Haiti is currently under a Level 4 Travel Advisory: Do Not Travel due to extremely high risks of kidnapping, crime, civil unrest, and severely limited healthcare availability. This updated travel warning reflects the deteriorating security situation and escalating dangers throughout the country.
Since March 2024, Haiti has declared a State of Emergency, grappling with widespread violence and instability. Firearms are heavily involved in criminal activities, making acts like robbery, carjackings, and sexual assault commonplace. However, the most critical threat is kidnapping, which has become rampant and indiscriminate. U.S. citizens are frequently targeted, and tragically, some have been injured or killed in these incidents. Kidnappers operate with varying degrees of planning, striking at random moments and even targeting seemingly secure convoys. Ransom demands are a standard element of these kidnappings, forcing desperate families to pay substantial sums, often thousands of dollars, to secure the release of their loved ones.
Beyond kidnapping, Haiti is plagued by unpredictable and often violent civil unrest. Protests, demonstrations, and roadblocks erupt frequently, causing significant damage to infrastructure and posing direct threats to personal safety. These events can escalate into violence without warning. Disturbingly, there has been a rise in mob violence, with public killings and assaults targeting individuals merely suspected of crimes, highlighting a breakdown in law and order.
The Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Port-au-Prince, the main gateway into Haiti, is itself a high-risk area. Armed robberies are frequent occurrences, and carjackers prey on vehicles caught in traffic, particularly targeting lone drivers, especially women. The severity of this risk is underscored by the U.S. Embassy’s requirement for its personnel to use only official transportation to and from the airport, a measure reflecting the extreme danger.
Land borders are equally perilous. Crossing from Haiti into the Dominican Republic by land is strongly discouraged due to the imminent threat of kidnapping and violence. These dangers are not confined to remote areas; they are present on major roads leading from Haitian cities to the Dominican border. It is crucial to understand that the U.S. Embassy cannot provide assistance to U.S. citizens attempting to enter the Dominican Republic via unofficial means by air, land, or sea. Furthermore, U.S. citizens who do cross into the Dominican Republic at unofficial crossings may face substantial immigration fines if they attempt to depart. Maritime travel is also risky. The U.S. Coast Guard has raised security concerns regarding Haitian ports, advising mariners and passengers to exercise extreme caution when traveling through them.
Compounding these security risks is the severely limited capacity of the U.S. government to provide assistance to U.S. citizens within Haiti. Local law enforcement and first responders are critically under-resourced, hindering their ability to effectively respond to emergencies or serious crimes. Basic necessities are scarce throughout Haiti, with frequent shortages of gasoline, electricity, medicine, and essential medical supplies. Medical facilities, both public and private, are often understaffed, lack basic resources, and demand upfront cash payments for services.
The U.S. Embassy’s operational posture reflects the extreme risk environment. U.S. government personnel are under a strict nightly curfew and are prohibited from walking in Port-au-Prince. Movement for personnel is heavily restricted throughout Haiti. Further limitations include prohibitions on using any form of public transportation or taxis, visiting banks or ATMs, driving at night, traveling after dark, and traveling without prior authorization and stringent security measures.
If, despite these extreme warnings, you decide to travel to Haiti, you must understand and implement stringent safety precautions:
- Avoid all demonstrations and crowds. Never attempt to drive through roadblocks.
- Pre-arrange secure airport transfers and accommodation. Ensure your hotel and transportation are confirmed before arrival, or have a trusted host meet you directly at the airport.
- Be extremely cautious with personal information. Do not share details with unauthorized individuals, including those not in uniform or without clear credentials, especially at the airport where criminals may operate near immigration and customs areas.
- If you suspect you are being followed after leaving the airport, drive immediately to the nearest police station.
- Minimize exposure by traveling primarily by vehicle to reduce time spent walking in public.
- Travel in groups whenever possible. Avoid traveling alone.
- Keep vehicle doors locked and windows closed at all times while driving.
- Maintain heightened caution and alertness, especially in crowded areas like markets.
- Do not resist during a robbery. Fighting back significantly increases the risk of serious violence and injury.
- Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage before your trip.
- Thoroughly review resources on traveling to high-risk areas.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive safety alerts and facilitate location in emergencies.
- Stay informed by following the Department of State’s social media channels for up-to-date information.
- Consult the Country Security Report on Haiti for detailed security information.
Crucially, prepare a robust contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist to ensure you are as prepared as possible.
In conclusion, given the pervasive and extreme dangers, the U.S. Department of State strongly advises: Do Not Travel to Haiti. The risks to your safety and well-being are critically high.
