Entry Requirements and Visas
Haiti has open borders, and citizens of most countries can enter without a visa. The Haitian government is actively promoting tourism and keen on improving the country's global image. However, visa-free entry is not extended to citizens of Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Iran, Libya, Panama, Syria, Vietnam, and Yemen.
Most international travelers arrive at Port-au-Prince's Aéroport Toussaint L'Ouverture or at Aéroport International Cap-Haïtien in the north. Major airlines serving Port-au-Prince from the US include American Airlines and JetBlue, while Air Transat, Air France, and Caribair offer additional international service.
Overland entry from the Dominican Republic is possible. A once-daily bus runs from Santo Domingo to Petionville (above Port-au-Prince), departing at 11:00 and costing $40 one-way, though it arrives after dark. Alternatively, you can take a minibus to the border town of Jimani and cross there. The border crossing at Dajabón/Ouanaminthe is also an option for reaching Cap-Haïtien. When crossing by land, expect to fill out a green form and pay an entry fee of around 100 Dominican pesos equivalent. Border hours are reportedly 09:00-18:00, though these should not be relied upon.
Money, Currency, and Typical Costs
The currency is the Gourde (HTG). Money changers at borders will exchange Dominican pesos and US dollars for gourdes at fair rates, though no ATMs are available at border crossings. Bottled water, widely available and inexpensive by Western standards, is a good budget item to expect.
Domestic flights within Haiti typically cost $125-$132 return from Port-au-Prince to other destinations, with cheaper options available to Jacmel. A bus from the border town of Croix-des-Bouquets to Port-au-Prince costs about 5 gourdes, while local tap-taps and buses in the border region cost around 50 gourdes for longer trips.
Staying Safe and Emergency Contacts
Since the 2021 assassination of the president, Haiti has experienced severe instability. Several governments advise against all travel to Haiti. Violent crime, civil unrest, and kidnapping are serious risks, and help from the outside world will be extremely limited if you encounter trouble.
Practical safety measures include: do not carry unnecessary valuables or more cash than needed; avoid walking late at night in dark streets; women should not walk alone; and remain alert for pickpockets. The international dialing code for Haiti is +509, which you can use to contact emergency services or your country's embassy if needed.
Avoid public transportation by bus and tap-taps when possible, as they are considered dangerous and inadequate. Domestic flights offer safer passage between different parts of Haiti, including between Port-au-Prince and other regions.
Health
Sanitary conditions in Haiti are poor and medical care is inadequate. If you become seriously ill or injured, you may need to be evacuated from the country.
Tap water should be avoided entirely—drink only bottled water. Avoid washing with water from creeks, lakes, or other untreated sources due to the risk of water-borne diseases. The hot climate will increase your hydration needs; fulfill these by purchasing inexpensive bottled water once in Haiti or by bringing a water purification system.
Mosquito-borne diseases are a significant concern. Malaria is common and most travelers will need anti-malarial drugs. Dengue fever is also fairly common, and Zika fever is a concern, especially for women who are or may become pregnant. Consult your doctor, a tropical medicine specialist, or a local clinic at least 6 weeks before your trip to determine appropriate immunizations and anti-malarial prophylaxis. An oral cholera vaccine may also be advisable, as it provides partial immunity to various causes of traveler's diarrhea. The US CDC provides detailed travel health guidance for Haiti.
Wear comfortable, supportive footwear such as hiking boots or sturdy sandals to avoid blisters, as your itinerary may involve considerable walking.
Staying Connected
For accurate details on local telecommunications options, contact your accommodation or check with your mobile provider about roaming rates before departure.
Local Customs and Etiquette
Haitians are known as a friendly and down-to-earth people. Treat all interactions with respect and dignity, addressing people as equals regardless of their economic circumstances. Impoverished Haitians will accept gifts but will stand straight, maintain eye contact, and offer a sincere "Mesi" (thanks in Haitian Creole).
Dress modestly, especially women, when exploring cities. Learn basic words of Haitian Creole to show respect and effort. Always ask permission before photographing locals, as they may request payment. Avoid taking pictures randomly or focusing solely on negative sights like trash; Haitians find this offensive. However, people welcome photographs of beautiful scenery, cultural events, and historical sites.
While visiting, carry a few gourdes for those who assist you (luggage carriers, shoe shiners, tap-tap hailing) but remain alert for pickpockets. Do not hand out candy or dollar bills indiscriminately, as this is considered offensive and compromises Haitian dignity. Instead, carry extra water and food to share with your driver, guide, or interpreter, and bring photos of your home, workplace, or family to share—these personal touches transform you from a tourist into a real person in the eyes of locals.
Be patient, as processes and services move slowly. Haitian men may make remarks or maintain steady eye contact with women; respond with politeness while keeping your attention on your immediate group. On remote islands like Gonâve, children may call out to foreigners or ask for payment for photos or shells. Respect their dignity by asking permission before photographing them and negotiating respectfully rather than assuming fees apply.