Saint-Marc - Discovering Haiti

Travelling to Saint-Marc

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Saint-Marc, a pretty good destination in Haiti (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Saint-Marc and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Saint-Marc, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Haiti, here's everything to know about Saint-Marc for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Saint-Marc

Saint-Marc is a city located in the Artibonite department of Haiti, about 43 kilometers north-west of the capital, Port-au-Prince. It is the fourth-largest city in Haiti and is known for its bustling marketplaces, historical landmarks, and beautiful beaches. The city is home to several industries including agriculture, sugar cane processing, and fishing. Saint-Marc is also a popular tourist destination because of its cultural festivals, including the annual carnival celebration.

What to visit in Saint-Marc

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Saint-Marc, Haiti and their descriptions: 1. The Cathedral of Saint-Marc: This beautiful 19th century cathedral is located in the city center and is a great example of Haitian architecture.
2. The San Juan River: This river is home to many species of fish and is a great spot for fishing enthusiasts. It is also a popular spot for kayaking and canoeing.
3. The Saint-Marc Botanical Garden: This botanical garden is home to many species of flowers and plants from around the world. It is a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
4. The Fort Jacques: Located on a hill overlooking the city, Fort Jacques is a historical fort that played a key role in Haiti's fight for independence.
5. The Village of Petite Rivière de l'Artibonite: This small village is known for its vibrant art scene and is home to many Haitian artists.
6. The Cascade Pichon: A beautiful waterfall located just a short drive from Saint-Marc. It is a popular spot for picnics and hiking.
7. The Beaches of Saint-Marc: Saint-Marc is home to several beautiful beaches, including Plage Cadras and Plage du Morne.
8. The Saint-Marc Market: A bustling market that offers a wide variety of local produce, crafts, and souvenirs.
9. The National Museum of Haitian Art: Located in Port-au-Prince, just a short drive from Saint-Marc, this museum is home to a large collection of Haitian art and artifacts.
10. The Citadelle Laferrière: One of Haiti's most famous landmarks, the Citadelle Laferrière is a massive fortress built on a mountain in the north of the country. It played a key role in Haiti's fight for independence and is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Haiti, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.

When to go on holiday to Saint-Marc

The best time to visit Saint-Marc, Haiti would be between December and April when the weather is dry and temperatures are more comfortable. During this time, you can enjoy warmer temperatures that range between around 25-30°C (77-86°F), and fewer chances of encountering rainfall which can make travel and outdoor activities easier. However, keep in mind that this is peak tourist season, so accommodation and airline prices may be higher.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Saint-Marc

To get to Saint-Marc, Haiti, you can take a flight to Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince. From there, you can take a taxi or bus to Saint-Marc, which is about a two-hour drive north of the airport. Alternatively, you can take a private car or a shared taxi called a "tap-tap" from Port-au-Prince to Saint-Marc. Make sure to check the current travel advisories and safety precautions before planning your trip.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Saint-Marc, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Saint-Marc

Here are some of the typical foods of Saint-Marc, Haiti, with descriptions: 1. Griot - Fried pork with a crispy exterior, served with spicy pikliz (a Haitian condiment made from pickled cabbage, carrots, and chilies) and fried plantains.
2. Tasso - Thinly sliced and marinated dried beef that is often served with scrambled eggs or in a sandwich.
3. Haitian Creole Rice - A flavorful rice dish made with scallions, garlic, and thyme.
4. Akra - Fried dough made from a combination of cassava, malanga (taro root), and spices.
5. Fried plantains - Ripe plantains fried until golden brown for a crispy exterior and soft, sweet interior.
6. Pikliz - A tangy condiment made from pickled vegetables and hot peppers, used to add flavor to many Haitian dishes.
7. Soup joumou - A hearty soup made with pumpkin, beef, noodles, and a variety of vegetables.
8. Lambi - Conch meat that is typically served in a spicy tomato sauce.
9. Kremas - A sweet, creamy drink made with coconut milk, rum, and spices like cinnamon and nutmeg.
10. Beignet - Deep-fried doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar.
You can find general info about typical foods in Haiti here.

