12 Most Instagrammable Places in Benin for 2025: A Photographer’s Guide to West Africa’s Hidden Gem

Introduction: Finding Beauty in Benin’s Unexpected Corners

The first time I visited Benin in 2018, I completely underestimated its photographic potential. I remember standing on the shores of Lake Nokoué as the sun set behind Ganvié’s stilt village, frantically adjusting my camera settings while cursing myself for not arriving earlier. That magical golden light transforming the wooden houses and fishing boats into silhouettes against a blazing orange sky remains one of my favorite memories from West Africa—and sadly, one of my most mediocre photos.

Since then, I’ve returned to Benin four times, most recently in early 2024, each visit revealing new visual treasures in this compact yet incredibly diverse country. From the vibrant voodoo ceremonies in Ouidah to the surreal landscapes of Pendjari National Park, Benin offers a photographer’s playground that remains refreshingly uncrowded compared to more touristy African destinations.

In this guide, I’ll share the most Instagram-worthy spots I’ve discovered across Benin, including practical details on the best times to visit, photography tips I’ve learned (sometimes the hard way), and how to respectfully capture the cultural richness of this fascinating country. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning to explore more deeply, these locations will help you create a stunning visual story of your Benin adventure.

Ganvié: The Venice of Africa

Nothing prepared me for the otherworldly beauty of Ganvié, a village built entirely on stilts above Lake Nokoué. Home to over 20,000 people of the Tofinu ethnic group, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers endless photographic possibilities that will make your Instagram followers do a double-take.

Best Photo Spots in Ganvié

• The Market Canoes: Female vendors paddling their colorful wares-filled boats create striking images, especially between 9-11am when the market is busiest.
• Fishing Net Throws: Local fishermen casting their nets at sunrise create dramatic silhouettes against the golden morning light.
• Stilt Houses: The wooden homes rising from the water offer fascinating architectural shots, particularly from a distance where you can capture the scale of this aquatic village.
• Children Paddling to School: Around 7:30am, you’ll see young students navigating to school in small canoes—an authentic glimpse into daily life.

Photography Tips for Ganvié

My first visit taught me several valuable lessons. For one, bring a polarizing filter to cut glare from the water’s surface. I’d also recommend a zoom lens (70-200mm works well) for capturing candid moments without intruding.

Insider Tip: Ask your boat driver about visiting during azizakpê (market day, pronounced “ah-zee-zahk-pay”). The floating market is held every four days according to the traditional calendar, and while any day offers great photos, market days provide exceptional cultural scenes.

Always ask permission before photographing people up close, and consider bringing small prints from previous trips to give as gifts—this gesture has opened many doors for me with local families willing to be photographed.

Getting to Ganvié & Costs

From Cotonou, take a taxi to Abomey-Calavi (around 3,000 CFA, about $5 USD). At the dock, boat trips cost 10,000-15,000 CFA ($16-25) depending on your negotiation skills. My trick: arrive earlier than most tourists (before 8am) when boat operators are eager for their first customers of the day and more willing to negotiate.

The Royal Palaces of Abomey

The terracotta-colored walls of the Royal Palaces of Abomey stand as a powerful testament to the once-mighty Dahomey Kingdom. This UNESCO site comprises several palaces built between the 17th and 19th centuries, each decorated with intricate bas-reliefs telling stories of conquest and royal power.

What makes this place truly Instagram-worthy isn’t just its historical significance but the rich textures, colors, and symbolic imagery that bring ancient African royalty to life.

Best Photo Opportunities

• The Bas-Reliefs: These colorful clay reliefs on palace walls depict royal symbols, battle scenes, and mythological creatures. The late afternoon sun (3-5pm) brings out their details beautifully.
• The Throne Room: The reconstructed royal quarters contain authentic artifacts including royal thrones and ceremonial items.
• The Museum: Inside houses incredible textiles, weapons, and royal paraphernalia that provide striking close-up detail shots.

Photography Mistake: During my first visit, I didn’t realize tripods require special permission inside the palaces. Save yourself the frustration and either secure permission in advance through the Ministry of Tourism or practice steady handheld shooting in low light.

Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the impressive scale of the palace walls, but don’t neglect a macro or portrait lens for the intricate details that make this place special.

Cultural Context & Etiquette

Understanding what you’re photographing enhances both your experience and your images. The guides at Abomey are excellent at explaining the symbolism in the reliefs—like the bird holding an egg in its beak (representing the king’s power over life) or the fish-headed figure (a river deity).

