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QUIZ: Can You Place 12 Haitian Cities on the Map?

city street with people and old colonial houses
Street life in Jérémie
Photo: Tyler Welsh

QUIZ: Can You Place 12 Haitian Cities on the Map?

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The cities of Haiti are as diverse as its cuisine. Whether you are only familiar with Port-au-Prince and Jacmel, or you have already made friends in Milot, this quiz is a good exercise to see how well you know the Haitian landscape. Can you tell us where on the map these 12 cities are located?

Start taking the quiz on the map below!

Remember: there are no winners, and no losers — only opportunities to learn more about Haiti and to find new places to explore. Did you recognize any of the cities in the quiz? Which ones were you hearing of for the first time?


Written by Kelly Paulemon.

Published November 2020.


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Our Favorite Restaurants in Cap-haïtien

people seated at tables dining outside a restaurant
People dining outside Lakay Restaurant, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Franck Fontain

Our Favorite Restaurants in Cap-haïtien

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Haitian cuisine is a delicious crossroads with recipes inherited from African ancestors, Native Caribbean Americans, and colonial Europeans. Modern Haiti is divided into ten departments, each with its own capital and its own specialty dish. Grand-Anse is known for its legendary tonmtonm and konparèt, Artibonite for its lalo – every department has its own flavor.

Cap-Haïtien, as the second-biggest city in Haiti and the capital of the North department, is home to a bounty of world-class restaurants and cosy cafés where you can experience local cuisine.

To ease you into that culinary trip, here is a (non-exhaustive) list of restaurants in Cap-Haïtien that will elevate your stay in the city!

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

01. Lakay

The Haitian word lakay means “at home,” and that’s exactly where you will feel in this restaurant where you can enjoy a delicious sugar cane juice. They are the first to have added this exotic specialty to their menu, and now that it’s here, it’s impossible to leave Cap-Haïtien without tasting it!

We recommend: the stewed conch!

nighttime view of restaurant on a city street with palm trees
Cap Deli Restaurant, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Cap Deli

02. Cap Deli

Cap Deli is unbeatable when it comes to Capois cuisine. They are the ideal blend of modern and traditional dining, reinventing fare to please even the pickiest of eaters.

We recommend: the Creole fritay platter!

people seated in dining area inside a restaurant
Boukanye, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Boukanye

03. Boukanye

Hello Creole cuisine, with plantains, pikliz, and well-seasoned sauces and meats! Would you like to taste a finger-licking good plate of rice? You won’t find it anywhere better than at Boukanye.

We recommend: Pintade Labapen!

beach at night with moonlight reflecting in the ocean
View of Cormier Plage, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Cormier Plage

04. Comier Plage

Good, authentic cooking and a gorgeous, unobstructed view of the turquoise blue water of the sea of Cap-Haïtien — what more could you ask for? Breathe in the fresh sea air over a good breakfast, or enjoy the sound of the waves over a plate of fresh-caught seafood made to Comier Plage’s secret recipe.

We recommend: the lobster or the conch!

plate with grilled conch, fried plantains, rice and salat
Kokiyaj restaurant, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Kokiyaj

05. Kokiyaj

Two words describe the cuisine of Kokiyaj: deliciously excellent. With rave reviews from hungry travellers, this a great place to experience quality Haitian cooking.

We recommend: the conch salad!

evening view of hotel restaurant
Haitian pikliz
Photo: Franck Fontain

06. Hôtel Roi Christophe

The tropical garden and beautiful architecture of Hôtel Roi Christophe is enough to make it worth a visit, but it’s not the only reason we recommend dining here. This old colonial residence has lost none of its charm and must be the envy of many a Caribbean city.

We recommend: the daily special (ask your waiter!)

facade of a closed restaurant with old horse carriage parked in front
Barik Restaurant, Cap Haïtien
Photo: Mozart Louis

07. Barik

Did you know that goat meat is popular in Haiti? If you would like to experience it, Barik is the place to go! They also serve up delicious, juicy fish -grilled or stewed- like you have never tasted before.

We recommend: anything with goat meat, obviously.

Must-try local speciality

Cap-Haïtien 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.


Written by Melissa Beralus and translated by Kelly Paulemon.

Published October 2020


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Where to Wake up in Cap-Haïtien

hotel pool with lounge chairs and ocean view
Mont Joli Hotel, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Mont Joli Hotel

Where to Wake up in Cap-Haïtien

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Vastly underrated beachfronts, a wealth of adventure right around the corner, and a rich urban history make Cap-Haïtien one of Haiti’s most popular destinations.

Travellers planning a trip to Haiti’s “second city” have three choices when it comes to finding a place to stay: Travel to “Le Cap” independently, and find a hostel once you get here. This works for adventurous backpackers who aren’t sure when they’ll arrive, but it’s not the most practical option for first-time visitors. Your second option is to ask a friend in the city if they can host you. If you don’t know anyone, you can look for AirBnBs, but AirBnBs are only just starting to take off in Haiti, and rooms that are listed for Le Cap tend to fill up fast.

Your third option (and safest bet) is to book a room at a hotel in the city. Hotels can be somewhat expensive in Cap-Haïtien compared to elsewhere in Haiti, but this list of hotels is here to help you smoothly plan and enjoy your stay in Cap-Haïtien.

hotel pool surrounded by tropical trees
Auberge Villa Cana, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Mozart Louis

01. Auberge Villa Cana

Don’t be fooled by the name “Cana,” which means “duck” in Kreyòl. This superb villa just five miles from the city offers comfortable double rooms and a magnificent pool where you can lay back and relax under the Caribbean sun. Nested amidst thick lush trees and thoughtfully landscaped gardens, it’s a delicious oasis in the middle of Cap-Haïtien.

