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Port-au-Prince Toussaint Louverture Layover Guide (PAP)

What are you looking for in PAP?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Port-au-Prince Airport (PAP) is an international airport located in Tabarre, near the capital of Haiti. It’s situated about 6 km (3.7 miles) from downtown Port-au-Prince. The airport was originally opened in 1965. Port-au-Prince is Haiti’s largest city and cultural center. It’s known for its vibrant art scene, historical landmarks, and lively markets. The city offers visitors a rich blend of history, local cuisine, and a dynamic Caribbean atmosphere.

Can you leave Port-au-Prince Airport (PAP) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
Layover passengers at Port-au-Prince Airport can leave the terminal to explore Haiti provided they hold a valid onward airline ticket and meet immigration, customs, and health requirements. Most travelers must obtain a Haitian visa in advance, though citizens of select countries only qualify for visa-free entry or visa on arrival. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien Explore Haiti’s national museum showcasing artifacts from colonial era and independence, featuring relics, sculptures, and cultural treasures in interactive exhibits that trace the nation’s revolutionary history from pre-colonial to modern times. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 45-minute taxi ride via Boulevard Toussaint Louverture.)
• Marché de Fer (Iron Market) Discover the historic Iron Market housed in a vibrant iron-and-glass pavilion, where rows of stalls overflow with fresh produce, spices, textiles, handcrafted jewelry and vibrant artworks that celebrate Haitian craftsmanship. (Time required: 1 hour. / Airport to here: 45-minute taxi ride to Champ de Mars.)
• Champ de Mars & Palais National Ruins Wander among the ruins of the former National Palace at Champ de Mars, a lively public square surrounded by historic monuments, local vendors shaded benches perfect for observing daily life. (Time required: 30 minutes. / Airport to here: 45-minute taxi via RN1 to downtown.)
• Place Saint-Pierre Stroll through Place Saint-Pierre in Pétion-Ville, a colorful street market where local artisans display paintings, sculptures and carved wood crafts, offering a unique opportunity to purchase authentic Haitian art creators. (Time required: 45 minutes. / Airport to here: 50-minute taxi to Pétion-Ville.)
• Papillon Enterprise Bike Tours Join Papillon Enterprise for guided bike excursions through Port-au-Prince’s neighborhoods, parks and coastline roads, learning about Haitian culture, history and street art while pedaling past vibrant murals and local landmarks. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: 40-minute taxi ride.)
• Fort Jacques Ascend to Fort Jacques, perched in pine forests above Port-au-Prince, exploring 18th-century military fortifications while enjoying panoramic views of city and sea beyond, accompanied by local guides sharing historical insights. (Time required: 4 hours. / Airport to here: 60-minute taxi to trailhead.)
• Gingerbread Houses of Pétion-Ville Tour Haiti’s iconic Gingerbread Houses in Pétion-Ville, admiring whimsical colonial-era mansions adorned with intricate woodwork and pastel hues, while learning about architectural significance and restoration efforts led by heritage organizations. (Time required: 1.5 hours. / Airport to here: 50-minute taxi ride.)
• Fondation Connaissance et Liberté (FOKAL) Visit Fondation Connaissance et Liberté’s cultural complex in Pétion-Ville, attending art exhibitions, contemporary dance performances and educational workshops highlighting Haitian creativity and resilience through multidisciplinary programs and local artist collaborations. (Time required: 2 hours. / Airport to here: 50-minute taxi ride.)

Things to Do in Port-au-Prince Airport (PAP)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Port-au-Prince Airport does not feature dedicated lounges or rest zones. The second floor houses a few retail outlets and general seating areas, but there are no first-class, business or VIP lounges. Travelers seeking a more comfortable environment should consider booking lounge access through third-party providers or nearby airport hotels. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Several hotels are located across from the terminal, offering comfortable rooms and complimentary airport shuttle service. Servotel and La Maison Hotel provide free transfers on request, air-conditioned rooms, on-site dining and WiFi. These options are ideal for overnight stays or extended layovers, ensuring rest just steps from the terminal. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Port-au-Prince Airport closes overnight and does not permit sleeping within its terminals. There are no designated rest zones, quiet areas or cots available. Passengers facing long layovers should plan ahead by booking nearby hotels or arranging shuttle transport to rest comfortably after the airport closes or during extended delays.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Port-au-Prince Airport offers free WiFi throughout the terminal. Simply connect to the “Digicel” network and accept the terms of service at no cost. Coverage is generally reliable in landside and airside areas, allowing travelers to check email, message, browse basic websites, though speeds may vary at peak times moderately.

SIM/eSIM Card: Digicel and Natcom both operate kiosks just past customs at Port-au-Prince Airport. Travelers can purchase prepaid SIM cards on arrival—Digicel’s starter packs cost around US$3–5 for 1 GB, while Natcom tourist SIMs run US$8–10 for 2 GB. eSIM options may be available through online activation prior to travel. ID required for registration. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis queue landside at the ground transportation area outside arrivals. Fares are unmetered and must be negotiated up front, typically costing US$20–30 to Port-au-Prince city center. Always agree the price before boarding and carry small bills; drivers may charge extra for luggage or after-hours travel. Peak hour surcharges are common.

Train: There is no passenger rail service at Port-au-Prince Airport or in the greater metropolitan area. All transit is by road via taxi, shuttle, bus or rental car, as Haiti does not operate any train network. No plans for rail development have been announced by Haitian authorities. (more info)

Bus: A shared minibus service known locally as “tap tap” connects the airport with various Port-au-Prince neighborhoods. These brightly painted vehicles offer budget-friendly transport, charging around US$2–5 per passenger. Seating is basic, luggage stowed inside or on roof racks. Services depart regularly but follow no fixed schedule. (more info)

Shuttle: Several nearby hotels, including Servotel and La Maison Hotel, provide complimentary airport shuttle service on request. Shuttles run at scheduled times or reservation, bridging the short distance between the terminals and hotel properties. Availability may vary, so confirm pick-up details directly with your hotel before arrival.

Car rentals: Multiple car rental agencies operate on-site at the airport, including Avis, Budget, Dollar, Europcar, Hertz, Capital Car Rental, Comet, Multicar, Secom, Sepef and local providers. Rates vary by vehicle class, rental duration and insurance options. Advance reservations are advised to secure availability and the best rates. Pick-up/drop-off are convenient. 24/7 view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Short-term and long-term parking are available adjacent to the terminal, with uncovered shaded lots for hourly and daily stays. Payment options include cash and credit card at gated kiosks. Disabled parking spaces are located near the entrance. Rates vary by duration, so check posted signs on arrival. Security cameras monitor.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

No luggage storage, lockers or baggage hold facilities exist at Port-au-Prince Airport. Travelers are advised to keep possessions with them or use storage services at nearby hotels. For secure baggage storage, check hotel concierge services or off-site providers in Port-au-Prince city center. Service fees may apply. Availability can be limited. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Port-au-Prince Airport (PAP) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks