Haiti in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Haiti

30°C (86°F) High Temp

20°C (68°F) Low Temp

51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

March marks the end of dry season with minimal rainfall - only 10 rainy days compared to 15-20 in summer months, making it ideal for outdoor activities and mountain excursions
Comfortable temperatures averaging 25°C (77°F) perfect for hiking in the mountains around Portauprince and exploring Portauprince without the intense heat of April-June
Clear visibility for photography and sightseeing - humidity at 70% is the lowest you'll find year-round, offering crisp views of the Caribbean coastline and mountain landscapes
Peak season for local agriculture means busy markets with fresh mangoes, avocados, and tropical fruits at their best, plus lower food costs before the pre-harvest price increases

Considerations

Last month of tourist season means higher accommodation prices - expect to pay 30-40% more than April-November rates, especially in Jacmel and Cap-Haïtien
Afternoon winds can be strong along the coast (15-25 km/h or 9-16 mph), making boat trips to Île-à-Vache choppy and potentially canceled on windier days
March heat builds throughout the month - by late March, midday temperatures reach 32°C (90°F) making afternoon activities uncomfortable without proper planning

Best Activities in March

Citadelle Laferrière Mountain Tours

March's cooler temperatures and low rainfall make this the ideal time to tackle the challenging hike to Haiti's most famous fortress. Morning temperatures of 22°C (72°F) in the mountains provide comfortable conditions for the 45-minute uphill trek. Clear skies offer spectacular views across northern Haiti and the Caribbean Sea. The dry conditions mean better road access and reliable transport.

Booking Tip: Book 7-10 days ahead through hotels or local guides. Tours typically cost $40-60 USD including transport from Cap-Haïtien. Start early (7am departure) to avoid afternoon heat. Look for guides certified by the Ministry of Tourism and include the Citadelle entry fee ($5 USD) in planning.

Jacmel Artisan Quarter Walking Tours

March's moderate humidity and fewer rain days create perfect conditions for exploring Jacmel's colonial architecture and busy art scene. The post-Carnival period means artists are creating new works, and galleries showcase fresh pieces. Morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) make walking tours comfortable, while afternoon sea breezes keep the coastal town pleasant.

Booking Tip: Self-guided tours work well, or book cultural tours $25-40 USD through guesthouses. Allow 3-4 hours for the historic center. Visit Tuesday-Saturday when most galleries and workshops are open. See current guided options in booking section below.

Bassin Bleu Waterfall Adventures

March's lower rainfall means safer hiking conditions on the sometimes-slippery trails to these turquoise pools near Jacmel. Water levels are still substantial from recent rainy season, but paths are more stable. The 1.5 km (0.9 mile) hike through tropical vegetation is comfortable in March's moderate temperatures, and swimming in the natural pools is refreshing.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides in Jacmel for $15-25 USD per person including transport. The 3-hour excursion requires basic fitness for rocky terrain. Bring waterproof phone cases and sturdy sandals. Most accessible Tuesday-Sunday when local transport runs regularly.

Port-au-Prince Historic District Tours

March's clear skies and moderate humidity create ideal photography conditions for exploring the capital's historic sites including the Sansalvador area, Iron Market, and cathedral ruins. Lower tourist volumes mean more authentic interactions with vendors and easier access to sites. Morning tours benefit from cooler temperatures and better lighting.

Booking Tip: Book through established hotels or cultural centers for safety. Half-day tours typically $30-50 USD with transport and guide. Avoid isolated areas and stick to guided groups. Focus on morning hours before 2pm when heat intensifies. Current tours available in booking section below.

Labadee Peninsula Beach Excursions

March offers the calmest sea conditions of the year with minimal afternoon storms. Water temperature reaches 26°C (79°F) - perfect for swimming and snorkeling. The peninsula's protected bays remain calm even when coastal winds pick up. This is the last month before cruise ship crowds intensify in the area.

Booking Tip: Day trips from Cap-Haïtien typically $35-55 USD including boat transport and lunch. Book through hotels or local operators 5-7 days ahead. Morning departures (8-9am) offer best conditions and smaller crowds. Snorkel gear often included but verify beforehand.

Kenscoff Mountain Coffee Farm Tours

March is harvest season for Haiti's high-altitude coffee, making this the perfect time to see the entire process from picking to processing. Cool mountain temperatures averaging 18°C (64°F) provide relief from coastal heat. The 1,500m (4,921 ft) elevation offers panoramic views over Portauprince, and roads are in best condition after dry season.

Booking Tip: Full-day tours from Portauprince typically $45-70 USD including transport, farm visit, and coffee tasting. Book through mountain lodges or tour operators 3-5 days ahead. Bring layers for temperature changes. See current mountain tour options in booking section below.

March Events & Festivals

Throughout March

Post-Carnival Cultural Recovery

While Carnival ends in February, March sees the cultural aftermath with street art installations, continued music performances, and artisan markets selling remaining carnival crafts at discounted prices. Artists and musicians often perform impromptu shows throughout the month.

Mid to Late March

Coffee Harvest Festivals

Small mountain communities around Portauprince and Baptiste celebrate the coffee harvest with local festivals featuring traditional music, food, and coffee tastings. These community events offer authentic cultural experiences away from tourist areas.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or packable poncho - March showers are brief (20-30 minutes) but can be intense, occurring on 10 days throughout the month

SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 and high-altitude activities like Citadelle visits increase exposure significantly

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester which becomes uncomfortable in 70% humidity, even with moderate temperatures

Sturdy hiking sandals with good grip - essential for waterfall hikes and mountain trails that can be rocky or wet from recent rains

Light layers for mountain excursions - temperatures drop 10-15°C (18-27°F) at elevations above 1,000m (3,280 ft) in places like Portauprince

Waterproof phone case - useful for waterfall visits and unexpected rain showers, plus protecting devices in humid conditions

Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes remain active in March humidity, especially near water sources and in evening hours

Wide-brimmed hat - crucial protection for outdoor activities and sightseeing under intense Caribbean sun

Quick-dry towel - useful for impromptu swimming opportunities and space-saving in luggage

Basic first aid supplies - include anti-diarrheal medication and bandages for minor cuts from outdoor activities

Insider Knowledge

Local buses (tap-taps) run more reliably in March due to better road conditions after dry season - fares are typically 25-50 gourdes ($0.25-0.50 USD) for short distances, much cheaper than tourist transport

March is mango season - street vendors sell the sweetest varieties for 10-20 gourdes each, and locals often share fruit from their trees with friendly visitors

Avoid scheduling important activities between 12pm-3pm when heat peaks and many locals take afternoon rest - restaurants and shops may close during these hours

Power outages are more frequent in March as dry season strains the electrical grid - bring backup battery packs and plan indoor activities around generator schedules at accommodations

Avoid These Mistakes

Underestimating the intensity of March sun - many visitors get severe sunburns within the first day, especially those coming from cooler climates

Scheduling too many outdoor activities in afternoon hours - locals know to plan active pursuits before noon and after 4pm when temperatures are more manageable

Not carrying small bills for local transport and markets - many vendors and tap-tap drivers cannot make change for large denomination notes