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Benin on a Budget: The Ultimate Travel Guide for 2025

The ultimate budget travel guide to Benin for 2025. Learn how to explore this West African gem affordably with insider tips on accommodation, transportation, food, and attractions from someone who's visited multiple times.

Introduction: Why Benin Should Be Your Next Budget Destination

The first time I set foot in Benin, I was overwhelmed by the sensory experience—the rhythmic beats of traditional music filling the air, the aroma of spicy street food, and the warmth of locals greeting me with “Akwaba” (welcome). What started as a two-week trip in 2018 turned into a love affair that’s brought me back four times since. I still remember sitting on the beach in Grand Popo, watching the sunset with a 300 CFA (about $0.50) beer in hand, thinking, “How is this place still under the radar?”

Benin might not top many travel lists, but this small West African nation packs an incredible punch for budget travelers. From the historic UNESCO sites of Abomey to the stilted villages of Ganvié and the vibrant markets of Cotonou, Benin offers authentic experiences without the price tag of more touristy destinations.

As someone who’s traveled through Benin on a shoestring budget multiple times, I’ve made plenty of mistakes (like that time I overpaid 15,000 CFA for a taxi ride that should’ve cost 2,000!). But I’ve also discovered how to experience this cultural powerhouse authentically while spending less than $30 a day. This guide shares everything I’ve learned through trial, error, and countless conversations with locals.

Understanding Benin: A Budget Traveler’s Overview

Before diving into specific tips, let’s get oriented. Benin is a small country in West Africa, bordered by Togo, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Despite its size, it’s incredibly diverse, with a rich history as the birthplace of Vodun (commonly known as Voodoo), a former center of the slave trade, and home to the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey.

The official language is French, though local languages like Fon and Yoruba are widely spoken. The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the currency, with approximately 600 CFA to 1 USD as of early 2025. While not as cheap as some Asian destinations, Benin is significantly more affordable than most of Europe or North America.

When to Visit for the Best Deals

The dry season (November to March) is the most pleasant time to visit, but also when prices inch up slightly. If you’re truly budget-conscious, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (April or October). I’ve visited in October and found the occasional rain showers a small price to pay for reduced accommodation rates and fewer tourists.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #1: The annual Voodoo Festival on January 10th is amazing to experience, but prices in Ouidah triple that week. Visit the week before to see preparations and pay normal prices, or schedule your visit to Ouidah for later in your trip.

Visa Information and Entry Requirements

As of 2025, most visitors need an e-visa to enter Benin. Apply through the official government portal at least one week before travel. A single-entry tourist visa costs around $50-80 USD depending on your nationality.

On my second trip, I made the mistake of using an unofficial visa website that charged an extra $40 in “processing fees.” Stick with the official site to avoid this unnecessary expense.

Getting to Benin Without Breaking the Bank

Flying directly to Cotonou’s Cadjehoun Airport (COO) is convenient but often expensive. Here are strategies I’ve used to save hundreds on transportation:

Flight Hacks for Reaching Benin

  • Search for flights to larger hubs like Lagos (Nigeria) or Accra (Ghana), then take a bus or shared taxi to Benin
  • Consider multi-city tickets that include Lomé (Togo)
  • Turkish Airlines and Air France often have the best connections but check Ethiopian Airlines for better prices
  • Book 2-3 months in advance for optimal pricing

During my last trip, I saved over $300 by flying into Lomé and taking a shared taxi to the border (8,000 CFA), walking across, and catching another taxi to Cotonou (15,000 CFA).

Overland Entry Options

If you’re already traveling in West Africa, entering Benin overland is straightforward and economical:

  • From Togo: Cross at Hillacondji border post for easy access to Grand Popo and Ouidah
  • From Nigeria: The Seme border crossing leads directly to Cotonou
  • From Niger: Cross at Malanville in the north (less common for tourists)
  • From Burkina Faso: Enter via Porga to access Pendjari National Park

The land borders have become much more organized since my first visit. Border officials now rarely ask for “gifts,” but keep small bills handy just in case.

Budget Accommodation Options Throughout Benin

Accommodation will likely be your biggest expense in Benin, but there are plenty of ways to keep costs down while staying comfortable.

Guesthouses and Budget Hotels

Simple but clean rooms typically range from 7,000-15,000 CFA ($12-25) per night. In Cotonou, I recommend Auberge du Lac near the airport (10,000 CFA) or Chez Monique in Haie Vive (15,000 CFA).

