Introduction: Why Benin Should Be Your Next African Adventure
The first time I stepped off the plane at Cadjehoun Airport (COO) in Cotonou back in 2018, I had no idea how deeply Benin would capture my heart. After five visits spanning nearly seven years, I’ve navigated everything from the bustling markets of Dantokpa to the remote villages near Pendjari National Park. I’ve made countless mistakes (like attempting to photograph the Royal Palaces without permission—more on that embarrassing moment later), discovered hidden gems, and built friendships that span continents.
Benin is that rare travel destination that offers authenticity in abundance—a place where ancient traditions like Vodun (the original voodoo) thrive alongside modern West African innovation. This small country packs remarkable diversity: pristine beaches, wildlife-rich national parks, vibrant cities, and profound historical sites including the sobering slave route.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to West Africa or you’re an experienced traveler looking to explore beyond Ghana and Senegal, this cheat sheet distills what I’ve learned through years of on-the-ground experience. From navigating transportation and cultural etiquette to finding the best atassi (rice and beans) in Cotonou, consider this your insider’s guide to Benin in 2025.
Essential Planning: When to Go, Visas, and Pre-Trip Preparation
Best Time to Visit Benin
After multiple visits across different seasons, I’ve found November to February offers the most comfortable experience. The temperature hovers around 28-32°C (82-90°F), humidity is manageable, and rainfall is minimal. I made the rookie mistake of visiting in July once—the downpours were so intense that my planned trip to Ganvié (the stilt village) turned into three days trapped in my hotel watching Netflix!
| Season | Months | Weather | Pros/Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dry Season (Best) | Nov-Feb | Warm days, cooler nights | Ideal for sightseeing, Vodun Festival (January) |
| Hot Season | Mar-Apr | Very hot and humid | Fewer tourists, uncomfortable heat |
| Rainy Season | May-Oct | Heavy rainfall, high humidity | Lush landscapes, but challenging travel conditions |
Visa Requirements (Updated for 2025)
As of 2025, Benin offers e-visas through their official portal. The process has improved dramatically since my first visit, when I spent three hours at the embassy in Paris! Now you can apply online, pay the 50€ fee, and typically receive approval within 48 hours.
Money-Saving Tip #1: If you’re visiting multiple West African countries, consider the ‘visa entente’ which allows entry to Benin, Togo, Niger, Burkina Faso, and Côte d’Ivoire for 100€ (valid for 90 days). I saved over 150€ on my last trip using this option!
Vaccinations and Health Preparations
You’ll need a valid Yellow Fever certificate to enter Benin—this is strictly enforced. I learned this lesson the hard way when I was almost denied boarding in Paris because I’d forgotten mine at home (a frantic call to my neighbor to scan and email it saved the day).
Beyond the required Yellow Fever vaccine, I recommend:
- Malaria prophylaxis (I prefer Malarone, as I experienced fewer side effects)
- Typhoid vaccination
- Hepatitis A and B
- Updated tetanus booster
- COVID-19 vaccination (while no longer required for entry in 2025, it’s still recommended)
Pack a basic medical kit including antimalarials, rehydration salts, pain relievers, antihistamines, and prescription antibiotics. The CDC’s Benin travel page offers comprehensive guidance.
Pre-Trip Practicalities
Money Matters
Benin uses the West African CFA Franc (XOF). As of early 2025, 1 USD equals approximately 610 XOF. While credit cards are increasingly accepted in upscale hotels and restaurants in Cotonou, cash remains king throughout most of the country.
Money-Saving Tip #2: Skip the airport exchange counters! Their rates are typically 10-15% worse than in town. Instead, withdraw cash from ATMs at Ecobank or BBCI in Cotonou, which offer the best rates. I always bring a backup Visa and Mastercard as some ATMs only accept one type.
Language Essentials
French is Benin’s official language. While you can get by with English in top-end tourist establishments, even basic French will significantly enhance your experience. Key local languages include Fon (south) and Bariba (north).
Essential French and Fon phrases I’ve found most useful:
- “Bonjour/Bonsoir” – Hello/Good evening
- “Comment allez-vous?” – How are you?
- “Merci beaucoup” – Thank you very much
- “Combien ça coûte?” – How much does it cost?
