Benin may not be on every traveler’s radar, but those who go will discover one of West Africa’s most fascinating destinations.
Tucked between Togo and Nigeria along the Gulf of Guinea, Benin is small in size yet layered in history.
Once the seat of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom, it later became a center of the transatlantic slave trade before falling under French colonial rule and eventually gaining independence in 1960.
Today, Benin welcomes only about 350,000 visitors a year, far fewer than its better-known neighbors.
That smaller number isn’t because it lacks appeal, but because it remains a bit undiscovered.
Travelers who make the trip experience something authentic: vibrant markets, stilt villages on Lake Nokoué, national parks full of wildlife, and palaces tied to centuries of royal history.
One of Benin’s most compelling draws is its role as the birthplace of Vodun, or Voodoo, a spiritual tradition still widely practiced and celebrated here.
Visitors can see ceremonies, festivals, and shrines that highlight a belief system that has influenced cultures across the Atlantic.
Add in relaxed coastal towns, warm hospitality, and a mix of cultural and natural landmarks, and Benin offers a rewarding experience for travelers seeking something well beyond the usual tourist path.
If it sounds too good to be true, there’s a reason.
Visiting Benin comes with certain safety risks and some places to flat-out avoid.
Let’s get into it!
Warnings & Dangers in Benin
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Benin carries a medium level of risk. Most visits are trouble-free, but crime, scams, and occasional unrest can affect travelers. The northern border regions are the highest-risk areas, with advisories warning against travel due to terrorism and banditry. Elsewhere, risks are manageable with basic precautions.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: MEDIUM
Transport in Benin is unpredictable, and that makes it another medium risk. Roads outside major cities are poorly maintained, and traffic accidents are common. Public minibuses are often overcrowded and unsafe, while motorcycle taxis (zemidjans) dominate local transport but pose risks due to reckless driving and lack of helmets. Using private, reputable taxis or pre-arranged transport is a safer option, especially for airport transfers or long distances.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpocketing is a common annoyance in busy places like markets, bus stations, and crowded streets. Thieves usually target bags, phones, and wallets, especially after dark. Wearing valuables discreetly and keeping cash spread out helps lower the risk, but make no mistake about it;?this is also a medium risk.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Natural disasters in Benin are limited, but seasonal flooding during the rainy season can disrupt road travel and affect rural communities. Coastal areas also experience strong tides and dangerous rip currents. Drought can impact parts of the north, occasionally leading to shortages. Overall, the risk is low compared to other regions.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Mugging and armed robbery are risks, especially in Cotonou and some other urban areas. Incidents are more likely after dark or in less-populated neighborhoods. I highly recommend you read the latest travel advisory to see detailed information about where the most violent crime happens.
TERRORISM RISK: HIGH
The northern border regions with Burkina Faso, Niger, and Nigeria are high-risk zones for terrorism and banditry. Attacks and kidnappings have occurred near Pendjari and W National Parks, and advisories urge travelers to avoid these areas entirely. The rest of the country, including Cotonou and southern destinations, faces a much lower terrorism threat, though the situation in the Sahel region can spill over unpredictably.
SCAMS RISK: HIGH
Benin has a strong reputation for internet and financial scams, many originating from unsolicited emails or online dating schemes. In person, scams are more likely to happen in bars or markets, where inflated prices or hidden charges are common. Staying skeptical of unsolicited offers, confirming prices in advance, and avoiding risky online interactions help prevent problems.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
Benin is relatively welcoming, but women travelers may attract extra attention. Harassment is usually limited to stares or unwanted comments, but solo women should take standard precautions, especially when using public transport or walking at night. Dressing modestly in rural areas shows respect and avoids standing out.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Tap water in Benin is not safe to drink. Even in Cotonou, water can be contaminated, and rural areas carry higher risks. Travelers should stick to bottled or filtered water for drinking and brushing teeth. Ice cubes from street vendors are also risky. Diarrheal illness is common for those who ignore these precautions, so bottled water is the safest option.
Safest Places to Visit in Benin
One of the best websites to learn more about Benin is tourismbenin.com.
You can even download an app to have all the information in the palm of your hand.
