Things To Do
in Trou du Nord

Trou du Nord is a coastal town in Haiti's Nord-Est department known for its warm, welcoming communities. Located northeast of Cap-Haïtien along Atlantic shores and rolling inland hills, it offers a glimpse into rural Haitian life. The economy centers on farming, fishing, and small-scale trade at local markets.

Visitors can experience authentic daily life, from market stalls to roadside eateries, with scenery that blends sunlit coastlines and lush valleys.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Arrival in Trou du Nord
morning
:

Arrive in Trou du Nord and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to unwind from your journey and acclimate to the local environment. Enjoy a light breakfast featuring traditional Haitian dishes to kickstart your adventure.

afternoon
:

Explore the local market and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of Trou du Nord. Interact with friendly vendors, sample fresh tropical fruits, and shop for handmade crafts. Capture stunning photographs of colorful stalls and the lively atmosphere.

evening
:

Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Haitian cuisine. As night falls, take a stroll along the waterfront and soak in the sound of the waves. Finish the evening with a drink at a nearby bar, mingling with locals.

day 2
Exploring Local Beaches
morning
:

Start your day at the serene beaches of Trou du Nord, enjoying the warm sands and refreshing ocean breeze. Participate in invigorating water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding. Pause for relaxation and sunbathing before the afternoon begins.

afternoon
:

Indulge in a beachside lunch featuring fresh seafood, prepared with local spices and flavors. Afterward, continue your beach adventures, exploring the shoreline or building sandcastles. Capture the magic of the beach with panoramic views and seaside moments.

evening
:

Return to your accommodation to freshen up before enjoying another cultural dinner. Consider joining a local dance or music event, where you can experience traditional Haitian rhythms. Engage with locals as you dance the night away under the stars.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at inexpensive restaurant$7-12
🏨Night in a modest hotel or guesthouse$25-60
🥤Coffee or soft drink$1-3
🧺Groceries (basic weekly)$25-60
🚕Taxi/short ride$2-8

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Authentic Haitian culture and warm, welcoming communities
  • Cost-effective travel with markets, beaches, and scenic countryside
  • Limited infrastructure in some areas; travel can be slower
  • Smaller selection of dining and nightlife compared to major cities
  • "Bonjou" - Good morning
  • "Mèsi" - Thank you
  • "Kijan ou ye?" - How are you?
  • "Pale yon ti kras kreyòl" - Speak a little Haitian Creole
  • "Ki pri sa a?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Trou du Nord

Visit one of these nice places.

Coastal fishing pier at sunrise

Long exposure opportunities with silhouettes of fishing boats and morning light over the Atlantic.

Town market at dawn

Colorful stalls, textiles, and people in motion create dynamic street photography opportunities.

Hillside terraces overlooking the valley

Red clay paths and terraced farms provide panoramic shots of rural life against the coastline.

Culinary Guide

Food in Trou du Nord

Haitian cuisine in Trou du Nord reflects coastal influences and rural ingredients, featuring rice and beans, fresh seafood, and fragrant herbs. Expect vibrant flavors built from peppers, lime, garlic, and local herbs, with meals often shared among family and friends.

Trou du Nord Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Griot with diri ak pwa

Tender fried pork served with rice and beans, a staple at many local eateries.

Must-Try!

Bouillon

A hearty meat or goat soup with vegetables, served with bread or rice on the side.

Legim

Okra and vegetable stew seasoned with palm oil, garlic, and spices, often enjoyed with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Marché public de Trou-du-Nord

A bustling local market where you can buy fresh fruit, vegetables, root crops, and spices, plus ready-to-eat street foods.

Waterfront street vendors

Casual stalls offering grilled fish, fried plantains, boudin (spiced sausage), and refreshing drinks along the coast.

Climate Guide

Weather

Trou du Nord experiences a tropical climate with a wet and dry pattern. The coast moderates temperatures with sea breezes, but inland areas can be hotter and more humid. Rain showers are more common during the wet season, particularly in the afternoons and evenings.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A warm handshake or cheek kiss for closer acquaintances; greet people politely when entering shops.

Language

Creole is widely spoken; French is understood by many, so simple phrases in Creole are appreciated.

Dress and behavior

Modest dress for religious sites and rural communities; show respect in churches and markets; avoid loud behavior in public.

Safety Guide

Safety

Travelers should stay aware of petty theft, keep valuables secure, and use reputable transportation. Avoid isolated areas at night, follow local guidance, and check current travel advisories before visiting. Stay hydrated and protect against sun and mosquitoes.

Tipping in Trou du Nord

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Etiquette

Tipping is appreciated for good service; rounding up in restaurants and small tips for guides or waitstaff are common.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used; credit cards are accepted mainly in larger towns or hotels; ATMs may be limited in Trou du Nord.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry season (November–April)

Typically sunny with lower humidity; ideal for outdoor activities and photography, though evenings can be cooler.

Wet season (May–October)

Frequent showers and lush greenery; travel can be slower due to rain, but the scenery is dramatic and photogenic.

Nightlife Guide

Trou du Nord at Night

The nightlife in Trou du Nord is low-key and community-focused, with evenings often centered around family gatherings, small bars with local music such as kompa or rara, and informal dancing in town squares or homes. Expect friendly conversations, streetFood stalls, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere rather than a club scene.

Hiking in Trou du Nord

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hillside and ridge trails near Trou-du-Nord

Moderate trails through dry forests with viewpoints overlooking the coastline and valley.

Rural backroad loop

A longer route that weaves through villages, offering local scenery, farms, and river views.

Airports

How to reach Trou du Nord by plane.

Cap-Haïtien International Airport (CAP)

Regional gateway with connections to major hubs in the Caribbean and North America; typical transfer routes go through Port-au-Prince or other hubs.

Toussaint Louverture International Airport (PAP)

Port-au-Prince main international airport; farther from Trou du Nord but used by long-haul travelers; onward domestic travel to the northeast is possible by domestic flight or road.

Getting Around

Walkability

Walkable within Trou du Nord's town center and markets, but for distances to hills or beaches, a short vehicle ride is usually necessary. Some roads are uneven, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Residents

Haitian families living in rural and semi-urban communities, often engaged in farming, fishing, or crafts.

Diaspora ties

Some residents have connections to the Haitian diaspora and may return seasonally for family or work.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (soccer)

The most popular sport across Haiti, with local matches and informal games played in towns.

Basketball

Common in schools and community centers; street games and pickup games are frequent in towns.

Transportation

Traffic

Road travel can be unpredictable; main routes may be paved, while secondary roads can be rough or unimproved. Public transport includes tap-taps and minibuses; schedules are flexible and subject to conditions.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Trou du Nord.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

Most vegetarian options revolve around legumes, plantains, rice, and vegetable stews; communicate clearly with cooks about avoiding meat-based broths.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare facilities in Trou du Nord are basic; more extensive services are available in Cap-Haïtien. Travelers should have comprehensive medical coverage and consider vaccines and anti-malarial precautions as advised by health professionals.

Discover Haiti

Read more in our Haiti 2025 Travel Guide.

Haiti Travel Guide