Things to do in

Cotonou

Explore Benin’s vibrant culture on this captivating 5-day journey. From Cotonou to Abomey, uncover the heart of Benin’s heritage. Visit the Royal Palace in Porto-Novo, the Python Temple in Ouidah, the serene village of Ganvie, and the historical treasures of Abomey. Immerse yourself in local customs and performances. This tour is a cultural immersion into the spirit of Benin. Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou • Arrive in Cotonou, where you’ll be warmly welcomed at the airport with assistance through immigration and customs. • Transfer to your comfortable hotel for a relaxing check-in and debriefing. • In the evening, savor a delightful dinner and settle in for a peaceful night’s rest at Hotel du Lac or similar. Day 2: Porto-Novo – The Royal Capital • Begin your day with a trip to Porto-Novo, the royal capital of Benin. • Explore the grand Royal Palace, an architectural masterpiece reflecting the traditions of the local royal court. • Immerse yourself in African art and culture at The Musée Da Silva. • Delve into the unique architecture of Zamgbetor House. • Take a boat ride along the enigmatic Black River Adjarra. • In the evening, witness captivating Egungun Initiations and Performances. • Return for an overnight stay in the vibrant city of Cotonou. Day 3: Ganvie – The Venice of Africa • Embark on a journey to Ganvie, a remarkable village that stands on stilts in the middle of a lagoon. • Experience the intriguing Python Temple in Ouidah, a vital part of the spiritual heritage. • Explore the enchanting Sacred Forest, home to rich traditions and beliefs. • Head back to Cotonou for a well-deserved rest. Day 4: Abomey – Heritage and History • Explore Abomey, a city teeming with history. • Delve into the past at the Museum of Abomey, where tales of the Dahomey Kingdom come to life. • Peruse the vibrant fetish market for unique local treasures. • Explore the subterranean village of Agoingointo, a hidden gem of cultural significance. • Cap off your day with an enthralling Voodoo performance led by a local fetish priest. Day 5: Cotonou and Departure • Spend your last morning in Cotonou savoring a delicious breakfast at the hotel. • If time allows, take a leisurely stroll through the local markets and bazaars. • Reflect on your incredible journey, filled with cultural discoveries and unique experiences. - Bid farewell to Benin as you’re transferred to the airport for your onward journey.

Day 1: Arrival, Pick up, Cotonou City Tour(Bio Guerra Statue, Amazon Square, Africa's Longest Graffiti Wall, Martyrs Square, Cotonou Craft Market) and Ganvie Stilt Village Our professional local tour leaders will meet with you. Make yourself known to your guides who will be accompanying you for the duration of your time in Benin and they will take care of you from here. Boarding our dedicated vehicle, which will serve as your transportation for the tour, we commence the Cotonou City Tour. The first stop is the Statue of the Hero Bio Guerra, dedicated to the wassangari prince warrior born in 1856. This statue, inaugurated in 2022, pays homage to Bio Guerra's anti-colonial resistance in the North-Eastern part of Benin. Next, we visit Amazon Square, showcasing the giant monument of Dahomey Kingdom's powerful women, the Amazon or Agojie of Dahomey. Known for defending their territories against enemies and colonial powers in the 17th to 19th centuries, these female warriors inspired the film Woman King. Nearby, the Africa's Longest Graffiti Wall, inaugurated in 2021, narrates the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey and modern Benin. Martyrs Square, also known as Souvenir Square, follows, commemorating the victory of Benin's martyrs on January 16, 1977, defending the nation against mercenaries. Our tour proceeds to the Cotonou Craft Market for souvenir shopping. Leaving Cotonou, we head to Ganvie, known as the Venice of Africa, a stilt village with over 40,000 inhabitants on Lake Nokoue. A serene day may include trying fishing with locals, and if successful, enjoying a local-style grilled fresh fish. Finally, we transfer you to your accommodation for check-in and relaxation. Accommodation: Cotonou or Ouidah Day 2: Pythons Temple, Zinsou Foundation Museum, Sacred Forest, Voodoo Ceremony, and Enslaved African Road After breakfast, we explore the sacred Python's Temple in Ouidah, where pythons are revered, protected, and given proper burials as sacred beings. A visit to the Zinsou Foundation Museum follows, founded in 2005, showcasing modern contemporary art from global artists. The tour continues with the Sacred Forest of Ouidah, offering insights into Voodoo religion, a prominent practice in Benin. More than 75% of the population actively practices Voodoo alongside new faiths. Witnessing the annual Voodoo festival is a unique and unforgettable experience. Post-lunch, we embark on the Enslaved African's Road tour, reflecting on the historical shipping of enslaved Africans from Ouidah during the 17th and 18th centuries. This tour concludes with a transfer to the airport for departure or your chosen final destination. Departure or Drop-off