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
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

10 Best Things to Do in Ouidah

1

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Ouidah Museum of History

Explore Benin's rich history and culture through exhibits.

No booking required
2

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Adults only

Walk the Route des Esclaves

Follow the path of the slave trade with poignant markers.

No booking required
3

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Explore the Temple of Pythons

Discover the sacred python temple and learn its significance.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at Ouidah Beach

Unwind on the beautiful sands along the Atlantic Ocean.

No booking required
5

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Sacred Forest

Experience tranquility in a spiritually significant forest.

No booking required
6

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Tour the Zinsou Foundation

Engage with contemporary African art and culture.

No booking required
7

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Discover the Ouidah Art Market

Shop for local crafts and handmade souvenirs.

No booking required
8

Est. 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Fort of Ouidah

Explore the historical fort with Atlantic views.

No booking required
9

Est. 3 hrs

Seasonal

Family-friendly

Attend the Voodoo Festival

Experience vibrant voodoo culture and celebrations.

No booking required
10

Est. < 1 hr

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the Python Temple

Witness the revered pythons and local traditions.

No booking required

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)