- “Akwaba” (Fon) – Welcome
- “E kú àárọ̀” (Fon) – Good morning
Navigating Arrival and Transportation in Benin
Arrival at Cadjehoun Airport (COO)
Cotonou’s airport is relatively small but has been modernized since 2023. Immigration lines can be slow; I’ve waited anywhere from 20 minutes to over an hour. Have your e-visa confirmation, hotel information, and yellow fever certificate easily accessible.
Money-Saving Tip #3: Arrange airport pickup through your hotel (typically 10,000-15,000 XOF) instead of using the taxis waiting outside who charge tourists 20,000-25,000 XOF for the same trip to central Cotonou. Last year, I saved nearly 50,000 XOF just on airport transfers during a 10-day trip.
Getting Around Benin
Transportation in Benin ranges from chaotic to comfortable, depending on your budget and tolerance for adventure. Here’s what I’ve learned:
Within Cities
- Zemidjans (Zems): These motorcycle taxis are ubiquitous and the fastest way to navigate traffic-choked Cotonou. Expect to pay 200-500 XOF for short trips, 500-1,000 XOF for longer journeys. Always negotiate before hopping on! The new bright yellow official zems in Cotonou are slightly more expensive but safer.
- Taxis: Yellow shared taxis run set routes in cities. Flag one down, tell the driver your destination, and he’ll indicate if he’s going that way. Expect to pay 300-500 XOF per person. For private taxis, negotiate hard—start at 50% of their initial ask.
- Ride-hailing apps: The new Gozem app (West Africa’s Uber equivalent) launched in Cotonou in 2023 and has transformed urban travel. It offers motorcycle, tuk-tuk, and car options with set prices. Download before arrival!
Between Cities
- Bush taxis: These shared vans (called “sept places” because they cram in seven passengers) connect all major towns. They’re cheap (5,000-10,000 XOF for longer journeys) but only depart when full, which can mean lengthy waits.
- Buses: ATT and Baobab Express offer more comfortable scheduled services between major cities. The new Baobab Express coaches have AC and WiFi – worth the extra cost at around 12,000 XOF from Cotonou to Abomey.
- Car rental: For flexibility, consider hiring a car with driver (25,000-40,000 XOF per day plus fuel). Self-drive isn’t recommended unless you’re very experienced with West African road conditions.
My Biggest Transport Mistake: On my second trip, I opted for the cheapest bush taxi from Cotonou to Ouidah (only 2,500 XOF). What should have been a 45-minute journey took FOUR HOURS as the driver stopped constantly to pick up more passengers, livestock, and an improbable amount of furniture. The vehicle was so overloaded that we blew a tire near Grand-Popo. I now happily pay more for direct transport!
Accommodation Options: Where to Stay in Benin
Benin’s accommodation ranges from basic guesthouses to surprisingly luxurious resorts. The tourism infrastructure has improved notably since 2020, with several new boutique options opening in key destinations.
Cotonou: The Urban Gateway
As Benin’s economic heart, Cotonou offers the widest range of accommodation:
- Luxury: Golden Tulip Le Diplomate (100,000+ XOF) – My go-to when splurging, with reliable WiFi and an excellent pool.
- Mid-range: Azalai Hotel de la Plage (60,000-90,000 XOF) – Perfect beachfront location.
- Budget: Hotel Benin Royal (25,000-35,000 XOF) – Clean, central, and friendly staff.
- Backpacker: Guesthouse Cotonou (15,000 XOF for dorms) – Great for meeting other travelers.
Ouidah: Historical Heart
This coastal town is essential for understanding Benin’s history and Vodun culture:
- Top pick: Casa del Papa (70,000-90,000 XOF) – Beachfront resort with excellent facilities.
- Mid-range: Diaspora Hotel (40,000 XOF) – Centrally located with cultural connections.
- Budget: Chez Theo (20,000 XOF) – Simple but clean rooms near the main attractions.
Abomey: Royal History
The ancient capital of the Dahomey Kingdom deserves at least one night:
- Best option: Chez Monique (30,000-40,000 XOF) – Family-run with exceptional local food and hospitable owners.
Northern Benin
For adventures around Pendjari National Park:
- Tanguieta: Hotel Baobab (35,000-45,000 XOF) – The gateway accommodation to the park.
- Natitingou: Tata Somba (40,000 XOF) – Unique accommodation based on traditional Somba architecture.
Insider Accommodation Tip: While booking.com works for larger hotels, many smaller guesthouses aren’t listed online. The locally-produced “Le Petit Futé” guidebook (available in Cotonou bookstores) has the most comprehensive listings. Also, prices are almost always negotiable for stays of 3+ nights—I’ve received up to 30% discount just by asking politely and paying in cash.
