Benin Travel Guide

Benin is one of the best kept secrets in West Africa and offers spectacular scenery and wildlife, fascinating history, and ancient traditions. The country is the birthplace of the Voodoo religion, evidenced by an abundance of Voodoo temples and 'fetish' markets dotted throughout the country. The region was known as the Slave Coast from the 17th century onward before slavery was abolished and France took control. Independence came in 1960 and, despite a few tumultuous years, today the country enjoys relative peace and stability despite high levels of poverty.

Cotonou, the largest city and economic centre, still displays its colonial heritage. The city has its own Boul' Mich ( ) and it is quite common to see Beninois locals walking around, baguette tucked under one arm and a French newspaper clutched under the other.

The capital, Porto Novo, is smaller but is one of West Africa's more pleasant capitals. The Royal Palace features a museum documenting the life of African royalty, and local 'Adjogan' music can be heard throughout the city.

The city of Abomey was once the capital of the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey, as Benin was formerly known. It now houses a complex of ruined temples and royal palaces that has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Relics of this proud and intriguing culture are on display in the Abomey Historical Museum, complete with macabre tapestries and even a throne of human skulls. The historic sites in Ouidah are also worth visiting, including the Portuguese fort and the Temple of the Sacred Python.

The country has a network of lagoons and swamps that can be found along the Atlantic coastline. These connect the rivers and big lakes such as Lake Aheme and Benin's longest river, the Oueme, and they are navigable through the seasons. The beaches along the coast, at Ouidah and Grand Popo, are also a major draw for tourists.

The northwest region of the country is wild and beautiful, ruled by the Atakora Mountains towering as high as 3,000 feet (914 metres) and offering wonderful hiking opportunities. The two main tourist attractions are the wildlife reserves, Pendjari National Park and 'W' National Park. These are considered among the best in West Africa for wildlife viewing.