Day-by-Day Itinerary
Settle into Benin's economic capital and explore its vibrant markets and waterfront atmosphere.
Morning
Arrival and hotel check-in
Arrive at
Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport and transfer to your accommodation. Take time to rest and acclimate to the tropical climate. Exchange currency and get a local SIM card for connectivity. Orient yourself with the neighborhood and prepare for your afternoon exploration of this bustling coastal city.
3-4 hours
$20-30
Arrange airport pickup through your hotel in advance for easier arrival
Lunch
A local eatery near your hotel serving traditional Beninese cuisine
Beninese (try pâte with peanut sauce)
Budget
Afternoon
Dive into West Africa's largest open-air market,
Dantokpa Market, where thousands of vendors sell everything from colorful fabrics and traditional medicines to fresh produce and household goods. Navigate the labyrinthine alleys, observe daily life, and practice your bargaining skills. The
fetish market section offers insight into voodoo practices with animal parts, herbs, and ritual objects.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Head to
Havana beach for your first Atlantic Ocean sunset, then enjoy grilled fish at a beachfront spot with local beer
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Cotonou (Mid-range hotel near the city center)
Central location provides easy access to markets and restaurants while offering comfortable amenities after your journey
Hire a local guide for
Dantokpa Market to navigate safely and gain cultural insights you'd otherwise miss
Day 1 Budget: $85-110
Discover the religious diversity and artistic spirit of Benin's largest city.
Morning
Visit Cathédrale Notre-Dame-de-Miséricorde de
CotonouExplore this striking modern cathedral with its distinctive red-striped architecture, completed in the 1980s. The interior features beautiful stained glass and a serene atmosphere for reflection. Afterwards, visit the nearby Great Mosque of Zongo to appreciate the religious diversity that characterizes Benin, where Christianity, Islam, and traditional voodoo coexist peacefully.
2 hours
$5-10
Dress modestly when visiting religious sites
Lunch
A restaurant in the Ganhi neighborhood specializing in coastal cuisine
Seafood and Beninese specialties
Mid-range
Afternoon
Art and culture exploration
Visit the Graffiti Mural of the
Port of Cotonou to see vibrant street art celebrating Beninese culture. Then head to Place du Souvenir, ex
Place des Martyrs, a significant memorial site honoring those who fought for democracy. Spend time at local artisan workshops where you can watch craftspeople create traditional textiles, bronze sculptures, and wood carvings.
3 hours
$15-20
Evening
Dinner and live music
Enjoy dinner at a restaurant featuring live Afrobeat or traditional music, experiencing Benin's vibrant musical heritage
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Cotonou (Same hotel as Day 1)
Staying put allows you to explore Cotonou thoroughly without repacking
The best exchange rates are typically found at official exchange bureaus rather than hotels or the airport
Day 2 Budget: $75-95
Journey to the spiritual heart of voodoo religion and confront the history of the slave trade.
Morning
Pythons Temple visit
Travel 40km west to Ouidah and visit the famous Pythons Temple, where dozens of royal pythons are kept as sacred animals in voodoo tradition. Learn about the significance of the python in Beninese spirituality and, if comfortable, drape one around your shoulders for photos. The temple priests explain the rituals and beliefs surrounding these revered creatures.
1.5 hours
$15-20
Photography typically requires a small additional fee
Lunch
A garden restaurant in Ouidah serving fresh seafood
Coastal Beninese cuisine
Mid-range
Afternoon
Route of Slaves and Door of No Return
Walk the emotionally powerful Route des peches (Route of Slaves), a 4km path that enslaved Africans walked before being shipped across the Atlantic. The route features monuments and sculptures commemorating this tragic history. It culminates at the Door of No Return on the beach, a memorial arch where captives took their last steps on African soil. The experience is sobering and essential for understanding Benin's history.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Consider hiring a guide to fully understand the historical significance
Evening
Sunset reflection and dinner
Spend quiet time at the beach processing the day's emotional journey, then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant
Where to Stay Tonight
Ouidah town center (Guesthouse or small hotel with local character)
Staying overnight allows you to experience Ouidah's unique atmosphere and visit the morning market
January 10th is Ouidah's annual Voodoo Festival if you can time your visit accordingly
Day 3 Budget: $80-100
Explore the remarkable stilted village built entirely on Lake Nokoué.
Morning
Pirogue journey to Ganvié
Return toward
Cotonou and take a traditional pirogue (wooden canoe) from Abomey-Calavi across Lake Nokoué to Ganvié, Africa's largest lake village with over 20,000 inhabitants. Glide past houses, schools, churches, and markets all built on stilts. Learn how the Tofinu people built this settlement in the 17th century to escape slavery, and observe their unique fishing techniques using underwater branches called acadjas.
