Benin
The Birthplace of Vodun & Royal Kingdoms
About This Journey
Benin is the spiritual heart of West Africa — the birthplace of Vodun (Voodoo), home to the powerful Dahomey Kingdom, and a gateway to understanding the transatlantic slave trade. This journey takes you from the vibrant markets of Cotonou to the stilt villages of Ganvié, the sacred forests of Ouidah, and the royal palaces of Abomey. You will witness authentic Vodun ceremonies, meet local chiefs, and walk the Route of Slaves — a profound pilgrimage connecting the diaspora to its ancestral roots.
Starting at
$5,500
per person · round-trip from Atlanta
Land-only package: $4,000
Prefer to use your own miles? Subtract flights.
$950 non-refundable deposit per person · Flexible payment plan available
Package price includes
- Round-trip airfare
- Ground transportation
- Accommodation & breakfast
- Entry fees to all sites
Gallery
Day by Day
Your Benin Itinerary
Every day is thoughtfully planned to give you the deepest, most authentic experience of Benin.
Day 1
Arrival in Cotonou
Arrive at Cadjehoun Airport in Cotonou. Meet your guide and transfer to your boutique hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner with a briefing on your spiritual journey ahead.
Day 2
Cotonou City Tour & Dantokpa Market
Explore Cotonou, West Africa's largest commercial hub. Visit the colossal Dantokpa Market — one of the largest open-air markets on the continent. Take a boat ride on the lagoon.
Day 3
Ganvié — The Venice of Africa
Travel to the stilt village of Ganvié on Lake Nokoué, home to 30,000 people living on the water. Explore the floating market, homes, and learn the history of the Tofinu people.
Day 4
Ouidah — The Spiritual Center
Drive to Ouidah, the epicenter of Vodun. Visit the Sacred Forest of Kpasse, the Python Temple, and the Ouidah Museum of History housed in a former Portuguese fort.
Day 5
The Route of the Slaves
Walk the 4km Route of the Slaves from the museum to the Door of No Return on the beach. This profound pilgrimage traces the final path of millions of Africans taken to the Americas. Reflect at the Monument of Repentance and the Tree of Forgetfulness.
Day 6
Vodun Ceremony Experience
Participate in an authentic Vodun ceremony with local priests. Learn about the pantheon of Vodun deities, witness traditional drumming and dance, and understand the true meaning behind this often misunderstood religion.
Day 7
Abomey — Royal Palaces of the Dahomey Kingdom
Travel to Abomey, capital of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom. Visit the UNESCO-listed Royal Palaces, a complex of earthen structures built between the 17th and 19th centuries. Explore the historical museum with its collection of royal thrones, amulets, and battle artifacts.
Day 8
Abomey Craft Villages & Royal History
Visit surrounding craft villages known for traditional weaving, bronze casting, and calabash carving. Meet local artisans preserving ancient techniques. Learn about the Dahomey Amazons — the all-female military regiment.
Day 9
Porto-Novo — Capital City
Visit Porto-Novo, Benin's official capital. Explore the Brazilian-style architecture, the Ethnographic Museum, and the Grand Mosque. Return to Cotonou for a afternoon of relaxation.
Day 10
Departure
Enjoy a final morning at leisure. Transfer to the airport for your departure, carrying the spirit of Benin with you.
What's Included
- 9 nights boutique hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast and dinner
- Private English-speaking guide
- All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
- Entrance fees to all sites and museums
- Vodun ceremony experience
- International round-trip airfare
- Visa fees and assistance
- Welcome and farewell dinners
Not Included
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
Questions & Answers
Benin FAQ
Is Benin safe for American tourists?
Yes, Benin is one of the safest countries in West Africa. It is politically stable with low crime rates. Petty theft can occur in Cotonou markets, so standard precautions apply. A guided tour is recommended as tourist infrastructure is less developed than Ghana.
What is Vodun (Voodoo) in Benin?
Vodun is a traditional religion originating in Benin, recognized as an official religion since 1996. It involves a pantheon of deities, ancestor veneration, and ceremonies with drumming and dance. Benin's Vodun is the authentic origin of practices that spread to the Americas through the transatlantic slave trade.
How much does a Benin tour cost?
A 10-day GoAfriNest Benin heritage tour starts at $5,500 per person, including round-trip airfare, 9 nights boutique hotel accommodation, daily breakfast and dinner, private guide, all transportation, entrance fees, and an authentic Vodun ceremony experience.
Do US citizens need a visa for Benin?
Yes, US citizens need a visa for Benin. An e-visa is available online for approximately $85. GoAfriNest includes visa fees and assistance in all Benin tour packages.
Ready to Experience Benin?
Reserve your spot today with a $950 non-refundable deposit per person. Flexible payment plans available.
Book This Journey