Republic of Benin · West Africa · Gulf of Guinea
112,622 km². 12 million people. Two UNESCO sites. World capital of Vodun. The former Dahomey.
12M
people
1960
independence of Dahomey, renamed Benin in 1975
42
ethnic groups, Fon, Yoruba, Bariba, Peul, Ditamari
2
UNESCO sites, the Royal Palaces of Abomey + Pendjari
Vodun · Atlantic · History
The South, Ouidah, Cotonou, Porto-Novo
Benin speaks to the world from here. Ouidah, world capital of Vodun. Cotonou, the economic engine. Porto-Novo with its Brazilian influences. The south holds the highest cultural density in West Africa.
Royalty · Dahomey · Inland territory
The Center, Abomey, Dassa, Savalou
Abomey is the capital of the Fon kings of Dahomey, one of the most powerful kingdoms of precolonial Africa. The Royal Palaces, inscribed as UNESCO World Heritage, bear witness to a civilization that resisted colonization until 1894.
Nature · Tata Somba · Safari
The North, Atacora, Pendjari, Natitingou
The Tata Somba, fortified dwellings found nowhere else in the world, dot the hills of the Atacora. Pendjari National Park shelters elephants, lions, buffalo and hippos in one of West Africa's last wild ecosystems.
Fishermen · Village on the water · Tofa
Lake Nokoué, Ganvié and the stilt villages
Ganvié is Africa's largest stilt village, 20,000 people living on stilts above the water. Legend says the Tofa ancestors took refuge on the lake to escape raids by the Fon kings of Dahomey.
Visa
An e-visa is mandatory. 48-72h processing time. ONG Wa Afriki sends you the full procedure after booking.
Health
Yellow fever vaccination required. Antimalarials recommended. Bottled water required.
Currency
CFA Franc (XOF). 1 EUR is about 655 FCFA. After Vodundays payments in EUR/USD before departure.
Language
Official language French. Fon and Yoruba spoken in Ouidah. Your ONG Wa Afriki guide handles all mediation.
Safety
Benin is one of the most stable countries in West Africa. ONG Wa Afriki manages all of your movements.
Best time to visit
November to March (dry season). January means Vodun Days. August means the African New Year.