Benin is often overlooked by tourists visiting West Africa, with most opting for better-known destinations like Ghana or Senegal. However, this small country packs a punch with a wealth of culture, nature, and history waiting to be explored. While cities like Cotonou and Ganvie village draw crowds for their vibrant markets and stilt architecture, Benin’s real treasures lie off-the-beaten-path.
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Abomey
Once the capital of the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey, Abomey is home to the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The 12 palaces serve as a reminder of the kingdom’s former glory, with bas-reliefs, secret passages, and historic thrones on display across sprawling palace grounds. Beyond the palaces, Abomey has a noticeable calm and rural feel, providing a glimpse into traditional Benin life.
Pendjari National Park
Pendjari National Park is Benin’s crown jewel for nature lovers. As the largest and most biodiverse national park in the country, it offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Track elephants, lions, hippos, antelope and more on safari drives and hikes. Pendjari also features various landscapes from grasslands to woodlands, as well as the Pendjari river for cruises. Stay overnight in one of the park lodges for the full immersive experience.
Bassila
The rural town of Bassila almost feels frozen in time, untouched by modernization. Most houses here are still built in the traditional mud and clay Atakora style, with ornate geometric designs. Bassila’s stone buildings are also unique, erected hundreds of years ago with no cement. Take a quiet stroll through town to see children playing and vendors selling goods in a little slice of old Benin.
Natitingou
The laid-back town of Natitingou sits on the edge of the breathtaking Atakora mountain range, making it a great base for hiking. The surrounding peaks and forests feel worlds away from the cities and beaches of Southern Benin. Popular hikes include Dassa Zoume forest’s majestic waterfall route, the challenging singletrack to Mt. Tanekas, and the cliffside vistas at Atakora.
Aglangandan Forest
Called Benin’s “Sacred Forest of the Voodoo Gods,” Aglangandan Forest serves as a pilgrimage site for voodoo practitioners. The mystical forest comes alive in June for the annual voodoo festival, attracting believers from across West Africa for rituals, cultural dances, and celebrations. Visitors can also see a traditional royal palace and learn about medicinal plants.
Grand Popo
For a relaxing beach getaway, head to the coastal village of Grand Popo. Often overlooked for more popular beaches, Grand Popo charms with its tranquil atmosphere and picturesque shoreline dotted with traditional fishing boats. The colonial-era architecture adds character, seen in the old residences and the historic Royal Palace.
Lake Nokoué
This brackish lagoon is Benin’s largest lake, spanning 150 square kilometers. Local fishermen have worked Lake Nokoué for centuries, providing Cotonou’s markets with crabs, shrimp and many fish varieties. Visitors can tour the stilt villages, take a relaxing cruise to Ganvie, try fishing for themselves or simply enjoy the pretty lakeside setting.
Porto-Novo
Benin’s former colonial capital of Porto-Novo may be the country’s most underrated city. Beyond the vibrant markets, it boasts interesting museums like the Ethnographic Museum and the Portuguese Museum. The historic city center has buildings dating back to the Portuguese colonial era in the 1500s, with cultural influences still seen in the architecture and food.
Ouidah
As a former slave trading post, Ouidah has immense historical significance and several sites memorializing the slave trade era. The Route of Slaves recreates the path taken from the slave market to “the door of no return” beach. Ouidah’s Voodoo Python Temple and its annual voodoo festival also showcase local religious culture.
With so much diversity beyond the well-known sites, Benin offers intrepid travelers the chance for deeper exploration beyond the crowds. Immerse yourself in the living history, nature, and cultural uniqueness hidden across this small West African nation. Don’t miss out on the true spirit of Benin.
FAQ 1: Do I need a visa to visit Benin?
Visitors from most countries, including the US, UK and EU, can obtain a visa on arrival when entering Benin. The visa costs around $40 USD and is valid for up to 30 days. Be sure to bring cash in the local currency (CFA francs) to pay for the visa upon airport arrival.
FAQ 2: When is the best time to visit Benin?
The dry season from November to February is considered the best time, with cooler weather and fewer mosquitos. March to May sees very high temperatures. June through September brings the rainy season which can make travel more difficult, especially in rural areas, but sees fewer tourists.
FAQ 3: Is Benin safe to visit?
Benin is generally considered safe for tourists. Violent crime levels are low and tourist sites have a visible police presence. However, petty theft does sometimes occur in crowded places so travelers should take normal precautions with valuables. Use authorized taxis and avoid political demonstrations.
FAQ 4: Do people speak English in Benin?
French is Benin’s official language, but English is also widely spoken in cities and tourist areas. Those working in hotels, tour agencies, at major sites and in airports/bus stations will usually speak some English. However, outside tourist hubs knowledge of English drops, so learn some key French phrases.
FAQ 5: What is the currency used in Benin?
Benin uses the West African CFA franc as its currency, shared by other WAEMU members. The currency code is XOF and the exchange rate is fixed to the euro at €1 = 655.957 XOF. USD and Euros can be exchanged at banks and official bureaus in Benin. ATMs also widely accept foreign cards.