The palace site charges 2,000 CFA (about $3.30) for photography, and guides expect around 5,000 CFA ($8). Worth every franc for the insights they provide.

Pendjari National Park: Wildlife & Landscapes

In northwestern Benin lies one of West Africa’s last wildlife sanctuaries—Pendjari National Park. After my disappointing wildlife photography experiences in more touristy parts of Africa (think 20 jeeps surrounding one lion), Pendjari was a revelation. Here, you might be the only photographer capturing elephants drinking at a watering hole as the sun sets.

What Makes It Instagram-Worthy

The park hosts elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, various antelope species, and over 300 bird species. Beyond wildlife, the landscapes themselves—especially the Atakora Mountains backdrop—create sublime scenes.

Best Photo Opportunities

• Tanougou Falls: Located near the park entrance, these cascading falls surrounded by lush vegetation offer refreshing shots, especially during the wet season (June-September).
• Bali River: During dry season (December-March), animals concentrate around remaining water sources, creating perfect wildlife viewing opportunities.
• Pendjari River Viewpoints: Sweeping landscapes with possible hippo sightings make for dramatic wide-angle shots.

Photography Gear & Tips

This is where I made one of my biggest rookie mistakes during my first Benin trip: arriving without adequate zoom capability. For wildlife photography, a minimum 300mm lens is essential, though 400-600mm is ideal. The park’s openness means animals are often visible but distant.

Money-Saving Hack: Rather than booking through international tour operators, contact the African Parks management team directly. I saved nearly 40% on my 3-day safari package by booking locally versus through European agencies. The quality of guides and vehicles was identical, but without the middleman markup.

Park entrance fees are 10,000 CFA ($16) plus vehicle entry fees. Accommodations range from the luxurious Pendjari Lodge (around $120/night) to more basic but comfortable Pendjari Hotel ($40-60/night).

Ouidah’s Door of No Return

Few locations in Benin combine historical gravity with visual impact like the Door of No Return monument in Ouidah. Standing on the beach where thousands of enslaved Africans took their last steps on African soil before the Middle Passage, this simple arch creates powerful silhouettes against the Atlantic.

Photography Considerations

While undeniably photogenic, this site demands thoughtful photography that respects its solemn history. During my visits, I’ve found that:

• Dawn and dusk provide the most evocative lighting, with long shadows and golden or blue hour colors.
• Including human subjects requires sensitivity—I prefer silhouettes that don’t identify specific individuals but convey human scale.
• The carved figures along the “Route des Esclaves” (Slave Route) leading to the Door offer powerful detail shots that tell parts of this difficult history.

The beach stretching in both directions from the monument offers beautiful compositions, especially when local fishermen are bringing in their catches or preparing their boats.

Voodoo Ceremonies in Ouidah

Ouidah is also the spiritual heart of Vodun (Voodoo), which originated in this region. If you time your visit around the annual Voodoo Festival (January 10th), you’ll witness extraordinarily photogenic ceremonies with colorful costumes, masks, and traditional dances.

Cultural Note: Always ask permission before photographing ceremonies. The phrase “Éjé mí sí wé foto?” means “May I take a photo?” in Fon language. Sometimes there’s a small fee (500-1000 CFA) for photography at ceremonies, which goes toward supporting the practitioners.

Practical Information

Ouidah is about 40 minutes from Cotonou by taxi (8,000-10,000 CFA or $13-16). The Python Temple, Slave Route, and historic Portuguese fort (now the Ouidah Museum of History) make this town worth a full day’s exploration. Basic but clean accommodations at Jardin Brésilien or Casa del Papa (beachfront) range from $30-80 per night.

The Dantokpa Market in Cotonou

West Africa’s largest open-air market is a photographer’s paradise of color, texture, and human stories. Spanning over 20 hectares, Dantokpa Market represents the commercial heart of Benin and provides endless opportunities for street photography.

Best Areas to Photograph

• Fabric Section: Stalls stacked with vibrantly patterned textiles create stunning color compositions.
• Spice Market: Pyramids of ground spices in every hue make for beautiful detail shots.
• “Marché des Fétiches” (Fetish Market): This section sells items used in traditional Vodun practices—animal parts, herbs, and ritual objects create unusual and thought-provoking images.
• Waterfront Area: Where goods arrive by boat from nearby villages, offering dynamic scenes of commerce and transportation.

I’ve found that a 35mm or 50mm prime lens works perfectly here—fast enough for the sometimes dim lighting and with a field of view that captures context without being intrusive.

