Places to Visit in Benin
Benin played a historical role as the center of the slave trade in Africa and is also known as the birthplace of voodoo arts. This is just a small part of Benin's complex and rich history.
In our list of must-see tourist attractions in Benin, you will find the aspects of this fascinating country worth exploring.
Although its surface area is small, Benin attracts attention with its big cities. It offers unique experiences to travelers with its museums waiting to be discovered, unique architectural structures and unforgettable markets. Some of the beauties of the country are the Atlantic beaches adorned with palm trees, national parks full of cheetahs and elephants and green gardens.
Many people may believe that Benin is unsafe and difficult to travel in. However, Benin's roads and services are better than many African countries and provide an enjoyable experience for visitors.
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Abomey
Abomey was an important center for nearly 17 years, founded in the 300th century and the capital of the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey. Today, one of the most important reasons to visit Abomey is the Abomey Royal Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although some parts of the palace have been destroyed, it still holds great historical significance. The stories of the kings who lived in the palace are truly fascinating and provide visitors with a rich insight into the past.
Bohicon
Bohicon is a lively and dynamic city where you can spend a few days without getting bored. Bohicon has a modern atmosphere and is home to some of the best markets in Benin. These markets are especially busy in the morning and are an ideal place to experience local life. However, if you don’t like crowds, it would be wise to choose the afternoon hours.
Boukoumbe
Boukoumbe is known as one of the highest points in Benin, approximately 40 kilometers west of Natitingou. This feature attracts tourists and makes it a must-see destination for nature lovers, offering panoramic views. Boukoumbe is an ideal base for those who want to discover the natural beauty and unique landscapes of the region.
Cotonou
Although Cotonou is not the official capital of Benin, it feels like the heart of the country. If you are a first-time traveler to Africa, the city’s lively atmosphere may surprise you a bit. However, Cotonou’s charm goes far beyond that! It is famous for its natural wonders, such as its palm-lined beaches and the Pendjari National Park. If you come during the festival season, you will have the chance to explore the fascinating world of voodoo activities up close.
Grand Popo
Grand-Popo has an interesting and striking history due to its important role in the slave trade. Today, this town, known as a resort, surprises visitors with its different face from the past. Located about 1 hour from Cotonou, Grand-Popo is an ideal place to relax and swim. You can also walk around the Mono River and enjoy nature by observing exotic birds.
Malanville
The journey to Malanville can be a bit of a hassle, so a taxi is a good option. If you chat with the locals, they will definitely recommend the chicken and chips around the Niger River Bridge. Try these delicacies, but don't leave without discovering the lively market atmosphere of Malanville. The authentic atmosphere of the market allows you to get to know the culture of the area up close.
Watching
Natitingou is strategically located just 50 kilometers from Pendjari National Park and attracts visitors with its unique attractions. In the city, France There is a museum from the colonial period, where valuable documents about the lifestyle of the Somba people are exhibited. Also, when you visit Natitingou, you should definitely try the local delicacy, Shea butter.
Nikki
Nikki is known as the capital of the historical Bariba Kingdom and has a history of controlling a large area stretching to the borders of Nigeria. With its old royal palace still preserved in its splendor, it stands out as one of the must-see places in Benin. In Nikki, you can visit the stunning Royal Palace and the royal museum, as well as taste the local delicacies and discover the cultural richness of the region.
Lake Nokoue
Lake Nokoue and the surrounding village stand out as one of the most ideal places for bird watching. However, unfortunately, due to human intervention, this natural beauty has also been deteriorated over time. While pollution threatens the natural life in the lake, preserving the ecological balance of the region has become more important than ever. Nevertheless, it continues to offer its visitors unique bird species and fascinating natural landscapes.
ouidah
Ouidah is a city that carries the cultural influences of France and Portugal due to various events in history. Located just 40 kilometers from Cotonou, Ouidah offers great museums for those interested in African history. Ouidah, which stands out especially for its slavery and voodoo themed museums, is filled with rich artifacts that offer visitors an in-depth look at the history of Benin and Africa.
Parakou
Parakou is the second largest city in Benin, with a population of around 200. Its wide streets and open spaces offer a more relaxed atmosphere, away from the crowds of Porto Novo and Cotonou. The city has built its economy on cotton, textiles and peanut oil production. In Parakou, you can discover traditional Bariba architecture and places specializing in traditional beer making.
Pehunco
Pehunco is a quiet stopover that we recommend you visit after visiting the popular tourist spots in Benin. Although it does not have tourist attractions, Pehunco’s village life and markets give it a unique vibe. Here, you can chat with the locals living in the countryside and gain intimate insights into Benin’s culture and lifestyle. Pehunco is the ideal place to experience a natural and authentic Benin experience.
New Port
Porto Novo is the capital of Benin and has maintained this status during the French colonial period. If you visit Cotonou first and then come to Porto Novo, you will understand better why it was chosen as the capital. The capital has a wide variety of cultural activities and traces of Portuguese culture can still be felt in the city. Places you can visit in Porto Novo include the magnificent Royal Palace, the gardens of the nobles and the historical museum of the kings of Porto Novo.
Tanguieta
Tanguieta is an ideal stop to explore the buildings from the French colonial period. With a population of around 20 thousand, Tanguieta offers a hospitable atmosphere and stands out with its historical texture. Although not as large as Bohicon, you can also visit the lively markets and enjoy the local products. In addition, its surroundings, full of waterfalls, national parks and rich wildlife, offer many opportunities to explore for nature and adventure lovers.
Tchaourou
Tchaourou is known as an agricultural city, located about 60 kilometers from Parakou. It also has an economically developed structure thanks to its trade relations with Nigeria. Some factories in the city are open to visitors, and guided tours are organized for those curious about industrial production processes. In addition to agriculture, this commercial liveliness is one of the elements that make Tchaourou worth exploring.
The list of places to visit in Benin is a great place to start to discover the richness of history, culture and nature that this country has to offer. With its slave trade, voodoo culture and impressive architecture, Benin appeals to both history buffs and nature lovers. From the Royal Palace of Abomey to the serene beaches of Grand-Popo, from the natural beauties of Natitingou to the historical museums of Ouidah, every corner offers unforgettable experiences to its visitors. Places to visit in Benin give visitors the opportunity to get to know both the deep history of Africa and its modern face.
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