In smaller towns, look for “auberges” which offer basic rooms often for under 10,000 CFA. My favorite is Auberge Chez Théo in Abomey, where 8,000 CFA gets you a clean room with fan and breakfast included.

Homestays and Couchsurfing

The sharing economy is growing in Benin. Check Airbnb for rooms with local families (often 12,000-20,000 CFA) or Couchsurfing for free accommodation.

During my stay in Natitingou, I found a wonderful Airbnb host who not only provided accommodation for 10,000 CFA but also took me to a family ceremony where I experienced traditional Somba dancing—something I’d never have discovered otherwise.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #2: Many guesthouses don’t list online. Once in a town, ask motorcycle taxi drivers (zemidjan or zem) to take you to affordable auberges. They know all the local options and can often negotiate a better rate for you in exchange for a small tip.

Accommodation Price Comparison Table

City Budget Option Price (CFA) Mid-Range Option Price (CFA)
Cotonou Auberge du Lac 10,000 Hotel du Port 25,000
Ouidah Casa del Papa (dorm) 12,000 Djegba Hotel 20,000
Abomey Auberge Chez Théo 8,000 Motel d’Abomey 18,000
Natitingou Hotel Tata Somba 9,000 Hotel Tatasomba 20,000
Grand Popo Auberge Grand Popo 12,000 Awale Plage 25,000

Getting Around Benin on a Shoestring

Transportation in Benin can be an adventure, but it’s also a chance to save money and meet locals.

Zemidjan (Motorcycle Taxis)

These ubiquitous motorcycle taxis (called “zems” for short) are your go-to for short distances. Rates start at 200-300 CFA for short trips and rarely exceed 1,500 CFA within cities. Always negotiate before getting on and don’t be afraid to walk away if the price seems too high.

On my first visit, I was constantly overcharged because I didn’t know the standard rates. Now I always ask my guesthouse what a fair price should be before venturing out.

Shared Taxis and Bush Taxis

For intercity travel, shared taxis (usually old Peugeot 504s) are the most common option. They leave when full (which means cramming in 7-9 passengers) from designated taxi parks in each city.

  • Cotonou to Ouidah: 1,500 CFA
  • Cotonou to Abomey: 3,000 CFA
  • Abomey to Natitingou: 5,000 CFA

For a bit more comfort, you can pay for two seats (“deux places”) which is still cheaper than private transportation.

Bus Services

For longer routes, bus companies like STM and Baobab Express offer more comfortable options:

  • Cotonou to Natitingou: 6,000 CFA
  • Cotonou to Parakou: 4,500 CFA

Book a day in advance for popular routes, especially during holidays.

Renting Transportation

If you’re comfortable navigating Benin’s roads, consider renting:

  • Motorcycle: 10,000-15,000 CFA per day
  • Car (with driver): 40,000-60,000 CFA per day
  • Car (self-drive): 25,000-40,000 CFA per day plus fuel

I’ve rented motorcycles a few times for exploring the Pendjari region and around Natitingou. While it requires some confidence, it offers unparalleled freedom to reach remote villages.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #3: When taking shared taxis, arrive early morning (6-7am) at the taxi park to get the first departures. Later in the day, you might wait hours for vehicles to fill up, especially on less popular routes.

Jonquet Taxi Park in Cotonou – the main departure point for shared taxis heading north

Eating Like a Local: Food on a Budget

Beninese cuisine is flavorful, diverse, and most importantly for budget travelers, inexpensive. My strategy is to eat like a local, which isn’t a sacrifice—it’s a highlight!

Street Food and Market Meals

Some of my most memorable meals have cost less than $2:

  • Akassa with sauce: Fermented corn dough with spicy tomato or peanut sauce (300-500 CFA)
  • Atassi: Rice and beans with fried plantains (500-800 CFA)
  • Pâte: Thick cornmeal paste served with various sauces (500-1,000 CFA)
  • Garba: Cassava semolina with fried fish and spicy tomato sauce (700-1,000 CFA)

Look for busy street stalls where locals are eating—this ensures both freshness and authentic flavors. In Cotonou, the area around Dantokpa Market offers countless food stalls serving delicious meals for under 1,000 CFA.