3-4 hours
$25-35
Negotiate pirogue prices before departing and ensure life jackets are available
Lunch
A floating restaurant in Ganvié serving fresh lake fish
Local fish specialties prepared with traditional methods
Budget
Afternoon
Visit HOLY LAND PARC CALAVI
After returning from Ganvié, visit HOLY LAND PARC CALAVI, a religious-themed park featuring biblical scenes and statues. The park offers a different perspective on Benin's religious landscape and provides a peaceful setting for reflection. Walk through the gardens and observe how Christianity has been interpreted through local artistic traditions.
1.5-2 hours
$10-15
Evening
Head back to
Cotonou for dinner at a restaurant specializing in grilled meats and plantains
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Cotonou (Mid-range hotel)
Return to Cotonou as your base for the next day's activities and northern departure
Bring sun protection and water for the pirogue journey as there's no shade on the lake
Day 4 Budget: $85-105
Enjoy recreational activities and prepare for your journey north to Benin's historical heartland.
Morning
Relaxation at AgouaLand or MOONLIGHT Water Park
Take a break from cultural intensity with a morning at AgouaLand or MOONLIGHT Water Park - Restaurant - RoofTop. These water parks offer pools, slides, and relaxation areas perfect for cooling off in the tropical heat. It's a popular spot with local families on weekends, providing insight into contemporary Beninese leisure culture.
3 hours
$15-25
Weekdays are less crowded than weekends
Lunch
The restaurant at the water park or a nearby eatery
International and local options
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit Jardin des Plantes et de la Nature (JPN)
Explore the Jardin des Plantes et de la Nature, a botanical garden showcasing Benin's diverse plant life including medicinal plants, tropical flowers, and fruit trees. The peaceful environment offers shade and tranquility. Learn about traditional plant uses and enjoy the well-maintained grounds. Stop by local markets to stock up on snacks for your northern journey.
2 hours
$8-12
Evening
Preparation and early dinner
Pack for your multi-day northern trip, arrange early morning transport to Abomey, and enjoy an early dinner
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Cotonou (Same hotel)
Final night in Cotonou before heading north for several days
Book your transport to Abomey the day before to secure an early departure and maximize your time there
Day 5 Budget: $70-90
Travel north to explore the historic capital of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom.
Morning
Journey to Abomey and Royal Palaces visit
Take a 2-3 hour drive north to Abomey, the ancient capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Royal Palaces, a complex of earthen buildings that housed twelve kings between 1625 and 1900. The museum displays royal artifacts, thrones, weapons, and the famous bas-reliefs depicting the kingdom's history. Learn about the powerful female warriors known as Amazons.
4 hours including travel
$30-40
Hiring a knowledgeable guide at the palaces greatly enhances understanding of the complex history
Lunch
A local restaurant in Abomey serving traditional central Benin cuisine
Beninese specialties including yam dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Artisan workshops and local markets
Abomey is renowned for its appliqué tapestries depicting historical scenes and symbols of the Dahomey kings. Visit workshops where artisans create these colorful textiles using traditional techniques. You can purchase authentic pieces directly from creators. Explore the local market to observe daily life and sample fresh tropical fruits.
2-3 hours
$20-30
Evening
Dinner and cultural evening
Enjoy dinner at a local spot and potentially arrange to see traditional dancing or drumming performances if available
Where to Stay Tonight
Abomey town center (Simple hotel or guesthouse)
Staying in Abomey allows for a full day of exploration and early departure toward the north
Photography is restricted in some areas of the Royal Palaces, so always ask permission before taking photos
Day 6 Budget: $75-95
Travel through central Benin to the gateway of the northern regions.
Morning
Scenic drive north through changing landscapes
Embark on a full day's journey north to Natitingou, approximately 6-7 hours of driving. The landscape gradually transforms from tropical vegetation to drier savanna. Stop in Dassa-Zoumé to see the impressive rock formations and hills. Break for photos and refreshments in towns along the route, observing the changing architecture and cultural practices as you move toward the Sahel region.
7-8 hours with stops
$40-60
Hire a private vehicle or take a well-maintained bush taxi for this long journey
Lunch
A roadside restaurant in Parakou, Benin's third-largest city, midway through your journey
Northern Beninese cuisine
Budget
Afternoon
Arrival in Natitingou and rest
Arrive in Natitingou, the largest town in northwestern Benin and gateway to Pendjari National Park. Check into your accommodation and rest from the long journey. Take a short walk around the town center to orient yourself and experience the distinct atmosphere of northern Benin, where Islamic influence is stronger and the climate noticeably drier.
