Benin 4 Day Itinerary

Benin Travel Itinerary: 4 Days of Adventure

Day 1: Cotonou and Ganvie

Morning

  • Arrive in Cotonou, the largest city in Benin
  • Visit the Dantokpa Market, a bustling marketplace with vibrant colors and sounds
  • Try some local street food, such as akara (fried bean cakes) or pate (a spicy peanut sauce)

Afternoon

  • Take a boat trip to Ganvie, a stilted village built on Lake Nokoue
  • Explore the village and learn about the history and culture of the Tofinu people
  • Enjoy the scenic views of the lake and surrounding mangroves

Evening

  • Return to Cotonou and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Paysan or La Casa
  • Try some traditional Beninese dishes, like peanut stew or grilled fish with rice and vegetables

Day 2: Ouidah

Morning

  • Drive to Ouidah (approximately 2 hours), a historic town known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade
  • Visit the Ouidah Museum of History, which explores the history of slavery and colonialism in Benin
  • Explore the Fortaleza de São João Baptista, a Portuguese fort built in the 17th century

Afternoon

  • Visit the Point of No Return, a poignant memorial to the slaves who were deported from this point
  • Explore the town’s historic center, with its colorful buildings and vibrant markets

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Jardin or La Belle Époque
  • Try some traditional Beninese music and dance performances

Day 3: Abomey-Calavi

Morning

  • Drive to Abomey-Calavi (approximately 1.5 hours), a town known for its historic Dahomey Empire
  • Visit the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring impressive architecture and artifacts

Afternoon

  • Explore the Dan Ayido Hwedo Palace, which features stunning murals and ornate decorations
  • Learn about the history and culture of the Fon people at the Musée Historique d’Abomey

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Relais or La Maison des Remparts
  • Try some traditional Beninese crafts, such as weaving or woodcarving

Day 4: Porto-Novo

Morning

  • Drive to Porto-Novo (approximately 2 hours), the capital city of Benin
  • Visit the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the cultural diversity of Benin’s 42 ethnic groups
  • Explore the historic center, with its colonial-era architecture and vibrant markets

Afternoon

  • Visit the Da Silva Museum, which features a collection of African art and artifacts
  • Take a stroll along the waterfront, with its scenic views of the Atlantic Ocean

Evening

  • Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, such as Le Patio or La Villa
  • Reflect on an unforgettable trip to Benin!

Things to Know

  • Visa Requirements: Citizens of many countries can obtain a visa upon arrival in Cotonou. Check with the Beninese embassy or consulate for specific requirements.
  • Vaccinations: Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and other vaccinations such as Hepatitis A and Typhoid are recommended.
  • Currency: The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the local currency, although euros and US dollars are widely accepted.
  • Language: French is the official language, but many Beninese speak Fon, Yoruba, or other local languages. English is not widely spoken.

Transportation

  • Airports: Cotonou’s Cardinal Bernardin Gantin International Airport (COO) is the main entry point.
  • Taxis: Yellow taxis are readily available in cities, but be prepared to negotiate prices.
  • Buses: Bush taxis and buses connect major towns, although services can be unreliable.

Other Tips

  • Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, remove shoes when entering temples or homes, and avoid public displays of affection.
  • Haggling: Expect to haggle over prices at markets, but be respectful and fair.
  • Safety: Take normal precautions to ensure personal safety, such as avoiding traveling alone at night.

Accommodation

  • Hotels: Options range from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels like the Hotel du Lac or the Benin Marina Hotel.
  • Guesthouses: Consider staying in a local guesthouse (maison d’hôte) for a more authentic experience.

Enjoy your trip to Benin!