Plus, you’ll have service agents ready to answer questions 24 hours a day.
Cotonou, the largest city, is often the entry point, with its lively markets and coastal energy.
Just a short trip away, Porto-Novo, the capital, offers museums and architecture that reflect French colonial influence and the country’s complex history.
Benin is known as the birthplace of Vodun (Voodoo), and visitors can learn about its traditions through festivals and cultural centers, especially in Ouidah.
Ouidah is also home to the Route des Esclaves, a sobering reminder of the transatlantic slave trade, marked by monuments and memorials.
For nature, Pendjari National Park in the north is a highlight, offering safaris with elephants, lions, and hippos.
It’s one of the best wildlife spots in West Africa.
Ganvié, sometimes called the “Venice of Africa,” is a stilt village on Lake Nokoué where residents live and work entirely on water.
Abomey, the former capital of the Dahomey Kingdom, has palaces that are UNESCO-listed and provide insight into Benin’s royal past.
Grand Popo, a coastal town, mixes relaxed beaches with cultural tours, making it a nice break from urban bustle.
Traveling inland, you’ll find vibrant towns, artisan markets, and traditional crafts like textiles and bronze work.
The mix of coastal heritage, inland culture, and northern wildlife makes Benin an unusually diverse destination for its size.
Places to Avoid in Benin
While there are lower-risk areas in Benin, there are also places to avoid, according to travel advisories.
The northern border regions with Burkina Faso, Niger, and Nigeria’s Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara states fall into the “do not travel” category.
Violence in these zones can happen suddenly, and groups ranging from bandits to terrorist organizations have carried out attacks and kidnappings, even near Pendjari and W National Parks.
The same risks extend around towns like Kandi, Tanguieta, and the border north of Nikki, where foreign nationals have been targeted for kidnapping.
To make matters tougher, the U.S. government has a limited ability to help in these areas, and even its employees need special authorization to travel there.
The bottom line: Benin has plenty of safe, fascinating places to visit, but the northern borderlands aren’t worth the risk.
Stick to other regions for a smoother, safer trip.
Your home country’s travel advisory will always detail the higher-risk areas and places to avoid.
Check that before planning a trip.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Benin
- In an emergency, dial 117 to reach the national police or 118 for fire and medical help. Response times can vary, especially outside cities, but these numbers are the official lifeline. Keep them written down in case your phone dies, and know your location details when calling to avoid delays.
- Benin does not have a comprehensive public alert system like in Europe or the U.S. To stay informed, tune into local radio, follow official government channels, and check reliable regional news outlets. If you’re staying long-term, your embassy may also provide notifications or emergency contact updates.
- Foreign visitors must carry both their valid license and an International Driving Permit. Cars are expected to have safety gear like triangles and fire extinguishers, and police may stop vehicles to check compliance. Roads vary in quality, so driving experience in developing-country conditions is strongly recommended before attempting long trips.
- Police checkpoints are common on roads, and you’ll need to show identification. A passport works best, though a photocopy with your entry stamp can also help reduce the risk of losing your original. Having ID on hand avoids delays or extra questioning, which can quickly turn a routine stop into a hassle.
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required for entry, and officials may check at the airport. Routine vaccines like tetanus, hepatitis A, and typhoid are also recommended. Travelers spending time outdoors or in rural areas should consider malaria prevention, as it’s present throughout the country year-round. Carrying a personal medical kit is also a smart move.
- French is the official language in Benin, and while English speakers can get by in tourist-oriented places, it’s not widely understood. Learning a few French phrases will help with taxis, markets, and daily interactions. In rural areas, local languages dominate, so patience and gestures are often part of communication.
- Dantokpa Market in Cotonou is one of the biggest in West Africa and worth a daytime visit, but avoid it after dark. Crowds thin, lighting is poor, and incidents of theft are far more common. Plan your trip for morning or afternoon hours to experience the energy without the risks.
- Benin has a reputation for internet scams, often involving fake romances or desperate pleas for financial help. These usually come through unsolicited emails, social media, or dating sites. Scammers often pose as Americans to earn trust. Don’t send money or personal details.
