Best things to do in Benin

• Capital: Porto-Novo
• Language(s): French
• Currency: West African CFA franc (XOF)
• Dial Code: + 229

Travel Guide to Benin: The West African Gem You Didn’t Know You Needed

Welcome to Benin – Africa’s Best-Kept Secret

Looking for a unique destination full of history, culture, and a pinch of voodoo? Let us introduce you to Benin, a small but mighty country in West Africa that deserves a spot on every traveler’s bucket list. Sandwiched between Togo, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Niger, with a short but sweet coastline on the Bight of Benin, this place offers a little bit of everything: tropical beaches, royal palaces, wild safaris, and cities full of soul.

A Brief (and Wild) History of Benin

Benin was once known as Dahomey, home to one of Africa’s most powerful kingdoms. The Kingdom of Dahomey ruled the area from the 17th to 19th centuries—and let's just say, they weren’t exactly pacifists. With fierce warriors (including all-female military units!) and a serious role in the trans-Atlantic slave trade, the history here is as dramatic as any HBO series. Later, the French swooped in, renamed the region French Dahomey, and made it a colony until independence in 1960. Since then, Benin has gone from dictatorship to democracy, and today it’s one of the most politically stable countries in the region.

Language, Culture, and Religion

French is the official language, but many Beninese also speak Fon, Yoruba, and other indigenous languages. And while Roman Catholicism is the most practiced religion, Benin is also the birthplace of Vodun (Voodoo)—a real, complex, and government-recognized religion here (no Hollywood zombies involved). Festivals, colorful clothing, and music fill the streets all year long.

Top Attractions and Places to Visit in Benin

Now that you’ve got a little background, let’s dive into the real reason you’re here: the top attractions in Benin and the best things to do while you’re exploring this West African wonder.

Cotonou – The City That Runs the Country

Technically not the capital (that’s Porto-Novo), Cotonou is the beating heart of Benin. This bustling city is home to the government, the airport, and the biggest market in the country: Dantokpa Market. If you're into chaotic charm, noisy vendors, and colorful stalls, this is your place.

Porto-Novo – The Quiet Capital

Looking for a slower pace? Head to Porto-Novo, where colonial architecture meets Afro-Brazilian vibes. The Ethnographic Museum and Porto-Novo Cathedral are must-see spots for sightseeing fans and culture nerds alike.

Ouidah – Voodoo Central

If you're feeling brave (or just curious), Ouidah is your next stop. Known for its dark history in the slave trade and its central role in voodoo culture, this town is hauntingly fascinating. Don't miss the Temple of Pythons or the Route des Esclaves, which traces the final walk of enslaved people to the coast.

Abomey – Royal Vibes Only

History buffs, rejoice! Abomey was once the capital of the Dahomey Kingdom and today it’s home to royal palaces, many of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the Royal Palaces of Abomey and imagine yourself as a 17th-century king—or warrior queen.

Pendjari National Park – Safari, Benin-Style

Think you need to go to Kenya or South Africa for a safari? Think again. Pendjari National Park in northern Benin is one of the best places to visit in West Africa for wildlife. Expect lions, elephants, hippos, and the rare West African cheetah. Plus, it’s part of the larger W-Arly-Pendjari Complex, a UNESCO-listed biosphere reserve.

Unique Things to Do in Benin

• Join a Voodoo Festival in January – experience Benin’s most unique and vibrant celebration.

• Sample local cuisine – try pounded yam, akassa, and spicy peanut sauces.

• Learn to dance to traditional drumming – don’t be shy, just follow the rhythm!

• Shop for handmade crafts – from wooden masks to colorful textiles.

Travel Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Currency: The West African CFA franc (XOF). It’s shared with several neighboring countries.

• Transportation: Buses, motorcycle taxis (called zemidjans), and local vans.

• Safety: Benin is generally safe, but as with anywhere, keep your valuables secure.

• Best time to visit: November to March – it’s dry season, perfect for sightseeing.

Conclusion: Benin Deserves Your Passport Stamp

From the mystery of voodoo to the majesty of African wildlife, from royal ruins to buzzing markets, Benin is full of surprises. It’s one of those places you’ll brag about visiting because most people don’t even know where it is (yet). So, what are you waiting for? Pack your curiosity, grab your travel guide, and let Benin show you its magic.