Maquis and Local Restaurants

“Maquis” are simple open-air restaurants serving local food at reasonable prices. A full meal typically costs 1,500-3,000 CFA, including meat or fish. My favorites include:

  • Maquis La Résidence in Cotonou’s Haie Vive neighborhood
  • Chez Mama Bénin near Ouidah beach
  • Le Café des Arts in Abomey

Self-Catering Options

Markets abound with fresh produce at bargain prices. For around 2,000 CFA, you can buy enough fruits, vegetables, bread, and cheese for a day’s worth of meals. If your accommodation has kitchen access, this is the most economical approach.

During my stay in Natitingou, I’d visit the morning market and buy avocados (300 CFA each), tomatoes (200 CFA for several), a baguette (250 CFA), and local cheese (500 CFA)—enough for breakfast and lunch for less than 1,500 CFA total.

Try saying “E ka bo” (thank you in Fon) or “O se pupa” (thank you in Yoruba) when purchasing from vendors—I’ve often received extra items or discounts just for making this small effort.

Traveler’s Warning: My first week in Benin, I avoided street food out of safety concerns and spent four times more eating at tourist restaurants. What a mistake! Once I ventured into local eateries, not only did I save money, but I also discovered the true flavors of Benin without any stomach issues. Just stick to busy stalls where turnover is high.

Top Budget-Friendly Attractions and Experiences

Benin offers incredible experiences that won’t drain your wallet. Here’s how to see the highlights while keeping costs low:

Cultural and Historical Sites

  1. Royal Palaces of Abomey (UNESCO World Heritage) – 2,000 CFA entrance plus 2,000-5,000 CFA for a guide
  2. Ouidah’s Slave Route and Door of No Return – Free to walk independently
  3. Sacred Forest of Kpasse (Ouidah) – 1,000 CFA entrance
  4. Python Temple (Ouidah) – 1,000 CFA entrance
  5. Ganvié Stilt Village – 5,000 CFA boat ride (can be shared) plus 1,000 CFA village fee

The Door of No Return in Ouidah – a powerful historical site that can be visited for free

Natural Attractions

  • Grand Popo Beaches – Free public access
  • Pendjari National Park – The one splurge worth making at 10,000 CFA entrance plus guide fees (40,000 CFA per day, can be shared)
  • Tanongou Waterfalls (near Natitingou) – 1,000 CFA entrance
  • Lake Nokoué – Boat trips from 3,000 CFA (shared)

During my third visit to Benin, I discovered that hiring guides directly rather than through hotels saved me about 50%. In Abomey, I connected with a knowledgeable guide named Pascal (WhatsApp: +229 97458621) who charged 3,000 CFA for a comprehensive palace tour, compared to the 10,000 CFA my hotel wanted to arrange.

Experiencing Vodun Culture

Vodun (Voodoo) is central to Beninese culture, and there are respectful ways to experience it without spending much:

  • Visit the Zangbeto Temple in Cotonou (1,000 CFA donation)
  • Attend public Vodun ceremonies in villages (typically free, but bring a small gift or donation)
  • Explore the Dantokpa Fetish Market in Cotonou (free to browse)

I was invited to a village ceremony near Grand Popo after befriending a local artisan. It was far more authentic than the performances staged for tourists in Ouidah, and my only “cost” was bringing a bottle of sodabi (local palm liquor) for about 1,500 CFA.

Off-the-Tourist-Track Experiences

Some of my most memorable experiences in Benin were completely free:

  • Watching sunset over Lake Nokoué from the fishing village of Ekpè
  • Visiting the vibrant Grand Marché in Parakou
  • Exploring the Tata Somba traditional houses in the Atakora region
  • Attending impromptu music sessions in Cotonou’s Jonquet neighborhood

Seasonal Events Worth Planning Around

  • Vodun Festival (January 10) – Free public ceremonies in Ouidah
  • Waba Festival (August) – Traditional wrestling tournaments in northern villages
  • Gelede Mask Festivals (various dates) – Free performances in Yoruba villages

Sustainability Tip: Instead of hiring a car to visit attractions around Ouidah, I rented a bicycle from my guesthouse for 3,000 CFA per day. This not only saved money but allowed me to stop in small villages between sites that tour vehicles skip entirely. The flat terrain makes this very manageable, even for casual cyclists.

