Boutique hotels in Benin

Benin is a narrow country with a powerful cultural identity. It is the birthplace of Vodun, and its historic kingdoms left palaces, shrines and a strong tradition of art. Hotels are modest and often family-run, and the rewards are in the places and the people.

Coast and capital

Cotonou is the busy commercial capital, with markets and a lively coastline. To the west, Ouidah, a former slave-trading port, preserves the Route of Slaves and the Python Temple, while Grand-Popo has long beaches and a quiet river mouth. Porto-Novo, the official capital, has colonial architecture and museums.

Lagoons and kingdoms

Ganvié, a stilt village on Lake Nokoué, is reached by pirogue. Abomey, to the north, is a UNESCO site with royal palaces of the Dahomey kings.

Wildlife and the north

Pendjari National Park, in the northwest, is one of West Africa's best savanna reserves, with elephants, lions and hippos. Natitingou is the base for the Tata Somba castle-houses.

When to go

November to March is the dry season and the best for travel, and the Vodun festival takes place in January.