Benin Tours

Day 1: Arrival in Benin

Take a flight to Cotonou, the capital city of Benin. Cotonou is Benin’s largest city, largest port and its political, economic, transportation and trade center, which has a huge potential in development of tourism because of its rich tourism resources. Upon arrival at Cotonou International Airport, you will proceed to the hotel and have a check-in procedure. Then, you can have a good rest to recover from the jet lag or go for sightseeing by yourselves.

Day 2: Cotonou

Today, you will have a full day tour in Cotonou city, which includes Ancien Pont Bridge and its nearby Cotonou Cathedral, the National University of Benin which is the best university in Benin, etc. Besides, you can also visit the art center or go shopping at Dantopka Market, one of the biggest markets in West Africa.

Day 3: Alladah

You will head for Allada to visit the birthplace of Toussaint Louverture’s parents. Toussaint Louverture was one of the leaders of Haitian Revolution, and also the greatest person in Haitian’s history. A sculpture was built in memory of Toussaint here. Afterwards, you will also visit his palace later.

Day 4: Porto-Novo

You are leaving for Porto-Novo in the morning. Porto-Novo is the location of Benin’s National Assembly and is also one of the oldest cities in the country. The city still retains some rich old African life style and features. The first stop is Ethnographic Museum, which is famous for the collection of Gelede Masks. Then you are going to visit the Brazilian Church and the Palace of King Toffa with 300 years history.

Day 5: Ouidah

You are going to spend the full day at Ouida, the cradle of Voodoo. After arriving, you will visit the History Museum of Ouidah. The Museum of Ouidah displays a wealth of ancient artifacts and historical and cultural books which are relevant to the place. With this valuable evidence, it is easy for tourists to get to know the regions culture and history. Ouidah was once the largest slave export port along the Gulf of Guinea. The European colonist had been trading slaves for more than 200 years. During late 17th century, over 20,000 slaves had been sold every year. Later on, you will proceed to visit the Python Temple. The afternoon tour will take you to visit the Road of the Slaves, cemetery and the Gate of No Return.

Day 6: Abomey

In the morning, you will head for Abomey, the capital city of the Kingdom of Dahomey. Upon arrival, you are going to visit the Royal Palace Museum, Royal Sepulchers and the History Museum of Abomey, which has been on UNESCOs World Heritage list since 1985. At the end of the day, you will learn the making process of local handcraft.

Day 7: Cotonou

On the way back to Cotonou, you will stop by Gnavie, known as the African Venice. Ganvie is the biggest village among the ones which have been ever discovered around Lake Nokoue. Now more than 30,000 inhabitants are residing in the overwater village, which makes Benin an essential site. Later in the day, you are going to visit lagoon market and Artisans Center in Cotonou. Then the rest of the time is free on your own.

Day 8: Departure from Benin

There is no arrangement in the whole morning. You will travel to the airport for the departure flight flying back home in the afternoon.