Explore Benin with Benny's Royal Tours: Unforgettable Journey from Cochin to Cotonou, Ouidah, Abomey and Natitingou

From the moment you step into Cotonou, Benin's energetic capital, you’re greeted by vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas. The Dantokpa Market, bustling with traders selling everything from textiles to spices, is a sensory adventure. Here, you can find artisans crafting colorful fabrics, spices being ground freshly for sale, and street food sizzling away.

A short boat ride away, Ganvié is a world unto itself. The stilt village, built over Lake Nokoué, is a testament to the ingenuity of the Tofinu people who created this settlement centuries ago. Observing daily life, with fishermen gliding in their canoes and traders balancing goods, offers a glimpse into a unique lifestyle that has withstood the test of time.

Ouidah is a city that evokes deep reflection. The Slave Route Museum tells stories of the past that are both poignant and chilling. The Door of No Return stands as a stark reminder of those who were once shipped to distant lands. However, Ouidah is not only about sorrowful history; the Vodun religion, still practiced vibrantly today, and the Python Temple reveal another layer of spirituality and culture. The Sacred Forest, with its ancient trees and shrines, is a sanctuary of calm.

In Abomey, the Royal Palaces showcase a time when the Kingdom of Dahomey was at its peak. Each artifact and architectural detail reflects the kingdom's artistic heritage and royal rituals. The crafts market is lively, with vendors offering intricately carved masks and statues that pay homage to local beliefs.

Dassa-Zoumé provides a different perspective on Benin’s spiritual landscape. Its basilica and pilgrimage sites attract thousands each year, while the nearby hills and monoliths add a touch of mystery. Meeting the local artisans reveals the region's deep-rooted artistic traditions.

In Natitingou, nestled near the Atakora Mountains, experience a quieter pace of life. The surrounding landscapes offer stunning vistas, and the nearby Somba villages are architectural wonders. Visiting the Tata Somba houses, with their fortress-like structures, offers a look into the ingenious ways the people adapted to their environment.

Pendjari National Park is the crown jewel of Benin's wildlife reserves. Here, the savannah teems with life, from the massive elephants grazing in herds to elusive predators like lions and cheetahs stalking their prey. The experience of a safari, tracking these majestic animals in their natural habitat, is unforgettable.

Returning to Cotonou, a night of live music and dancing at a local club is the perfect send-off. From start to finish, this tour of Benin is an exploration of a nation's rich, multifaceted heritage.