The island was occupied for thousands of years by cultures of indigenous peoples, who had migrated from present-day Central and South America. In the 16th century, Spanish explorers in the Caribbean began to colonize the island. They adopted the native name, Guárico for this area that is today known as "Cap‑Haïtien". Due to the introduction of new infectious diseases, as well as poor treatment, the indigenous peoples population rapidly declined.

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  Engraving of Cap-Français in 1728
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  Fire of Cap Français, 21 June 1793
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  The French army led by Le Clerc lands in Cap Français (1802)
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  American Marines in 1915 defending the entrance gate in Cap-Haïten
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  Marine's base at Cap-Haïtien

Cap-Haïtien is known as the nation's largest center of historic monuments; it is a tourist destination. The bay, beaches and monuments have made it a resort and vacation destination for Haiti's upper classes, comparable to Pétion-Ville. Cap‑Haïtien has also attracted more international tourists, as it has been isolated from the political instability in the south of the island.

When someday comes you'll need to get in.

When someday comes you'll need to be able to get around.