Itinerary
8-Day Benin Cultural and Heritage Journey
Day 1: Arrival in Cotonou
- Arrival : Welcome to Benin! Upon landing at Cotonou International Airport, you’ll be met by our friendly guide who will assist you with your transfer to the hotel.
- Orientation: After check-in, enjoy a brief tour introduction and a rundown of the exciting days ahead.
- Leisure: The rest of the day is free to relax or explore Cotonou at your leisure.
- Meals: None
- Accommodation: Hotel Du Lac or Similar
Day 2: Cotonou City Exploration
- Breakfast: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel.
- City Tour: Explore the lively streets of Cotonou on a guided tour, stopping at notable landmarks such as the Dantokpa Market, the largest in West Africa, and other key cultural sites.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel Du Lac or Similar
Day 3: Alladah – Birthplace of Toussaint L'Ouverture
- Breakfast: Begin the day with a hearty breakfast.
- Visit to Alladah: Travel to Alladah, the birthplace of Toussaint L'Ouverture, the revered leader who played a crucial role in Haiti’s independence.
- Cultural Interaction: Engage with locals and visit the King’s palace to learn about the rich history and culture of the region.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel Du Lac or Similar
Day 4: Porto Novo – Historic Landmarks & Spirit Dancers
- Breakfast: Start your day with a satisfying breakfast.
- Tour Porto Novo: Visit the historic city of Porto Novo, the political capital of Benin, to see the Brazilian Church, the centuries-old King Toffa Palace, and the Ethnographic Museum, which showcases the nation’s cultural heritage.
- Spirit Dance Performance: In the evening, be amazed by the traditional "Guardians of the Night" spirit dancers, performing ancient rituals that are a vital part of Benin’s spiritual culture.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel Du Lac or Similar
Day 5: Ouidah – The Heart of Voodoo
- Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast before heading to Ouidah.
- Discover Ouidah: Explore the birthplace of Voodoo, where history and spirituality converge.
- Museum of History: Learn about Benin’s role in the transatlantic slave trade and its historical links to Brazil and the Caribbean.
- Sacred Sites: Visit significant sites like the Temple of Sacred Pythons and the Tree of Forgetfulness.
- Slavery Memorials: Walk the "Road of the Slaves," visit the "Gate of No Return," and see the sacred woodland and mass grave sites.
- Kindji Market: Browse through the vibrant Kindji Market Square, filled with local goods and souvenirs.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel Du Lac or Similar
Day 6: Abomey – Royal Legacy & Artisan Craft
- Breakfast: Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel.
- Arrive in Abomey: Head to Abomey, the former seat of the Dahomey Kingdom, where you'll explore the Royal Palace Museum.
- Palace and Museum: Learn about the history of the kingdom through the Royal Sepulchers, Historical Museum, and artifacts that reflect the glory of Abomey’s past.
- Artisan Visit: Observe local artisans at work, creating intricate pieces of bronze, copper, and iron, using centuries-old methods.
-Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Sun City or Similar
Day 7: Scenic Return to Cotonou
- Breakfast: Enjoy your breakfast before setting off.
- Return Journey: On your way back to Cotonou, stop at picturesque villages to experience the rural charm and traditions of Benin.
- Explore Cotonou: Continue exploring Cotonou, visiting its colorful neighborhoods and vibrant markets.
- Artisans Center & Lagoon Market: Visit the Artisans Center for handcrafted souvenirs and explore Lagoon Market for unique local products.
- Leisure Time: The remainder of the day is free for you to relax or enjoy the city at your own pace.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Accommodation: Hotel Du Lac or Similar
Day 8: Departure from Cotonou
- Breakfast: Have your final breakfast in Benin.
- Flexible Schedule: Enjoy some leisure time, or with the help of your guide, you may opt for a short excursion or shopping.
- Departure: In the evening, you will be transferred to Cotonou International Airport for your flight home.
- Meals: Breakfast
TOUR INCLUDES
- Meet-and-greet service upon arrival and departure
- Roundtrip transfers between the airport and hotel
- 7 nights accommodation in the listed hotels
- Transportation in a private, comfortable vehicle
- Professional, English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees to all listed attractions and sites
- Daily breakfast as specified in the itinerary
- Assistance with visa application
TOUR EXCLUDES
- Visa fees and associated costs
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Travel insurance (available upon request)
- Required vaccinations
- Tips for the driver and guide
