Benin 7 Day Itinerary

Benin 7-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou and Exploration

  • Arrival: Arrive at Cadjehoun Airport (COO) in Cotonou, the largest city in Benin
  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of certain countries can obtain a visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance. Check with the Benin Embassy or Consulate for specific requirements.
  • Transportation: Take a taxi from the airport to your hotel (approx. 30 minutes)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Cotonou, such as the Hotel du Port or Hotel Azalai de la Plage
  • Activity: Visit the Grand Marché du Dantokpa, a bustling marketplace selling everything from traditional clothing to souvenirs

Day 2: Cotonou and Ganvie

  • Breakfast: Try some local breakfast dishes like akara (fried bean cakes) or tô (a millet or corn porridge)
  • Activity: Visit the Fondation Zinsou, a museum showcasing Benin’s history and art
  • Transportation: Take a pirogue (traditional wooden boat) to Ganvie, a stilt village on Lake Nokoué (approx. 1 hour)
  • Lunch: Enjoy fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants in Ganvie
  • Activity: Explore the village and see traditional Beninese architecture

Day 3: Porto-Novo

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bush taxi to Porto-Novo, the capital city (approx. 1 hour)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Porto-Novo, such as the Hotel de la Plage or Hotel Royal
  • Activity: Visit the Ethnographic Museum of Porto-Novo, showcasing Benin’s cultural heritage
  • Lunch: Try some local cuisine like peanut stew or grilled fish

Day 4: Abomey

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bush taxi to Abomey, a historic city (approx. 2 hours)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Abomey, such as the Hotel d’Abomey or Auberge de la Royale
  • Activity: Visit the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former capital of the Dahomey Kingdom
  • Lunch: Enjoy local specialties like abattan (a peanut-based dish) or alloco (fried plantains)

Day 5: Natitingou

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bush taxi to Natitingou, a city in northern Benin (approx. 4 hours)
  • Accommodation: Stay at a hotel in Natitingou, such as the Hotel les Résidences or Auberge de la Tata
  • Activity: Visit the Kpeme Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation
  • Lunch: Try some local street food like grilled corn or roasted peanuts

Day 6: Pendjari National Park

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bush taxi to Pendjari National Park (approx. 1 hour)
  • Activity: Go on a guided game drive or hike in the park, home to many animal species including lions, elephants, and antelopes
  • Lunch: Enjoy a picnic lunch in the park

Day 7: Return to Cotonou

  • Transportation: Take a taxi or bush taxi back to Cotonou (approx. 4 hours)
  • Activity: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring a local market
  • Departure: Depart from Cadjehoun Airport (COO)

Other Things to Know

  • Language: French is the official language, but many locals also speak Fon and other indigenous languages. English is not widely spoken.
  • Currency: The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the local currency. You can exchange money at banks or currency exchange offices.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure your safety, such as avoiding traveling alone at night and keeping valuables secure.
  • Health: Benin is a high-risk area for malaria and other diseases. Consult your doctor or a travel clinic before traveling.
  • Respect Local Culture: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering homes or sacred places, and avoid public displays of affection.

** Transportation Options**

  • Taxis: Available in cities, but be prepared to haggle over prices
  • Bush Taxis: Shared minibuses that operate on fixed routes, a cheap and lively way to travel
  • Motorbike Taxis: A fast and affordable option for shorter distances
  • Renting a Car: Possible, but not recommended due to poor road conditions and aggressive driving habits

Accommodation Options

  • Hotels: Range from budget-friendly options like Hotel du Port to luxury hotels like Hotel Azalai de la Plage
  • Guesthouses: A more affordable option, often with a homestay feel
  • Camping: Possible in some national parks and game reserves, but infrastructure is limited