Welcome to Haiti 😊

Quick Facts About Haiti

Money and Finances

The official currency of Haiti is the Haitian gourde (HTG). Coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10 and 20 centimes, as well as 1 and 5 gourdes. Banknotes come in denominations of 10, 20, 50, 100, 250 and 500 gourdes.

ATM Network

ATMs are not widely available in Haiti, especially outside of large urban areas. It is recommended to withdraw cash in advance if traveling to more remote areas.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Haiti, and it is recommended to bring cash in the local currency. Visa and Mastercard may be accepted in larger hotels and restaurants, but AMEX is not widely accepted.

Internet and Phones

Internet speed in Haiti is generally slow, with an average download speed of 9.54 Mbps and an average upload speed of 1.03 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

There are several telco companies in Haiti including Digicel, Natcom, and VOILA. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around $15 per month. There may be sim compatibility issues so it's best to check with your provider before traveling.

Dialling to Haiti

To call Haiti from another country, dial the international code for your country followed by Haiti's country code, which is +509. When dialing within Haiti, use the three-digit area code followed by the seven-digit phone number.

Transport Around Haiti

Air Travel

Haiti has two major international airports: Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince and Cap-Haïtien International Airport in Cap-Haïtien.

Train Travel

Haiti does not have an inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Haiti does not have a metro system.

Buses

There are several bus companies operating in Haiti, and they are the primary means of long-distance travel. Example bus ticket prices range from $5 to $30, depending on distance, and journey times can vary greatly due to road conditions.

Rideshare

There are several rideshare companies operating in Haiti, such as Uber and Bolt. Average travel prices vary depending on the distance and route taken.

Driving by Car

Driving in Haiti can be challenging due to the poor road conditions, unpredictable drivers, and lack of clear road signage. The speed limit is generally 30-50 km/h in urban areas and 80-100 km/h on highways. Haiti drives on the right-hand side of the road.

Local Customs

In Haiti, tipping is not expected but appreciated if the service was exceptional. Locals usually greet each other with a handshake or a kiss on the cheek, and sometimes a bow. When speaking with strangers, it's important to show respect, and men usually address each other as 'Monsieur' or 'Frere,' while women address each other as 'Madame' or 'Soeur.'

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Haiti has a limited public healthcare system and most people rely on private healthcare facilities. Medical costs can be expensive, and it is advisable to purchase comprehensive travel insurance before visiting. A visit to a doctor can cost anywhere from $50 to $150.

COVID Situation

Haiti has reported lower numbers of COVID-19 cases compared to other countries in the region. However, the healthcare system in Haiti is weak, and there is limited testing capacity. People should continue to wear masks and practice social distancing when in public.

Common Health Risks

Haiti has a high incidence of foodborne illnesses, such as cholera, typhoid fever, and hepatitis A. Malaria and dengue fever are also common. Visitors should take precautions to avoid mosquito bites and drink only bottled or boiled water. It is also recommended to receive vaccinations for hepatitis A and B, typhoid, and yellow fever.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

Alcohol consumption is legal in Haiti, but it is strongly discouraged due to the high level of public intoxication and associated crime. Alcohol bans have been imposed during times of political unrest.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use in Haiti is illegal and can result in severe punishment, including imprisonment. Haitian authorities have a zero-tolerance policy towards drug use and trafficking.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws in Haiti that specifically address pre-marital relationships, but socially conservative attitudes may lead to criticism or ostracism in some communities.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

LGBTQ rights are not recognized in Haiti, and same-sex relationships are not legally recognized. LGBTQ individuals may face discrimination, harassment, and violence.

Firearms / Guns

Gun ownership in Haiti is subject to strict regulation and requires a permit. Unauthorized possession of firearms is illegal and can result in severe punishment.