If you’ve got a layover in Port-au-prince, don’t let it go to waste sitting at PAP. The city, in Haiti, is within easy reach — roughly 90 minutes by Taxi. Whether you have four hours or twelve, here’s how to make your stopover count.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave PAP:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Haiti. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Port-au-prince takes about 90 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is HTG. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some HTG in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Getting to Port-au-prince from the Airport
The most straightforward way into Port-au-prince is the Taxi, which takes about 90 minutes. This is generally the best option for layover travelers — it’s reliable and you won’t get stuck in traffic.
A taxi or ride-share will also get you there, typically in 110 minutes depending on conditions, but expect to pay significantly more. If time is tight, the Taxi is usually the smarter call.
Planning Your Layover Spending
Quick budget math for your Port-au-prince layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$6 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$21 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Port-au-prince.
Storing Your Luggage at Toussaint Louverture International Airport
Luggage storage options at PAP can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Port-au-prince for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
If you head into Port-au-prince, here are two things worth checking out:
Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien (MUPANAH) is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Marché de Fer (Iron Market) is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. It’s a good place to browse local goods and soak up the atmosphere.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside PAP, you can spend time at Toussaint Louverture Duty-Free Shop or try Le Relais Cafe & Bar. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Eating Well on a Port-au-prince Layover
For food in Port-au-prince, local travelers recommend Observatoire Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, La Coquille Restaurant is another popular pick.
Back at PAP, Le Relais Restaurant is the go-to. Airport Snack Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Taking a Break at PAP
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PAP has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
WiFi at PAP should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Haiti and you’re good to go.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Port-au-prince exploring the streets or relaxing at PAP, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.