Tourism in Benin

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Western Africa

Tourist attractions

Royal Palaces of Abomey

Region: Zou Department, Abomey

Cultural Heritage

Dahomey Kingdom successive royal palace ruins. World Heritage site preserving reliefs and thrones

Ouidah "Slave Route"

Region: Atlantic Department

History

4km memorial route tracing old Slave Coast trading path to "Door of No Return"

W National Park (Benin side)

Region: Alibori Department

Nature

Savanna reserve spanning Niger, observing diverse large wildlife including elephants, lions, cheetahs

Ganvié Lake Village

Region: Lake Nokoué

Culture

Village built on bamboo stilts; tour schools and markets by canoe

Tata Somba Houses

Region: Atacora Department, Betammaribe region

Traditional Architecture

Two-story fortress-type dwellings made of earth and wood; unique architectural style rare worldwide

Cotonou Central Mosque

Region: Littoral Department, Cotonou

Religious Architecture

Largest mosque in country with beautiful white and green tile decoration

Porto-Novo Cathedral

Region: Porto-Novo

Religious Architecture

Unique Catholic church blending red brick and Islamic styles

Lake Nokoué Mangroves

Region: Southern coast

Nature

Bird-watching hotspot observing pelicans and kingfishers

Pendjari National Park

Region: Northern Atacora Department

Nature

Safari-style savanna drive; watering holes where animals concentrate during dry season are must-see

Dompa Waterfall

Region: Collines Department

Nature

20m-high waterfall and natural pool surrounded by tropical forest

Suggested itineraries

Southern Culture and History 3 Days

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Cotonou Market, Ouidah Slave Route, Vodun Museum, Ganvié Lake Village

Concentrated experience of slave trade history and Vodun culture based around capital area. Easy travel staying in Cotonou

Northern Safari & Tata Somba 5 Days

Duration (days): 5

Highlights: Parakou, Pendjari National Park, Tata Somba Villages, Gaani Festival (seasonal)

Travel north by domestic flight or car to enjoy wildlife and traditional architecture. Deeper cultural experience possible when timed with dry season Gaani Festival

Travel tips

  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate (Yellow Card) required upon entry
  • Dry season has much dust; sunglasses and mask helpful
  • Internet speeds slow; prepare offline maps in advance
  • Credit cards rarely accepted except luxury hotels; secure cash (CFA Francs)
  • Street money exchange has high counterfeit risk; use banks or airport counters
  • Taxis and moto (motorcycle taxis) use negotiated fares; confirm before boarding
  • Female travelers should wear clothing covering knees and shoulders
  • Check signs as some military facilities and government buildings prohibit photography
  • Malaria prevention medication and insect repellent essential
  • National parks difficult to access during rainy season; dry season (November-March) is best
  • English rarely spoken; useful to learn simple French phrases
  • Small tips (5-10% of meal cost) appreciated

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