Money Matters: Banking, ATMs, and Currency Tips

Managing money effectively is crucial for budget travel in Benin. Here’s what you need to know:

Cash vs. Cards

Benin is still predominantly cash-based. While major hotels in Cotonou accept credit cards, you’ll need cash for most transactions. ATMs are widely available in larger cities (Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Parakou) but become scarce in smaller towns.

During my first visit, I made the mistake of waiting until I reached Abomey to withdraw money, only to find the town’s sole ATM out of service. I now always withdraw enough cash in Cotonou to last a week.

Which Banks to Use

Not all ATMs are created equal. I’ve had the best luck with:

  • Ecobank – Most reliable for international cards
  • BSIC – Good withdrawal limits
  • BOA (Bank of Africa) – Widespread but sometimes problematic with foreign cards

Withdrawal limits typically range from 200,000-400,000 CFA ($330-$660). Some ATMs charge a 3,000-5,000 CFA fee in addition to what your home bank may charge.

Money-Changing Tips

If bringing cash to exchange:

  • Euros get better rates than US dollars
  • Only crisp, new bills are accepted (no tears or excessive wear)
  • Official exchange offices offer better rates than hotels
  • The Grand Marché in Cotonou has the best rates but verify carefully

I once brought some slightly worn euros that were rejected by three different exchange offices. Now I always request new bills from my bank before traveling to West Africa.

Bargaining Etiquette

Bargaining is expected in markets, for crafts, and with taxi drivers. However, there’s an art to it:

  1. Start at 40-50% of the initial price
  2. Bargain with a smile and sense of humor
  3. Be prepared to walk away (but follow through if you do)
  4. Remember that a few hundred CFA means far more to locals than to you

The phrase “C’est trop cher” (That’s too expensive) followed by “Faites-moi un bon prix” (Give me a good price) works wonders.

Money-Saving Insider Tip #4: When bargaining for souvenirs, I’ve found that purchasing multiple items from the same vendor can reduce prices by 30-40%. In Cotonou’s Centre Artisanal, I bought three masks that were individually priced at 8,000 CFA each, but paid just 15,000 CFA for all three by bundling them together.

Staying Connected: Internet and Phone Options

Staying connected in Benin is surprisingly affordable and has become much easier since my first visit.

SIM Cards and Data Packages

Local SIM cards are the most economical option for staying connected:

  • MTN – Best overall coverage, especially in rural areas
  • Moov – Good in cities, sometimes cheaper packages

A SIM card costs 500-1,000 CFA, and you can load it with credit at any street vendor displaying the provider’s logo. Data packages offer excellent value:

  • 1GB valid for 1 week: 1,500-2,000 CFA
  • 5GB valid for 1 month: 5,000-7,500 CFA

To purchase these packages, simply dial the provider’s USSD code (like *111# for MTN) and follow the menu options.

Wi-Fi Availability

Free Wi-Fi is available at:

  • Most mid-range hotels in Cotonou
  • Some cafés in Cotonou’s Haie Vive and Ganhi areas
  • Java Coffee in downtown Cotonou
  • Institut Français in Cotonou

In smaller towns, Wi-Fi becomes much less reliable, making a local SIM card essential.

During my most recent visit, I was impressed by how 4G coverage has expanded into previously uncovered areas. Even in Pendjari National Park, I had enough signal to make WhatsApp calls.

Health and Safety on a Budget

Staying healthy while traveling on a budget requires some preparation, but doesn’t mean compromising your safety.

Budget-Friendly Health Precautions

  • Bring a basic medical kit from home (much cheaper than buying locally)
  • Malaria prevention is essential – consider purchasing doxycycline before your trip (cheaper than other antimalarials)
  • Bring a water filter bottle (I use a LifeStraw) to avoid buying bottled water
  • Street food is generally safe if it’s freshly cooked and hot

On my second trip, I got caught in a rainstorm without mosquito repellent and ended up with dozens of bites. Two days later, I had malaria symptoms and had to visit a clinic in Cotonou. The treatment cost 18,000 CFA ($30) – far more than the 3,000 CFA repellent would have cost!

Affordable Medical Care

If you do need medical attention:

  • Pharmacies can treat minor ailments and are widely available
  • Centre de Santé (health centers) provide basic care at low cost (2,000-5,000 CFA consultation)
  • Clinique Mahouna in Cotonou offers good care at moderate prices

Safety Tips That Don’t Cost Extra

Benin is generally one of West Africa’s safer countries, but standard precautions apply:

  • Avoid displaying valuables, especially in Cotonou’s Dantokpa Market area
  • Use zem (motorcycle taxis) rather than walking after dark
  • Keep photocopies of important documents separate from originals
  • Use hotel safes where available

When I first visited Dantokpa Market, I kept my phone in my hand to take photos and had it snatched within 15 minutes. Now I keep my phone tucked away and only take it out briefly when needed.