Essential Cultural Experiences: Must-See Destinations
Cotonou: Urban Benin
While not the official capital (that’s Porto-Novo), Cotonou is Benin’s pulsating heart:
- Dantokpa Market – West Africa’s largest market is a sensory overload in the best possible way. I spent three hours wandering through the fabric section alone! Go early (8-10am) to avoid the worst heat and crowds.
- Foundation Zinsou – This contemporary art gallery showcases the vibrant modern art scene. Their rotating exhibitions feature the best of West African artists.
- La Place du Souvenir – This monument to Benin’s history has been beautifully renovated since 2022, with the new museum providing excellent context.
The Vodun Corridor: Ouidah and Surrounds
The coastal region west of Cotonou is the heartland of Vodun culture:
- Ouidah’s Python Temple – Where Catholic and Vodun traditions merge in fascinating ways. Yes, you can handle the pythons if you want (I did, despite my fear of snakes)!
- The Door of No Return – This sobering monument marks the final departure point for thousands of enslaved Africans. The new museum (opened 2024) provides crucial historical context.
- Sacred Forest of Kpasse – Filled with Vodun sculptures and spiritual energy. Always visit with a guide who can explain the significance.
- Route des Pêches – This 40km coastal road between Cotonou and Ouidah offers beautiful beaches and fishing villages where you can watch traditional fishing methods unchanged for centuries.
Cultural Sensitivity Tip: When visiting Vodun sites, always ask permission before taking photos (sometimes there’s a small fee of 500-1000 XOF). During my first visit to the Sacred Forest, I thoughtlessly snapped a photo of a shrine, causing significant offense. My guide had to negotiate a small offering (5000 XOF) to make amends. Learn from my mistake!
Royal Abomey: The Dahomey Kingdom
Abomey was the capital of one of West Africa’s most powerful pre-colonial states:
- Royal Palaces of Abomey – This UNESCO World Heritage site comprises 12 palaces built by different kings. The museum houses thrones, royal tapestries, and the famous symbols of the kingdom. Allow at least half a day to fully appreciate it.
- Underground Village of Agongointo – These recently discovered underground dwellings provide fascinating insight into how people protected themselves during wars.
Stilt Villages: Ganvié and Beyond
Often called the “Venice of Africa,” Ganvié is a village built entirely on stilts in Lake Nokoué:
- Hire a boat from Abomey-Calavi (negotiate hard—aim for 15,000-20,000 XOF for a private boat)
- Visit early morning to see the floating market in action
- Consider staying overnight at Chez Raphael (the only accommodation in the village) for a more authentic experience
Northern Treasures
The north offers a completely different experience from southern Benin:
- Pendjari National Park – Reopened in 2022 after security improvements, this is one of West Africa’s best wildlife viewing opportunities. I spotted elephants, buffalo, various antelopes, and even a distant lion during my visit in 2023.
- Taneka Villages – Traditional villages where elders still maintain ancient customs. Approach with respect and always visit with a local guide.
- Tata Somba Houses – These fortress-like mud structures in the Atakora region are architectural marvels. The communities welcome respectful visitors (with a small contribution).
Food and Drink: Culinary Adventures in Benin
Beninese cuisine reflects its diverse cultural influences, from indigenous traditions to Portuguese colonial impact. Some of my favorite dishes after years of exploration:
Must-Try Dishes
- Atassi – This rice and bean combination is Benin’s daily staple, usually served with fish or meat and a spicy tomato sauce.
- Akassa – Fermented corn dough served with various sauces—try it with amiwo (tomato sauce) for an authentic experience.
- Pâte – A thick cornmeal mash eaten by hand with different sauces. The sauce gombo (okra) is particularly delicious.
- Aloko – Fried plantains, often served as a side dish but equally delicious as a snack.
- Wagasi – A local cheese from northern Benin, similar to halloumi in texture. The Fulani people are famous for this delicacy.
- Kuli Kuli – Spiced peanut snacks that pair perfectly with a cold beer.