Photography Ethics & Safety

Dantokpa taught me a hard lesson about street photography etiquette my first time around. After hastily snapping photos of a medicine seller’s elaborate display, I found myself surrounded by angry vendors demanding payment. Now I always:

1. Make eye contact and gesture to my camera before photographing anyone’s goods or person
2. Purchase small items from vendors whose stalls I wish to photograph
3. Avoid photographing the fetish market without explicit permission (and usually a small fee)
4. Keep my camera in a nondescript bag between shots

Money-Saving Tip: Instead of hiring an official guide (1,500-3,000 CFA/hour), I’ve had success asking my taxi driver to accompany me through the market for an additional 2,000-3,000 CFA. They often know the market well and can help negotiate if you wish to purchase items or pay for photos.

Visit in the morning (8-10am) when the light is good and the market is active but not overwhelmingly crowded.

The Tata Somba Houses of Atacora

In Benin’s far north, the fortress-like houses of the Somba people create some of the country’s most distinctive architectural photographs. These multi-storied earthen structures, known as Tata Somba, look like miniature castles scattered across the hilly landscape.

Photography Highlights

• Exterior Architecture: The rounded towers and terraces create fascinating geometric compositions, especially with a wide-angle lens.
• Landscape Context: From hillsides, capture Tatas set against the dramatic Atakora Mountains.
• Daily Life: With permission, photograph families going about traditional activities on the roof terraces or in courtyards.

The villages around Natitingou, particularly Kouaba, Boukoumbé, and Koussoukoingou, offer the best examples of traditional Tatas. Each area has slight variations in architectural style that photography enthusiasts will appreciate.

Cultural Sensitivity

These are private homes, not tourist attractions. During my first visit in 2018, I made the mistake of photographing without proper permission, creating unnecessary tension. Now I always:

• Hire a local guide from the village (1,500-2,000 CFA) who can introduce me to families
• Offer printed photos from previous trips as gifts
• Ask before entering private spaces
• Pay a small fee (500-1,000 CFA) when photographing inside homes

Language Tip: Learn “Ipo” (ee-poh), which means “thank you” in Ditamari, the Somba language. This simple gesture is much appreciated by locals.

Logistics & Accommodation

Base yourself in Natitingou, where Hotel Tata Somba (40,000-50,000 CFA/$65-82 per night) or the more budget-friendly Hôtel Bel Air (20,000 CFA/$33) provide comfortable accommodation. Hire a driver/guide for the day (30,000-40,000 CFA) to visit multiple villages, as public transportation is limited.

The best photography light is early morning or late afternoon when the warm sun accentuates the red-orange color of the structures and creates dramatic shadows.

Fidjrossè Beach at Sunset

For urban beach vibes and colorful sunset scenes, Fidjrossè Beach in Cotonou delivers consistently Instagram-worthy shots. What makes this location special isn’t pristine isolation but rather its authentic slice of coastal Beninese life.

Photo Opportunities

• Fishing Boats: Colorful wooden pirogues (traditional fishing boats) line the shore, creating perfect foreground elements for sunset compositions.
• Beach Restaurants: The string of barbecue stands and palm-thatched bars light up with string lights as darkness falls, creating atmospheric night shots.
• Local Life: Weekend soccer games, families enjoying the cooler evening air, and impromptu music sessions provide authentic slice-of-life images.

Best Times to Visit

I’ve learned through multiple visits that timing dramatically affects the experience:

Day	Best Time	What to Expect
Weekdays	5:00-6:30pm	Quieter atmosphere, fishermen returning with catches
Saturday	4:30-7:00pm	Busier but vibrant with families and young people
Sunday	3:30-6:00pm	Very lively with weekend crowds, music, and food vendors

Arrive 30-45 minutes before sunset to secure a good spot and capture the changing light. The beach faces directly west, making it perfect for sunset photography.

Local Food Tip: Order grilled fish and aloko (fried plantains) from the beach vendors while waiting for sunset. At 1,500-2,500 CFA ($2.50-4), it’s much better value than restaurant dining and supports local businesses.

Safety & Etiquette

Fidjrossè is generally safe but take normal precautions with valuables. I recommend bringing only essential gear—a camera body with one versatile lens (24-70mm works well) and perhaps a small tripod for low-light shots after sunset.

This is one location where a polarizing filter truly earns its keep by enhancing the sky colors and cutting glare from the water surface.

