Benin-6-day-itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou

  • Arrive at Cotonou International Airport (COO)
  • Transfer to hotel
  • Rest and acclimatize to the local environment
  • Things to know: Be prepared for a bustling city with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Don’t drink tap water and be mindful of your surroundings.
  • Transportation: Taxi or shuttle services are readily available from the airport to your hotel.
  • Accommodation: Stay in Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin.

Day 2: Cotonou City Tour

  • Visit the Grand Marché (large market) for a taste of local life and shopping
  • Explore the Presidential Palace (Palais de la Nation)
  • Stop by the National Museum to learn about Benin’s history and culture
  • Activities: Enjoy a traditional dance performance or visit a nearby local village
  • Things to know: Be respectful when visiting mosques or churches. Don’t touch or take pictures of locals without permission.
  • Transportation: Use taxi services or walk between attractions.

Day 3: Porto-Novo and the Ouidah Royal Road

  • Drive to Porto-Novo (1 hour), the capital city of Benin
  • Visit the National Assembly building and explore the city’s colonial architecture
  • Continue to the Ouidah Royal Road, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient slave trade routes
  • Activities: Learn about Benin’s history at the Pointe de Hannon Museum or participate in a traditional ceremony
  • Things to know: Be mindful of your surroundings and dress modestly when visiting churches.
  • Transportation: Use taxis or rent a car for the day.

Day 4: Abomey Royal Palace and National Museum

  • Drive to Abomey (2 hours), a historic town in central Benin
  • Visit the Abomey Royal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring traditional architecture
  • Explore the adjacent National Museum to learn about Dahomey’s history and culture
  • Activities: Take a guided tour of the palace or participate in a local craft-making workshop
  • Things to know: Don’t touch or take pictures of locals without permission.
  • Transportation: Use taxis or rent a car for the day.

Day 5: Pendjari National Park

  • Drive to Pendjari National Park (4 hours), one of West Africa’s largest game reserves
  • Go on a guided safari to see elephants, lions, and other wildlife
  • Activities: Enjoy a picnic lunch within the park or participate in a traditional dance performance
  • Things to know: Respect local rules and regulations regarding photography and animal interaction.
  • Transportation: Use taxis or rent a car for the day.

Day 6: Return to Cotonou

  • Drive back to Cotonou (4 hours) for your departure flight
  • Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in the city
  • Depart from Cotonou International Airport

Visa Requirements: Citizens of most countries, including the US, Canada, and European nations, can obtain a visa on arrival at Benin’s international airports. However, check with the Beninese embassy or consulate in your country for the latest information.

Safety and Health:

  • Be aware of petty theft and scams.
  • Use reputable taxi services or shuttle services.
  • Don’t drink tap water.
  • Take necessary precautions against malaria and other diseases.

Currency: The West African CFA Franc (XOF) is the local currency. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities, but cash is preferred for smaller transactions.

Enjoy your trip to Benin!