Sustainability Tip That Saves Money: Instead of buying bottled water, I now use a portable UV water purifier (about $50 before your trip but saves hundreds during travel). This has prevented approximately 200 plastic bottles from entering Benin’s waste stream across my visits while saving roughly 200,000 CFA ($330) in bottled water costs.

Suggested Budget Itineraries

Based on my multiple visits, here are some time-tested itineraries for exploring Benin on different budgets.

7-Day Absolute Budget Itinerary (Under $300 total)

Daily Budget: 25,000 CFA ($40) including accommodation, food, transportation and activities

  1. Days 1-2: Cotonou – Explore Dantokpa Market, visit the beaches at Fidjrossè, wander the Ganhi district
  2. Days 3-4: Ouidah – Walk the Slave Route, visit the Sacred Forest and Python Temple
  3. Day 5: Grand Popo – Beach day and visit to Bouche du Roy where the Mono River meets the ocean
  4. Days 6-7: Lake Nokoué and Ganvié – Visit the stilt village (sharing boat costs with other travelers)

This route minimizes transportation costs by focusing on southern Benin. Stay in basic auberges (7,000-10,000 CFA/night), eat street food (1,500 CFA/meal), and use shared taxis or zems for transportation.

10-Day Moderate Budget Itinerary (Under $500 total)

Daily Budget: 35,000 CFA ($58) including all expenses

  1. Days 1-2: Cotonou – Fondation Zinsou for contemporary art, Artisanal Center for crafts
  2. Days 3-4: Ouidah and Grand Popo – Voodoo sites, beaches, Mono River boat trip
  3. Days 5-6: Abomey – Royal Palaces, History Museum
  4. Days 7-8: Natitingou – Base for exploring the north
  5. Days 9-10: Pendjari National Park – Wildlife viewing (the one splurge worth making)

This itinerary covers more ground but remains affordable by using STM buses for long distances, staying in mid-range auberges (12,000-18,000 CFA/night), and mixing street food with occasional restaurant meals.

Regional Add-Ons for Longer Trips

If you have more time, consider these budget-friendly additions:

  • Parakou and the North – 3 days exploring Benin’s second-largest city and nearby villages
  • Porto-Novo – 2 days in the official capital with its unique Afro-Brazilian architecture
  • Togo Extension – Cross into neighboring Togo to visit Lomé and the Kpalimé mountain region

During my third visit, I added five days in Togo after exploring southern Benin, which gave me a broader understanding of the region’s cultural similarities and differences for minimal additional cost.

Sample Daily Budget Breakdown

Expense Category Bare Minimum (CFA) Comfortable Budget (CFA)
Accommodation 7,000-10,000 15,000-25,000
Food (3 meals) 3,000-5,000 8,000-12,000
Local Transportation 2,000-3,000 5,000-8,000
Activities/Entrance Fees 1,000-3,000 5,000-10,000
Miscellaneous 2,000 5,000
Daily Total 15,000-23,000 ($25-38) 38,000-60,000 ($63-100)

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Budget Travel in Benin

After four visits to Benin spanning seven years, I’ve refined the art of experiencing this incredible country on a budget. The beauty of traveling Benin affordably isn’t just about saving money—it’s about having more authentic experiences and closer interactions with local people.

Here’s your actionable 5-step plan for an amazing budget trip to Benin in 2025:

