Traveling in Haiti
Haiti, which occupies about one-third of the Caribbean island of Hispaniola, is among the lesser traveled Caribbean destinations. Despite a troubled political history, beautiful white sand beaches, exciting cultural landmarks and exotic music and art continue to draw tourists to the island each year. The name Haiti actually means "mountainous land," and the majestic landscapes only add to the island's appeal. The tropical climate warmly embraces visitors year round.
Travel Documents
For a complete list of all required travel documents for US citizens to enter Haiti, please click here.
Immunizations
While there are no mandatory vaccinations required to travel to Haiti, the following list is recommended by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention (especially if traveling outside of urban areas):
- Routine Vaccinations (Measles/Mumps/Rubella, Diptheria/Pertussis/Tetanus)
- Hepatitis A or immune globulin (IG)
- Hepatitis B
- Typhoid
- Rabies
Malaria -- Discuss with your doctor the best ways for you to avoid getting sick with malaria. Ways to prevent malaria include the following:
- Taking a prescription antimalarial drug such as atovaguone/proguanil, doxycycline, or mefloguine
- Using insect repellent and wearing long pants and sleeves to prevent mosquito bites
- Sleeping in air-conditioned or well-screened rooms or using bednets
Inoculation regulations are subject to change and vary depending on the season. Tell your family physician or travel doctor that you are traveling to Haiti and take all medical advice.
Safety
While CAN may arrange for security when needed, it is wise to take the same basic safety precautions you would in any third world country. When traveling in Haiti, be sure to:
- Carry important documents with you, and make photo copies of your passport, driver’s license and credit cards.
- Do not wear conspicuous jewelry, carry expensive camera equipment or do anything else to draw attention to yourself and make you an easy target for pick-pocketing.
- Exercise special caution when in crowed areas and marketplaces.
- Do not carry too much cash or multiple credit cards with you.
- Avoid traveling alone at night.
- Drink only bottled water and be aware that ice may or may not be contaminated.
Currency
The official currency of Haiti is the gourde, which has a variable exchange rate. Many establishments in Haiti price items in an unofficial currency known as the “Haitian dollar.” (One Haitian dollar is equivalent to five gourdes.) Always clarify with vendors which currency -- the gourde, Haitian dollar, or U.S. dollar -- is being used in a given transaction, as price tags often bear a number without indicating currency.
Travelers' checks are often difficult to change in Haiti, but credit cards are widely accepted and some establishments accept or cash personal checks. At least one local bank chain has ATMs around Port-au-Prince that are compatible with some U.S. ATM cards. These ATMs are frequently out-of-order, and there have been reports of overcharging.
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