Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Benin
POP 9.6 MILLION
Why Go?
The birthplace of voodoo and a pivotal platform of the slave trade for nearly three centur-
ies, Benin is steeped in a rich and complex history still very much in evidence across the
country.
A visit to this small, club-shaped nation could therefore not be complete without explor-
ing the Afro-Brazilian heritage of Ouidah, Abomey and Porto Novo, learning about spirits
and fetishes.
But Benin will also wow visitors with its natural beauty, from the palm-fringed beach
idyll of the Atlantic coast to the rugged scenery of the north. The Parc National de la Pend-
jari is one of the best wildlife parks in West Africa. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants
and hundreds of other species thrive here.
In fact, Benin is wonderfully tourist friendly. There are good roads, a wide range of ac-
commodation options and ecotourism initiatives that offer travellers the chance to delve
deeper into Beninese life. Now is an ideal time to go because the country sits on the cusp of
discovery.
When to Go
Nov-Feb
Warm and dry weather. Prime wildlife watching. Harmattan can produce hazy
skies.
Mar-May
The hottest period, after the harmattan lifts. Clear skies and some rain in the
south.
Jun-Oct
Usually downright wet and humid; a dry spell mid-July to mid-September in the
south.
