestel
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Mountain towns hold their own busy and bustling communities, too. Farmers and vendors will make their way downhill to the main towns where they will bring and sell fresh produce. Schools often pop up in these remote areas as well, removing a burden off the backs of students who would otherwise struggle to afford tuition in cities like Jérémie, Abricots or Pestel.

haitian school building in mountainscape — A school in the mountains close to Jean Beurry, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

The people of Grand’Anse hold hearts as vast and as open as their hometowns. If you are able to make the drive down there, it is an experience worth living and re-telling.

Haitian boys in the Joly Guibert village, Grand’Anse
Photo: Mikkel Ulriksen

Dondon grottoes

April 21, 2020 by admin

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

Dondon grottoes

Located in the mountains of northern Haiti, Dondon has been settled since pre-colonial times when Haiti’s indigenous Taíno peoples 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.

vodou symbol painted on a cave floor — Vodou vèvè inside a grotto in Dondon
Photo: Franck Fontain

The grottoes

Dondon’s spectacular cave system has ten separate grottoes. Some are easy to access and have a given name: Ladies’ Vault, Marc-Antoine grotto, Smoke Vault, Cadelia Vault, Saint Martin Vault, Minguet Vault and Michel grotto, all named because of their individual history.

Some of these caves were Taíno cult locations during the pre-colombian period, where the Taínos would come to pray to their gods. One of the gods prayed to in times of drought is still visible on the walls of the grotto, and in post-colonial times is venerated by vodouwizan as an important figure within vodou. The other grottoes remain unnamed, their histories steeped in mystery.

Guided tours

Many Dondon area locals – young and old – are happy to jump into the role of guide for the grottoes. Some have learned by heart formulas in French and English, which can make for charming – if confusing – conversation.

Experienced and impromptu guides will be more than happy to help you discover the best spots, hidden petroglyphs and the history infusing these grottoes – some of this history only survives as stories handed down from generation to generation, so you won’t find it anywhere else.

haitian man sitting on donkey drinking in river — A man on a donkey by Riviere Bouyaja in Dondon
Photo: Anton Lau

Festivals in Dondon

Every town in Haiti has its own patron saint festival. In Dondon, pilgrims come from far and wide to celebrate Saint Martin of Tours. Some come here to party, others come as tourists to observe, but most are here to honor the Vodou divinities, the lwa believed to live here. The patron saint festival of Saint Martin of Tours happens in Dondon on November 9 – 11, but party preparations start on November 7. For five days, crowds filter into Dondon to savor kleren, eat delicious griot, and dance to troubadour music from morning ‘til night.

There is also the Dondon Festival, held from July 18 to 23. This festival is about Dondon itself rather than lwa, and draws vacationers who come to take advantage of the great swimming spots in nearby rivers, go on excursions and participate in the conferences that take place for the occasion.

What else is nearby?

Dondon is close to the UNESCO World Heritage Sans-Souci Palace and Citadelle Laferrière, which locals call the eighth wonder of the world. A visit to both sites is considered essential for any visit to Haiti, and the journey there is well-worth the effort.

Fort Moïse, on top of the Saint Martin Vault, is also close by. Other attractions include the Kota waterfall and the historical Vincent Ogé residence. The on-site coffee co-op at the residence is a great place to taste the very particular flavor of Haitian coffee.

cave entrance with vines and trees — Overgrown entrance to a grotto in Dondon
Photo: Franck Fontain

Getting to the Dondon grottoes

Dondon is located in the north of Haiti, about a two hour drive south of Cap-Haïtien. The journey to Dondon will take you over roads that are winding and can be pretty rough in places. On paper (or GPS), the route through the town of Saint-Michel might look good, but that road serves up more adventure than most travellers are looking for, and we don’t recommended it. The best way to get to Dondon we’ve found is this one:

From Port-au-Prince, drive out of the capital towards Cap-Haïtien via Route Nationale #1. The road to Cap-Haïtien makes up the longest chunk of the drive, but its recent completion makes it a comfortable trip, not to mention a scenic one, with many towns to stop in along the way, each with their own character. Once in Cap-Haïtien, continue towards the town of Milot. Make a left after you pass Rivière du Nord, and in another hour or so you’ll arrive at Dondon.

There’s no formal fee to see the caves but you’ll need to hire a (formal or informal) guide. Remember to bring food and drinks with you for the trip as there’s no guarantee you’ll find anything on site, although Lakou Lakay is a great place to stop for lunch if you’re travelling via Milot.

Written by Jean Fils and translated by Kelly Paulemon.

Published April 2020

Find the Dondon grottoes

External Links

Learn more about Dondon

Wikipedia

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Kaskad Pichon

January 25, 2020 by admin

large haitian waterfall splashing into natural pool with people swimming — Kaskad Pichon waterfalls, Belle-Anse
Photo: Franck Fontain

Kaskad Pichon

Kaskad Pichon is a stunning waterfall located in the commune of Belle-Anse, in the South-East Department of Haiti. The waterfall is notoriously hard to get to, but worth the adventure.

