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Nine of the Most Beautiful Destinations in Haiti

July 7, 2023 by Angel Rosario

Sans Souci Palace near Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

Nine of the Most Beautiful Destinations in Haiti

Sun-kissed and sandy-toed, we’ve toured Haiti to bring you our pick of the most beautiful places on the island. From Cap-Haïtien’s culture-rich streets to Port-a-Piment’s hidden caves, these are the Haitian destinations to escape to this season.

Haiti is brimming with destinations that are sure to captivate the hearts of travelers, vacationers, and nature lovers alike. This country, known for its mountains, is where raw beauty thrives and history comes alive. From the golden sandy beaches to the tropical rainforests, and not to forget the breathtaking waterfalls, here’s a roundup of the most beautiful spots in Haiti that you shouldn’t miss.

Buche Perico restaurant in Santo Domingo — Macaya National Park
Photo: Haiti National Trust

1. Macaya National Park

In the heart of an untouched rainforest lies Macaya National Park, a sanctuary where nature thrives away from human touch. The park is home to wildlife and plants that are unique to Haiti. Among these, you’ll find the Hispaniolan Solenodon and a variety of Hutia that calls the park home.

For birdwatchers and outdoor enthusiasts, this is a haven where you can spot the Narrow-Billed Tody (locally known as Chikorèt), the Hispaniolan Trogon (Haiti’s national bird), or one of the many other tropical birds that live here. The Macaya Peak, standing tall at 2,347 meters, is a hiker’s paradise, offering trails that are perfect for those looking for an adventure through the cloud forest.

Cathedral in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

2. Cap-Haïtien

Cap-Haïtien, Haiti’s second-largest city, is swiftly emerging as the country’s prime tourist hotspot. This city is a tapestry woven with history and culture. As you wander through the streets lined with colonial houses, you can feel the city’s pulse.

But there’s more to Cap-Haïtien than just history; it’s a place where the past meets the present. With an array of hotels, and restaurants, there’s no shortage of places to relax and enjoy the local cuisine, and the nearby beaches are perfect for those who want to bask in the Caribbean sun.

For the adventure seekers, the city offers exciting excursions and fun activities, such as a day trip to Bassin Waka or an exploration of the mystical caves of Dondon. Cap-Haïtien is also home to the stunning Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, with its iconic tiled dome.

3. The Péligre Lake

Sometimes, nature and human ingenuity come together to create something truly beautiful, and the Péligre Dam is a testament to that. This hydroelectric dam has given birth to an artificial lake that is nothing short of a marvel. Cradled in the embrace of the mountains, the lake is akin to a vast emerald, with its lush greenery reflecting on the placid waters.

The dam, built on the Artibonite River, one of the largest rivers in the country, is a place where you can lose yourself in the sheer beauty of your surroundings.

4. Forêt des Pins & La Selle National Park

Straddling the Haitian-Dominican border at over 2,000 meters above sea level, Forêt des Pins is a sanctuary of biodiversity and a dream for mountain hiking enthusiasts. Part of the La Selle National Park, this subtropical coniferous forest is home to the Pic La Selle, the highest mountain in Haiti.

What’s surprising is the climate; you might expect the Caribbean to be all about the heat, but up here in Forêt des Pins, the air is refreshingly cool. The forest is lush, with towering pine trees that seem to touch the sky. It’s a place where you can feel close to nature, with the scent of pine in the air and the sound of leaves rustling in the wind.

But Forêt des Pins is part of something even bigger. It’s a key piece in a chain of protected areas that spans across the Haitian-Dominican border, linking with other national parks on the Dominican side. This forms the La Selle Jaragua-Bahoruco-Enriquillo Biosphere Reserve which is one of only 21 transnational biosphere reserves on the planet.

Ready to take an epic journey across the island of Hispaniola through a biosphere reserve? Read all about it here!

5. Sans Souci Palace

The Sans Souci Palace, built between 1810 and 1813, is a majestic embodiment of Haiti’s architectural heritage. This palace, with its baroque flair and inspiration drawn from Prussian architecture, is a reflection of the grandeur and ambition of the kingdom established by King Henri I in the wake of Haiti’s independence.

