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Benin
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The birthplace of Vodou and a pivotal platform of the slave trade for nearly three centuries, Benin is steeped in a rich and complex history still very much in evidence today.
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Must-see attractions
Benin
The Centre Songhai is a major research, teaching and production centre in sustainable farming. There are one-hour guided tours to visit the plantations…
Benin
This museum of contemporary African art, housed in a stunning 1920s Afro-Brazilian villa, displays paintings and sculptures as well as light, video and…
Benin
The Route of the Slaves includes the slave auction plaza, the Tree of Forgetfulness (where slaves were branded with their owners' symbols and, to make…
Cotonou
The seemingly endless Grand Marché du Dantokpa is Cotonou's throbbing heart, bordered by the lagoon and Blvd St Michel. Everything under the sun can be…
Benin
This 2750-sq-km national park is one of West Africa's best for wildlife. Visitors may spot lions, leopards, elephants, baboons and hippos. The best…
Cotonou
With its vibrant red and white stripes, this Catholic cathedral is not just a place of worship but also home to a small bookshop selling titles by…
Benin
Abomey's main and seriously impressive attraction (and a World Heritage site since 1985), this sprawling museum is housed in two palaces, those of the…
Cotonou
Named after the family that started it, this fantastic exhibition space seeks to promote contemporary African art among Beninese people through…
Attractions
Top picks from our travel experts
Benin
Those interested in Vodou could visit the python temple, home to some 60 sleepy snakes. The guide explains some of the beliefs and ceremonies associated…
Musée Ethnographique de Porto Novo
Benin
Housed in a pretty colonial building, this museum is well worth a gander. The top floor is organised thematically around birth, life and death, with…
Benin
This stilt village, located in the lagoon of Lake Nokoue, was created for the Tofinu people to stay safe from slave hunters. It has become part of their…
Benin
Abomey's main and seriously impressive attraction (and a World Heritage site since 1985), this sprawling museum is housed in two palaces, those of the…
Benin
Housed in a colonial building built by slaves at the beginning of the 20th century, this museum gives an overview of life in Somba communities. The…
Cotonou
This market sells anything associated with Vodou, including varieties of tree barks and dried plants (both used in traditional medicine) and stalwarts…
Cotonou
The seemingly endless Grand Marché du Dantokpa is Cotonou's throbbing heart, bordered by the lagoon and Blvd St Michel. Everything under the sun can be…
Benin
The Route of the Slaves includes the slave auction plaza, the Tree of Forgetfulness (where slaves were branded with their owners' symbols and, to make…
Planning Tools
Expert guidance to help you plan your trip
Best Things to Do
With sites of historic and religious significance, plus wildlife watching and beaches, Benin is developing as a travel destination.
Read articleThings to Know
Benin may be smaller than its West African neighbors but it's no less mighty. Here's everything you need to know before you go.
Read articleTransportation
Benin is a relatively small country to explore, best seen by car. Here's what you need to know about traveling around.
Read articleVisa Requirements
Visas are an essential part of travel and you may need one to visit Benin. Here's what you need to know about visas for this fascinating African country.
Read articleMoney and Costs
Already one of the most budget-friendly destinations in Africa, there are still plenty of ways to make your Benin trip even cheaper.
Read articleTraveling with Kids
Benin is a dynamic country sure to enthrall families interested in history, wildlife, and more - here are our tips for visiting with kids.
Read articleBest Road Trips
From exploring places steeped in Vodou culture to the ancient West African Kingdom of Dahomey, see the highlights of Benin on these top road trips.
Read articlePlan with a local
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