Oprah Winfrey has toured an encampment for Haitians displaced by a massive earthquake.

The US talk show queen, escorted by security guards, walked among the tents with actor Sean Penn, who helped create an aid group that provides support to people who live in the encampment.

"This is part of the next chapter, going around the world to see interesting and fascinating cases of profound examples of what can be done to make a difference in the world," Oprah told reporters at the encampment.

She said Penn's efforts will be featured in an upcoming programme on her Oprah Winfrey Network.

Penn said he welcomed the interest of "the world's most elegant woman" and expected it would help Haiti.

The camp where his group works was built on a former country club golf course and has been home to thousands of people since the earthquake last year left much of the Haitian capital Port-au-Prince in ruins.

"Everybody who has spent time in Haiti knows how important it is for the world to see what is going on here. We really appreciate that she's here with us," Penn said.

Oprah arrived in Haiti yesterday under tight security. Guards and police cleared the airport so journalists could not film her arrival.

Her representatives have not provided any details about her itinerary, though Haitian president Michel Martelly said he intended to meet with her.

Security was out in force during her visit with Penn at the encampment. Photographer Lionel Lafortune, who was among several journalists trying to cover Oprah, was detained by a guard as he entered the encampment and took photos.