The palace is not just a building; it’s a symbol, an iconic representation of Haitian pride and history. As you walk through the ruins, you can almost hear the echoes of a bygone era, when the island was abuzz with newfound freedom and the nation’s greatness was at its zenith.

The Sans Souci Palace, along with the nearby Milot Chapel and the famous Citadelle, form a triumvirate of historical and architectural significance. These landmarks stand as a reminder of a time when the Haitian nation was carving out its identity on the world stage.

For anyone with a penchant for contemporary history and especially black history, a visit to the ruins of Sans Souci is an absolute must. It’s a journey through time, a glimpse into the soul of a nation that has fought for its place in history.

Ile A Rat (Amiga Island)
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

6. Île à Rat

Haiti boasts some of the Caribbeans most beautiful islands, and Île à Rat is no exception. This tiny, uninhabited island, with its golden sands, is a favorite among couples seeking a romantic getaway or anyone looking to unwind on a little slice of heaven. With a small, wild forest at its center, surrounded by a beach with the finest powdery sand, and a coral reef in crystal-clear waters, this island is pure bliss.

Just a short 15-minute boat ride from the coast, Île à Rat feels like a world away. The island invites you to indulge in activities like snorkeling and diving, exploring the vibrant underwater world. But if you’re looking for something more laid-back, how about just chilling in the shade of a palm tree with an ice-cold Prestige beer in hand?

One of the unique charms of Île à Rat is the occasional visit by local fishermen in canoes that often stop by to offer their freshly caught fish and seafood. And here’s the best part – they will gladly prepare it for you right on the beach. Imagine savoring the taste of freshly grilled seafood, with the sound of waves as your background music.

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

7. Saut Mathurine

Located between the cities of Les Cayes and Jérémie in Haiti’s South Department, Saut Mathurine is a captivating spectacle of nature. During the rainy season from April to October, the waterfall is at its peak, as the Cavaillon River’s powerful waters cascade into a 30-meter wide basin, enveloped by jungle-clad mountains. The waterfall’s roar and the mist that rises are a sight to behold. However, from November to March, during Haiti’s dry season, the waterfall takes on a calmer demeanor, transforming into a gentle stream.

Saut Mathurine is not just for sightseeing; it’s an invitation to dive into nature. Bring your swimming gear and take a dip in the natural basin. The water may be refreshingly cool at first, but as you adjust, the thrill of swimming near the waterfall is invigorating. For the adventurous, a swim across the basin followed by a climb up the waterfall for a daring leap into the water is an unforgettable experience. Be cautious, though, as the water gets deeper towards the middle of the basin.

Check out the greatest waterfalls of haiti!

Grotte Marie Jeanne
Photo: CavesOfHaiti.org

8. Grotte Marie Jeanne

Contrary to what you might expect, some of Haiti’s most beautiful destinations are hidden underground, and Grotte Marie Jeanne is a prime example. Located in the quaint city of Port-a-Piment, just a few miles up the coast from Port Salut (which is renowned for some of Haiti’s best beaches) this cave is an Eldorado of natural splendors. With over four kilometers of galleries and more than fifty chambers, Grotte Marie Jeanne holds the distinction of being the Caribbean’s most extensive natural excavation.

The daylight filtering through openings, coupled with stalactites hanging from the ceiling, creates an ethereal light that transports you to a magical realm.

And what adds to the allure of Grotte Marie Jeanne is its historical significance, as the cave is named after Marie-Jeanne Lamartiniére, a fearless woman who fought in the Haitian Revolution. She was one of the few women who took up arms and fought bravely for the revolutionary army.

Beach Cote Des Arcadins
Photo: Jean Oscar Augustin

9. Cotes des Arcadins

Last up on our list of the most beautiful places in Haiti is Cotes des Arcadins, a tropical paradise boasting 19 kilometers of white sand along the northern bay of Port-au-Prince. Framed by coconut trees, a deep blue sea, and mountains, this destination is the go-to place for water enthusiasts. Whether jet skiing or diving to admire the stunning coral reef, Cotes des Arcadins offers an idyllic escape. The coast is also dotted with renowned resorts such as Club Indigo Decameron, Moulin Sur Mer, and Wahoo Bay.

