Why getting sick on the car ride to Jacmel was worth it!

​The car ride to Jacmel, Haiti 

On a twisty-turny bumpy ride down to Jacmel, I anticipated a visit to a place that I always heard about. Every time I’d mention Haiti to people when speaking of my blog, I was asked, “Have you been to Jacmel?!” How could I promote the most beautiful places in Haiti, but still had yet to see this desirable place?

First tip I can give to get to Jacmel is hire an experienced driver or ask someone you know that has experience. It's not somewhere you want to try to drive yourself if you're not used to mountain driving and Haiti driving. Also, make sure the car you're traveling in can handle mountain driving. There are also professional companies that have buses that go to Jacmel as well. 

Our experience in Jacmel

We arrived at the 2 story freestanding building at ACFFC - Art Creation Foundation for Children - with beautifully decorated in mosaics on the front, including the choublack (hibiscus flower) with inspiration from Haiti’s logo. We entered the little shop where the art is for sale to visitors with so much to look at…papier mache masks, ornaments, wall hanging, bowls and glass mosaic bottles. We were given a tour downstairs and upstairs where we saw the computer room, the pharmacy and the library. Art made by these children is everywhere…it’s absolutely beautiful. Aside from its aesthetic beauty, the beautiful children were sitting quietly waiting for their professor to come. We chatted with them and hung out for a little bit while we enjoyed the view of the city of Jacmel.

​The city of Jacmel is covered in beautiful mosaic walls done by the children of ACFFC throughout the years. We got to drive around and see all of the different designs and creativity! 

​Carnaval in Jacmel 

We were lucky enough to see Carnaval in Jacmel, Haiti...a kind of toned down version of Carnaval in the capital. During Carnaval every afternoon (around 2 p.m.), the city shuts down and everyone starts celebrating...it's pretty wild! 

Bassin Bleu in Jacmel, Haiti

Bassin Bleu is a must see in Jacmel! Again, you will need an experienced driver and a local to help you get there...it's quite a journey, but so worth it!! There's lots of walking and climbing, including roping down a small rock. Don't worry, everyone's super helpful! I was definitely nervous to do it at first, too. Look at this amazing view.

Lakou New York in Jacmel

Lakou New York is a beautiful mosaic boardwalk in a public area, perfect for getting some exercise or strolling around with your honey. It's right on the ocean and you can find vendors selling classic Haitian goods and snacks. 

Hotels in Jacmel

• Cap Lamandou - Our Review

Have you been to Jacmel? What's your favorite activity to do there?! Let us know in the comments!