Haiti and Dominican Republic - the Less Known part of the Caribbean

Going through a tough period of natural disaster recovery and political instability, Haiti is gradually emerging in the hit list of travelers, who want to experience an exotic place still not taken over by the mass tourism wave. This fact is precisely the reason why the coming few years might be the best time for you to visit this Caribbean corner, yet to be explored. The stunning landscape, rich history and unique culture of Haiti are only a few of the reasons why you should consider this country as your next travel destination.

Highlights:
♦ Port-au-Prince - the capital and largest city of the Caribbean country of Haiti.
♦ Jacmel - a commune in southern Haiti founded by the Spanish in 1504 and repopulated by the French in 1698.
♦ Bassins Bleu waterfalls – an area with scenic ponds and waterfalls located at the northern part of Haiti.
♦ Croix Des Bouquets – a northern suburb in the Port-Au-Prince metropolitan area famous for its exuberant Christian and Voodoo art, richly influenced by nature, history and religion.
♦ Citadelle LaFerriere - a large mountaintop fortress in northern Haiti - one of the largest fortresses in the Americas, designated by the United Nations Educational, UNESCO as a World Heritage Site in 1982.
♦ Santo Domingo - the capital and largest city in the Dominican Republic and the largest city in the Caribbean by population.

Itinerary:

Day 1. Arrive Toussaint Louvertur airport.
Visit Croix des Bouquets in the Northern part of Port au Prince on the way to our hotel.

Day 2. Port-au-Prince
Tour to  the Observatory where there is a wonderful view overlooking Port-au-Prince and the bay. Then on up through the rural terraced farming areas of Fermathe and Kenscoff. We then go on up to Furcy where there are stunning views of the many ranges of mountains. You can get out and have a little walk or hike.

Day 3. Port-au-Prince - Jacmel
Sightseeing  tour visiting the old Gingerbread houses, dating from over 120 years, Champ de Mars, the Heroes’ square, the damaged Catholic Cathedral and Historic Pantheon museum before we continue to Jacmel  (4 hours drive).

Day 4. Jacmel
A walking tour through the charming old city of Jacmel. We spend the afternoon on one of Jacmel sandy beaches on the Caribbean - Cyvadier Plage or Raymond les Bains. 

Day 5. Back to Port-au-Prince
Drive to the Bassins Bleu waterfalls. Afterwards he will return you to Port-au-Prince.

Day 6. Cap Haitien - Citadelle Trip
Fly to Cap Haitian on the early flight, met by a driver and car. Fully guided tour of the Citadelle and Sans Souci Palace. Visit to the Citadelle LaFerriere in Milot, near Cap Haitian. The fortress which was started being built in 1805 is on the top of a 3000 foot mountain and is a World Heritage site

Day 7. Cap Haitien - Santiago (Dominican Republic)
Morning bus to Santiago, the country's second largest city. Arrival at about 15.00 hrs. Free afternoon to explore the city -  Centro Leon, Palacio Consistorial, Catedral de Santiago Apostol. 

Day 8. Santiago - Santo Domingo 
By Public bus to Santo Domingo (2-3 hours drive) 

Day 9. Santo Domingo
Half day guided city tour of Santo Domingo's Zona Colonial visiting Museo de las Casas Reales, Catedral Primada de America, Convento de la Orden de los Predicadores etc.

Day 10. Departure

Price includes: ► 9 nights accommodation in double rooms in small hotels (rooms with private facilities) incl. breakfast ►ground transfers as mentioned in the program; ►Penguin tour leader ►local guides on days 2, 3, 6 and 9  ► flight ticket Port-au-Prince – Cap Haitien ► bus tickets Cap Haitien – Santiago – Santo Domingo

The price does not include: ►flight tickets ►tips ►entrance fees ►drinks and meals not mentioned ►insurance ►personal expenses

Other expences: ►Single room supplement: 210 EUR

Visa: Please, check with your local consulates whether you need visa for both countries. Most European citizens do not need a visa to visit Haiti and the Dominican Republic

Gallery