Haiti is often called “the land of mountains”—a name that comes from the indigenous Taíno people who originally inhabited the island. They called it Ayiti, meaning “land of high mountains,” a name that still defines the country’s geography and spirit today. Nowhere is this name more evident than in the region of Cazale, where towering peaks and expansive skies paint a stunning backdrop to daily life.
The Matheux Mountain Range: A Rugged Beauty
Cazale sits within the Matheux mountain range, one of Haiti’s most striking and historic landscapes. This chain of mountains stretches across the western part of the country, creating dramatic elevations, lush green valleys, and breathtaking vistas. The Matheux range influences the climate and agriculture of the region, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations and fertile valleys below, where farmers cultivate crops such as plantains, coffee, and mangoes. The mountains also serve as a natural barrier, shaping transportation and settlement patterns in rural Haiti.
Fort Douet: A Stronghold in the Mountains
Perched within the Matheux range is Fort Douet, one of the historic fortresses built to defend Haiti after its independence. Constructed in the early 19th century, Fort Douet stands as a testament to Haiti’s fight for freedom. Overgrown with vegetation but still commanding a powerful presence, the fort offers a glimpse into the country’s strategic efforts to protect itself from potential invasions. Hiking to Fort Douet reveals both the natural beauty of the mountains and the deep history embedded in their rugged terrain.
The Polish Legacy in Cazale’s Mountains
The mountains of Cazale hold more than just natural beauty—they also shelter a unique piece of history. During the Haitian Revolution, Polish soldiers who were originally sent by Napoleon to fight against the revolutionaries made a surprising choice. Witnessing the brutality of the French forces, many of these soldiers defected and sided with the enslaved Haitians fighting for their freedom. Seeking refuge, they hid in the mountains of Cazale, where they were welcomed and became part of the local community. Today, their descendants still live in the area, carrying on a legacy of resilience and solidarity that is deeply tied to the landscape itself.
A View Like No Other
The mountains of Cazale are more than just geography—they are a living history, a protector, and a source of life for the people who call this region home. And above it all, the sky stretches endlessly, offering vibrant sunrises over the peaks and golden sunsets that bathe the valleys in warm light. Whether it’s the deep blues of a clear day or the dramatic cloud formations rolling over the hills, the sky and mountains together create a breathtaking scene that reminds us of Haiti’s natural splendor and enduring strength.
Through these photos, we hope to share a glimpse of the beauty we see every day in Cazale—where the land of mountains meets the endless sky.