waterfalls

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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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.

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

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

Vodou Pilgrimage to Saut d’Eau

February 11, 2020 by admin

crowd of haitians standing under a huge waterfall — Pilgrims gathering beneath the Saut d’Eau waterfalls
Photo: Franck Fontain

On the trail of the Vodou pilgrimage to Saut d’Eau

Every year, this one-of-a-kind Vodou pilgrimage brings together crowds of the devoted and the curious

Haitian culture – we mention it a lot here at Visit Haiti, but what is it, exactly?

Haitian culture is a cluster of concepts, practices and identities, including the Kreyol (Haitian Creole) language, a set of morals, everyday customs, the history of the modern nation of Haiti (as well as the interrelated history of the Dominican Republic and the island of Hispaniola as a whole), and the Haitian religion – Vodou.

Spelled Vodou to distinguish it from the voodoo traditions of Louisiana and elsewhere in the African diaspora, Haitian Vodou is born out of the unique mix of many African religious practices with christianity, all of which were transported here to Haiti during the colonial period.

According to sales archives preserved from the colonial era (and still accessible in private collections or at the National Library of France), we learn that plantations often held slaves of up to ten different ethnicities. This included members of the island’s indigenous Taíno people, few of whom had survived the brutal regime of colonisation and enslavement up to that point. Colonial plantation owners were recommended to hold slaves from different ethnicities together on the same plantation, so that they’d have nothing in common but the color of their skin. People thrown together on Haitian plantations included Fon (Dahomey) people from Benin, Congo and elsewhere. In The Mysteries of Vodou, Laennec Hurbon explains that the word Vodou comes from the language spoken in Benin and means “invisible and formidable power”.

This multiculturalism allowed Haitian Vodou to acquire over the course of the years characteristics that are its own, and awards it all the richness it has today. One of the roots of this richness is the religious syncretism that allowed African practices to graft themselves to Christianity as well as to the indigenous practices that already existed on the island. From there, the Christian saints became vodou lwas and Christian celebrations transformed into Vodou ceremonies and celebrations.

One of these celebrations is the annual pilgrimage to honor the Miraculous Virgin of Saut d’Eau at the magical Saut d’Eau waterfall (spelled Sodo in Kreyol).

haitian girl sitting behind table with merchandise for sale — Vendor selling offer gifts at Saut d’Eau
Photo: Franck Fontain

The Miraculous Virgin of Saut d’Eau

Popular in Vodou spaces around Haiti, the Miraculous Virgin of Saut d’Eau is renowned for bringing luck in love and in economic transactions. You’ll also find her venerated under the names Saint Anne (Mother of the Virgin Mary in the Christian tradition) or Little Saint Anne (Kreyol: Ti Sent Án) or Miraculous Virgin.

Every year from July 14 to 16, devotees from across Haiti make a pilgrimage to the Saut d’Eau waterfall, located 60 miles north of Port-au-Prince. The event also attracts curious travellers from around the world, who want to witness this one-of-a-kind Vodou pilgrimage.

haitian pilgrims during a spiritual ritual by waterfall — Pilgrims bathing at Saut d’Eau
Photo: Franck Fontain

How to invoke the favor of the Miraculous Virgin

To obtain the Miraculous Virgin’s favor, Vodou practitioners travel to the sacred Saut d’Eau waterfall to conduct a purification ritual. Most practitioners make the pilgrimage in summer, but the ritual is possible at any time of the year.

The ritual is called a “luck bath”. The devotee journeys to the cult site with a calabash (a water flask made from a gourd) as well as gifts to offer to the goddess, before disrobing and diving under the magnificent Saut d’Eau waterfall. Devotees carry a small collection of leaves, plants, and herbs linked to the goddess and believed to have therapeutic virtues. If they want to, the supplicants can also bring orgeat syrup, perfume or flowers, or prepare a meal to offer as a pledge of their good faith and their loyalty to the lwa.

