Benin

Benin

Benin, a West African nation, is a cradle of the voodoo religion and a key site of African history. The coastal town of Ouidah, known for its voodoo traditions, hosts the atmospheric annual Voodoo Festival. History lovers will appreciate the Route des Esclaves (Slave Route) and the poignant Door of No Return monument, a memorial to the Atlantic slave trade. In Abomey, discover the historic Dahomey Kingdom`s royal palaces, now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The northern part of the country offers Pendjari National Park, teeming with wildlife like elephants, lions, and cheetahs. Benin`s rich culture, warm people, and vibrant markets make it a fascinating off-the-beaten-track destination.

Travel Time

January
Okay
February
Great
March
Great
April
Great
May
Best
June
Best
July
Best
August
Best
September
Great
October
Great
November
Great
December
Okay

Highlights, Sights & Attractions

Abomey Historical Museum

The Abomey Historical Museum, situated within the Royal Palaces of Abomey, provides a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the former Dahomey Kingdom. The museum houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, royal thrones, and relic... more

The Abomey Historical Museum, situated within the Royal Palaces of Abomey, provides a deeper understanding of the history and culture of the former Dahomey Kingdom. The museum houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, royal thrones, and relics. The museum`s displays, coupled with the striking architecture of the palaces, offer a comprehensive picture of a powerful kingdom from the past.

Adjara Craft Village

Adjara Craft Village, near Porto-Novo, is known for its skilled craftsmen and artisans. This village is the go-to place for authentic Beninese handicrafts. Here, you can find local artisans at work and purchase a range of handmade products, such as p... more

Adjara Craft Village, near Porto-Novo, is known for its skilled craftsmen and artisans. This village is the go-to place for authentic Beninese handicrafts. Here, you can find local artisans at work and purchase a range of handmade products, such as pottery, textiles, wood carvings, and more. This is an excellent opportunity for visitors to learn about traditional crafts and to support local artisans.

Basilica of the Immaculate Conception

The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Ouidah is the largest church in Benin. This impressive religious site is a symbol of the region`s Catholic heritage. The architecture of the church, combined with its spiritual ambiance, makes it a signifi... more

The Basilica of the Immaculate Conception in Ouidah is the largest church in Benin. This impressive religious site is a symbol of the region`s Catholic heritage. The architecture of the church, combined with its spiritual ambiance, makes it a significant destination for both religious pilgrims and tourists.

Cotonou Cathedral

Cotonou Cathedral, also known as Notre Dame de Miséricorde, is a striking landmark in Cotonou. Its distinct red and white striped exterior stands out in the cityscape. As a symbol of the Catholic influence in Benin, the cathedral is not only a place... more

Cotonou Cathedral, also known as Notre Dame de Miséricorde, is a striking landmark in Cotonou. Its distinct red and white striped exterior stands out in the cityscape. As a symbol of the Catholic influence in Benin, the cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a center of cultural significance.

Fazao-Malfakassa National Park

Located in the central part of Togo, the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park spans diverse landscapes of savannas, forests, and cliffs. The park is a biodiversity hotspot with a variety of animal and bird species. It offers opportunities for trekking, wil... more

Located in the central part of Togo, the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park spans diverse landscapes of savannas, forests, and cliffs. The park is a biodiversity hotspot with a variety of animal and bird species. It offers opportunities for trekking, wildlife spotting, and bird watching, providing a great adventure for nature lovers.

Ganvie

Often referred to as the `Venice of Africa`, Ganvie is a lake village in Lake Nokoué. With a population of around 20,000 people living in stilted houses, it`s the largest lake village in Africa. The entire community is built on the lake, with schools... more

Often referred to as the `Venice of Africa`, Ganvie is a lake village in Lake Nokoué. With a population of around 20,000 people living in stilted houses, it`s the largest lake village in Africa. The entire community is built on the lake, with schools, churches, and markets all accessible by boat. A visit to Ganvie provides a unique insight into a way of life completely adapted to a lake environment.

Grand Marche Dantokpa

The Grand Marche Dantokpa in Cotonou is one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa. This bustling bazaar is a sensory overload, offering everything from fresh produce, textiles, to traditional medicines. It`s a microcosm of Benin`s commerce a... more

The Grand Marche Dantokpa in Cotonou is one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa. This bustling bazaar is a sensory overload, offering everything from fresh produce, textiles, to traditional medicines. It`s a microcosm of Benin`s commerce and culture, providing an authentic local shopping experience.

Grand Popo Beach

Grand Popo Beach, with its palm-fringed coastline, golden sands and the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, offers a serene escape. It`s known for its voodoo culture, and shrines and fetishes can be seen in the nearby villages. The beach is perfect for r... more

Grand Popo Beach, with its palm-fringed coastline, golden sands and the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, offers a serene escape. It`s known for its voodoo culture, and shrines and fetishes can be seen in the nearby villages. The beach is perfect for relaxation, and the nearby Mono River delta is a haven for birdwatchers.

Climate

Month Temperature Sunshine hours Raindays
January 33 °C 10 0
February 36 °C 10 0
March 37 °C 10 4
April 36 °C 11 6
May 34 °C 11 11
June 32 °C 10 16
July 30 °C 10 17
August 29 °C 9 19
September 30 °C 9 16
October 33 °C 10 6
November 35 °C 10 1
December 33 °C 10 1

Facts

Language
  • French
Currency CFA Franc
Population 13528427
Tourists per year 242000
Tourists per resident 0.017888258553637
Foundation 1960

Ratings

Popularity
65.00%
Safety
77.35%
Cost of living
36.46%
Parental Leave
50.00%
Beach vacation
75.00%
Backpacking
60.00%
Hiking
65.00%
Diving
50.00%
Cycling
35.00%
Skiing
0.00%
Roadtrip
60.00%

Hotel

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