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DAHOMEY AFRICAN TOURS (Cotonou) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Dahomey African Tours

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12 Days Benin and Togo Cultural Private Guided Tour

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Dahomey African Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

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Benin Safari Tours & Holidays

Benin, a French-speaking West African nation, is the birthplace of the vodun (or “voodoo”) religion and home to the former Dahomey Kingdom from circa 1600–1900. In Abomey, Dahomey’s former capital, the Historical Museum occupies two royal palaces with bas-reliefs recounting the kingdom’s past and a throne mounted on human skulls. To the north, Pendjari National Park offers safaris with elephants, hippos, and lions.

Most journeys begin in Cotonou, Benin’s largest city, and de facto capital. Cotonou has an enviable location on the Atlantic Ocean with miles and miles of beach which on weekends are crowded with local families. Cotonou Dantokpa Market is one of the largest in West Africa. Accessible from Cotonou on day trips are Ganvie, where 12,000 fishermen live in stilt villages on Lake Nokoue; Ouidah, a former slaving post and considered the birthplace of voodoo; and Porto Novo, Benin’s official capital, another former slave post, the city-state of the Yoruba Kingdom based in Nigeria, and where many former slaves settled when they returned from Brazil after their emancipation. Porto Novo means “New Port” in Portuguese. One of the great sights in Port Novo is the multi-colored Brazilian mosque. Another is the costumed voodoo figures with their roots in Yoruba culture known as the “Guardians of the Night.” Highly revered and serving as an unofficial police force, these spirits were originally created to scare enemies away. Today they still wander Port Novo streets before returning to their temple where the entrance is prohibited.

How to get to Benin

Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport is an airport in the Cadjehoun neighborhood of Cotonou, the largest city in Benin, in West Africa. The airport is the largest in the country, and as such, is the primary entry point into the country by air, with flights to Africa and Europe. The Cotonou VOR-DME is on the field.

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• Via Cairo, İstanbul

Passport, Visa, and Entry requirements for Benin

Travelers to Benin must present a valid passport and visa to enter the country. Visas are not available upon entry at the airport or at any land or sea arrival point. Visit the website of the Embassy of Benin for contact information and for details on the most current visa and entry requirements.

The health sector of Benin

In Benin, most serious epidemic diseases have been brought under control by mobile health units and other facilities. The government of Benin has set goals of expanding its health care system, upgrading the quality of first referral care, promoting private-sector care, and improving public sector care.

Travelers traveling to Benin must purchase travel insurance in order to access private medical care or evacuation for any emergency.

Malaria and Yellow fever vaccination for  Benin

Travelers to Benin must present a valid passport and visa to enter the country. Ideally, you must have your passport on you, and some other form of identification (ID) card. Don’t make the mistake of traveling without a passport simply because you’re going next door to Benin, this will only cause you unnecessary delay and expenses paying off border officials.

Currency of  Benin

The West African CFA franc is the official currency of Benin sometimes referred to as simply franc is the currency of eight independent states in West Africa: Benin, Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Niger, Senegal, and Togo.

Official Language of  Benin

A total of 55 languages are spoken in Benin Genealogy, with 50 being indigenous. Of those, French is the official language, and all the indigenous languages are considered national languages. Of the Beninese languages, Fon, a Gbe language, and Yoruba are the most important in the south of the country.

Best time to travel to Benin

The best time to visit Benin is in the dry months of December to March – which also coincides with the annual Voodoo festival in January – an unmissable experience. These months are slightly cooler and more pleasant, although watch out for the dusty harmattan wind – lip balm and moisturizer are must-haves!

What to wear in Benin

“Many people in Benin wear traditional clothing. For men and women, the traditional garb there is called a ‘bomba. ‘For men, they will wear a long tunic shirt, a long, loose tunic shirt with loose trousers. And women will wear a wrap skirt called a ‘pagne,’ and then just a loose top.

What to bring while traveling to Benin

Benin is famous for its beaches and extraordinary festivals so while traveling to Benin here are some of the essentials to pack before traveling to Benin.

• Sunscreen lotion.
• Long and short sleeve shirts.
• Waterproof luggage.
• Shorts or short pants.
• Light footwear.

