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Benin

Benin

Travel to the cradle of voodoo and the ancient Dahomey warriors.

Our trip to Benin is guided by only a local guide

70% cheaper than other options and equally reliable See Trip


Proposed itinerary

The times of slavery in Africa sank into oblivion, and at the time it created and left a legacy of amazing cultures and even religions. Every year, Voodoo worshipers gather in southern Benin for a large and colorful festival to invoke their ancestral spirits and celebrate their deities.

Cotonou

Inside Cotonou, I suggest visiting:
  • Amazon Esplanade;
  • Bio Guerra Monument;
  • Port Avenue;
  • Mathieu Kerekou Stadium;
  • Red Star Square;
  • Dantokpa Market;
  • EYA Community Center;
  • Fidjrossé Beach;
  • Notre-Dame cathedral
  • Great Mosque of Zongo.

Grand Popo

In Grand popo, it is possible to visit:
  • La Bouche du Roy (a meeting place between the sea and the Mono River);
  • Villa Karo;
  • Museum of Arts and History;
  • Walk on Grand Popo Beach

Ouidah

In Ouidah, the points to visit are:
  • The slave route;
  • Cathedral of Ouidah ;
  • The temple of the pythons;
  • The sacred forest of Kpasse;
  • Zinsou Foundation Museum;
  • Fort Portuguese (current Ouidah history museum)
  • Notre-Dame cathedral

Adjarra

In Adjarra, tourists will have the privilege of discovering the Black River and navigating it

Abomey

  • Honme Royal Palace;
  • Agoingointo underground village;
  • Goho Square;
  • Goho multi-sport stadium.

Savalou

This is a step on the way to Natitingou. Savalou is the place where the yam festival is celebrated. I suggest tourists cross the city to get an overview and take photos.

Dancoli Square

It is a place known by practitioners of the voodoo religion as a high place for obtaining favor for the DANCOLI fetish. Tourists will be able to see the fetish there, which is, by the way, very huge.

Djougou

  • Royal Palace of Djougou;
  • Djougou weaving space;
  • See a parade of knights (hopefully).

Natitingou

  • Kota Falls;
  • The Natitingou museum

Natitingou – Kousoucoingou – Koutammakou

In this region, customers will discover the tatas sombas and the way of life of the people of northern Benin. On the road to Koutoummakou

This is a proposed trip, but it can always be customized when discussing with the local agent. It may happen that Andric, the local agent, go to Togo, but this is only at the request of clients.

Duration

  • 7 days

Cost

  • 2014 USD (private tour).
🚨  We found a Western agency charging 2790€ with 7-8 participants

💎 Considering to travel with others?

This price is the same as long as you use the same car and room.
 1 traveller2 travellers3 travellers4 travellers
Price per person2014 USD1007 USD672 USD504 USD

Important: This is proposal by the local agency, itinerary and cost can be updated to personal needs when discussing with him.

Cost includes:

  • Accommodation in hotels: 32.85 USD average rate per night in a comfortable apartment/hotel
  • Personal driver: 65.57 USD per day (including accommodation and food)
  • Service of a professional English-speaking tour guide
  • Car rental: 82.10 USD per day
  • Carburation: 750 USD for the itinerary. But, it can change in function on adding places to visit or not.
  • 2 liters of drinking water daily and water during lunch
  • All airport transfers
  • Move with locals fee: 0 USD

Cost excludes (to be additionally paid):

  • International flight to Cotonou (roundtrip)
  • Visa: This formality is carried out in the customer's country of origin. As a result, this formality cannot be included in the costs to be managed on Beninese territory.
  • Travel medical insurance
  • Food (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
  • Alcohol and soft drinks
  • Benin visa
  • Individual photographing fees for tribal people
  • Museum and entrances fees
  • Fees for participations in ceremonies/rituals, dances or camera fees
  • Tips and contribution to local communities
  • Personal expenses

Families

This trip is for people aged 7 – 55

Wheelchair

People using Wheelchair can do this trip. Andric, the local agent, will be a help for them.

About the local guide

Andric

My name is Andric and I have been in the tourism field for 5 years. However, I have been touring Beninese cities, particularly those in southern and central Benin, for more than fifteen years.
I easily speak 4 Beninese languages, French and English (average level). I assure you a happy and safe crossing of Benin in a good musical atmosphere in the colors of West Africa.

To allow foreign tourists to better know Benin and its culture, I offer the following circuit:

  • Cotonou – Grand Popo – Ouidah – Cotonou
  • Cotonou – Ganvié – Calavi – Cotonou
  • Cotonou – Porto-Novo – Adjarra – Abomey
  • Abomey – Savalou – Place Dancoli – Djougou – Natitingou
  • Natitingou – Kousoucoingou – Katammakou

About Benin

When to Visit (Weather)

Benin experiences a tropical climate with a dry and rainy season, making the best time to visit from November to February. During this period, the weather is cooler and drier, ideal for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities. The dry season is also the peak of tourist activity, so it's wise to book accommodations in advance.