2-3 hours
$10-15
Evening
Dinner and early rest
Enjoy a simple dinner at a local restaurant and retire early to prepare for your safari adventure
Where to Stay Tonight
Natitingou town (Mid-range hotel with basic amenities)
Base for organizing your Pendjari safari and exploring the Somba region
Natitingou has limited ATMs, so ensure you have sufficient cash for the next few days
Day 7 Budget: $80-100
Begin your wildlife adventure in one of West Africa's premier national parks.
Morning
Early morning game drive in Pendjari
Depart before dawn for Pendjari National Park, about 50km from Natitingou. Enter this spectacular wilderness area, home to elephants, lions, leopards, cheetahs, hippos, crocodiles, and over 300 bird species. Your guide will track animals during the cooler morning hours when they're most active. The park's varied landscapes include savanna, forest, and wetlands around the Pendjari River.
4-5 hours
$80-120
Book safari packages in advance through tour operators in Natitingou or
Cotonou
Lunch
Picnic lunch within the park or at the lodge
Packed meals provided by your safari operator
Mid-range
Afternoon
Rest and afternoon game drive
Return to your lodge for a midday rest during the hottest hours. In late afternoon, head out for another game drive as animals emerge to drink and feed. The golden hour provides excellent photography opportunities. Listen to your guide's expertise about animal behavior, tracking techniques, and the park's conservation efforts.
3-4 hours
Included in morning package
Evening
Dinner under the stars
Enjoy dinner at your lodge with sounds of the African bush surrounding you
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside or near Pendjari National Park (Safari lodge or campsite)
Staying near the park allows for early morning and late afternoon game drives when wildlife is most active
Bring binoculars, plenty of water, sun protection, and neutral-colored clothing for the best safari experience
Day 8 Budget: $150-200
Continue exploring the diverse ecosystems and wildlife of Pendjari.
Morning
Dawn game drive and bird watching
Rise early for another game drive, focusing on areas you haven't yet explored. Pendjari's biodiversity is remarkable for West Africa, and each drive offers new discoveries. Watch for elephants at watering holes, observe buffalo herds, and keep eyes peeled for rare sightings of big cats. Bird enthusiasts will delight in species like Abyssinian ground hornbill and various eagles.
4-5 hours
$80-120
Lunch
Lunch at the lodge with views over the savanna
Mix of local and international dishes
Mid-range
Afternoon
Visit to Tanougou Falls or final game drive
Either take a final afternoon game drive or visit the nearby Tanougou Falls, a beautiful cascade where you can swim in natural pools surrounded by lush vegetation. The falls offer a refreshing contrast to the dry savanna and are particularly impressive during or just after the rainy season. The area is also good for spotting monkeys and birds.
3-4 hours
$20-30
Evening
Farewell to the bush
Final dinner at the lodge, sharing safari stories and preparing for tomorrow's return journey
Where to Stay Tonight
Inside or near Pendjari National Park (Same safari lodge or campsite)
Second night allows thorough exploration of the park
The park is best visited during dry season (December-May) when animals concentrate around water sources
Day 9 Budget: $150-200
Explore the unique architecture and culture of the Somba people.
Morning
Return to Natitingou and visit Tata Somba villages
Leave Pendjari and head to the Koussoukoingou region to visit traditional Tata Somba houses, remarkable fortress-like mud structures with conical towers. These two-story buildings serve as homes, granaries, and defensive structures. Meet Somba families who maintain traditional lifestyles, learn about their agricultural practices, and understand the architectural ingenuity adapted to the local environment.
4-5 hours
$30-40
Hire a local guide who can facilitate cultural exchange and translate
Lunch
Traditional meal with a Somba family if arranged, or restaurant in a nearby village
Northern Beninese traditional dishes
Budget
Afternoon
Cultural immersion and craft demonstrations
Spend more time in Somba villages observing daily life. Watch demonstrations of traditional crafts like pottery, basket weaving, or blacksmithing. Learn about Somba spiritual beliefs and agricultural cycles. The Somba are known for their independence and have maintained cultural traditions despite external influences. Photography opportunities abound, but always ask permission respectfully.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Evening
Return to Natitingou
Drive back to Natitingou for dinner and rest before tomorrow's long journey south
Where to Stay Tonight
Natitingou (Same hotel as Day 7)
Final night in the north before returning south
Small gifts like kola nuts or sugar are appreciated when visiting Somba families, but avoid giving money directly to children
Day 10 Budget: $90-120
Travel back toward southern Benin, breaking the journey in Benin's official capital.
Morning
Drive south to Parakou
Begin the long journey south, retracing your route through changing landscapes. Stop in Parakou, Benin's third-largest city and an important commercial hub. Visit the bustling central market where goods from across West Africa are traded. Stretch your legs and grab refreshments before continuing toward Porto-Novo.
