Cotonou Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Cotonou, the vibrant and bustling city in the Littoral region of Benin, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. With its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, Cotonou offers a truly immersive experience for every traveler.

Start your journey in the heart of the city at the vibrant Dantokpa Market, one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa. Lose yourself in the maze of colorful stalls and narrow alleyways, where you can find everything from traditional textiles and handicrafts to fresh produce and spices. Immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and smells of this bustling market, and interact with the friendly locals who are always ready to share stories and local tips.

For a dose of history and culture, visit the Ouidah Museum of History. Located just a short drive from Cotonou, this museum offers a fascinating insight into Benin's rich history, including its role in the transatlantic slave trade. Explore the thought-provoking exhibits and learn about the Benin Kingdom, the voodoo religion, and the legacy of slavery in this region.

Nature lovers will find solace in the tranquil beauty of the Pendjari National Park. Embark on an unforgettable safari experience and spot majestic elephants, lions, hippos, and a wide variety of bird species in their natural habitat. Take a guided tour or venture out on a self-drive adventure, and be prepared to be awe-struck by the untouched beauty of this national park.

After a day of exploration, indulge in the flavors of Benin's cuisine. From mouth-watering grilled fish served with spicy sauces to delicious street food like akara (bean fritters) and alloco (fried plantains), Cotonou's culinary scene is a treat for food enthusiasts. Savor the local delicacies at one of the many traditional restaurants or try your hand at cooking a Beninese dish during a cooking class.

As the sun sets, head to Fidjrosse Beach to unwind and soak in the beauty of the Atlantic Ocean. Take a leisurely stroll along the sandy shores, enjoy a refreshing swim, or simply relax with a cold drink while watching the vibrant sunset.

Alternative names: Population: 780 thous. (2019)Area: 30.5 mi²Elevation: 23 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 6°21'27"N, 2°25'14"E

Location

LittoralBenin

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Cotonou Top Attractions

Cotonou Attractions - What to See and Explore

Cotonou offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Dantokpa Market, Cotonou Cathedral, Lake Nokoué, Fondation Zinzou. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Market • Shopping
Dantokpa Market
Nestled in the bustling heart of Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin, the Dantokpa Market stands as a vibrant microcosm of West African commerce and culture. This sprawling marketplace is not just a shopping destination but an immersive experience for any traveler...
Church
Cotonou Cathedral
The cathedral of Notre Dame de Miséricorde, commonly known as Cotonou Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic cathedral, located near the Ancien Pont Bridge in Cotonou, Benin. It is noted for its distinct burgundy and white striped tiled architecture. Its tower stands towards the rear-end left side of the main building.
Nature • Lake
Lake Nokoué
Lake Nokoué is a lake in the southern part of Benin. It is 20 km wide and 11 km long and covers an area of 4,900 ha. The lake is partly fed by the Ouémé River and the Sô River, both of which deposit sediments from throughout the region in the lake.

6°21'45"N • 2°25'15"E
Fondation Zinzou
The Fondation Zinsou is a private foundation created in 2005 in Cotonou, focused on social action and culture, and dedicated to contemporary African art.
Bridge
Ancien Pont
The Ancien Pont is a bridge in Cotonou, Benin. The bridge crosses the Lagune de Cotonou which separates the two sides of the city. It was built in 1928 and renovated in 1981.
Lighthouse
Cotonou Lighthouse
Cotonou Lighthouse is a lighthouse in Cotonou, Benin. It was established in 1910. A second skeletal tower was built in 1928, and that light was moved to the water tower in 1968.
Mosque
Cotonou Central Mosque
The Cotonou Central Mosque is a mosque in Cotonou, Littoral, Benin. It is the most important building for the country's Muslims.
Neighbourhood
Agblangandan
Agblangandan is an arrondissement in the Ouémé department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Sèmè-Kpodji.
Neighbourhood
Ekpè
Ekpè is an arrondissement in the Ouémé department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Sèmè-Kpodji. According to the population census conducted by the Institut National de la Statistique Benin on February 15, 2002, the arrondissement had a total population of 34,917.
Neighbourhood
10th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
10th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
2nd arrondissement of the Littoral Department
2nd arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
13th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
13th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
7th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
7th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
5th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
5th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
8th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
8th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
1st arrondissement of the Littoral Department
1st arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
9th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
9th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
4th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
4th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.
Neighbourhood
6th arrondissement of the Littoral Department
6th arrondissement is an arrondissement in the Littoral department of Benin. It is an administrative division under the jurisdiction of the commune of Cotonou.

Day trips

Cotonou – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Cotonou, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Villa Karo (Grand Popo), Door of No Return (Ouidah), Royal Palace (Porto-Novo).

41 milesW
Museum
Villa Karo, Grand Popo
Nestled in the serene coastal town of Grand Popo in Benin, Villa Karo stands as a beacon of cultural exchange and artistic expression. This Finnish-African cultural center, established to foster and promote the rich tapestry of African arts and culture, has become a...
23 milesW
Arch
Door of No Return, Ouidah
The Door of No Return in Ouidah, Benin, is a poignant monument that stands as a stark reminder of one of the most tragic chapters in human history. This archway, located on the Atlantic coast, marks the spot where countless enslaved Africans were forced onto ships...
16 milesNE
Museum in a 19th-century ruler's palace
Royal Palace, Porto-Novo
The Royal Palace, also known as King Toffa's Palace and more recently Musée Honmé, is a former royal residence and today museum in Porto-Novo, Benin. It contains an example of an Alounloun and most displays are related to the King Toffa period.
16 milesNE
Mosque, Colonial architecture
Great Mosque of Porto-Novo, Porto-Novo
The Great Mosque of Porto-Novo is a mosque in Porto-Novo, Ouémé Department, Benin.
23 milesW
Church
Basilique de l'Immaculée Conception, Ouidah
The Basilique de l'Immaculée Conception is a Roman Catholic minor basilica dedicated to the Immaculate Conception located in Ouidah, Benin. The basilica is under the circumscription of the Archdiocese of Cotonou. The basilica was dedicated on November 9, 1989.

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Best Time To Visit Cotonou

Learn when is the best time to travel to Cotonou weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

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May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in August.

Average temperatures in °F

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The air temperature in this location remains at a similar level throughout the year.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January. Most of it rains in June.

Length of day in hours

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The length of the day varies only slightly throughout the year. The difference between the longest and the shortest day is 0 hr and 44 min.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Cotonou?

The top attractions to visit in Cotonou are:

What is the best time to visit Cotonou?

May, June and July are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in August. The air temperature in this location remains at a similar level throughout the year.