Where to Eat
Cotonou
- Maquis Le Privilège – My favorite spot for authentic Beninese cuisine in a lively atmosphere. Their atassi with grilled fish is unbeatable. (15,000-20,000 XOF)
- Livingstone – Excellent pizza and continental options when you need a break from local food. (20,000-30,000 XOF)
- Shamiana – Surprisingly good Indian food with vegetarian options. (15,000-25,000 XOF)
- Le Piment Rouge – Upscale French-African fusion with beautiful presentation. (30,000-50,000 XOF)
Street Food Adventures
Some of my best meals have cost less than 2,000 XOF from street vendors:
- Dantokpa Market food section – Dozens of women serve homestyle Beninese food from around 11am-3pm. Look for busy stalls where locals eat.
- Beach vendors – Along Route des Pêches, vendors grill fresh fish with spicy piment sauce—just pick your fish and they’ll prepare it.
- Morning baguettes – Roadside stands sell French-style baguettes with various fillings. Try egg and avocado (oeuf-avocat) for breakfast.
Food Safety Tip: I’ve rarely had stomach issues in Benin by following simple rules: eat at busy places, choose freshly cooked hot food, peel fruits yourself, and drink bottled water. My one bout of food poisoning came from an upscale restaurant, not street food!
Drinks and Nightlife
Benin has a vibrant drinking culture, with options from traditional to modern:
- Beers – La Béninoise is the national lager, but Castel and Flag are also popular. Expect to pay 500-1,000 XOF in local spots, 1,500-2,500 XOF in upscale venues.
- Sodabi – This palm spirit is Benin’s national moonshine, ranging from 40-60% alcohol. Quality varies enormously—the aged version (sodabi vieille) is smoother. Sip slowly!
- Bissap – Refreshing hibiscus juice, served sweet and sometimes with mint. Perfect alcohol-free option in the heat.
- Tchakpalo – Millet beer, slightly sour and often home-brewed. An acquired taste but culturally significant.
For nightlife, Cotonou offers several options:
- Code Bar – My favorite for live music, especially on Fridays when they showcase local talent.
- Le Yes Papa – Beach club with DJ sets on weekends.
- Sanctuary – Upscale nightclub popular with expats and wealthy locals.
Practical Tips: Money, Safety, and Cultural Etiquette
Money Matters
Managing money wisely will enhance your Benin experience:
- ATMs are reliable in Cotonou and major towns but scarce elsewhere. Ecobank ATMs generally have the highest withdrawal limits.
- Notify your bank of travel plans to prevent card blocking.
- Carry small denominations—breaking large bills can be challenging outside cities.
- Count change carefully—mistakes are common (not always intentional).
Sustainability & Money-Saving Tip: Bring a high-quality water filter bottle like LifeStraw or Grayl. I’ve saved over €300 on bottled water during my multiple trips while preventing hundreds of plastic bottles from entering Benin’s waste stream. The initial €45 investment paid for itself within two weeks!
Safety Considerations
Benin is relatively safe by regional standards, but sensible precautions are necessary:
- Avoid displaying valuables, especially in Cotonou and at beaches.
- Use official zemidjans (yellow vests) when possible.
- Be extra vigilant around Dantokpa Market and the port area.
- Check the latest security situation before visiting the far north (near the Burkina Faso border).
- Keep digital and physical copies of important documents.
My worst experience came from carelessness—I left my phone visible on a restaurant table while using the restroom, and it disappeared within minutes. An expensive lesson in maintaining awareness!
Cultural Etiquette
Understanding Beninese social norms will enrich your interactions:
- Greetings are essential – Always exchange pleasantries before business. A simple “Bonjour, comment allez-vous?” goes a long way.
- Photography etiquette – Always ask before photographing people, especially near religious sites. Some may request a small payment.
- Dress modestly – While coastal areas are relaxed, covering shoulders and knees is appropriate when visiting rural communities and religious sites.
- Left hand awareness – The left hand is traditionally considered unclean. Eat, give, and receive with your right hand.
- Religious respect – Vodun is a serious religion, not a tourist spectacle. Approach ceremonies and sacred sites with appropriate reverence.
Communication
Staying connected in Benin has become much easier since my first visit:
- SIM cards – MTN and Moov are the main providers. A SIM card costs about 1,000 XOF, and data packages are affordable (5,000 XOF for 5GB). Bring your passport for registration.
- WiFi – Available in upscale hotels and some cafes in Cotonou, but often slow and unreliable. Don’t count on it for video calls or large downloads.
- Power banks – Essential due to frequent power outages, even in Cotonou.
