Benin Quick Guide

If you are planning a Benin travel guide, chances are, you have already been to this region several times before. This country has a lot to offer to travelers looking for a little relaxation and adventure. The best way to experience it is by taking advantage of the country's travel guide, which can be found online in several sources.

It is not surprising that, when people look for a Benin travel guide, they usually get one that is written specifically for backpacking. It is true that the climate is perfect for doing such activities, but the activities do not require too much planning. Benin offers a lot of activities for backpackers, from scuba diving to backpacking, hiking to boating. The best way to plan your activities, though, will be to do so according to an itinerary. An itinerary will help you make sure that your time is spent doing activities that interest you, rather than wasting your time in activities that do not interest you. And while the Benin travel guide may not be written specifically for backpacking, most have tips and recommendations for things that would definitely appeal to backpackers.

One of the things that most people who read an online or printed Benin travel guide would recommend to tourists is an east-west trek through the national forest. This trek, called the 'Great Migration', draws a large number of backpackers each year because of its amazingly beautiful scenery. You can start your trip in Bure on a well-planned escapade through the forest; proceed on to Ouba, Mauritania, and Nigeria. The Great Migration, though, affects the wildlife of several parts of the region, notably the central area of Benin where there are many protected nature reserves. One of the places that you should not miss while on your escapade through Benin is the Pendjari National Park, which has a unique population of hundreds of wild elephants some of them protected.

Another thing that almost all Benin travel guides will tell you to do is spend at least one night per week at one of the region's main cities Cotonou, Marrakech, or Niamey. These cities are some of the best in the region and offer a wide variety of activities for backpackers. If you're lucky, you might even find yourself staying in a grand photo a traditional houseboat that is most often rented by tourists to get around the Grand Bassin basin. If you like an activity that requires little work, then Cotonou is the ideal place for you; it boasts some of the most impressive and well-maintained backpacking trails in the country. If you're willing to explore, then you'll want to visit the village of Calama, which is well preserved thanks to the efforts of local artists.

When you head back to your hometown, make sure to check the public transportation system, as it can be a very useful means of transportation between different destinations in the area. Public transportation around benin is fairly cheap compared to what you'd pay for cabins, especially if you go during the off season. You can use your hotel's car service or even rent a motorcycle for a long and scenic drive around benin. Benin offers a lot for anyone who is willing to put in a bit of work. A Benin travel guide will show you the best ways to get around the area.

If you are one of those adventure-seekers that can't stay away from the water, then your best bet would be to head to the Atlas Mountains and climb one of the many peaks there. You may have to get a bike to do this, so look for one in the Benin town center that you'd like to rent. However, be warned that most of these trails are meant only for the experienced traveler, as the terrain is quite steep and dangerous. If you're looking for an easier way to travel around Benin, then your best bet would be to take one of the backpacking tours that are offered all year round. These tours are usually accompanied by a campground stay and the beauty of nature is just too much to be contained within one week's trip.

The next thing on your list should be a good Benin travel guide to help you find the best places to backpack in the area. Be sure to include information about the different regions, including how to get to and from the various cities and towns in your region. There is usually a bus route from the capital of Benin, Cotonou, to the coast and the capital of Sintra, Marigot. Another way to reach Cotonou is by renting a car, as taxis and minibuses are quite expensive, and sometimes not safe when traveling on African roads.

A Benin travel guide to make sure you visit all the key attractions in the area would include a detailed itinerary of the different regions, which include detailed descriptions of each of the main towns and villages, as well as a short note about the nature and history of the place. For example, one of my trips took me through the beautiful and thriving coastal village of Cotonou, which sits on the Gulf of Guinea. I visited its national park and its fascinating salt pans, which attract local and foreign tourists alike. My next scheduled stop would be in the gorgeous little town of Ganvi, where I could try some authentic African cuisine and maybe catch a voodoo curse done in Cotonou.

What vaccinations do I need?

Up to date information for vaccinations before you travel to Benin are available from the NHS Fit for Travel website.

Is it safe to travel?

Best time to visit?

The best time to visit Benin. The best time to visit Benin is during the dry season, from October to February when the rains are ending, the humidity is dropping as are the temperatures.

Do I need a Visa?

British passport holders need a visa to enter Benin. You should get a short stay or multiple entry e-visa by applying and paying online. The visa will then be issued on arrival at the airport in Cotonou.

See which forms you may need for entry into Benin.

What currency do i need?

The official currency of Benin is the West African Cfa Franc (XOF). If you're looking to transfer or spend money in Benin you can grab amazing West African Cfa Franc deals via Wise.com (GBP to XOF).

What about the wildlife?

Its varied animal life includes elephants, leopards, lions, antelope, monkeys, wild pigs, crocodiles, and buffalo. There are many species of snakes, including pythons and puff adders. Birds include guinea fowl, wild duck, and partridge, as well as many tropical species.

What is the traditional food?

French food? Kuli-kuli is Benin's national dish, providing nutrition, protein, and sustenance to the poor and often malnourished locals who have limited access to food. This simple meal consists of ground, smashed peanuts that are shaped into balls or biscuits which are deep-fried in their own oils.

What Languages are spoken?

French is the official language, and all the indigenous languages are considered national languages. Of the Beninese languages, Fon (a Gbe language) and Yoruba are the most important in the south of the country. You can learn some basic French before you travel to Benin and really impress the locals!

How much do you tip?

The currency in Benin is the West African Cfa Franc (Tipping is generally not necessary except at upmarket restaurants, where around 10% extra should be given for good service.).

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