Dondon

Dondon is one of those towns that are mountain jewels. This picturesque commune is located in the North Department, about 32 km from the city of Cap-Haitien, and 290 km from Port-au-Prince. Its altitude varies between 380 and 1028 m above sea level. A good part of its territory is overlooked by the majestic Citadelle Laferrière.

This name is not freely given to this city. According to the dictionary, Dondon is the name of a woman who is overweight. She is thus a full-figured woman whose shape is reflected in the mountains.  The mountains, caves and rivers, which are usually icy, are responsible for her plump beauty.

Among its caves, the Minguet Vault is first known for having been the place where the Tainos came every year to celebrate the Sun God, in pre-Columbian times. Today, despite the sun god, the Minguet Vault is dedicated to the worship of Vodouesque deities.  In this cave, one is never alone. There are always these multiple presences, these faces engraved in its walls. Beware! You can’t go to such places without getting your feet wet! The Golden River is near the Vault.

Don’t let the ladies get angry! Their home is right here, located right next to the Marc-Antoine cave. This is the Voûte des Dames, one of the most beautiful caves in the commune of Dondon.

For a more successful excursion, you always need a certain intoxication caused by the impregnation of the beauty of the place. Dondon is one of those places that owe you your intoxication.