Benin

Welcome to Benin

Capital of Benin: Porto Novo
Population of Benin: 10 million - 30th in Africa
Size of Benin: 112,622 km2 - 38th in Africa
Languages in Benin: French (official). Fon is widely spoken

With a distinctive culture and a history of global importance, Benin offers plenty of appeal outside its renowned national parks in the north of the country. The Atlantic coast in the south boasts many of the main cultural attractions in Benin, including ruins of old kingdoms, historical sites related to the slave trade, and Voodoo markets and places of worship and ritual. The road network and burgeoning eco-tourism industry allow visitors to create Benin itineraries that include both the cultural coast and the rugged wilderness of the interior.

Highlights

Discover the magic and mystery of the state religion – voodoo
Visit the Dantokpa Market, Cotonou, which has a compelling yet macabre fetish section
Sail out to Ganvié, a floating stilted town on Lake Nakoué
Lounge on the stunning, deserted, palm-fringed beaches at Grand Popo on the Bight of Benin
Spot elephants, cheetah, buffalo and lion at the Pendjari National Park, one of West Africa’s prime game reserves