Festivals and Special Events
Timing your visit to coincide with cultural events can transform your experience:
International Vodun Festival (January 10)
This annual celebration in Ouidah is the most spectacular manifestation of Benin’s traditional religion. Thousands gather for ceremonies, with practitioners entering trance states and performing seemingly impossible feats. I witnessed the festival in 2020—the colors, drumming, and spiritual energy created an unforgettable experience.
Waba Festival (December)
This celebration of Beninese music and arts in Cotonou features performances from across the country. The 2024 edition introduced a new cultural village showcasing traditional crafts that will continue in 2025.
Gelede Masked Festivals
These UNESCO-recognized celebrations in villages around Ketou (typically February-March) feature elaborate masks and dances honoring feminine power. The exact dates vary by village and lunar calendar, so check with local tourism offices for timing.
Independence Day (August 1)
National celebrations include military parades in major cities, cultural performances, and community festivities. The 65th independence anniversary in 2025 promises special events throughout July and August.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
While Ouidah and Abomey are must-sees, these lesser-known experiences have provided some of my richest Benin memories:
Hippo Spotting on Lake Nokoué
Most tourists visit Ganvié, but few realize the eastern side of Lake Nokoué hosts a population of hippos. Arrange a boat from the village of So-Ava early morning for the best chance of spotting them. My guide Nestor (+229 97 53 XX XX) is knowledgeable and charges fair prices (25,000 XOF for a half-day excursion).
Songhai Center in Porto-Novo
This sustainable agriculture project demonstrates innovative farming techniques adapted to African conditions. They offer fascinating tours of their aquaculture, solar energy, and organic farming operations. I learned more here about practical sustainability than in any eco-resort worldwide.
Boukoumbé’s Remote Markets
In Benin’s mountainous northwest, traditional Somba markets operate with minimal tourist presence. The Thursday market in Boukoumbé town draws people from remote villages wearing traditional dress and trading goods as they have for centuries. Hiring a local guide is essential both for cultural context and navigation.
Mangrove Forests near Grand-Popo
The coastal lagoons near Grand-Popo host extensive mangrove forests best explored by pirogue (dugout canoe). The birdlife is spectacular—I spotted herons, kingfishers, and even a rare African finfoot during my exploration. Arrange boats through hotels in Grand-Popo (approximately 15,000 XOF for two hours).
Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for an Unforgettable Benin Trip
After seven years of exploring Benin, I’ve distilled my experience into this actionable plan to help you create your own meaningful connection with this extraordinary country:
Step 1: Plan Strategically
Book your trip during the November-February sweet spot for optimal weather conditions. Apply for your e-visa at least two weeks before departure, and schedule necessary vaccinations (especially Yellow Fever) well in advance. Download offline Google Maps of key destinations and the Gozem app for city transportation.
Step 2: Craft a Balanced Itinerary
Even with just one week, you can experience Benin’s diversity. Allocate 2 days for Cotonou, 2 days for the Ouidah/Route des Pêches area, 2 days for Abomey and surroundings, and 1 day for Ganvié or Porto-Novo. With two weeks, add the northern regions for a complete experience. Don’t overpack your schedule—leave room for spontaneous discoveries that often become trip highlights.
Step 3: Connect Culturally
Learn at least basic French greetings and thank-you phrases. Engage local guides not just for information but for cultural context and connections to communities. Approach religious sites and ceremonies with appropriate respect. Shop at local markets rather than tourist shops to support the local economy directly.
Step 4: Travel Responsibly
Minimize your environmental impact by using a water filter bottle, declining plastic bags when shopping, and choosing locally-owned accommodations where possible. Be mindful of photography ethics, especially around children and religious ceremonies. Support community-based tourism initiatives like the village homestays near Natitingou.
Step 5: Embrace the Unexpected
Some of my most treasured Benin memories came from unplanned moments—being invited to a family celebration in Abomey, stumbling upon an impromptu drumming session in Ouidah, or sharing palm wine with elders in a Taneka village. Build flexibility into your itinerary and say “yes” to unexpected invitations (while maintaining basic safety awareness).
Benin may not be on every traveler’s radar, but those who venture here discover a country of extraordinary cultural richness, historical significance, and natural beauty. From the spiritual power of Vodun ceremonies to the warm welcome of village communities, from the sobering history of the slave trade to the vibrant energy of contemporary Beninese arts, this small West African nation offers experiences that will challenge your perspectives and enrich your understanding of our shared human story.
Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Benin
Is Benin safe for tourists?