Auberge Villa Cana serves breakfast and has its own a la carte restaurant. If you’re traveling with children, you’ll be glad to know the hotel has its own playground, as well as two bars where you can kick back with a refreshing drink.

hotel area with pool, palm trees and guesthouse
Ekolojik Resort, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Ekolojik Resort

02. Ekolojik Resort

Eco-conscious travellers take note! An ecoluxe destination in Cap-Haïtien, Ekolojik offers a stay that’s as close to nature as you can get – from the soft breeze whistling through the surrounding trees and in between the palm fronds, to the obvious attention to sustainability in the resort’s logistics, this environmentally-friendly hotel is designed to give you peace of mind in every way possible. Transport to and from the airport or major bus stations is available, as well as amenities like a pool, gym and even a spa!

evening view of hotel restaurant
Hôtel Roi Christophe in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Hôtel Roi Christophe

03. Hotel du Roi Christophe

If you like sight-seeing on foot, the Roi Christophe is an excellent choice. Here, you’ll be able to enjoy the homely comforts of the Haitian north in a tropical haven peppered with palm trees and hibiscus flowers. Two minutes away from the tourist market and many small restaurants in Cap-Haïtien, the Roi Christophe offers closeness and comfort. Traveling with someone who has special mobility needs? The Roi Christophe offers accessible rooms too!

hotel pool with lounge chairs
Résidence Royale Hotel, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Résidence Royale Hotel

04. Résidence Royale Hotel

The Résidence Royale offers a beautiful Creole experience in a sleek, sober but beautiful presentation. The air conditioned rooms surround a shared lounge, bar and restaurant. The old hotel residence is a striking example of well-preserved colonial architecture, and the addition of typically Haitian pieces of art throughout the space makes this our top pick for travelling art and architecture connoisseurs.

hotel veranda overlooking a small bay with mountains
Kay Lolo Plage, Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Hotels.com

05. 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, enchanting 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.


Written by Melissa Beralus and translated by Kelly Paulemon.

Published December 2019


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cosmogram being traces on floor with hand holding a candle

Hôtel Roi Christophe

evening view of hotel restaurant
Hôtel Roi Christophe in Cap-Haïtien
Photo: Hôtel Roi Christophe

Hôtel Roi Christophe

In the middle of the bustling city of Cap-Haïtien, Hotel Roi Christophe offers a tropical oasis that delivers on culture and delights the senses.

First Impressions

The city of Cap-Haïtien, in the north of Haiti, is home to the Roi Christophe Hotel. The hotel carries the name of the city’s founding father, independence hero, and first king of Haiti’s history. In a Creole style that gives free rein to Haitian art and folklore, the hotel opens on a magnificent little terrace with canopy chairs. A small indoor garden shadowed by nearby mango and banana trees surrounds the terrace, making for an already very relaxing sight.

Rooms

When it comes to the rooms, the showcase of exotic and Creole artworks does not compromise on any of modernity’s comforts. Spacious, and pleasantly decorated, they are reminiscent of the interiors of medieval bedrooms. Each bedroom seems to have its own identity; all while respecting a decor guideline with paintings and local furniture, each one radiates its own ambiance.

What’s for breakfast?

Visitors of the Roi Christophe hotel can wake up and enjoy different breakfast options. If you are about to run out into the city for a day of exploring, the continental breakfast is a quick and easy choice. Those staying at the Roi Christophe with children will appreciate the breakfast buffet, with something for everyone. The à-la-carte breakfast options are perfect for people staying in on a weekend, or relaxing between adventures.

How about lunch and dinner?

The hotel’s setting is perfect for small walks during sunset, or appetizers with friends before dinner. In any case, the setting is also very enjoyable, with very little outside noise to take advantage of every moment. If you are a foodie, the Roi Christophe’s cooking will enchant you with traditional dishes like grilled fish, conch, or lobster,— grilled or stewed, with Creole rice so good you’ll lick your fingers.

Is there a bar?

The hotel’s Bar du Roi is open from 6 PM until 11 PM. Close your eyes, and you can probably already see yourself enjoying the signature house rum punch by the pool, on the breezy terrace, or around a lively game of pool!

Activities and amenities

The Roi Christophe hotel houses a beautiful outdoor pool, nestled between all of the property’s trees. Next to the pool is a gorgeous exterior terrasse surrounded by greenery. It faces the charming Bar du Roi. Right next to the pool, it’s possible to enjoy a cocktail made with the fruits harvested on the property.

Within a short walk you can find…

Staying at the Roi Christophe is also a way to learn more about this king that has made, for over 200 years, the pride of an entire people and who has built great vestiges like the Citadelle, and the Sans-Souci palace. Thanks to its closeness to the Boulevard, which is chock-full of restaurant options, it’s also a way to immerse yourself in the Cap-Haitian life and to take advantage of its cuisine, and of this city that doesn’t stop attracting both Haitian and foreign tourists.

Need to know (before you go)

If you are traveling with children, you might want to be careful when it comes to letting them near or in the pool; the shallow end clocks in at 4 feet, and might not be suitable for the youngest ones who don’t know how to swim!

Getting there

For directions and bookings visit Hôtel Roi Christophe on Hotels.com


Hôtel Roi Christophe

3.5 on TripAdvisor
3 Star Hotel
+509 36 87 8915
Pool, Room service, Free WiFi, Breakfast included
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Dondon grottoes

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

Dondon grottoes

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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


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Cap-Haïtien City Guide

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

City Guide: Cap-Haïtien

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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 ImpérialHotel SatamaHabitation 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


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