Just a stone’s throw away is the buzzing city of Montrouis, which complements the serene beauty of Cotes des Arcadins with its lively atmosphere. Montrouis is a treasure trove of activities, from exploring local markets to indulging in Haitian cuisine. If you’re looking to escape the crowds, Amany Beach is one of Haiti’s lesser-known beaches, a perfect spot for a tranquil retreat and short 20 minutes drive from Cotes des Arcadins.

Written by Costaguinov Baptiste.

Published July 2023.

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How Haitian Are You? Try This Cultural Quiz!

April 13, 2021 by Anton Lau

bright colorful haitian truck loaded with cabbage — Truck loaded with cabbage
Photo: Kolektif 2 Dimansyon (K2D)

How Haitian Are You? Prove Yourself with This Cultural Quiz!

Whether you were born and live in Haiti, are part of the diaspora, or are not Haitian at all, this quiz is the perfect way to find out just how much you know about Haiti!

Haiti has a lot of history, so much to show and so much to tell. Do you know some not so common Haitian facts or want to prove to your Haitian grandmother that you know some Kreyòl? Maybe you’ve visited Haiti so many times you feel Haitian in your heart and want to test what you know. That’s why we’re here! Take this quiz to find out just how Haitian you are!

Let’s test how Haitian you are!

<section><h2><span style="font-size:36px;"></span><h1 style="text-align:center;">How Haitian Are You? Prove Yourself with This Cultural Quiz!</h1></h2><p></p></section><section><h2><h2>What does Louisiane Saint Fleurant & Prosper Pierre Louis have in common?</h2></h2></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is Krik Krak?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>The Haitian artist Georges Liautaud is famous for his artworks made from what material?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is placed on top of the palm tree in the Haitian coat of arms?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Which famous pirate once lived on the Haitian Island </strong>Île-à-Vache?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>What is the nickname of former Haitian president Jean-Bertrand Aristide?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Which period did Élie Lescot serve as President of Haiti?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Konparèt is a local speciality from?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is Clairin(Kleren)?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>Akasan is a Haitian dish made from…</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2><strong>What is the name of the biggest lake in Haiti?</strong></h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Why is the endangered Haitian Solenodon considered one of the most unique and rare mammals in the world?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>What is Saut-Mathurine?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>Why is Jacmel nicknamed ‘The City of Lights’?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>What is a person from Cap-Haïtien called?</h2></h3></section><section><h3><h2>What is ‘rada’ and ‘petwo’?</h2></h3></section><section><h2><h2><strong>Are you sure you’re not Dominican?</strong></h2></h2><p></p></section><section><h3><h2></h2><h2><strong>Don’t feel bad!</strong></h2></h3><p>You’re Haitian by association</p></section><section><h3><h2><h3><em>Piti piti zwazo fè nich li</em></h3></h2></h3><p><h3>Little by little, you can progress in life.</h3></p></section><section><h3><h2></h2><h3><em>Haiti is in your blood</em></h3></h3><p>Shhh you’re haitian don’t let them tell you otherwise</p></section><section><h3><h2></h2><h3><em>Pa mal</em></h3></h3><p>You must be of Haitian descent!</p></section><section><h3><h3>Yon vyewo li ye wi</h3></h3><p>You’re pretty Haitian!</p></section><section><h3><h2>Ekselan!!</h2></h3><p>A true Zoe is in our presence!</p></section>

If these questions were a bit too challenging and you still need to brush up on some more simple facts, stick around and check out our “Test Your knowledge – How many facts about Haiti do you know?” Quiz! 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 April 2021.

Our recommendations

Lake Azuéi

May 13, 2020 by admin

palm tree trunks in lake with surrounded by mountains — Palm tree trunks in Lake Azuei
Photo: Franck Fontain

Lake Azuéi

Lake Azuéi lies 18 miles east of Port-au-Prince and borders Haiti’s next-door neighbor, the Dominican Republic. Spanning 65 blue square miles, Lake Azuéi is a remarkable ecosystem, and a great starting point for wilderness excursions.

Already Haiti’s largest lake, Lake Azuéi has been baffling scientists by rising for two decades – and no one knows why. Today, visitors to the site can see rows of pastel-colored facades that appear to be floating on the surface – the tops of houses, all that’s visible of now-flooded villages along what used to be the shores of the lake. Nearby, you can see trees growing through the glass-like surface as if defying the laws of nature. It’s a haunting picture.