Car hire and driving in   Benin

We do not advise self-driving in Benin as it can be dangerous so we highly recommend hiring a vehicle with a driver or book an organized safari package with Wilderness Explorers Africa.

Accommodation in Benin

Benin is bordered to the northwest by Burkina Faso, to the east by Nigeria, and to the west by Togo. The official capital is Porto-Novo, but Cotonou is Benin’s largest city, its chief port, and its de facto administrative capital. Benin was a French colony from the late 19th century until 1960. you will find accommodation here but outside the main capital, an advance booking is required before traveling.

Local food of  Benin

Rice, beans, tomatoes, and couscous are also significant staple foods. Fruits are common in this region, including mandarin oranges, oranges, bananas, kiwifruit, avocados, pineapples, and peanuts. Yams are the main staple in northern Benin and are also often served with peanut- or tomato-based sauces.

Tipping while Travelling in Benin

Tipping is appreciated all over Benin. Restaurants don’t generally add service charges to bills and a 10 percent tip is appropriate for waitrons. Fares are usually rounded up for taxi drivers, and small tips for hotel staff are appreciated.

Further information for Benin

Benin is a West African country officially known as the Republic of Benin. Benin borders Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso and Niger to the north, and Togo to the west.  French is Benin’s official language but the people commonly speak indigenous languages such as Oruba and Fon.

Safety of Benin

Violent  crime is common in Benin, especially in Cotonou and regions bordering Nigeria. Robberies, car high jacking’s and pickpocketing also occur. Don’t walk alone, after dark, or in poorly lit areas.  Scams  and internet fraud are common in West African countries.

We recommend booking a safari with a safari operator.

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Cotonou Cultural Trips

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Cotonou & Ganvie Tour

An insightful day trip to soak in all that Cotonou and Ganvie have to offer. Don’t missout on a visit to the Dantokpa Market and the Artisans Center in Cotonou.

Also visit one of the highlights of any trip to West Africa, Ganvie, the “Venice” .

A 500-year-old village on water lying in Lake Nokoué, with a population of around 20,000 people, it is probably the largest lake village in Africa. The village was established in the sixteenth or seventeenth centuries by the Tofinu people, established on the lake because the Dahomey’s (a slave trading tribe) religion forbade the Fon warriors from entering water, therefore the lagoon was a safe territory for other tribes.

Return to ship in the late afternoon.

Rates include: Transportation, driver/guide  lunch & entrance fees

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Cotonou - Travel to Benin

Cotonou Benin

Cotonou is the largest city and economic center of Benin, located on the southern coast of the country. It serves as the capital's economic and commercial hub and is a vibrant and bustling city with a mix of traditional and modern elements.

While visiting Cotonou, it's advisable to explore its unique markets, try local cuisine, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere. As with any travel, it's important to exercise caution, particularly regarding personal belongings and safety, and to follow any local regulations or guidelines provided by authorities.

Here's some information about Cotonou:

1. Commerce and Economy

• Commerce and Economy: Cotonou is a major commercial and economic center, hosting the country's largest port, Port of Cotonou. The port serves as a vital gateway for international trade and is a hub for importing and exporting goods. Cotonou is also known for its vibrant markets, such as Dantokpa Market, one of the largest open-air markets in West Africa.

2. Beaches and Coastline

• Beaches and Coastline: Cotonou offers several beautiful beaches along its coastline, including Fidjrosse Beach and Erevan Beach. These beaches are popular spots for relaxation, swimming, and enjoying the ocean views. You can find beachside bars and restaurants offering local cuisine and refreshing drinks.

3. Voodoo Culture

• Voodoo Culture: Voodoo is an important part of the cultural fabric of Benin, and Cotonou is home to numerous Voodoo temples and practitioners. You may have the opportunity to witness or participate in Voodoo ceremonies and explore the significance of this spiritual practice in Beninese culture.

4. National Museum of Benin

• National Museum of Benin: Located in Cotonou, the National Museum of Benin showcases an impressive collection of traditional arts and artifacts from the country's various ethnic groups. It provides insights into Beninese history, culture, and craftsmanship.

5. Stade de l'Amitié

• Stade de l'Amitié: Cotonou is home to Stade de l'Amitié, a multi-purpose stadium that hosts various sporting events and concerts. It is one of the largest stadiums in West Africa and has a capacity of over 20,000 spectators.

