The United States State Department reported a sharp increase in kidnappings across Haiti in February 2026, prompting renewed warnings against all travel to the Caribbean nation.

Is Haiti Safe to Travel to in 2026?

Haiti remains one of the world's most dangerous destinations for travellers. The US maintains a Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisory implemented in July 2025, whilst Canada, Australia and the UK have issued equivalent warnings. The US Embassy in Port-au-Prince issued its most recent security alert on 6 February 2026, stating "Do not travel in all areas of Haiti."

No major government currently recommends travel to any part of Haiti under any circumstances. Commercial insurance typically excludes coverage for Haiti-related claims.

The Current Situation

Gang violence has escalated dramatically across Haiti's 10 departments since early 2026. Armed groups now control an estimated 60% of Port-au-Prince, according to UN assessments from March 2026. The G9 coalition, comprising nine major gangs, has expanded operations beyond the capital into previously stable regions.

Toussaint Louverture International Airport faces regular closures due to gang activity in surrounding areas. The US State Department confirmed on 19 February that kidnapping incidents have increased by approximately 40% compared to January 2026 levels.

Basic infrastructure continues deteriorating. Fuel shortages affect 80% of petrol stations nationwide, whilst clean water access has dropped to 54% of the population, the UN reported in March 2026. Electricity operates sporadically, with Port-au-Prince receiving power for fewer than 4 hours daily on average.

The Haitian National Police force operates with roughly 15,000 officers for a population of 11.4 million - well below UN recommended ratios. International peacekeeping discussions remain stalled as of March 2026.

Regional Safety Breakdown

Port-au-Prince Metropolitan Area: The capital presents the highest risk levels. Gang-controlled neighbourhoods include Cité Soleil, Croix-des-Bouquets, and Tabarre. The airport road experiences regular armed incidents. Diplomatic missions operate under severe movement restrictions.

Northern Region (Cap-Haïtien): Previously considered more stable, this area has experienced increased gang presence since January 2026. The main port faces intermittent closures. Road connections to the Dominican Republic remain unreliable.

Southern Peninsula: Les Cayes and surrounding areas report fewer gang incidents but suffer severe fuel and food shortages. Hurricane damage from 2024 remains largely unrepaired. Medical facilities operate with minimal resources.

Central Plateau: Armed groups have expanded into rural areas traditionally considered safer. The main highway connecting Port-au-Prince to northern regions experiences regular attacks on commercial traffic.

Border Areas: Both Haiti-Dominican Republic crossing points face frequent closures. Smuggling operations and territorial disputes create additional security risks for travellers.

Crime & Safety

Kidnapping represents the primary threat to foreigners. The US State Department documented cases targeting aid workers, journalists, and religious personnel throughout 2026. Ransom demands typically range from $10,000 to $1 million, according to security analysts.

Armed robbery occurs frequently, particularly targeting vehicles and perceived wealthy individuals. Criminals often operate with sophisticated weapons and tactical coordination. Hotel attacks have increased, with armed groups targeting guests for kidnapping.

Sexual violence rates remain among the world's highest. The UN documented a 35% increase in reported cases during 2025-2026, though actual figures likely exceed reported incidents significantly.

Medical emergencies present life-threatening risks due to hospital closures and supply shortages. Only 30% of health facilities operate normally, the World Health Organization confirmed in March 2026. Prescription medications remain largely unavailable.

Natural disasters compound security risks. Haiti's position in the Atlantic hurricane corridor creates additional evacuation challenges during emergency situations from June through November.

Entry Requirements & Practicalities

Tourist visa requirements remain technically unchanged - US, Canadian, and EU passport holders receive 90-day entry stamps. However, airport operations remain severely disrupted. Commercial flights from major carriers including American Airlines and JetBlue face regular cancellations.

Travel insurance policies typically exclude Haiti coverage or require special provisions costing 300-500% above standard rates. Medical evacuation insurance becomes essential but remains expensive and difficult to arrange.

Banking services operate sporadically. ATMs frequently lack cash, whilst credit card acceptance has dropped to fewer than 20% of businesses. US dollars provide the most reliable currency, though change often comes in Haitian gourdes.

Communications infrastructure remains fragile. Mobile networks operate intermittently, particularly outside Port-au-Prince. Internet access exists primarily in hotels and international organisation compounds.

What Travellers Should Do Now

Cancel all non-essential travel to Haiti immediately. No tourism, business, or cultural activities justify the current security risks. Travellers already in Haiti should contact their nearest embassy for evacuation assistance.

Those with essential Haiti connections should monitor embassy security alerts daily. The US Embassy operates from a secure compound with extremely limited public access. Consular services remain restricted to life-threatening emergencies.

Consider alternative Caribbean destinations for planned trips. Dominican Republic, Jamaica, and Barbados offer similar cultural experiences with substantially better security conditions.

Humanitarian workers and journalists require comprehensive security training, armed protection, and robust evacuation plans before any Haiti deployment. Insurance coverage must include kidnapping and ransom provisions.

Key Facts:

  • Level 4 "Do Not Travel" advisories from US, Canada, Australia, UK since July 2025
  • Kidnapping incidents increased 40% in February 2026 compared to January levels
  • Armed gangs control approximately 60% of Port-au-Prince territory
  • Only 30% of health facilities operate normally as of March 2026