Once the preparations are complete, the supplicant bathes under the waterfall (either alone or with the help of an ougan (Vodou priest)), washing while invoking the protection and virtues of the goddess. It is critical, at the end of this ceremony, to break the calabash that served to carry water from the waterfall to wash oneself and to leave in the water the clothes which the supplicant had worn to the site – these represent their past bad luck. Instead, devotees leave dressed in new clothes, and hopefully imbued with the goddess’ protection and luck for the future.

crowd of haitians preparing for a spiritual bath by waterfall — Saut d’Eau
Photo: Franck Fontain

Make a pilgrimage of your own

Intrigued? Although it’s one of the most sacred sites in Haiti, Saut d’Eau is not cut off from the curious. Travellers are welcome to visit the waterfall any time of year. Whether you want to try your luck at invoking the lwa‘s favor, or just enjoy the experience of bathing under an incredible freshwater waterfall, framed by gorgeous forest filled with birdsong, you’re welcome to make a pilgrimage of your own to this very special place.

Saut d’Eau waterfall (spelled Sodo in Kreyol) is located 60 miles north of Port-au-Prince, near Mirebalais. The pilgrimage happens from July 14 to 16, but the site is open to visitors year-round (road conditions allowing).

The magnificent Saut d’Eau waterfall is just one of many mystical sites used for the Vodou luck bath ritual, including Bassin Saint Jacques and the gorgeous Bassin Bleu.

haitian woman in blue dress with small child in straw hat — Saut d’Eau
Photo: Franck Fontain

Written by Melissa Beralus and translated by Kelly Paulemon.

Published February 2020

Explore Haiti’s Art & Culture

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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Jump into Saut-Mathurine – Haiti’s Biggest Waterfall

October 15, 2018 by Editor

Jump into Saut-Mathurine – Haiti’s Biggest Waterfall

The south coast is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, and Saut-Mathurine, Haiti’s largest waterfall, is one of them.

A hidden world

A 40 minute drive out of the western city of Les Cayes, the waterfall is at its most spectacular around May and June, but this is also when the road to get there is at its most – lets say adventurous.

During the rainy season, the Cavaillon river that feeds Saut Mathurine flows powerfully, and you can hear the crashing falls from a distance. In January – Haiti’s driest month- it may not be running at all, but the pool is still a gorgeous place to swim and the jungle scenery is every bit as lush and dramatic as during the rains.

Saut-Mathurine runs through a ravine, and the scene is something out of Jurassic Park: the waterfall thunders into a pristine pool of bright aqua waters, almost green but crystal-clear. Half of the pool is accessible – the other is jagged rock cliffs frothing with jungle trees, vines and moss. At the far end from the waterfall, water cascades over the edge of the pool and becomes rapids that continue on through the ravine. The ridges of the ravine overflow with towering native forest, full of exotic bird song blending in with the sound of the waterfall.

On the accessible side, there’s a cobblestone ledge to make it easier to get right up close to the water’s edge without falling in. But bring swimwear! Saut Mathurine is a fantastic place to swim and is considered better even than Gelée Beach.

The water is ice cold, but on sunny days (practically all!) It’s worth it! A few hours is in this paradise is enough to wash away six months of working way too hard on whatever it is that you do.

A climb up a side track leads to the top of the waterfall from where you have a wonderful view and access to some natural pools.

Les Cayes is one of the cities the most travellers don’t reach – Jacmel or Saint-Louis-du-Sud are closer to Port-au-Prince. If you manage to make it as far west as Les Cayes, make it a point to visit Saut Mathurine.

Waterfall at Saut Mathurine, Haiti — Saut Mathurine waterfall, Haiti
Photo: Ricardo Lartigue

Getting there

Saut Mathurine is off the beaten path for most travellers – quite literally. The road is unpaved and you’ll need a 4×4 to get there, but it’s worth the bumpy ride. You can hire 4×4 vehicles in Les Cayes. If you’re not used to driving on rough roads, ask if the car company can provide an experienced driver as well. If you enjoy driving off-road though, getting there is an absolute adventure.

Access to the waterfall is via a park entrance – a gap in the wall with a small office to the side. The entrance fee for travellers is 100 Haitian gourdes. Inside the walls, there’s much more to discover than the waterfall itself – you can walk along the riverside and around steps carved into or laid around the otherwise wild jungle. There is a boutique selling local crafts and a restaurant on site.

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The south coast is full of hidden treasures waiting to be discovered, and Saut-Mathurine, Haiti’s largest waterfall, is one of them.

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start your day
the Haitian way

start your day
the Haitian way

a touch of
haitian wisdom

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