Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou
Arrive in Cotonou, Benin, where you will be warmly welcomed by your guide and escorted to your hotel. Enjoy a brief orientation to help you get acquainted with the local area.
Meals Included: None
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 2: Cotonou City Tour
Embark on a guided tour of Cotonou, visiting the city's main attractions. Learn about the culture, history, and daily life of Benin's largest city.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 3: Cotonou – Artisans & Lagoon Market
Continue your exploration of Cotonou, with visits to the vibrant neighborhoods known for their colorful houses. Stop by the Artisans Center to admire local crafts, and explore the bustling Lagoon Market. The rest of the day is free for personal exploration or relaxation.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 4: Ouidah – The Heart of Voodoo Culture
Take a full-day excursion to Ouidah, a city rich in voodoo history. Visit the Museum of History to learn about the slave trade and Benin’s historical ties to Brazil and the Caribbean. Explore Kindji Market Square, the impressive Cathedral, and the sacred Temple of Pythons. You’ll also visit significant historical sites such as the "Tree of Forgetfulness," the "Road of the Slaves," and the "Gate of No Return."
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 5: Ouidah – Voodoo Festival
Experience the vibrant Voodoo Festival in Ouidah, one of the largest cultural celebrations in Benin. Join the local community in honoring the land and exploring the mysteries of the voodoo religion through religious ceremonies, traditional dances, and a colorful market. The festival culminates with an exciting performance by the Zangbetos, a traditional voodoo dance troupe.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Overnight: Casa Del Papa
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Day 6: Abomey – The Royal Legacy
Travel to Abomey in the morning to visit the Royal Palace Museum, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet the King of Abomey. Explore the Palace, the Historical Museum, and the Royal Sepulchres, which tell the story of the region’s powerful past. Watch skilled artisans create intricate works of bronze, copper, and iron.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Dako Ler Bohicon or similar
Day 7: Ganvie – The Venice of Africa
Take a trip to Ganvie, often referred to as "The Venice of Africa," where over 12,000 people live in stilt houses on Lake Nokoue. Learn about the fascinating history and unique lifestyle of this water-based community.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 8: Natitingou – Somba Culture
Head to Natitingou, where you’ll visit the Natitingou Museum for an insightful introduction to the Somba people and their culture.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Tata Somba or similar
Day 9: Porto Novo – Colonial Heritage
Visit Porto Novo, the capital city of Benin, where you’ll see the 300-year-old Palace of King Toffa, the Brazilian Church, and the Ethnographic Museum. In the evening, enjoy a performance by the “Guardians of the Night” spirit dancers.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 10: Alladah – The Birthplace of Toussaint L'Ouverture
Journey to Alladah, the birthplace of Toussaint L'Ouverture, a leader in the Haitian revolution. Learn about his pivotal role in Haiti's liberation and explore the town with a local guide. Meet with the King of Alladah and interact with the locals to learn more about the region's history and culture.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Hotel Du Lac or similar
Day 11: Departure from Cotonou
Spend the morning at leisure, with the assistance of your guide to help plan your final day in Cotonou. In the evening, transfer to the airport for your departure flight home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