Benin is generally safe for tourists, especially in the southern and central regions. Exercise normal precautions regarding valuables and be extra vigilant in crowded areas of Cotonou. The far north (particularly near the Burkina Faso and Niger borders) has experienced security incidents in recent years, so check current advisories before traveling there. I’ve visited five times without serious security issues by staying aware of my surroundings and following local advice.
Do I need a visa to visit Benin?
Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter Benin. As of 2025, e-visas are available through the official government portal. The standard tourist visa costs €50, is valid for 30 days, and processing typically takes 48-72 hours. ECOWAS citizens are exempt from visa requirements.
What’s the best time of year to visit Benin?
November through February offers the most pleasant weather conditions with temperatures averaging 28-32°C (82-90°F) and minimal rainfall. January is particularly good if you want to experience the International Vodun Festival. The rainy season (May-October) brings lush landscapes but can complicate travel with flooded roads and intense humidity.
How much does a trip to Benin cost?
Daily expenses vary widely based on your travel style:
- Budget traveler: 30,000-40,000 XOF ($50-65) per day including basic accommodation, local food, and public transportation
- Mid-range traveler: 60,000-90,000 XOF ($100-150) per day for comfortable hotels, restaurant meals, and occasional taxis
- Luxury traveler: 120,000+ XOF ($200+) per day for top hotels, private transportation, and guided experiences
Additional costs include your international flight, visa (€50), travel insurance, and special activities like multi-day trips to Pendjari National Park.
What vaccinations do I need for Benin?
Yellow Fever vaccination is mandatory and proof will be checked upon arrival. Other recommended vaccinations include Hepatitis A and B, Typhoid, Tetanus, and routine vaccines. Malaria prophylaxis is strongly advised. Consult a travel health specialist at least 4-6 weeks before your trip for personalized recommendations.
Is it possible to see wildlife in Benin?
Yes, particularly in Pendjari National Park in the north, which is part of the larger W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) complex—the largest intact ecosystem in West Africa. The park reopened to tourism in 2022 with improved security and offers opportunities to see elephants, buffalo, hippos, various antelopes, and occasionally lions and leopards. The best time for wildlife viewing is late December through March when animals gather around remaining water sources.
Do people speak English in Benin?
French is the official language, and English is not widely spoken outside major hotels and tour companies in Cotonou. Learning basic French phrases will significantly enhance your experience. Local languages include Fon in the south and Bariba in the north, among dozens of others.
How is the internet connectivity in Benin?
Mobile data coverage has improved dramatically since 2020, with 4G available in major towns and cities. purchasing a local SIM card (MTN or Moov) is recommended for reliable connectivity. WiFi is available in upscale hotels and some cafes in Cotonou but is often slow and unreliable. In rural areas, expect limited or no connectivity.
What should I pack for Benin that might not be obvious?
Beyond the usual tropical packing list, I recommend:
- A lightweight, long-sleeved shirt and long pants for protection against mosquitoes and for visiting religious sites
- A headlamp or flashlight for frequent power outages
- A water filter bottle to reduce plastic waste
- Wet wipes and hand sanitizer for bathroom situations
- A universal power adapter
- Photocopies of important documents
- A French phrasebook or language app
Can I take photographs freely in Benin?
Photography requires sensitivity, especially around religious sites, ceremonies, and government buildings. Always ask permission before photographing people or Vodun shrines. Some sites charge a small fee (500-1000 XOF) for photography privileges. Avoid photographing military installations, bridges, or official buildings, which can result in questioning by authorities.
References and Further Resources
- Official Benin Tourism Website – The government tourism portal with updated information on destinations and events.
- U.S. Department of State – Benin Travel Advisory – Current safety information and travel guidance.
- CDC Traveler’s Health: Benin – Comprehensive health recommendations for travelers.
- Benin e-Visa Portal – Official site for visa applications.
- Lonely Planet: Benin – Reliable travel information and destination guides.
- Rough Guides: Benin – In-depth destination coverage with cultural context.
- UNESCO World Heritage Centre: Royal Palaces of Abomey – Detailed information about this significant historical site.
- African Parks: Pendjari National Park – Current information on park access, conservation efforts, and wildlife.
- Journal of Religion in Africa: “Vodun and Contemporary Benin” – Academic resource on Benin’s religious practices.
- Foundation Zinsou – Leading contemporary art institution in Benin.
- Benin Tourisme – Local tour operator with useful blogs and travel information.
- BBC News: Benin – Current events and news reports.