6. Nightlife and Entertainment

• Nightlife and Entertainment: Cotonou offers a vibrant nightlife scene with numerous bars, clubs, and live music venues. You can enjoy a variety of music genres, including traditional Beninese music, Afrobeat, and contemporary African and international music.

7. International Flights and Connections

• International Flights and Connections: As the major entry point for international travelers, Cotonou has the Cotonou Cadjehoun Airport, which offers connections to several African, European, and Middle Eastern destinations. The airport has modern facilities and provides essential services for travelers.

National Museum of Benin

• Grande Mosquee de Zongo: Open 24 hours - from Monday to Sunday. Place of worship for musulmans. One of the largest mosque in Cotonou. The mosque located in a busy environment. It has modern facilities and a large space for prayer, people are always going in and out - it's almost a marketplace. Located in a very busy neighborhood. Active, crowdy The mosque seems like the biggest in the environment and thus experiences loads of traffic and it has a fairly large parking space so there's no problem if you want to drive down rather than taking public vehicle.
• Place du Souvenir: Open 24 hours - from Monday to Sunday. Place du Souvenir, formerly called Place des Martyrs, is a place in the city of Cotonou, in Benin, located in the Haie Vive district. It occupies the corner between Rue 390 and Airport Road. and one of the largest public square in the heart of the city of Cotonou, ideal for a quick exchange meeting, easy to locate.
• Cotonou Cathedral: The cathedral of Notre Dame de Miséricorde, commonly known as Cotonou Cathedral, is a Roman Catholic cathedral, It is a place of prayer for the faithful of the Roman Catholic Church 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. The cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cotonou.
• Lagune de Cotonou: Very organized and beautiful lagoon not to be missed. Is modest place within town.
• Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your nationality. Depending on your citizenship, you may need to apply for a visa in advance or obtain one upon arrival. Contact supporting our visa support , or visit website for specific visa information.

Travel Advisories

• Travel Advisories: Check the travel advisories issued by your government for any alerts or warnings regarding travel to Benin. It's important to stay informed about the current safety situation in the country. gouv.fr , USA Benin Travel Advisory , UK Foreign travel advice , cs.mfa.gov.cn , kdmid.ru , exteriores.gob.es , auswaertiges-amt.de , travel.gc.ca Benin travel advice

Vaccinations and Health

• Vaccinations and Health: Visit a healthcare provider or travel clinic at least 4-6 weeks before your trip to ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations and receive any required or recommended vaccinations for Benin. Check with your healthcare professional for specific advice based on your health and travel plans. You can check with the following links who.int , travelhealthpro.org.uk , cdc.gov
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Voodoo Festival in Ouidah 4Days / 3Nights

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• Introduction
• Day 1 Cotonou- Ouidah-
• Day 2 Ouidah- Grand Popo
• Day 3 Gbècon- Ouidah
• Day 4 Calavi- Ganvie- Ouidhah

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Reviews About This Operator

• Tour Operator Across Africa Tours & Travel 4.3
• Lorraine · 25th March 2024 We saw more wildlife than we imagined was possible. Our guide Roberto took wonderful care of us, and our driver Telly... Show more
• Polina · 21st February 2024 We really liked the tour. Our guide Shaun was amazing, very caring and adaptive. The itinerary was well structured... Show more
• winston · 19th February 2024 The tour was well organized. The guide Shawn went beyond and was so accommodating. The lodges were beautiful and... Show more

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• Monday 15 Apr, 2024 Thursday 18 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Tuesday 16 Apr, 2024 Friday 19 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Wednesday 17 Apr, 2024 Saturday 20 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Thursday 18 Apr, 2024 Sunday 21 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Friday 19 Apr, 2024 Monday 22 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Saturday 20 Apr, 2024 Tuesday 23 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Sunday 21 Apr, 2024 Wednesday 24 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Monday 22 Apr, 2024 Thursday 25 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Tuesday 23 Apr, 2024 Friday 26 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates
• Wednesday 24 Apr, 2024 Saturday 27 Apr, 2024 English €1,049 Confirm Dates

