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Ouidah

Benin, Africa

Ouidah, a vibrant coastal town in Benin, is rich in history and culture. Known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade, you can explore the poignant Slave Route and the Door of No Return. Ouidah also boasts beautiful beaches, the sacred Python Temple, and the annual Voodoo Festival, making it an intriguing blend of history and spirituality. The town's vibrant markets and local crafts make it a charming destination for travelers looking to immerse themselves in authentic Beninese culture.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-4 days

Type

Town

Vibe

History

Airport

Cotonou Cadjehoun

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit

10 Best Things to Do in Ouidah

1. Visit the Ouidah Museum of History

Explore Benin's rich history and culture through exhibits.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

2. Walk the Route des Esclaves

Follow the path of the slave trade with poignant markers.

Available all year

Adults only

No booking required

2 hrs

3. Explore the Temple of Pythons

Discover the sacred python temple and learn its significance.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

4. Relax at Ouidah Beach

Unwind on the beautiful sands along the Atlantic Ocean.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

2 hrs

5. Visit the Sacred Forest

Experience tranquility in a spiritually significant forest.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1.5 hrs

6. Tour the Zinsou Foundation

Engage with contemporary African art and culture.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

7. Discover the Ouidah Art Market

Shop for local crafts and handmade souvenirs.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

8. Visit the Fort of Ouidah

Explore the historical fort with Atlantic views.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

1 hr

9. Attend the Voodoo Festival

Experience vibrant voodoo culture and celebrations.

Seasonal

Family-friendly

No booking required

3 hrs

10. Visit the Python Temple

Witness the revered pythons and local traditions.

Available all year

Family-friendly

No booking required

< 1 hr

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

Expected (~10%)

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-6 (#109 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

CFA Franc

Majority religion

Christian

Language

French

(<20% speak English)

Best dishes to try

Kuli-Kuli

VE

Peanut snack made from groundnuts. (National dish)

Akkra Funfun

VE

Fried bean cakes, crispy and savory.

Pâte

VE

Cornmeal dough served with sauce.

Amon Tindjan

Spicy fish stew with vegetables.

Ablo

VE

Steamed cornmeal cake, soft and fluffy.

Phrases to learn

English

French

Hello

Bonjour

(Bohn-zhoor)

Yes/No

Oui / Non

(Wee / No)

Thank you

Merci

(Mehr-see)

Excuse me

Excusez-moi

(Ex-kew-zay mwah)

How much?

Combien?

(Kohm-byen)