Benin 3 Day Itinerary

Benin 3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Cotonou and Ganvie

  • Morning: Arrive at Cardinal Bernadin Gantin International Airport in Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin. After collecting your luggage, head to your hotel for a quick refreshment.
  • 9:00 AM: Visit the Dantokpa Market, one of the largest markets in West Africa. Be prepared to haggle and experience the vibrant Beninese culture.
  • 1:00 PM: Take a break for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try traditional dishes like akassa (a thick corn paste) or kuli-kuli (fried peanut snacks).
  • 2:30 PM: Head to Ganvie, a stilt village built on Lake Nokoué. Take a boat tour around the lake and learn about the history of this unique settlement.
  • 6:00 PM: Return to Cotonou and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2: Abomey and Bohicon

  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Abomey, a historic city located about 100 km north of Cotonou. Visit the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
  • 12:30 PM: Stop for lunch at a local restaurant in Bohicon, known for its vibrant market and colorful textiles.
  • 2:00 PM: Explore the Bohicon Market, where you can find a wide range of traditional crafts and souvenirs.
  • 5:00 PM: Return to Cotonou, with a stop at the Ouémé River for a scenic view.

Day 3: Porto-Novo

  • 8:00 AM: Depart for Porto-Novo, the capital city of Benin. Visit the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the country’s rich cultural heritage.
  • 11:00 AM: Explore the historic center of Porto-Novo, including the King Toffa Palace and the Grand Mosque.
  • 2:00 PM: Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you can try seafood dishes like grilled fish or shrimp.
  • 4:00 PM: Return to Cotonou for your departure.

Things to Know

  • Benin is a French-speaking country, but many people also speak Fon and Yoruba. English is not widely spoken, so it’s a good idea to learn some basic French phrases.
  • The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices.
  • Benin is generally a safe country, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Visa Requirements

  • Citizens of certain countries may need a visa to enter Benin. Check with the Beninese embassy or consulate in your home country for specific requirements.
  • A valid passport with at least six months’ validity is required.

Transportation

  • Taxis are widely available, but be prepared to haggle over prices.
  • Private car rentals and drivers can also be arranged through local tour operators.
  • Domestic flights are available between Cotonou and other major cities in Benin.

Health and Safety

  • Vaccinations against yellow fever, hepatitis A, and typhoid are recommended.
  • Malaria is prevalent in Benin, so take necessary precautions such as using insect repellents and mosquito nets.
  • Tap water is not safe to drink; stick to bottled or filtered water.

Accommodation

  • Cotonou has a range of hotels, from budget-friendly options like the Hotel du Port to luxury resorts like the Benin Marina Hotel.
  • Book your accommodation in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Other Tips

  • Respect local customs and traditions, especially when visiting historical sites or attending cultural events.
  • Haggling is a normal part of shopping in Benin; be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Learn some basic Fon phrases, such as “sèdjè” (hello) and “akpè” (thank you).