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Good to Know

• Currency Fr CFA Franc BCEAO Benin

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Cholera - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Rabies - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 1 month before travel.
• Meningococcal meningitis - Recommended for Benin. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Yellow fever - Required for entrance into the country for Benin. Ideally 10 days before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 11th June 2024 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 11th June 2024, a minimum payment of 30% is required to confirm your booking with Across Africa Tours & Travel. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 60 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• Some departure dates and prices may vary and Across Africa Tours & Travel will contact you with any discrepancies before your booking is confirmed.
• The following cards are accepted for "Across Africa Tours & Travel" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• Your money is safe with TourRadar, as we only pay the tour operator after your tour has departed.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of Across Africa Tours & Travel. Please familiarise yourself with the Across Africa Tours & Travel payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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African American Studies Course Praised by Students from Kent County School

April 11, 2024

Students share how class helps them understand history

LANSING – Students from East Kentwood High School in Kent County are sharing how the school’s Advanced Placement (AP) African American Studies course is helping them better understand their local community, their country, and the world.

This week the students told the State Board of Education how the class is benefitting them. East Kentwood is one of 12 high schools in the state offering the course.

“I took AP history because I wanted to learn history as it was,” East Kentwood student Kian Bakri told the State Board of Education on Tuesday. “I wanted to learn from the people who made history. Primary sources. I wanted to hear multiple perspectives on how events unfolded.”

As an example, Kian said he has greater knowledge of Reconstruction following the Civil War because of the course. “I feel like after taking AP history, I have a better understanding of why and how the world works,” he said.

Another East Kentwood student, V Iginoef, shared similar sentiments.

“Just the other day, I had seen a mural that had said, ‘When you finally learn your history, you are truly liberated,’” V said. “I believe that encapsulates how I truly feel about taking the AP (African American Studies) class. I signed up for AP African American Studies because I believed it was the most interesting course available for me and I knew that I’d be making history by being a part of one of the first classes on my side of the state to participate in it.”

Added student Olivia Leaphart: “I’ve never taken an AP class before. I never necessarily thought my grades were good enough to do so. When I heard about this class, I knew I would be learning more about our history and specifically Black history. One of the biggest benefits is I feel a lot of pride taking this class and I think just knowing that there were only a few of us able to take this class just makes me feel really good, and I’ve really enjoyed it.”

The College Board, which created the course, says its Advanced Placement African American Studies pilot course “is an interdisciplinary course that examines the diversity of African American experiences through direct encounters with rich and varied sources. Students explore key topics that extend from early African kingdoms to the ongoing challenges and achievements of the contemporary moment.”

East Kentwood history teacher and 2023 National History Teacher of the Year Mr. Matthew Vriesman said the district is one of the largest and most diverse in the state and explained that its mission means celebrating diversity and ensuring equitable access to its most rigorous courses.

“Our mission at Kentwood Public Schools is about empowering students and, in social studies classrooms, that means we’re really trying to safeguard democracy, Vriesman said. “History is not just about memorizing facts and dates. It’s about investigating who we are in our own context and how our society developed the way that it did, specifically for the purpose of imagining what type of future that we want to build.”

Other Michigan high schools offering the course are:

Cass Technical High School, Detroit Public School Community District; Detroit Edison Public School Academy; East English Village Preparatory Academy, Detroit Public School Community District; Ferndale High School, Ferndale Public School District; Grand Ledge High School, Grand Ledge Public School District; Hamtramck High School, Hamtramck Public School District; Jalen Rose Leadership Academy; Renaissance High School, Detroit Public School Community District; South Lake High School, South Lake Schools; University High School Academy, Southfield Public School District; and West Bloomfield High School, West Bloomfield School District.

“AP African American Studies is an important course for helping to share with students the full breadth of our history,” said State Superintendent Dr. Michael Rice.  “Students have the right to learn about all of our history, and we as educators have the responsibility to teach it.”

East Kentwood students attended the board meeting with Vriesman, East Kentwood High School Assistant Principal Ms. Melissa Manning; and Mr. Sunil Joy, executive director of strategy and innovation for Kentwood Public Schools. MDE Deputy Superintendent Dr. Delsa Chapman introduced the group from Kentwood.

East Kentwood history teacher Mathew Vriesman with students presenting to the MDE Board of Education about their Advanced Placement African American Studies pilot course.

• East Kentwood AP history.JPG

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