Benin

The original and one of the only comprehensive guides in English to this fascinating West African country.

Since Bradt first published a guide to Benin over 10 years ago, the country has become an increasingly popular destination for visitors to West Africa. This new edition captures the growth of eco-travel and community-based tourism options that have emerged in recent years, while maintaining comprehensive coverage of a French-speaking country that offers some of the region's best wildlife experiences and a rich cultural heritage.

Discover the birthplace of Vodou (voodoo)—a much-maligned and little-understood religion that forms a fascinating part of daily life. From arranging tea with a wizard to purchasing spells, these cultural encounters create truly unique travel experiences. But Benin offers far more than spiritual intrigue. The guide includes expanded coverage of the northern wildlife and national parks, particularly the Parc National de la Pendjari (now under African Parks Management), increasingly recognised as one of the easiest places accessible to Europe to see lions and elephants in their natural habitat. Birdwatchers will delight in the country's huge and varied avian populations, while those seeking adventure can experience heart-stopping encounters with buffalo, elephant and lion.

This detailed guide features a dedicated chapter on the capital, Cotonou, with up-to-date recommendations for places to eat and stay, plus five additional chapters covering the rest of the country. Each section is packed with listings, accommodation and restaurant recommendations, historical background, and practical suggestions for what to see and do. Whether your interests lie in wildlife, culture, golden sand beaches, or tracing ancestral roots, Bradt's Benin offers comprehensive travel information for all budgets and is the perfect companion for a successful visit.