The Royal Palace of Porto-Novo

Though less famous than the palaces of Abomey, Porto-Novo’s King Toffa’s Palace (Musée Honmé) offers equally compelling photography opportunities with fewer tourists. This 19th-century complex showcases the architectural style of the Gun people and houses fascinating artifacts from the pre-colonial kingdom.

Photographic Highlights

• Inner Courtyards: The interplay of light and shadow in the palace courtyards creates dramatic compositions, especially in late morning.
• Traditional Altars: Ceremonial spaces feature intricate carvings and ritual objects that make compelling detail shots.
• Colonial-Indigenous Architecture Fusion: The palace’s unique blend of traditional African and European colonial influences presents interesting architectural contrasts.

Photography Tips

During my visits, I’ve found that:

1. The museum lighting can be challenging—bring a lens with good low-light performance (f/2.8 or better).
2. A 24-70mm zoom range works well for most interior spaces.
3. Permission for tripods must be requested in advance but is usually granted for a small fee.

Insider Tip: The museum curator can sometimes grant access to areas not normally open to visitors if you express genuine interest in the history and are willing to pay a small additional fee (2,000-3,000 CFA). On my last visit, this allowed me to photograph the rarely-seen private royal quarters.

Practical Information

Entrance fees are 1,000 CFA ($1.65) for locals and 2,000 CFA ($3.30) for foreigners, with an additional 1,000 CFA for photography permission. The museum is open Tuesday-Sunday from 9am-5pm but closed during lunch (12-2:30pm).

Porto-Novo is about 30-40 minutes from Cotonou by shared taxi (1,500 CFA/$2.50). The quiet, historic character of Benin’s official capital makes it worth exploring beyond just the palace.

The Grand Popo Beaches

For pristine coastline photos with far fewer people than Cotonou’s beaches, head to Grand Popo in southwestern Benin. The stretch of golden sand backed by coconut palms offers that classic tropical beach aesthetic that performs well on Instagram.

Best Photography Locations

• Mono River Mouth: Where the river meets the Atlantic, creating dramatic patterns as tides and river currents clash.
• Fishing Village: Near Hêvê, traditional fishing activities make for compelling human interest photographs, especially at dawn.
• Auberge de Grand Popo Beach: Perfect curved palm trees leaning over golden sand create that quintessential tropical beach shot.

Grand Popo also offers dramatic wave action for dynamic ocean photography. The Atlantic here can be powerful, creating impressive spray as waves crash against the shore.

Timing & Techniques

After several visits, I’ve found the optimal timing to be:

• Early Morning (6-8am): For fishermen heading out in boats and the softest light on the beach
• Late Afternoon (4-6pm): For beautiful backlit palm trees and golden light on the sand
• Blue Hour (just after sunset): For moody ocean scenes with the last traces of color in the sky

Safety Note: The currents at Grand Popo are notoriously strong. While photographing, stay a safe distance from the water’s edge, especially during high tide. I learned this lesson the hard way when a wave soaked my camera bag after I placed it too close to the water line!

Accommodation & Access

Grand Popo is about 1.5 hours from Cotonou. For photographers, I recommend staying at least one night to capture both sunset and sunrise. Auberge de Grand Popo offers rooms from 30,000 CFA ($50) with direct beach access, while more budget-friendly guesthouses in town start around 15,000 CFA ($25).

The area is also home to several Vodun shrines that can be photographed with appropriate permission and sometimes a small offering (500-1,000 CFA).

Songhai Center in Parakou

For photographs showcasing sustainable agriculture and traditional food production, the Songhai Center in Parakou offers unique visual stories. This internationally renowned ecological center demonstrates innovative farming techniques while preserving traditional methods.

Photographic Highlights

• Integrated Fish Farming: Photograph the ingenious system where fish ponds, vegetable gardens, and livestock production work in harmony.
• Food Processing Units: Capture traditional methods of producing palm oil, fruit juices, and baked goods.
• Renewable Energy Demonstrations: Solar panels and biogas generators create interesting technical subjects.
• Training Activities: Students learning sustainable agriculture techniques provide dynamic human elements.

Photography Tips

The center covers 24 hectares, so come prepared with:

• A versatile zoom lens (24-105mm works well)
• Macro capabilities for detail shots of plants, seeds, and small-scale production
• A polarizing filter for reducing glare on water features and enhancing plant colors

Money-Saving Tip: While official tours cost 5,000 CFA ($8), I discovered you can visit the center’s restaurant for lunch (2,000-3,000 CFA for excellent farm-to-table food) and then ask for a brief tour of the immediate facilities, which is often granted informally for free or a small tip to the staff member.

