Day 1

Arrival in Cotonou

  • Arrive at Cadjehoun Airport in Cotonou and transfer to your hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in after your journey. In the afternoon, begin your exploration with a guided tour of Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin. Start with a visit to the vibrant Dantokpa Market, one of the largest markets in West Africa, where you can browse a wide array of local crafts, textiles, and fresh produce.
  • Next, explore the Fondation Zinsou, an art museum dedicated to contemporary African art. Learn about Benin’s artistic heritage and the works of emerging artists. Stroll along the bustling streets, soaking in the lively atmosphere of this dynamic city. End your day with a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Beninese dishes such as akpan (fermented corn pudding) and grilled fish. Return to your hotel for a restful night, ready for the adventures ahead in this captivating country.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 2

Cotonou to Ganvié (Stilt Village)

  • Take a boat ride to Ganvié, a fascinating village built entirely on stilts over Lake Nokoué. Dubbed the "Venice of Africa," Ganvié offers insight into traditional life on water. Return to Cotonou for dinner and a night stroll along the seaside.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 3

Cotonou to Ouidah

  • Travel to Ouidah, a city steeped in history as a former slave trade port. Visit the Slave Route Museum, the Python Temple, and the Door of No Return. Ouidah is also a center for the Vodun (Voodoo) religion, and you can learn more at the Sacred Forest. End your day with a quiet sunset on the beach.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 4

Ouidah to Abomey

  • Journey to Abomey, the historical capital of the Dahomey Kingdom. Explore the Royal Palaces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to learn about the once-mighty kingdom’s art and traditions. Wander through the market for local crafts before heading to the Abomey History Museum.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 5

Abomey to Dassa-Zoumé

  • Visit Dassa-Zoumé, a pilgrimage town known for its ancient monoliths and Catholic Basilica of Our Lady of Arigbo. Explore the hills dotted with shrines and grottoes, and if time permits, meet the local artisans who carve masks and statues.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 6

Dassa-Zoumé to Natitingou (via Savalou)

  • Travel through the scenic countryside, stopping in Savalou to sample the local yam cuisine and learn about the traditional chiefs. Reach Natitingou, near the Atakora Mountains, in the evening.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 7

Natitingou to Pendjari National Park

  • Spend the day on a safari in Pendjari National Park, home to West Africa's most diverse wildlife population. Look for elephants, lions, cheetahs, and antelopes, among other animals. Return to Natitingou for the night.
  • Meal: Breakfast – Lunch - Dinner.

Day 8

Natitingou to Cotonou

  • Journey back to Cotonou, stopping at local markets and villages to appreciate Benin's vibrant culture. Spend your final evening in Cotonou enjoying live music and trying one last round of local cuisine before heading to the airport for your departure.