- The Atlantic coast is beautiful but dangerous, with rip currents and strong tides that cause multiple drownings each year. Even strong swimmers should avoid unsupervised waters. Private resorts sometimes have sea walls or safer stretches, but always check conditions before stepping in.
- While same-sex relations aren’t illegal, LGBTQ+ rights are not widely accepted, especially outside urban centers. Public displays of affection may draw unwanted attention or discrimination. Larger cities are somewhat more tolerant, but being low-key is the safer route.
So... How Safe Is Benin Really?
A trip to Benin comes with certain risks, even when you steer clear of the places to avoid we discussed earlier.
Places like the U.S., Canada, and Australia rank travel safety on a four-tiered scale.
One is the lowest and four is the highest.
While Benin falls into Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution), there are Level 3 (Avoid Non-Essential Travel) and Level 4 (Avoid All Travel) regions that you should note before you plan a trip.
Even reading through the travel advisories, you’ll see the safest places still have risks of terrorism, street crime, scams, and unregulated tourist activities.
Plus, this country doesn’t have a huge tourist inflow, so you also can’t get a lot of feedback as you might get in more popular areas.
However, common sense and situational awareness are key to enjoying the unique offerings without putting yourself at unnecessary risk.
How Does Benin Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Benin | 45 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers need a visa to enter Benin, which can be obtained online as an e-visa before arrival. Options include short stays of up to 30 days or longer validity for multiple entries. Always apply in advance and make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity left for smooth entry.
Currency
Benin uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), which is also valid in several neighboring countries. ATMs are common in cities but limited in rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in some hotels and larger businesses, but cash is preferred almost everywhere else. Bring clean, undamaged bills if you plan to exchange foreign currency.
Weather
Benin has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The dry season, from November to March, is the most popular for travel due to lower humidity and clearer skies. The rainy seasons run roughly from April to July and from September to October, often bringing heavy downpours that can disrupt road travel.
Airports
Cotonou Cadjehoun International Airport is the main entry point for international visitors. It connects Benin with regional hubs like Lagos and Abidjan, as well as some European cities. Facilities are basic compared to larger airports, but functional.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for Benin. Healthcare facilities are limited outside of Cotonou, and medical evacuation can be expensive without coverage. Insurance that includes medical, trip cancellation, and theft protection provides peace of mind. If you plan to explore rural areas or national parks, make sure your policy covers emergency evacuation.
Benin Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
31 | 32 | 32 | 32 | 31 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 30 | 31 | 31 |
| Low °C |
24 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 24 | 24 |
| High °F |
88 | 90 | 90 | 90 | 88 | 84 | 82 | 82 | 82 | 86 | 88 | 88 |
| Low °F |
75 | 77 | 79 | 79 | 77 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 75 | 75 | 75 | 75 |
Benin Is Kinda Nice But I Don’t Wanna Go There
Why
I Am Not Going To Benin
I’ve been to benin,nigeria! What an experience! Very corrupt! It’s obvious the corruption that goes on, but by far the nicest most welcoming people on the planet! Keep your eyes open and be wary of everybody! ?
I feel like most of Africa comes with a risk when visiting as an outsider but if you know enough about the area, the culture, the people you stand a better chance at not getting taken advantage of or hurt. That being said, I would never travel here alone. There are a lot of very friendly and welcoming people but there are also a lot of issues with crime, gangs, and corruption in the government and police forces of the area. You have to be careful!
Safe and Welcoming in Benin
Wonderful Country, Wonderful welcoming friendly people. Never had a problem with safety as long as I kept my eyes open and was aware of surroundings.
I disagree with this write up about Benin
I disagree with the write up about Benin. I am a foreigner living in Benin since well over 15 years, I never encounter not heard about people being robbed in a public transport. I think the write up here is exaggerated .
Claire
Exceptional
I’ve been to Benin for a teaching internship. It was the most beautiful experience of my life. The welcoming people, the warmth, the importance of social connection, the culture, etc. As a very anxious person, I saw all my stress disappear over there. I’ve never experience this serenity before in my life, and never experienced back elsewhere or even in my own country.