Another quirk of this remarkable Caribbean lake is its salinity – also known as Étang Saumâtre, meaning “brackish lake”, Lake Azuéi is one-fifth the saltiness of the sea. In prehistoric times, the lake site was a marine strait, and its unique ecology is home to over 100 exotic species of water-loving birds and reptiles, including flamingoes and crocodiles.

haitian boys swimming in lake surrounded by mountains — People swimming in Lake Azuei
Photo: Franck Fontain

The riches of Lake Azuéi

Along one edge of Lake Azuéi, the Quisqueya Park nature reserve offers visitors the chance to wander through an impressive cacti forest. Inside the lake itself, commercial tilapia farms share space with wild flocks of waterfowl, once hunted, but now under official protection. One of the best ways to appreciate the vistas around Lake Azuéi is to plan your trip there to coincide with the birds that migrate to feed or breed here during certain times of the year.

Small villages dot the perimeter, and during the day, year-round, fishermen take their boats out, hoping to catch enough to support themselves and provide for their families. If you cross paths with one of these fishermen, you might be offered a tour of the lake. Tour fees start at 500 gourdes (roughly US $5.25) and sometimes cost more – haggling is a great skill to have, here, as it is at landmarks and markets across Haiti.

haitian boy with a small fish next to lake — Boy with a fish, Lake Azuei
Photo: Franck Fontain

What if I don’t like flamingos or crocodiles?

If you are a fan of rara music, you’ll be happy to learn that during the Easter period, Lake Azuéi comes alive. Many open spaces and clubs fill up with a crowd of people looking to dance and enjoy the gorgeous landscape around the annual lake celebration, held toward the end of August each year, usually at Quisqueya Park where it overlooks the lake. The lake is also a popular place to stage rara Easter festivities, making it a brilliant place to experience a real Haitian rara Easter.

To access Quisqueya Park, you’ll need to be accompanied by a guide unless you arrive during the August celebrations. Throughout the official celebration period, visitors can browse art and craft exhibitions with local and foreign artists, and guided visits are much more organized and frequent, but the main attraction is the same as it is at any other time of year – swimming! Zabeth Springs, in the town of Ganthier, not far from Lake Azuéi, attracts small crowds of curious visitors on most weekends. International adventurers join residents of Port-au-Prince in diving into the springs, and finish their day with a swim down at Lake Azuéi.

Sunshi Beach and Estofa Beach are established spots for relaxation by the lake, and the Cabane Hotel Resto is a great place to wake up facing Lake Azuéi.

restaurant dining area with thatched roof — Cabane Hotel Resto, Lake Azuei
Photo: Franck Fontain

Getting there

Lake Azuei is easy to access, located just 18 miles east of Port-au-Prince. If you have a guide, they will be able to take you privately – take the road that leads to the Plain of the Cul-de-Sac (French: Plaine du Cul-de-Sac), and keep going east – you won’t miss it.

For travelers coming from the Dominican Republic, public transportation will drive you right up to the lake. Buses wind alongside the lake shore, offering gorgeous views. Some adventurers hit the road on a motorcycle or moto, the most common mode of transportation in Haiti. While very exciting, we can’t really recommend it to first-time visitors to the lake because the lake is huge and being on the back of a bike that long just isn’t comfortable.

group of haitian kids swimming swimming in natural pool — Kids Swimming at Zabeth Springs, Lake Azuei
Photo: Franck Fontain

Written by Jean Fils and translated by Kelly Paulemon.

Published May 2020

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Day-trip to Haiti’s prettiest lake

December 12, 2018 by Editor

Two friends relaxing by Lake Péligre, Haiti — Friends relaxing by Lake Péligre
Photo: Franck Fontain

Day-trip to Haiti’s prettiest lake

About three hours north east of Port-au-Prince, tucked away in the central highlands, Lake Peligre is Haiti’s second-largest lake. But what exactly makes Lake Péligre worth making a detour for?

The creation of this man-made lake is not without controversy, but after six decades, a new thriving ecosystem is settling into place. Fishermen are drawn to the large numbers of fish that live there, and travellers are drawn to its pristine beauty.

