Haiti / Currency/Credit Cards

The official currency of Haiti is the Gourde although the US dollar is used in tourist hotels and restaurants. At current rates US$1 = 40 Haitian Gourdes.

During times of more economic stability the exchange rate was consistently five Gourdes to the US dollar. This led to Five Gourdes commonly becoming known as a Haitian dollar. The term stuck and despite the current exchange rate being considerably different to what it was, people still refer to five Gourdes as one Haitian dollar. Many prices in stores are quoted in Haitian dollars, so if something costs one Haitian dollar ($1H), you simply have to know to give them five Gourdes.

Traveller’s cheques and credit cards are accepted in the tourist areas.

You may be approached by locals in the street offering to change money for you. Whilst it is not illegal, it is not recommended. You should carry around plenty of small change and make sure to take Gourdes if you are going off the beaten track.