Benin Travel Facts
The Basics
Country: Benin
Where is it?: Benin is in Western Africa between Nigeria and Togo.
Why do people go here?: Benin is the number one destination for voodoo ceremonies in West Africa, where it’s said to have originated.
What are the main entry points?: Air France connects with Cotonou as well as a number regional airlines. You can cross overland between most countries
Currency used: West African Franc
Country Code for Phones: 229
Religion: 42.8% Christians, 24.4% were Muslim, 17.3% practices Vodun, 6% other traditional local religious groups, 1.9% other religious groups, and 6.5% claim no religious affiliation
Population: 9 million
Ethnic Breakdown: Fon 39%, Yoruba 12%, Adja 10%, Others
Government: Multiparty Democracy
Languages: French, Fon, Yoruba
Travel Information
Major Cities: Porto-Novo, Cotonou
Attractions: Ouidah
Accommodation: Benin Hotels
Tourism Office locations and links: Benin Tourism
Tips for Visiting
Off-the-Beaten-Path: Parc National de la Pendjari
Health Issues: Malaria
When to go: May to August are the best months with the least amount of rain
Common Phrases: Hello = Bonjour, How are you? = Comment allez-vous?, Good = Bien or Bon, Yes = Oui, Okay = D’accord or OK, No = Non, Thank you = Merci, Please = S’il vous plait, Goodbye = Au revoir
Specific Events/Holidays: Martyr’s Day: January 16, Liberation Day: February 28, Labour Day: May 1, Independence Day: August 1, Republic Day: December 4
Getting Around: Minibuses and taxis are the best way to get around. There is a train line that links certain cities.
Cheapest airport to fly into: The main airport serving Benin is the Cotonou Airport.
Need more information?: Check out the Benin travel guide for more on what to see, where to stay, and how to get there.
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