The tops of the highlands plunge like fjords into the lake, flanking it dramatically on all sides. On a clear day, the sun mirrors of off green-blue waters that seem to stretch on for miles and miles into the horizon. Calm, sunny days are when the lake is most pleasant to visit – and at its most photogenic.

The wall of the Péligre hydroelectric dam, Haiti — Péligre hydroelectric dam
Photo: Franck Fontain

The hydroelectric dam

Between 1956 and 1957, Lake Péligre was created as a result of the Péligre hydroelectric dam, built by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. When the rivers were dammed and the lake flooded the highlands, several Haitian families were displaced, the fertile land they relied on to make a living was inundated, and much was lost by many who had very little to begin with.

Sixty years later, Lake Péligre still stands as an engineering marvel in Haiti, and the hydroelectric power plant of Péligre remains an important source of electricity for the island’s inhabitants.

Why is Lake Péligre green?

Nature enthusiasts visiting Haiti will wonder about this peculiar hue – the waters turn green because of two things. The first is the large amount of plankton – small organisms that live in large bodies of water – and the second is the large amount of organic matter that flows through the river openings connected to the lake. These two factors make Lake Péligre an extremely fertile environment, and that’s why it’s one of the largest contributors to fishing in Haiti!

A trip to Lake Péligre is one of the best ways to escape the city environment, and dive into one of the refreshing outdoor wonders the island has to offer.

Aerial view of Lake Péligre and surrounding hills, Haiti — Lake Péligre
Photo: Franck Fontain

Getting there

The drive to Lake Péligre from Port-au-Prince is about three hours. Due to traffic – at any time of the year, really – the earlier in the day you leave Port-au-Prince, the quicker you will reach your final destination! We recommend setting off early in the morning so you can drive back to Port-au-Prince on the same day.

To get there, you will drive through the areas of Mirebalais, then Cangé and Thomonde, before making your way south towards the lake.

As you get closer, the roadside opens up to a breathtaking view of Lake Péligre in all its glory. A morning drive to the lake is particularly gratifying, as the morning rays brush over the calm, glittering water while you drive by.

To truly discover the treasures of Haiti, you really need to get out there and travel around the island. If you are basing yourself in a big city like Port-au-Prince, it’s easy to escape on dozens of day trips to destinations in all directions.

Standing by the side of the road and taking in the fullness of Lake Péligre – its sheer size, the green colors and scents, and the dramatic mountains surrounding it all, you’ll be glad you made the trip.

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published December 2018

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Explore the Waterfall and Grottoes of Bassin Zim

July 26, 2018 by Editor

People swimming beneath a waterfall in Bassin Zim, Haiti — People swimming in Bassin Zim
Photo: Anton Lau

Explore the Waterfall and Glittering Grottoes of Bassin Zim

A few miles north of Hinche, Bassin Zim is a spectacular natural landmark with a waterfall, a chain of turquoise-hued pools and a network of glittering underground grottoes. There’s rumours of buried treasure, but the real treasure is out in the open.

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

The magnificent waterfall that is the centrepiece of Bassin Zim isn’t the type that crashes vertically down into the water below – instead, it cascades down the side of the mountain and fans out into a wide basin, creating one of the prettiest sights on the island.

A path winds from the basins all the way up to the top of the waterfall. You can reach the top if you can find your way, and if you’re lucky you might get to watch some experienced Haitians freediving into the pool below. We recommend against travellers trying it though – it’s more dangerous than it looks, and with so many other adventures to be had, why take the risk?

Many believe that after death, “good” or “pure” souls head to Bassin Zim to receive their blessings. There are also those who claim that the Taíno Amerindians who lived on the island before colonization have hidden a bountiful treasure somewhere in the basins or the caves below.

Bassin Zim, Haiti
Photo: Anton Lau

Buried Treasure

Underneath Bassin Zim, there are high-ceilinged grottos that are arguably even lovelier than the basins or the waterfall. With ankle-deep water studded with smooth rocks and stalagmites, the fifty-foot high walls are painted vivid green with moss, and the rivulets of water running down them reflect the outside light, glittering in the cool dark. Stalactites hang from the ceilings, and strange stone shapes mushroom from twists in the folds of rock. For keen photographers, these caverns will provide some striking shots.

