Find Cheap Flights to Benin and Start Your Trip Now

This is the main dry season, ideal for tourism. Expect higher flight prices due to high demand for Benin winter flights.

This period marks the beginning of the rainy season, with higher temperatures and humidity. Flight prices start to drop, offering deals on flights to Benin.

This is the rainy season in the south, but the north has a short dry season. It is the ideal time to find low-cost flights to Benin and cheap air tickets to Cotonou.

The end of the rainy season in the south and the beginning of the dry season in the north. Flight prices slowly rise as the weather improves, but there are still good flight deals.

Local transportation in Benin is varied and can be an adventure. For shorter trips within cities like Cotonou or Porto Novo, 'zémidjans' (motorcycle taxis) are the most common and fastest way to move, but negotiate the price before getting on. For long distances, buses and collective taxis connect the main cities. Buses are more comfortable and safer for night travel. If you are coming from Portugal, note that traffic is much more chaotic and road safety rules are less strict. Consider hiring a local driver for greater convenience and safety on less-traveled routes. Avoid driving yourself unless you are familiar with local conditions. Train service is limited and not the main option for tourists.

Accommodation options in Benin range from international hotels in Cotonou to simpler guesthouses in smaller towns. In Cotonou, you will find good standard hotels that offer amenities like air conditioning and Wi-Fi, similar to those in Portugal, but possibly at higher prices for the same level of service. In tourist and historical areas, such as Ouidah, there are charming 'auberges' and eco-lodges. It is always best to book in advance, especially during the high season (November to February). Check if the accommodation has a generator, as power outages are common. For a more authentic experience, consider staying in small locally managed hotels, but be prepared for a more basic level of comfort.

Benin is generally considered a safe country for tourists, but vigilance is essential, especially in large cities. Just like in Portugal, avoid displaying valuables and do not walk alone at night in unfamiliar areas. Be aware of petty theft in markets and public transport. A common scam involves people posing as unofficial tour guides; always hire guides through recognized agencies. Keep copies of your documents separate from the originals. Compared to Portugal, police presence may be less visible, but the local population is generally welcoming. Drink only bottled water and be careful with street food to avoid health issues. Always carry mosquito repellent, as malaria is a risk.

Benin is rich in traditions, and respecting local customs is crucial. Formal greetings are important; use your right hand for shaking hands and giving or receiving objects. Vodun is an openly practiced religion, and participating in festivals can be a unique experience. Always ask permission before taking photos of people or sacred sites. Dress should be modest, especially when visiting rural areas or religious sites; light clothing that covers shoulders and knees is recommended. Punctuality is more relaxed than in Portugal, so be patient. Learning a few basic phrases in French (the official language) or Fon will be greatly appreciated by locals and facilitate interaction. Offering small tips for services is a common gesture of gratitude.

Portuguese citizens need a visa to enter Benin. The electronic visa (e-Visa) is the easiest and fastest way to obtain authorization before traveling. Your itinerary should include the economic capital, Cotonou, historical Ouidah (center of Vodun and the Slave Route), and the stilt village of Ganvié. For nature lovers, Pendjari National Park offers wildlife viewing. Plan your itinerary with flexibility, as transport schedules can be unpredictable. The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to February), when the weather is more pleasant for exploring. Remember that distances may take longer to cover than expected, so don't try to see everything at once. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory, and you must carry the international certificate.

Beninese cuisine is flavorful and based on corn, yam, and rice. Try 'pâte' (corn or yam paste) served with peanut, tomato, or meat sauces. 'Alloco' (fried plantain) is a popular snack. Grilled fish, fresh from the Atlantic, is excellent in Cotonou. Unlike the Portuguese diet, the food is often spicy, but you can ask for it to be served without chili pepper. Drink local beer, such as Béninoise, and try 'sodabi', a palm distillate. To avoid stomach issues, choose busy restaurants and avoid uncooked raw vegetables. Venture into local markets to taste exotic fruits, but make sure they are well washed.

Due to the tropical climate, pack light, cotton clothes. A light jacket is useful for cooler evenings or air conditioning. Sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses are essential. In addition to repellent, bring a small first-aid kit with basic medicines for diarrhea and pain. The local currency is the CFA Franc (XOF). Although cards are accepted in large hotels in Cotonou, cash is king, especially outside the capital. It is advisable to always have small change for taxis and markets. Type E plug adapters are needed. Stay hydrated by drinking bottled water regularly, and wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain.

To capture the essence of Benin, head to the city of Ganvié, the 'Venice of Africa'. This city built on stilts in Lake Nokoué offers unique aquatic landscapes. Rent a canoe early in the morning to see the city wake up, with fishermen working and children going to school. The soft morning light on the wooden houses and calm water creates a spectacular photographic setting, different from anything seen in Portugal. It is a place that truly shows the resilience and traditional life of the Beninese people.