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Fort des Anglais

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

Weather…

Fort des Anglais is a strategically significant fortification near Saint-Marc, originally constructed in the 18th century. The fort's name recalls the period of British occupation of parts of Saint-Domingue in the 1790s, when England attempted to seize control of the wealthy French colony. The fortress served to control access to the port of Saint-Marc and monitor enemy naval movements in the Gulf of Gonâve. The facility includes several batteries and bastions crafted from massive masonry to withstand heavy cannon fire. Throughout the Haitian Revolution, control of the fort shifted multiple times between the British, the French, and the Haitian insurgents under Toussaint Louverture. Today, the fort's ruins are a silent testament to the international dimensions of the conflict and the military engineering of the 18th century. It remains a key site for understanding the geopolitical struggles that led to the founding of the first free Black state.

Location: Haiti
Top sights: Laroux, Haiti · Praslin, Haiti · Gaspard, Haiti
Nearby: Saut-Mathurine (14 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	26	26	26	27	28	28	28	29	29	28	28	27
Rain mm	32	23	28	35	83	75	69	88	96	137	88	43

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The fort is a ruin but largely accessible. You can explore the stone walls and the interior courtyard. Some sections may be unsafe; stay on marked paths if any.

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Typical hours

Open during daylight hours with no set schedule. Typically accessible, but check with local guide. Avoid visiting after heavy rain due to slippery stones.

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Photography

Photography is welcome. The fort gives panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. Sunrise or sunset provides excellent lighting for photos.

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Time needed

Allow 30 to 40 minutes for a thorough visit. The site is not large. Combine with a stop at a nearby beach or village.

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Combine with

Other southwest forts form a circuit. The town of Les Cayes is a good base. Consider a day trip along the coast.

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Getting there

Accessible by car from the main road; a short walk is required. The road may be unpaved. Use a GPS as signs are limited.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy shoes and carry a flashlight for dark interiors. A local guide can point out hidden features. Respect any barriers for safety.

Geography

Coordinates

18.15500, -73.91100

Facts

The fort was significantly expanded during the British occupation (1794-1798).
It is located on a strategic cliff overlooking the Gulf of Gonâve.
Toussaint Louverture recaptured the fort from the British in 1798.
The facility provided accommodations for up to 300 soldiers.
Some of the original cast-iron cannons have been preserved on-site.
The fortress was part of a defensive ring around the city of Saint-Marc.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Port-Salut Peninsula3 km · NWExplore →

Habitation du Sud6 km · NExplore →

Morne Baptiste9 km · NEExplore →

Saut-Mathurine11 km · NEExplore →

Pic de Bonhomme13 km · NEExplore →

Les Cayes Plain13 km · NExplore →

Pic Macaya14 km · SEExplore →

Fort de la Presqu'île17 km · NExplore →

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 Fort des Anglais (3)

Laroux, Haiti📍 landmark

Rural settlement in Haiti, primarily agricultural.

Praslin, Haiti📍 landmark

Locality in Haiti, part of a commune in the south of the country.

Gaspard, Haiti📍 landmark

Small village in Haiti, located in a rural area.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why is it called Fort des Anglais?

The name refers to the historical presence or attacks of the English in this region.

Is the path to the fort difficult?

The climb can be steep; average fitness is sufficient for the visit.

Can you have a picnic there?

Yes, many visitors enjoy the quiet atmosphere for a picnic, but please take your trash with you.

What clothing is recommended?

Light, breathable clothing and sturdy hiking boots are best suited for the terrain.

Are there information plaques?

There are some plaques explaining the military significance of the site in French and English.

Fort des Anglais: where is it located?

Fort des Anglais is located in Haiti.

Fort des Anglais: what is there to see?

Highlights include Laroux, Haiti, Praslin, Haiti, Gaspard, Haiti.

Fort des Anglais: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Mar.

Fort des Anglais: why is it worth visiting?

Fort des Anglais is a strategically significant fortification near Saint-Marc, originally constructed in the 18th century.

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