The grottos beneath Bassin Zim are just the start – this landscape is full of them, and exploring the network with the help of a friendly guide is a great way to give back as part of trip to Haiti. A hike through nature is low-impact travel for you and a rewarding way for locals to make ends meet. Guides will help you to avoid the menace lurking in some of these caves: though they’re as unlikely to harbour pirates as they are to hide treasure, they have been known to harbour wasps.

Getting to Bassin Zim

From Port-au-Prince:
To get to Bassin Zim from Port-au-Prince, drive towards Hinche and head east out of town on the 308, crossing over the Samana river. About a mile after the river crossing, take the road on your left and follow it north as it climbs through a dry, pastoral landscape, passing several churches on the way.

The lands of what we can call “Midwestern Haiti” are often parched in the dry seasons and swamped under the deluges of the wet – it’s a changeable landscape where the power of nature is felt strongly.

As you near Bassin Zim, the dry road gets rougher, and the grass greener. There’s no turn off to watch for – the road makes a few sharp turns to meet up with the Samana again and ends at Bassin Zim itself.

Entrance fees
Admission is 250 HTG (less than 3 USD) for tourists and 50 HTG for locals.

A note on guides:
Getting to parts of Bassin Zim can be tough, and we recommend hiring a local guide – especially if you plan on jumping in, as it’s notoriously difficult to get down again without a guide.

When it comes to finding a guide, don’t worry – they’ll find you! In fact, if you don’t pick a guide and insist that the other hopeful candidates leave you alone, you can end up in the awkward situation of having several guides accompany you, all expecting to be paid at the end. Choose one (or more) guide, and insist that the rest leave you to it.

Make sure you negotiate a price with your guide before you start – 250 to 500 HTG is a reasonable price. Bring the right bills with you.

Remember, never underestimate the power of the water or the risks associated. If you are not joining a tour, inform your hotel or accommodation owner where you are going and be sure to check the conditions before you trek in. Happy travels!

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published July 2018

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Jump into the Cobalt Waters of Bassin Bleu

July 21, 2018 by admin

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

Jump into the Cobalt Waters of Bassin Bleu

No visit to Jacmel, in Haiti’s south-east, is complete without a trip to the natural wonder of Bassin Bleu.

Guarded by imposing rock formations, this series of four cobalt-blue pools linked by waterfalls is just 12km west of Jacmel.

Jacmel is Haiti’s sixth largest city, and although it was once named the City of Light (after becoming the first city in the Caribbean to get electricity), it’s the secluded jungle basins of nearby Bassin Bleu that make Jacmel one of the most visited cities in Haiti.

Cobalt Blue Water

With four basins of pristine natural beauty to choose from – Cheval, Yes, Palmiste and Clair – you can take your pick, but the star of the show (in our humble opinion) is undoubtedly Bassin Clair.

Pool surrounded by cliffs at Bassin Bleu waterfall, Jacmel — Bassin Bleu, Jacmel, Haiti
Photo: Anton Lau

Explore Four Bassins

Hiking through the dense, humid greenery of the surrounding jungle to find the falls, you can expect to break a sweat, but as the rush of the waterfalls grows louder, the forest clears, and the marvellous turquoise of Cheval basin comes into focus, you’ll be glad you made the effort.

Cheval is the first basin on the trail, and although striking in colour, the water is quite safe to wade into. Cheval doesn’t make it into many travel guides, but it’s shallow depth makes it suitable for everyone, including children (under supervision of course). If you’re planning on seeing the rest of Bassin Bleu, take the time to pause at Cheval: sit back, relax, and enjoy the impressive view of the southeastern coastline while you soak your feet in the bright-blue water.

For intrepid explorers who want to continue, a short walk will bring you to the 15 ft deep Bassin Yes. Beyond Bassin Yes, you’ll be rewarded with the perfect stop for a drink and bite to eat (and another swim of course), in the form of Bassin Palmiste, an impressive 57 ft deep. A series of uniquely-crafted concrete tables and seating areas, designed to meld into and complement their natural surroundings, provide convenient places to enjoy the view in comfort.

