Port-au-Prince Weather in December

December weather in Port-au-Prince

December feels warm, with highs around 31°C and nights still near 24°C. The air is less damp than in November, and rain is lighter, though a shower can still interrupt an outing. With plenty of sun, you can explore the Musée du Panthéon National Haïtien or walk around Champs de Mars without rain shaping your whole day.

The midday heat can feel heavy on exposed streets, so save longer walks for cooler parts of the day. A beach trip outside the city can work, but December isn't a cool-weather escape.

Christmas in the city

Christmas brings church services, family gatherings and festive meals. In Port-au-Prince, you may notice celebrations around central churches and neighbourhoods, though customs and plans vary between families. Christmas Day is a public holiday, so some businesses and services may close or change their hours.

For families visiting relatives, the holiday gives the city a special feel. Still, don't expect every attraction or restaurant to follow normal hours.

Crowds, costs and a local tip

December is part of Haiti's best-weather stretch, from December to April, and the Christmas period can bring more visitors than quieter months. Flights and accommodation may cost more around the holidays; January can be a calmer alternative, with even less rain.

Budget travellers may find the festive period harder on the wallet, so compare dates around Christmas rather than assuming December is uniformly busy. For a useful local stop, ask about visiting the gingerbread houses in Pacot, a neighbourhood known for its historic houses. Arrange the visit through a trusted local contact, since access can vary.