Africa is called cradle of humanity , the Republic of Benin is nicknamed Latin Quarter of Africa . An important cultural heritage and a history with traditions still very alive make it an escapade rich in emotions. A trip to Benin, a unique opportunity to visit the provinces of Atacora, Borgou, or Atlantic-Littoral that await you for a strong and unforgettable moment.

This country in the Gulf of Guinea is bordered to the east by Nigeria and to the west by Togo and Burkina Faso. The Niger River borders its northern border, separating it from the Republic of Nigeria. The Mono, Couffo and Ouémé are the 3 other main rivers, which flow in parallel and flow into the ocean forming a mouth. With its 114000 km2 Benin is about five to six times smaller than France. Its 700 km length overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The maximum width is 325 km from east to west. The relief is not very uneven and the highest point rises to 658 metres, at Mount Sagboroa, located in the Atacora range. Divided into twelve regions, the administrative capital of the country is Porto Novo, in the extreme south east, even if the economic capital remains Cotonou, not far from there. Porto Novo was so named for its resemblance to the city of Porto in Portugal. Through the craft industry you will know the traditions which are transmitted from generation to generation and you will find in Cotonou, on the coast, the center of promotion of Beninese craft industry. Fabrics, leather goods, wood sculptures, jewellery and pottery from all regions of the country are presented. Perhaps you will return with a souvenir mask, these are an integral part of the culture and each ethnic group has its own manufacturing codes. Thus, according to its shape or its color the fine-knower will know which tribe made it. Here the official language remains French since colonization in 1884. Before that, the country, called Dahomey until 1875, was composed of different tribes and entities that lived through the slave trade and then the sale of palm oil. In 1960, like many other African countries, Benin again became independent. With a hot and humid climate, each region has its moment of rain, storm, drought or wind. Those who fear the rain and prefer the dry season should visit the north of the country from November to May, and the south from December to March. Whatever time you choose for your stay, there will always be a traditional dance festival to share the soul of the country. The Christian and Muslim religion live side by side even though nearly 80% of the population is animist. By exchanging with the inhabitants, you will discover what the religion voodoo (or voodoo) is and maybe go and consult a bokonon. This kind of healer will probably equip you with a talisman, amulet or other object that is described in Europe as gri-gris . In Dassa-Zoumé, or city of the 41 hills, there is an important pilgrimage to the cave of Our Lady of Arigbo where the Virgin appeared. In a very different kind, the beaches of Grand Popo offer a delicious moment of relaxation, the fishing villages and the green shores of Lake Ahémé, near the border with Togo, will change you pleasantly. As for the royal palaces of Abomey, classified as a UNESCO world heritage site, they will not fail to amaze you by the bas-reliefs telling the history of the Fon people. Ancestral know-how, rich and eventful history, people eager to transmit their heritage, landscapes of breathtaking beauty, everything here invites to a second stay in Benin to deepen knowledge of this exciting and mysterious culture.

To enter Benin, the yellow fever vaccine is essential, it is also advisable to get preventive treatment against malaria. On the spot, move thanks to the zémidjan (the motorcycle taxis) in the big cities but not without having negotiated beforehand the rate of the race!

Art and culture in Benin
Dance is very present here during traditional ceremonies. To the sound of the typical tam-tams, many music and dance festivals celebrate the union between the peoples of Africa and expatriates ( Gospel and Roots festival for example). January 10 is voodoo festival in Ouidah. In front of the ocean, in front of the so-called door of no return , we celebrate the goddess of the sea, Mamy Wata. Costumes are shimmering, wooden masks are most often required. Each ceremony is an opportunity to wear jewellery made by the natives.

What to visit in Benin
In the province of Zou, do not miss the royal palaces of Abomey, built from the 17th century. Each king (except one), built within the same enclosure his own castle, and this until the beginning of the 20th century! Enjoy its museum and visit the underground shelters. Cotonou and its international market of Dantopka welcome 25000 people of which we advise you to be part. Venture into the forest, the temples and the museum of Ouidah, the city of Voodoo. Tanongou Falls and a safari in Pendjari Park will satisfy your desires!

Gastronomic specialities in Benin
Many pasta are made from corn or millet such as aniwo or akassa, and are to be enjoyed with sauces. There are many dishes based on grilled fish available in various recipes. If you have already visited other countries of the Gulf of Guinea you may already know the stuffed banana plant trunks, called aloko. For cheese lovers we recommend Wagasi, with a red rind, fried and marinated in a spicy sauce. And for dessert we offer the béyé, a cake made from roasted and crushed peanuts.