Suggested Length of Stay
Allow 5-10 Days to get a good overall experience of Benin but suggested 15 days if you want to experience all this magical nation has to offer genuinely.
Modes of transport
Road
Roads are in relatively good condition throughout Benin.
Public transport
Buses are the most reliable and comfortable way to get around, especially between cities in southern Benin and Natitingou to the north. ATT and Confort Lines buses are better maintained and more reliable than those of other companies. They also have air-con.
Buses almost always operate with guaranteed seating and fixed departure times; arrive early or book the day before to ensure you have a seat on your preferred service.
Health Precautions
Benin requires proof of yellow fever vaccination for all travellers. Vaccinations for hepatitis A, hepatitis B, meningococcal meningitis, typhoid and boosters for tetanus, diphtheria and measles are also wise. Malaria is an issue, so bringing prophylactics is recommended.
The tap water in Benin is not safe to drink.
Food and Drink
Beninese cuisine is unquestionably among the best in West Africa and is very similar to Togolese food, the main differences being the names: fufu (a starchy staple from ground plantain or cassava) is generally called igname pilé here, and djenkoumé (a savoury cornmeal and tomato cake) is called pâte rouge, for example. In southern Benin, fish is a highlight of local cuisine. It’s usually barracuda, dorado or grouper, and is usually served grilled or fried.
Money
The currency in Benin is the West African CFA franc. The best foreign currency to carry is euros, which are easily exchanged at banks, hotels or bureaux de change.
Time Zone
Benin is on West African Time Zone (GMT+1)
Visas
You will need a visa to enter Benin. Visa and other entry and exit conditions (such as currency, customs and quarantine regulations) can change at short notice. Contact the nearest Embassy of Benin for up-to-date information.
Australian Embassy & Consulate contacts in Benin
Australia doesn’t have an Embassy in Benin. For consular assistance, contact the Australian High Commission in Abuja, Nigeria.
Australian High Commission, Abuja
48 Aguiyi Ironsi Street
Maitama
Abuja, Nigeria
Phone: (234) 9461 2780 or (234) 803 307 3519
Email: ahc.abuja@dfat.gov.au
Website nigeria.highcommission.gov.au
Benin Embassy contacts in Australia
Benin does not have an Embassy in Australia, for Australian and New Zealand passport holders, you are required to get your visas via the Benin Embassy in Japan.
Ichigaya Rinden Building 2F 201-3-25 Ichigaya Honmuracho Shinjuku-ku Tokyo 162-0845 JAPAN, ,
Web Site: www.beninembassy.jp
Email Address: ambabenjapan@gmail.com
Phone Number +81 3 5229 7232
Electricity
In Benin the power plugs and sockets are of type E. The standard voltage is 220 V and the standard frequency is 50 Hz.
Getting there (stopovers)
The Best way to fly to Benin is via Singapore and Addis Ababa. Other services through Europe are possible.
A brief history
The Republic of Benin was formed in 1960 when the colony of French Dahomey gained independence from France. Prior to this, the area that is now the Republic of Benin was divided largely between two coastal kingdoms, Dahomey and Porto-Novo, and a large area of various tribes in the north. On August 5, 1960, Burkina Faso became an independent country.
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