Belle-Anse commune is home to soft, sandy beaches, and Kaskad Pichon (French: Cascade Pichon) is the crowning jewel of its inland treasures. A cluster of three separate basins, each crowned by glorious waterfalls, Kaskad Pichon is sustained not by rainfall, but an underground lake.

The waterfall runs through three separate basins: Bassin Chouket, where wild mint grows and perfumes the banks of the pool, Bassin Dieula and Bassin Marassa.

The Haitian Kreyol proverb “dèyè mòn gen mòn” reflects the Haitian landscape – “behind mountains, there are more mountains”. Once in a while, though, in between these mountains, you’ll stumble upon a hidden gem (and travellers who’ve been here before know that Haiti is full of them). One such hidden gem is Kaskad Pichon, a waterfall that is as stunningly beautiful as it is notoriously hard to get to.

Visiting Kaskad Pichon might have you snapping pictures the entire time, or putting your phone down in awe — up to you, really! However you decided to take it in, a visit to Kaskad Pichon is an intimate wilderness experience that you’ll remember for years to come.

Three travellers wading in the Kaskad Pichon waterfalls, Haiti — Travellers exploring the Kaskad Pichon waterfalls, Haiti
Photo: Franck Fontain

Getting to Kaskad Pichon

Kaskad Pichon is remote, and to get there, adventurers need to be prepared to drive (or hire a chauffeur), ride a motorcycle, and hike.

The drive to Belle-Anse, the main town of the area, is quite a trip in and of itself, on a gravel road that passes through floodplains, riverbeds, and up steep hillsides. If you drive from Marigot the trip to Belle-Anse should take about two or three hours. The town of Belle-Anse is interesting enough to spend a morning exploring, or at least stopping for lunch to re-energize before the most rugged part of the adventure.

From Belle-Anse, you’ll need to drive to Pichon, and from there it’s another hour’s drive to Kaskad Pichon. A motorcycle ride from Pichon to the waterfall should cost you about 1,000 HTG per person (roughly US $11).

The ride up to the waterfall is part of the experience – clinging for dear life on the back of a bike, you’ll be driving through some of the most pristine wilderness Haiti has to offer, with mile upon mile of sandy white beach unwinding below the path up the mountainside. If you can plan for it with your motorcycle drivers, we highly recommend you make a quick swim stop en route to take in the beauty offered by Haiti’s south. It’s also a great opportunity to uncover some extremely instagrammable spots – you might want to plan in a little extra time for that.

After an hour-long motorcycle ride, you’ll have to hike, following a guide, for roughly 40 minutes, before reaching the waterfalls.

Written by Kira Paulemon.

Published January 2020

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hiking

Seven of Haiti’s Prettiest Waterfalls

Unleash your inner adventurer and explore the hidden gems of Haiti – its stunning waterfalls!

start your day the Haitian way

1. Kaskad Pichon

2. Bassin Zim

3. Bassin Bleu

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

4. Saut-d’eau

5. Saut Mathurine

6. Kaskad Boukan

7. Bassin Waka

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

Explore Haiti’s Wildlife & Nature

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Top Birdwatching Sites in Haiti

Four spots to see Haitian birdlife at its best

a touch of haitian wisdom

1. Wynne Farm

2. Parc National la Visite

a touch of haitian wisdom

3. Macaya National Park

4. Forêt des Pins

A Visual Guide to Vodou Symbols

Top things to see in Haiti

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Check out These 10 Amazing Haitian Birds

Did you know that you’ll see more Caribbean birds in Haiti than (almost) anywhere else? Which of these ten amazing Haitian birds have you seen?

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Here are ten Haitian birds to look out for on your birding adventure

01. Wanga Negès

02. Ti Seren

03. Ti Kòk

04. Bannann Mi Fran

05. Mèl Dyab

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06. Ti Tchit Kou Jòn

07. Kat-je Tét Nwa

08. Ti Kit Fal Jòn

09. Kolibri Mòn, Chikorèt

10. Kanson Wouj

Citadelle Henri

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Photo Journal: Grand’Anse

One of the country’s southernmost departments, and the home to cities like Jérémie and Abricots, Grand’Anse is where coastal cruising meets mainland adventures.

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

A Visual Guide to Vodou Symbols

Our hotel recommendations

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Dondon grottoes

The grottoes

a touch of haitian wisdom

Guided tours

Festivals in Dondon

From Our Land to Your Home

What else is nearby?

Getting to the Dondon grottoes

Find the Dondon grottoes

External Links

A Visual Guide to Vodou Symbols

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Kaskad Pichon

a touch of haitian wisdom

Getting to Kaskad Pichon

The Birds of Haiti on Your Wall

Find Kaskad Pichon

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

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Plan Your Trip

Destinations

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Plan Your Trip

Destinations

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start your day
the Haitian way

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

a touch of
haitian wisdom

a touch of
haitian wisdom

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols

a touch of
haitian wisdom

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols

a touch of
haitian wisdom

A Visual Guide to
Vodou Symbols

a touch of
haitian wisdom