  1. Pre-Trip Preparation (3-4 months before)
    • Book flights to Cotonou (or consider Lomé/Accra + overland travel)
    • Apply for e-visa through the official government portal
    • Get necessary vaccinations (Yellow Fever is required)
    • Download maps.me and save Benin maps offline
    • Learn 5-10 basic French phrases if you don’t speak the language
  2. First Days in Benin (Arrival strategy)
    • Withdraw cash at the airport ATM upon arrival (Ecobank preferred)
    • Purchase SIM card at the MTN or Moov shop in the arrival hall
    • Take a zem or pre-arranged guesthouse pickup rather than airport taxis
    • Spend 1-2 days acclimatizing in Cotonou before heading elsewhere
  3. Daily Money Management
    • Set a daily budget and track expenses in a note app
    • Always carry small bills for purchases and transportation
    • Withdraw cash in larger cities before heading to rural areas
    • Budget extra for “splurge” experiences (like Pendjari National Park)
  4. Cultural Connection Strategy
    • Learn and use proper greetings in French and local languages
    • Ask permission before photographing people or ceremonies
    • Spend time in one location rather than constantly moving
    • Accept invitations from locals you meet in public settings
  5. Return Home Planning
    • Save 25,000 CFA for departure tax and airport expenses
    • Purchase souvenirs directly from artisans rather than tourist shops
    • Confirm your flight 48 hours before departure
    • Arrive at the airport 3 hours early (processes can be slow)

During my last visit in late 2024, I spent just under $600 for a 12-day trip (excluding international flights), and that included splurging on two nights at a nicer hotel in Cotonou at the end. With careful planning, you can experience the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of Benin without draining your bank account.

The country has changed significantly since my first visit—there’s better internet coverage, more ATMs, and improved roads—but it retains the warmth, cultural richness, and authenticity that made me fall in love with it initially. As they say in Fon, “Benin ná wlí ganjí” (Benin will amaze you)!

Frequently Asked Questions About Budget Travel in Benin

Is Benin safe for budget travelers?

Yes, Benin is generally considered one of the safer countries in West Africa for travelers. Violent crime against tourists is rare, though petty theft can occur in crowded areas like Dantokpa Market. The biggest safety concerns are actually road safety and health issues rather than crime. Solo female travelers should exercise standard precautions but generally report feeling comfortable, especially compared to some neighboring countries.

What is the best time of year to visit Benin on a budget?

For the best combination of good weather and lower prices, visit during the shoulder seasons: April-May or October-November. The peak dry season (December-February) offers the most pleasant weather but slightly higher prices and more tourists. The heaviest rains fall between June and September, making travel more challenging in some areas, though prices are at their lowest.

Do I need to speak French to travel in Benin?

While knowing basic French will significantly enhance your experience and help you negotiate better prices, it’s possible to get by without it. In tourist areas and larger cities, you’ll find some English speakers, particularly among younger Beninese. I suggest learning at least basic greetings and numbers in French. In my experience, even limited French attempts are greatly appreciated by locals and often result in better treatment and prices.

Can I use credit cards in Benin?

Credit card acceptance is limited primarily to upscale hotels, restaurants, and some supermarkets in Cotonou. For budget travel, you’ll need to rely almost exclusively on cash. ATMs are readily available in major cities (Cotonou, Porto-Novo, Parakou) but can be scarce in rural areas. I recommend withdrawing sufficient cash before heading to smaller towns or remote regions.

Is the water safe to drink in Benin?

Tap water is not safe to drink. Budget travelers have several options: purchase bottled water (500-1,000 CFA per 1.5L bottle), use water purification tablets, bring a portable water filter, or use a UV purification device like SteriPen. I’ve used the latter for my past two trips and saved significantly on bottled water while reducing plastic waste.

How much should I budget per day in Benin?

As of 2025, a bare-bones budget traveler can manage on 20,000-25,000 CFA ($33-42) per day, including basic accommodation, street food, local transportation, and minimal entrance fees. A more comfortable budget of 35,000-45,000 CFA ($58-75) allows for better accommodations, occasional restaurant meals, and more activities. Budget at least 10,000 CFA extra per day if you plan to visit Pendjari National Park.

Are there any hidden costs I should be aware of?

A few unexpected expenses to plan for include: departure tax at the airport (though this is increasingly included in ticket prices), unofficial “fees” at some land borders (usually small but annoying), photography fees at certain sites (1,000-2,000 CFA), and guide tips (10-15% is appreciated). Some remote villages might also charge a small entrance fee (500-1,000 CFA) that isn’t advertised in advance.

How reliable is the internet in Benin?

Mobile data coverage has improved dramatically since 2020. 4G is now available in all major cities and many smaller towns. In rural areas, you’ll likely have at least 3G service with MTN or Moov. Wi-Fi is common in mid-range to upscale accommodations in Cotonou but becomes less reliable elsewhere. For budget travelers, a local SIM card with data package (5GB for about 5,000 CFA) is the most reliable connectivity solution.

References and Additional Resources

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