One of the best-hidden jewel of the Republic of Haiti is the Bassin Bleu. It is hidden in the hills above Jacmel which is in the Southeast Region of Haiti. To find this beauty, you will need a local guide for this journey. Once you get there, as per the website http://www.bassin-bleu.com/
“Jump from the waterfalls, swim in the cool basins, enjoy the cool cover of the lush vegetation in your own private grotto. Bassin-Bleu is truly a national treasure of Haiti – in fact, a reason to make the journey to the island of Hispaniola.
Travel to Bassin-Bleu is restricited to a minimal amount of tourists per day to preserve its environmental integrity. Because of this exclusivity, please make sure to check with your local resort to ensure you will be able to travel on your desired day. Also, please make sure you leave Bassin-Bleu as pristine as you found it.”
So can you imagine my excitement that I will be going to Bassin Bleu during my visit to Haiti. I was one of those impatient kids who had her attire ready the night before which consisted of a bathing suit, a maxi dress, and canvas shoes. That morning we started our journey at 8:30 am. From our hotel outside of Jacmel is an hour drive. About half of drive is on an unpaved road especially gravel, low rise water. The roads are bumpy and winding. Basically, you are on a Roller-coaster. A fun one! Okay, I like roller-coasters.
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Once you finish the drive, you take a 15 to 30-minute walk/hike to the main Bassin Bleu. There are 3 parts to Bassin Bleu: Bassin Chelat, Bassin Palmist, and Bassin Bleu.
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So let’s talk about the hike and the climb. The hike/climb is not to for the faint at heart. It is a physical activity with exertion, especially during the summer months. You are in the Caribbean! It is definitely doable, but I don’t want to mislead you that it is an easy hike. You are going up in higher elevation.
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Now for the scenery, as you are hiking…Wow! Just beautiful! You will see cows/bulls (I couldn’t tell the difference ?), chickens, and the natural beauty.
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To get to last Bassin, you will climb down using a rope. Yes, hand and feet coordination is happening. If you are afraid and/or children along, the guide will climb up/down with you.
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Once you get down, you have arrived. It is everything and then some. The deepest part of the is about 75 feet. You can jump in and enjoy a relaxing day at the Bassin Bleu.
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As seen in these images, you will see the most beautiful ecosystem that has been preserved by the local Haitian people.
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If your travels does take you to Haiti, make sure to venture to the Southeast Region of Jacmel, and take a dip in the natural spring of Bassin Bleu. It is a sight that will stay with you to the end of times. Oh, I make sure to asked the local guides for fresh coconut. Just delicious!
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