Practical Information

The center is open Monday-Saturday 8am-5pm. Photography permission is included with the entrance fee. For serious photographers, I recommend arranging a specialized photography tour in advance (8,000-10,000 CFA) that focuses on the most visually interesting aspects of the operation.

Parakou is accessible by bus from Cotonou (4-5 hours, 5,000-8,000 CFA depending on the company). Hotel Urban in Parakou offers comfortable accommodation from 25,000 CFA ($41) per night.

The Sacred Forest of Kpasse in Ouidah

For mystical, otherworldly photographs, the Sacred Forest of Kpasse (Forêt Sacrée de Kpasse) offers an atmospheric setting filled with Vodun sculptures and ancient trees. This small forest sanctuary preserves spiritual traditions while providing unique photographic subjects.

Photographic Highlights

• Carved Figures: Wooden and cement sculptures representing Vodun deities create striking subjects, especially in dappled forest light.
• The 500-Year-Old “Disappearing Tree”: According to legend, King Kpasse transformed into this massive tree to escape enemies—its twisted roots and massive trunk make for powerful images.
• Forest Light: Rays of sunlight filtering through the canopy create magical light effects, particularly in late morning.

Photography Approaches

Through several visits, I’ve discovered that:

1. A slightly underexposed setting preserves the mysterious atmosphere of the forest.
2. Wide-angle lenses (16-35mm) work well to capture both sculptures and their forest context.
3. Including a person in some shots provides scale and human connection.

Cultural Tip: The local guides often use the term “Aziza” (ah-zee-zah), which refers to forest spirits. If you hear this word during explanations, it indicates a particularly sacred spot where photography may require special permission or an offering.

Practical Information

Entry costs 1,000 CFA ($1.65) with an additional 1,000 CFA for photography permission. Guides (mandatory) expect 2,000-3,000 CFA. The forest is small but dense with imagery—allow 1-2 hours for thorough photography.

The best light occurs around 10-11am when sunbeams penetrate the canopy most effectively. Avoid midday when harsh overhead light creates unflattering contrasts on the sculptures.

The W National Park

For truly adventurous photographers seeking unspoiled landscapes and wildlife, the portion of W National Park that extends into northeastern Benin offers exceptional opportunities. Named for the W-shaped bends in the Niger River, this UNESCO World Heritage site represents one of West Africa’s most important protected areas.

Photographic Highlights

• River Landscapes: The Niger River creates dramatic scenes, especially at sunrise when mist often hovers over the water.
• Wildlife: Elephants, hippos, buffalo, and numerous antelope species can be photographed against pristine savanna backdrops.
• Baobab Trees: Iconic African baobabs create striking silhouettes, particularly at sunset.
• Waterfall de la Mékrou: During the wet season, this cascade offers dynamic water photography opportunities.

Photography Tips & Challenges

This remote park presents unique considerations:

• Bring sufficient battery power and storage—charging opportunities are extremely limited.
• Dust protection is essential—use protective filters and camera covers.
• The bumpy roads make image stabilization valuable, whether in-lens or in-camera.
• Long telephoto lenses (400mm minimum) are necessary for most wildlife photography.

Mistake I Made: On my first W Park visit, I brought only a 70-200mm lens, which proved inadequate for distant wildlife. When I returned with a 150-600mm, the photographic possibilities expanded dramatically. If you don’t own long glass, consider renting before your trip.

Logistics & Planning

W Park requires serious advance planning:

• Access is from Kandi or Karimama in northeastern Benin
• A 4×4 vehicle is absolutely necessary
• Permits must be arranged through the CENAGREF office in advance
• Accommodation is basic—either camping or simple park lodges
• December-March offers the best wildlife viewing when animals concentrate around remaining water sources

Budget approximately 100,000-150,000 CFA ($165-250) per day for vehicle, guide, accommodation, and permits. While expensive by Benin standards, it’s far more affordable than comparable wildlife experiences in East or Southern Africa.

Conclusion: Capturing Benin’s Visual Stories

After multiple visits to Benin spanning seven years, I’ve come to appreciate not just the visual richness of this small West African nation, but the stories behind the images. From the haunting history of Ouidah’s slave route to the vibrant present-day culture in Cotonou’s markets, Benin offers photographers an opportunity to capture both beauty and meaning.

