Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou
Once you land in Cotonou, the largest city in Benin, take it easy. Get settled in your accommodation, and spend the day exploring the city at your own pace. Relax on the beach or visit Dantokpa Market, one of the largest markets in West Africa. It’s bustling and full of life. You can also visit the Fondation Zinsou, a gallery dedicated to promoting contemporary African art.
Day 2: Discover Cotonou
Start your day by checking out the Ganvie stilt village, often called the “Venice of Africa.” It’s about 30 minutes from Cotonou, and you can hire a boat to explore this incredible community built on water. In the afternoon, take a walk through the city. Visit the Cotonou Cathedral or just relax with a local Beninese meal. Try “pâte” (a traditional cornmeal dish) or “aloco” (fried plantains).
Day 3: Porto-Novo, the Capital
Porto-Novo is Benin’s official capital, though much quieter than Cotonou. A short one-hour drive will get you there. Visit the da Silva Museum, which tells the story of the Afro-Brazilian community that settled in Benin. The Grand Mosque of Porto-Novo is another must-see with its unique Brazilian-style architecture. Don’t miss the royal palace of Honmè, where you’ll learn about the history of the Kingdom of Porto-Novo.
Day 4: Historical Ouidah
Ouidah is known for its deep historical significance, particularly related to slavery. The “Route des Esclaves” tells the somber story of the transatlantic slave trade. Visit the Ouidah Museum of History, located in an old Portuguese fort, and the Door of No Return, a memorial to those who were taken from Africa. End your day by taking some time to visit Python Temple, coexisting with the nearby Basilica of Ouidah. It’s an eye-opening way to understand the cultural balance between Catholicism and the traditional Vodun religion.
Day 5: Relax Day in Ouidah
After a deep dive into history, it’s a good time to slow down. Enjoy a peaceful day by the beach, as Ouidah offers one of the most pristine coasts in Benin. Spend time swimming or just lounging with a book. You can also take a short walk around the town to admire the colonial buildings and soak in the relaxed pace of life here.
Day 6: Drive to Abomey
Today, head to the city of Abomey, roughly four hours from Ouidah. Abomey was once the heart of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom. The Abomey Historical Museum, housed in the old royal palaces, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and will give you a glimpse into the region’s rich history and culture. The walls of the palace are made with a mixture that includes human blood, which symbolizes the power and beliefs of the former kingdom.
Day 7: Explore Abomey
Spend another day in Abomey to truly explore the region. Visit the surrounding villages and get to know the local crafts. Traditional cloth weaving is a big deal here, and you’ll find artisans still practicing these ancient techniques. You can also visit a local Vodun (Voodoo) shrine to learn more about Benin’s traditional religious practices.
Day 8: Wildlife and Nature at Pendjari National Park
Take an early morning drive to Pendjari National Park, located in northern Benin. It’s about a full-day trip from Abomey, so get ready for a road adventure. Stay in a lodge near the park. Pendjari is one of the best places to see wildlife in West Africa, including elephants, lions, hippos, and cheetahs.
Day 9: Full Day on Safari in Pendjari
Spend the whole day on safari exploring Pendjari National Park with a guide. The landscapes are beautiful, and you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot animals—especially early in the morning or late in the afternoon. Make sure you bring your camera and some binoculars, as you won’t want to miss the wildlife of this region.
Day 10: Return to Cotonou
After a rewarding safari in Pendjari, it’s time to head back to Cotonou. This will be a long drive, so take the day easy. Settle in once you arrive back in the city, and reflect on your journey through Benin. If time allows, end your trip with a final walk on the beach or grab some last-minute souvenirs at Dantokpa Market.
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