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Pic Macaya National Park

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Pic Macaya National Park is located in the Massif de la Hotte in southwestern Haiti and is recognized as one of the most critical biodiversity hotspots in the Caribbean. Established in 1983, the park encompasses Pic Macaya, Haiti's second-highest peak at 2,347 meters above sea level. It is renowned for its vast array of endemic species, including rare orchids, unique amphibians, and several bird species found nowhere else on Earth. The park's terrain is characterized by dense cloud forests and steep karst formations, which serve as a vital watershed for the surrounding agricultural plains. Despite its ecological significance, the park faces severe threats from deforestation, soil erosion, and climate change, necessitating urgent international conservation efforts. Scientifically, Pic Macaya represents one of the last remaining primary forests in the Caribbean, offering invaluable data on tropical mountain ecosystems. Its preservation is essential not only for wildlife but also for the long-term environmental stability of the entire Tiburon Peninsula. Hiking in the park is a challenging yet rewarding experience for those seeking to witness Haiti's raw natural beauty.

Location: Haiti
Top sights: Massif de la Hotte · Pic Macaya
Nearby: Saut-Mathurine (24 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan–Mar.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	25	26	26	27	28	28	28	29	28	28	27	26
Rain mm	29	19	24	30	69	60	48	64	74	119	75	34

📋 Practical info

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Best season

The best time to visit Pic Macaya National Park is the drier season from December to April, when hiking trails are passable. During the rainy season from May to November, paths are often impassable and visibility limited.

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Best time of day

Early morning birds are most active and temperatures are pleasant for hiking. Avoid midday as it can quickly get hot in the mountains and many animals rest.

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Etiquette

Stay on marked hiking trails to protect the fragile mountain vegetation. Take all rubbish with you and do not feed animals.

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What to bring

Good hiking boots with tread are essential for the rocky and often slippery trails. A rain jacket and warm clothing are recommended as weather at altitude can change quickly.

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Getting there

Pic Macaya National Park is in southwestern Haiti, best reached from Les Cayes with a 4x4 vehicle. The park administration in Camp Perrin gives guided tours.

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What to expect

The park’s endemic species are rare and good at hiding - budget plenty of time. Walk slowly and pause frequently to listen to the sounds of the forest.

Geography

Coordinates

18.36670, -74.02850

Facts

The national park was officially established in April 1983.
Pic Macaya rises to an elevation of 2,347 meters (7,700 feet).
It contains more than 100 species of ferns and 140 types of orchids.
The park is a key habitat for the critically endangered Hispaniolan Solenodon.
It provides water for the major rivers of the Tiburon Peninsula.
UNESCO designated the surrounding area as a Biosphere Reserve in 2016.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Pic Macaya<1 km · NEExplore →

Macaya Biological Research Station2 km · SExplore →

Macaya Cloud Forest3 km · SEExplore →

Jérémie Children's Park11 km · SEExplore →

Port of Jérémie13 km · SEExplore →

Grand-Anse Cocoa Cultivation14 km · SExplore →

Fort des Anglais15 km · NWExplore →

Les Anglais Fishing Industry15 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Pic Macaya National Park (2)

Massif de la Hotte📍 landmark

Massif de la Hotte is a mountain range in southwestern Haiti, covered with diverse forests.

Pic Macaya📍 landmark

Pic Macaya is the second-highest mountain in Haiti, located within Macaya National Park.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

How high is Pic Macaya?

It is one of Haiti's highest peaks at approximately 2,347 meters.

Do you need a guide for the national park?

Yes, a local guide is mandatory due to the dense cloud forest and difficult trails.

What animals live there?

The park is known for rare amphibians and endemic birds like the Hispaniolan trogon.

When is the best time for hiking?

The dry season from December to March has the most stable weather conditions.

Are there camping facilities?

Basic camping is allowed, but you must bring all equipment and food yourself.

Pic Macaya National Park: where is it located?

Pic Macaya National Park is located in Haiti.

Pic Macaya National Park: what is there to see?

Highlights include Massif de la Hotte, Pic Macaya.

Pic Macaya National Park: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Pic Macaya National Park: why is it worth visiting?

Pic Macaya National Park is located in the Massif de la Hotte in southwestern Haiti and is recognized as one of the most critical biodiversity hotspots in the Caribbean.

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