4-5 hours
$30-40
Lunch
A restaurant in Parakou serving regional specialties
Central Beninese cuisine
Budget
Afternoon
Continue to Porto-Novo
Complete the journey to Porto-Novo, Benin's official capital (though
Cotonou is the economic center). Arrive in this charming city with its colonial architecture, Afro-Brazilian influences, and laid-back atmosphere. Check into your accommodation and take an evening stroll through the quieter streets, noting the contrast with bustling
Cotonou.
3-4 hours
$25-35
Evening
Dinner in Porto-Novo
Dine at a local restaurant and rest after the long travel day
Where to Stay Tonight
Porto-Novo center (Mid-range hotel or guesthouse)
Porto-Novo offers a different perspective on Benin and is worth exploring before returning to Cotonou
Porto-Novo is much quieter than
Cotonou, offering a more relaxed pace to recover from travel fatigue
Day 11 Budget: $75-95
Discover Benin's administrative capital with its unique cultural blend.
Morning
Museums and historical sites
Explore Porto-Novo's museums including the Ethnographic Museum housed in a former colonial building, showcasing Yoruba cultural artifacts, masks, and historical items. Visit the Great Mosque with its distinctive Afro-Brazilian architecture featuring colorful tiles. Walk through neighborhoods displaying the city's unique architectural heritage blending Portuguese colonial, Afro-Brazilian, and traditional styles.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Lunch
A restaurant near the lagoon serving fresh fish
Coastal Beninese specialties
Mid-range
Afternoon
Royal Palace and local markets
Visit the King's Palace to learn about the local monarchy's role in Porto-Novo's history and contemporary society. Explore the city's markets, smaller and more manageable than Dantokpa, where you can shop for textiles, crafts, and souvenirs. The city's relaxed pace makes it pleasant for wandering and photography.
2-3 hours
$10-20
Evening
Evening by the lagoon
Enjoy sunset views over the lagoon and dinner at a waterfront establishment
Where to Stay Tonight
Porto-Novo center (Same hotel as previous night)
Second night allows thorough exploration without rushing
Porto-Novo hosts an annual international jazz festival typically in May, attracting musicians from across Africa and beyond
Day 12 Budget: $70-90
Head back to
Cotonou for final shopping and beach time.
Morning
Transfer to
Cotonou and final shopping
Make the short 30-minute journey back to
Cotonou. Visit artisan markets and craft centers to purchase last-minute souvenirs including textiles, bronze work, wood carvings, and voodoo-related items. The Centre de Promotion de l'Artisanat offers quality crafts at reasonable prices. Stock up on any items you've been considering throughout your trip.
3 hours
$30-50
Lunch
A beachfront restaurant with ocean views
Fresh seafood and grilled fish
Mid-range
Afternoon
Beach relaxation at
Havana beach
Spend your final afternoon relaxing at
Havana beach, swimming in the Atlantic, and reflecting on your journey through Benin. Enjoy the lively beach scene with local families, vendors selling coconuts and snacks, and the sound of waves. Consider a massage or simply lounge under an umbrella with a cold drink.
3-4 hours
$15-25
Evening
Farewell dinner
Enjoy a special farewell dinner at an upscale restaurant, perhaps trying dishes you haven't yet sampled
Where to Stay Tonight
Central Cotonou near airport (Comfortable hotel convenient for morning departure)
Easy access to airport for your departure flight
Confirm your flight departure time 24 hours in advance as schedules can occasionally change
Day 13 Budget: $85-110
Final morning in Benin before your departure flight.
Morning
Last-minute activities and airport transfer
Depending on your flight time, enjoy a final breakfast with fresh tropical fruit and Beninese coffee. If time permits, take a last stroll through your neighborhood or visit any nearby sites you missed. Pack carefully, ensuring souvenirs are properly wrapped. Transfer to
Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport with plenty of time for check-in and security procedures.
2-3 hours
$15-25
Arrange airport transfer the evening before to avoid morning stress
Lunch
Light meal at airport or before departure depending on flight time
Simple fare
Budget
Afternoon
Departure
Complete airport formalities and depart Benin with memories of voodoo temples, royal palaces, wildlife safaris, and the warm hospitality of the Beninese people. Take time to browse the small airport shops for any last-minute purchases of local products like honey, spices, or small crafts.
Varies by flight
$10-20
Evening
In transit
Begin your journey home with photos and memories of West Africa's cultural heartland
Where to Stay Tonight
N/A (N/A)
Departure day
Keep some West African CFA francs as souvenirs or for use in other francophone West African countries you might visit
Day 14 Budget: $40-60