Bab's Dock
A hidden beach club on the lagoon, reached by boat through the mangroves. Good food, hammocks and a calm day out away from the city.
Where Cococodji, off the Ouidah road
From Cotonou About 40 minutes by road
Best time Weekends, check opening days first
The Python Temple
The Python Temple, a Vodun sanctuary where royal pythons are sacred. Brave visitors can hold one. It sits right across from the Basilica.
Where Ouidah, Place Agoli
From Cotonou About 1 hour by road
Best time Morning, with a guide
The Door of No Return
The end of the Route des Esclaves: a memorial arch on the beach where enslaved Africans were taken to the ships. Quiet, heavy and essential.
Where Ouidah beach
From Cotonou About 1 hour by road
Best time Morning, before the heat
Ganvié, the village on the lake
A whole town built on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoué, reached only by boat. Homes, schools and a floating market, all on the water.
Where Boats leave from Abomey-Calavi
From Cotonou About 40 minutes to the jetty
Best time Morning, when the market is busy
Vodun Days
Benin's biggest festival. Every January, Ouidah fills with music, dancers, masked Egungun and Vodun ceremonies, with visitors from across West Africa and the diaspora.
Where Ouidah, by the beach
When Every January
Tip Book your stay early