Capital: Port au Prince
Area sq km: 27750.00 km²
Area sq miles: 10714.00 mi²
Population: ~ 11.70 million
Official Languages: French, Haitian Creole
Currency: Haitian gourde (G)
Driving Side: right
ISO Codes: HTI
Calling Code: 509
Median Mobile Internet Speed:
- Download: 8.38 Mbps
- Upload: 7.90 Mbps
- Latency: 24 ms
- Global Rank: #150
Median Broadband Internet Speed:
- Download: 36.66 Mbps
- Upload: 12.18 Mbps
- Latency: 44 ms
- Global Rank: #116
Electrical Socket Type:
A
No alternative plugs will also fit in type A sockets
B
Type A plugs will also fit in type B sockets
Continent: North America
Bordering Countries: Dominican Republic
Climate: Haiti enjoys a tropical climate with warm temperatures year-round and distinct wet and dry seasons. The wet season typically lasts from May to October, bringing heavy rainfall and occasional hurricanes or tropical storms. The dry season, from November to April, offers sunny skies and cooler temperatures, making it the ideal time to visit Haiti's beaches and explore its natural attractions.
Emergency Police: 114
Emergency Ambulance: 116
Emergency Fire: 115
Tipping:
Vaccinations for Most Travelers: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid
Vaccinations for Some Travelers: Cholera, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Tuberculosis
History
Haiti has a tumultuous history marked by colonization, slavery, revolution, and political turmoil. It was the first independent nation in Latin America and the Caribbean, achieving independence from French colonial rule through a successful slave rebellion in 1804. However, centuries of political instability, dictatorships, and natural disasters have left Haiti facing significant social and economic challenges.
Culture
Haitian culture is rich and diverse, with influences from Africa, Europe, and the Caribbean. Music and dance are integral parts of Haitian culture, with genres such as compas, rara, and vodou drumming providing the soundtrack to daily life and religious ceremonies. Artisans create vibrant paintings, sculptures, and crafts, reflecting Haiti's artistic talent and cultural pride.
Cuisine
Haitian cuisine is a flavorful blend of African, French, and indigenous Taíno influences, with staples such as rice, beans, plantains, and root vegetables. Common dishes include griot (fried pork), diri djon djon (rice cooked with black mushrooms), and pikliz (spicy pickled vegetables). Haitian cuisine is known for its bold flavors and use of local spices and herbs.
Language
Haitian Creole and French are the official languages of Haiti, with Haitian Creole being the most widely spoken by the majority of the population. French is primarily used in formal settings, education, and government. Learning a few basic phrases in Haitian Creole can enhance the travel experience and facilitate communication with locals, who often appreciate visitors making an effort to speak their language.
Politics
Haiti is a democratic republic with a history of political instability and corruption. The country has experienced numerous coups, dictatorships, and foreign interventions, leading to ongoing challenges in governance, infrastructure, and economic development. Recent years have seen efforts to strengthen democratic institutions and promote stability, but political tensions remain. Travelers should stay informed about local developments and exercise caution, particularly during periods of political unrest.
Religions
Tap Water
Tap Water Global Rank #154
#1 would be highest quality tap water and #195 would be lowest quality tap water.
Crime
Global Crime Rank #50
#1 would be highest in crime and #195 would be lowest in crime.
LGBTQ
Global LGBTQ Rank #130
#1 would be highest in LGBTQ friendliness and #195 would be lowest in LGBTQ friendliness.
Cannabis Laws Recreational Illegal Medical Illegal