What makes Benin particularly special for photography in 2025 is that it remains relatively uncrowded compared to other photogenic destinations. You can still photograph the stilt villages of Ganvié without dozens of other tourists in your frame, or capture a Vodun ceremony with an authentic atmosphere rather than one staged for visitors.

As you plan your own photographic journey through Benin, consider this 5-step action plan:

1. Research Seasonal Variations: November-February offers the most reliable photography conditions with clear skies and moderate temperatures, while June-August provides dramatic stormy skies but more challenging logistics.
2. Learn Basic French Phrases: Even simple expressions open doors and create goodwill when seeking photographic opportunities.
3. Build In Buffer Days: Benin operates on a different pace—allow flexibility in your schedule to return to locations when light or conditions improve.
4. Pack Thoughtfully: Prioritize versatility (24-70mm and 70-200mm lenses cover most situations) and protection against dust and humidity.
5. Connect Before Capturing: Take time to engage with people before photographing them—the resulting images will have greater depth and authenticity.

Remember that the most compelling travel photographs don’t just show what a place looks like—they convey how it feels to be there. In Benin, that means capturing the rhythm of daily life, the spiritual richness of its traditions, and the warmth of its people alongside the more obvious scenic beauty.

Frequently Asked Questions About Photographing Benin

Is it safe to travel around Benin with expensive camera equipment?

Yes, Benin is generally safe for photographers, but common-sense precautions are essential. I use nondescript camera bags, avoid displaying equipment unnecessarily, and remain aware of my surroundings, particularly in crowded markets. The northern border regions (especially near Burkina Faso) require more caution—check current security advisories before visiting these areas.

Do I need permission to photograph people in Benin?

Yes, always ask before photographing individuals. While street scenes with unidentifiable people may not require explicit permission, any portrait or close-up should be taken only with consent. In rural areas especially, photography may be associated with spiritual beliefs about capturing someone’s essence, so be particularly respectful.

What’s the best time of year for photography in Benin?

The dry season (November-March) offers the most reliable photographic conditions with clear skies, though December and January can bring the dusty Harmattan winds that create hazy conditions. The early rainy season (April-June) provides dramatic skies and lush landscapes but may complicate travel to remote areas as roads deteriorate.

Are there any photography restrictions at cultural or religious sites?

Yes. Vodun shrines, certain palace interiors, and some museum collections may prohibit photography or require special permission and fees. Always ask guides or caretakers before photographing, and respect any restrictions. At Vodun ceremonies, photography rules vary greatly—sometimes it’s welcomed (with payment), other times strictly forbidden.

What camera gear should I prioritize bringing to Benin?

Prioritize versatility and protection. A weather-sealed camera body, a 24-70mm for daily use, a 70-200mm for wildlife and portraits, and perhaps a wide-angle for architecture and landscapes cover most situations. Bring more memory cards and batteries than you think you’ll need, as reliable electronics stores are scarce outside Cotonou.

How can I be respectful when photographing cultural practices?

Learn about what you’re photographing beforehand, observe before shooting, ask permission, and offer compensation when appropriate (especially for ceremonies or performances). Show people the images you’ve taken of them when possible. Never interrupt ceremonies or rituals for a better angle—patience yields both better photos and more respectful interactions.

Is it possible to photograph wildlife in Benin?

Yes, though it’s more challenging than in East or Southern Africa. Pendjari and W National Parks offer good opportunities for wildlife photography, particularly during the dry season when animals concentrate around water sources. A long telephoto lens (400mm+) is essential for satisfying results.

What’s the best way to back up photos while traveling in Benin?

Internet connections can be unreliable for cloud backups, so I rely on physical redundancy: multiple memory cards, a laptop with external hard drive, and sometimes a portable backup device like the Western Digital My Passport Wireless. In Cotonou, some photo shops can burn DVDs as another backup option.

References and Further Reading

• UNESCO World Heritage Centre – Royal Palaces of Abomey
• African Parks – Pendjari National Park
• Lonely Planet – Benin Travel Guide
• National Geographic – Benin: Birthplace of Voodoo
• BBC Travel – Benin’s Sacred Forest: Where Voodoo Lives On
• Songhai Centre – Sustainable Agriculture Initiative
• IUCN – W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
• International Photo Magazine – How to Photograph Ceremonies Ethically
• Benin Tourism Office – Official Website
• Smithsonian Magazine – Inside the African Kingdom of Dahomey
• PetaPixel – Complete Guide to Travel Photography in Africa
• NYPL Digital Collections – Historical Photographs of Dahomey Kingdom