Is Saint-Marc an expensive destination for tourists?

Saint-Marc, like anywhere else, has a range of options when it comes to accommodations, dining, and activities. Generally speaking, Saint-Marc is not considered one of the most expensive destinations in Haiti, but it also may not be the cheapest. The cost of your trip will depend on your travel style, accommodation choices, and activities you choose to do. However, compared to some of the more popular tourist destinations in the Caribbean, Saint-Marc may offer more affordable options. It is always a good idea to research and compare prices and read reviews before booking anything to get the best deals.

Where to find accomodation in Saint-Marc

Saint-Marc is a city located on the western coast of Haiti, so it's best to find accommodation near the city center or along the coast. Some popular areas to find accommodation in Saint-Marc include the downtown area, the Boulevard 15 Octobre neighborhood, and the beachfront area. Additionally, there are some hotels and guesthouses located on the outskirts of the city that offer a more secluded setting. It's important to note that Saint-Marc is a relatively small city, so most accommodations are within a short distance of the major tourist attractions.
You can check hotel prices at Saint-Marc here:
Booking.com

Is Saint-Marc a safe destination for tourists?

Saint-Marc, Haiti is generally considered safe for tourists, but it is important to take some safety precautions. Tourists should be aware of their surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and take a taxi or a guided tour when exploring the town. It’s also recommended to keep your valuables close to you, avoid flashing electronic devices or large sums of cash, and be cautious when interacting with strangers. Additionally, it’s always a good idea to check for the latest travel advisory updates from your country’s government website before visiting any foreign destination.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Haiti here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Saint-Marc.

What type of travelers will enjoy Saint-Marc the most?

Saint-Marc in Haiti is a great destination for families and couples looking for a combination of relaxation, cultural experiences, and outdoor activities. While there are some activities for young people, it is not necessarily a hub for nightlife and partying. Families and couples can take advantage of the beautiful beaches, local shopping, and authentic Haitian cuisine. Visitors can also explore the nearby historical sites, such as the Palais Sans-Souci. Adventure seekers can book excursions like hiking, kayaking, and fishing expeditions. Saint-Marc also offers various water sports like scuba diving, snorkeling, and surfing.
Overall, Saint-Marc is a great destination for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Haiti while relaxing and enjoying the local culture.

How to get around Saint-Marc

In Saint-Marc, Haiti, you can use a variety of transportation modes depending on your preference and destination. There are taptaps, which are colorful small trucks that function as shared taxis and follow specific routes. You can also use motorcycles or scooters as taxis known as "moto-taxis" or "taxis-motos," which are popular for short distances. Additionally, there are private taxis, car rentals, and buses that connect Saint-Marc to nearby towns and cities.

What to see around Saint-Marc

Here are some nice places to visit for a day trip from Saint-Marc in Haiti: 1. La Citadelle Laferrière: This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Haiti's most famous landmarks. The citadel is located on top of a mountain and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area.
2. Bassin-Bleu: This is a beautiful series of waterfalls with crystal-clear water that you can swim in. It is located near Jacmel and is about a two-hour drive from Saint-Marc.
3. Les Cayes: This is one of the largest cities in the south of Haiti, and it is known for its beautiful beaches and lively music scene. It is located about three hours away from Saint-Marc.
4. Labadee: This is a beautiful beach located on a peninsula near Cap-Haïtien. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Haiti and offers a range of water sports and activities.
5. Pic Macaya National Park: This is a protected area of tropical forest that is home to a wide variety of plants and animals. It is located near Les Cayes and is a great place for hiking and wildlife watching.
6. Port-au-Prince: This is the capital city of Haiti and has a rich history and culture. There are many museums, art galleries, and historic landmarks to explore here.
For every travel information about Haiti you can click here.

Wild Trips is the Wikipedia of travel: in the unfortunate case you find an error, please write to us to correct it... Thank you!
Follow us on Facebook if you like wild trips around the world and beautiful itineraries in Italy: https://www.facebook.com/wildtrips.