Benin 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Exploring the Cultural Heart of Benin

Morning:

  • Start your day with a traditional Beninese breakfast at your hotel or a local restaurant. Try local dishes such as Dagbèyé (cornmeal porridge) and Akassa (fermented corn flour porridge).
  • Head to the Fonquiau-Antan Museum in Porto-Novo, the political capital of Benin, to learn about the rich cultural history of the region.
  • Visit the Palace of the Kings of Porto-Novo to witness the traditional architecture and royal artifacts.

Afternoon:

  • Travel to Ouidah, a coastal city with a strong Voodoo culture. Stop by the Road of Slaves monument, which commemorates the transatlantic slave trade.
  • Explore the Voodoo Temples and participate in a traditional Voodoo ceremony (usually held in the evening). Please note that these ceremonies require respectful attire.

Evening:

  • Have dinner at a local restaurant, trying dishes like Gboma (okra stew) or Attiéké (cassava granules).
  • Relax at the beach and enjoy the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean.

Day 2: Discovering the Artisanal Wonders of Benin

Morning:

  • After breakfast, visit the Artisan Village in Ouidah where you can buy traditional Beninese artworks like wood carvings, textiles, and beadwork.
  • Head to the Palace of the Queen Hangbe in Abomey, the historical capital of Benin. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to the royal palaces of the Dahomey Kingdom, including the famous “Door of No Return.”

Afternoon:

  • Visit the Museum of the History of the Dahomey Kingdom for a deeper understanding of the kingdom’s history.
  • Travel to the Ganvie Stilt Village, an entire village built on stilts over water. Explore the village by canoe and learn about the Baatonu people’s way of life.

Evening:

  • Return to your hotel for dinner, or try a local restaurant for more delicious Beninese cuisine.
  • Reflect on your day as you prepare for your departure tomorrow.

Visa Requirements:

  • Most countries require a visa to enter Benin. Check the official government website of Benin for the latest information and requirements for your specific nationality.

Transportation:

  • Taxis are widely available in cities, but it’s best to negotiate the price before you get in. For longer trips, consider hiring a private driver or using shared taxis (known as “trotros”).

Things to Know:

  • Benin is a safe destination for tourists, but it’s always wise to exercise caution and avoid displaying valuable items in public.
  • French is the official language, although many people also speak Fon and Yoruba. English is spoken in some tourist areas.
  • The local currency is the West African CFA Franc (XOF). Credit cards are accepted at hotels and larger restaurants, but it’s a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller transactions.