Benin 7 Day Itinerary

Benin 7-Day Travel Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou

  • Arrive at Cadjehoun Airport (COO) in Cotonou.
  • Get your visa if needed (Citizens from most countries can get a visa on arrival for 30,000 CFA).
  • Check into your hotel and rest after your journey.
  • In the evening, explore the local markets of Cotonou like Marche D’Ayikan or Marche de la Fetish.

Day 2: Explore Cotonou

  • Visit the Museum of History and Traditional Arts (Musee de l’histoire et des arts traditionnels).
  • Take a walk on the beach at Place des Martyrs du 13 Mai, a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
  • In the evening, enjoy some local seafood at the restaurants along the beach.

Day 3: Ouidah

  • Travel to Ouidah (approximately 45 minutes by taxi or mini bus).
  • Visit the Voodoo Temple Pyramid and learn about the rich voodoo culture in Benin.
  • Explore the Slave Route Museum, a poignant reminder of the transatlantic slave trade.

Day 4: Ouidah to Porto-Novo

  • Travel to Porto-Novo (about 1 hour 30 minutes by taxi or mini bus).
  • Visit the Presidential Palace and the National Museum of Benin.
  • Relax at Plage de Grand Popo, one of the most beautiful beaches in the country.

Day 5: Allada and Abomey

  • Travel to Allada (about 1 hour by taxi or mini bus) and visit the Battlefield of Allada.
  • Head to Abomey (approximately 30 minutes from Allada) and visit the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 6: Ganvie - The Venice of Benin

  • Travel to Ganvie (about 1 hour 30 minutes by taxi or mini bus), a unique floating village built on stilts in the heart of Lake Nokoué.
  • Take a boat tour around the village and learn about the BaKongo people who inhabit it.

Day 7: Return to Cotonou/Departure

  • Spend your last day shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at the beach in Cotonou before heading to the airport for your departure.