VISA

Travelers must present a valid passport and visa to enter Benin. Visas are not available upon entry at the airport or any land or sea arrival point. Benin offers an eVisa for tourism, business, and transit travelers, which can be applied for online between 7 and 90 days before travel. The eVisa is generally valid for 30 or 90 days, but U.S. citizens can extend the validity to 36 months without additional costs by presenting a valid eVisa and a U.S. passport to the nearest Beninese embassy or consular office.

Health

Visitors to Benin must receive a yellow fever vaccine and present a World Health Organization Yellow Card at entry to document the vaccination. The U.S. Department of State is unaware of any HIV/AIDS entry restrictions for visitors to or foreign residents of Benin. It's also recommended to be up to date on routine vaccinations and to consult a travel health professional about which other vaccines or medicines may be necessary.

Security

Benin is generally safe, but travelers should exercise increased caution due to crime, kidnapping, and terrorism. Avoid travel to northern regions and certain areas near the borders with Burkina Faso, Niger, and Nigeria due to the risk of terrorist attacks. Always remain vigilant, especially in places frequented by foreigners.

When to Visit (Weather)

Benin experiences a tropical climate with a dry and rainy season, making the best time to visit from November to February. During this period, the weather is cooler and drier, ideal for sightseeing and participating in outdoor activities. The dry season is also the peak of tourist activity, so it's wise to book accommodations in advance.

Money

The currency of Benin is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Credit card acceptance is limited, mainly to major hotels, and ATMs can be found in larger cities. It's advisable to carry cash for transactions outside urban centers.

Tipping; Credit Card; Prices; Currency

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Benin. Prices for goods and services can sometimes be negotiated, especially in markets. As mentioned, the country operates with the West African CFA franc, and carrying cash is necessary, particularly in rural areas. Credit card use is growing but still not widespread.

Luggage

Pack light and versatile clothing to suit the tropical climate, and include a sturdy pair of walking shoes. Consider bringing a rain jacket or umbrella if traveling during the rainy season.

Battery Use, Plug Type

Benin uses 220-volt electricity with Europlug and Type E outlets. Travelers should bring adapters and voltage converters if necessary. It's also helpful to carry a power bank for charging devices when away from accommodations.

Language

French is the official language of Benin. Several African languages such as Fon and Yoruba are spoken, particularly in the south, while Bariba and Dendi are more common in the north. English is increasingly spoken, particularly in tourist areas.

Gastronomy

Benin's cuisine offers a variety of dishes like Kuli Kuli, Boulettes de Poulet avec Sauce Rouge, and grilled meats. Street food is popular, but ensure it's served hot to avoid foodborne illnesses. Palm wine and the local beer, La Beninoise, are popular beverages.

Disabled Friendly

Accessibility in Benin can be challenging as most buildings, transportation, and public spaces do not cater to persons with disabilities. Traveling with a companion who can assist or hiring a local guide is recommended for travelers with mobility issues.

Family Friendly

Benin is a family-friendly destination with opportunities for cultural education and wildlife viewing. However, due to health and security considerations, families should plan carefully and prioritize safety and comfort.

Pet Friendly

Traveling with pets to Benin can be complicated due to limited pet-friendly accommodations and hot climate. It's essential to verify pet entry requirements and consider their well-being throughout the journey.

Children's Friendly

Children can enjoy Benin’s beaches, wildlife parks, and cultural experiences. It is important to ensure that children are up to date on vaccinations and that their dietary and health needs can be met throughout the trip.

Customs and Integration

Beninese society is rich in tradition and customs, particularly related to Vodun (Voodoo) practice. Visitors should respect local customs and traditions, dress modestly, and seek permission before photographing people.

Curiosities

Benin is the birthplace of Vodun, and the country celebrates Traditional Day (Fête de Vodoun) every January 10th. The nation also has a history as a central hub of the slave trade, with many historical sites related to this period.

PAA

Is it safe to travel to Benin now?

Benin is considered safe to travel to, but visitors should exercise caution and stay informed about the areas to avoid, particularly in the north and near certain borders.

How can I travel to Benin?

You can travel to Benin by obtaining the necessary visa, typically through an eVisa application, and flying into Cotonou, the largest city with the main international airport.

What is tourism like in Benin?

Tourism in Benin offers a mix of cultural experiences, historical sites related to the Kingdom of Dahomey and the slave trade, natural parks for wildlife viewing, and beaches along the Atlantic coast.

Does Benin require yellow fever vaccine?

Yes, all visitors to Benin must receive a yellow fever vaccine and present proof of vaccination upon entry.

Interested in customizing your trip to Benin?

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