To see firsthand the impressive Bassin Clair, you’ll need extra effort, a rope, and the help of an experienced guide. Not far past Bassin Palmiste you’ll find a narrow staircase set into the natural rock formations, which will lead you up to the top of a rock hunkered into the side of the mountain. The short descent – just 10 feet – down the other side will feel much further, and is best done under the watchful eye of a guide, assisted by the aforementioned rope. Welcome to Bassin Clair.

Woman stands on the bank of a bright blue pool at Bassin Bleu, Haiti — Bassin Bleu, Jacmel, Haiti
Photo: Anton Lau

Dive in

Beneath the inviting turquoise surface, there’s much more to this pool than meets the eye. At 75 feet deep, Bassin Clair is an incredible location for floating meditation, and offers the deep tranquility and peace that flotation tanks can only dream of. As you drift, suspended, the stone of the mountain beneath your feet gives way, and the unusual mix of minerals in the pool buoys you up, creating the sensation that you are floating through air.

For the thrill-seekers among you, mere floating may not be enough. Join the ranks of experienced (or just adventurous) locals who climb up the rock surface to one of the jumping-off points and perform dives and backflips, taking turns breaking the serene surface of Bassin Clair. Just make sure you save some of that energy – it’s easy to forget you still need to hike back out at the end of the day.

Want to see for yourself why a visit to Bassin Bleu is considered one of the best day trips in Haiti?

Getting to Bassin Bleu

Option One:
Join a tour from either Jacmel or Port-au-Prince. A veteran guide will lead you through the jungle and delivery you safely to your dream destination. With transportation included (from Port-au-Prince and typically from Jacmel as well), this option takes the effort out of the journey, leaving you with more energy to explore Bassin Bleu itself.

Option Two:
It’s possible to get to Bassin Bleu from Jacmel on foot. Head towards the Riviere Gauche and look for the sign that directs visitors ‘this way’. You’ll want to pack plenty of water for your hike through the dense vegetation up the side of the mountain. Following the inclines of the path, you’ll see plenty of interesting landscape and get a commanding view of the south-east coastline, and the reward of the swim at the end will be all the sweeter.

Entrance fees
Admission is 100 HTG per person and an additional 100 HTG per car in parking fees.

A note on guides:
Getting to Bassin Bleu can be tough but rewarding and we recommend hiring a local guide.

Make sure you negotiate a price with your guide before you start – 250 to 500 HTG is a reasonable price. Bring the right bills with you.

Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published July 2018

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Nine of the Most Beautiful Destinations in Haiti

Sun-kissed and sandy-toed, we’ve toured Haiti to bring you our pick of the most beautiful places on the island. From Cap-Haïtien’s culture-rich streets to Port-a-Piment’s hidden caves, these are the Haitian destinations to escape to this season.

1. Macaya National Park

2. Cap-Haïtien

3. The Péligre Lake

4. Forêt des Pins & La Selle National Park

5. Sans Souci Palace

6. Île à Rat

7. Saut Mathurine

8. Grotte Marie Jeanne

9. Cotes des Arcadins

Your pocket guide to Cap-Haïtien

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How Haitian Are You? Prove Yourself with This Cultural Quiz!

Whether you were born and live in Haiti, are part of the diaspora, or are not Haitian at all, this quiz is the perfect way to find out just how much you know about Haiti!

Let’s test how Haitian you are!

a touch of haiti wisdom

Our recommendations

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Lake Azuéi

The riches of Lake Azuéi

What if I don’t like flamingos or crocodiles?

Getting there

Find Lake Azuei

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The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Haiti

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Day-trip to Haiti’s prettiest lake

The hydroelectric dam

Why is Lake Péligre green?

Getting there

Find Lake Péligre

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

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Explore the Waterfall and Glittering Grottoes of Bassin Zim

Buried Treasure

Getting to Bassin Zim

Find Bassin Zim

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Citadelle Henri

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Jump into the Cobalt Waters of Bassin Bleu

No visit to Jacmel, in Haiti’s south-east, is complete without a trip to the natural wonder of Bassin Bleu.

Cobalt Blue Water

Explore Four Bassins

Dive in

Getting to Bassin Bleu

Find Bassin Bleu

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The Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Haiti

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Plan Your Trip

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