• Marche Dantokpa - Begin your day with an enchanting journey in the heart of Cotonou, where the wonders of the renowned Dantokpa market await. Known as one of the largest markets in West Africa, Dantokpa is a vibrant tapestry of colors, enticing aromas, and captivating cultural experiences.

Explore the maze-like pathways lined with lively stalls, each offering a fascinating array of treasures. Dantokpa unfolds like a cultural kaleidoscope, showcasing an abundance of fresh produce, aromatic spices, traditional textiles, and exquisite handicrafts. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere as local vendors and skilled artisans engage in lively exchanges, creating a tapestry of animated scenes. Experience the genuine warmth of Beninese hospitality and uncover the cultural significance of each product.

• Etoile Rouge - Continue your exploration towards the Place de l’Étoile Rouge: a vast crossroads in the heart of Cotonou. This site symbolizes the ambition of General Mathieu Kérékou, who, as a young soldier who seized power in a coup, aspired to make Benin a champion of Marxism-Leninism in Africa. By erecting several monuments, including the Red Star, he left an indelible mark on this political orientation.
• Place des Martyrs - Proceed to Martyrs Square. This monument pays tribute to the seven Beninese, including six soldiers and one civilian, who lost their lives in the mercenary attack on Benin led by Frenchman Bob Denard.
• Monument Amazone - The Amazon Monument in Cotonou is a captivating symbol reflecting the strength and resilience of Benin’s Amazon warriors. This iconic monument honors the Amazons of Dahomey, an all-female military regiment renowned for their courage and combat proficiency. Marvel at the striking sculpture that stands proudly, depicting the Amazon warriors in a powerful and triumphant pose.

Standing before this significant monument, immerse yourself in the rich history and cultural heritage it represents. Learn about the legacy of the Dahomey Amazons and their role in shaping Benin’s history. Capture the spirit of empowerment and bravery that emanates from the Amazon Monument, making it a must-see for those who seek to connect with the powerful stories woven into Benin’s past.

• Erevan Shopping Center - Take a short break at Super U for refreshing bottles of water and snacks before continuing the rest of the exciting tour through Benin.
• Monument Bio Guera - Bio Guera Square stands in memory of the heroic acts of Gbaasi N’Guerra, more famously known as Bio Guera, a Wassangari warrior prince. The monument that adorns the square represents Bio Guerra on horseback, a symbolic choice since the horse holds significant importance in the life and culture of the Baatonu peoples.

This square was created to allow the sons and daughters of the region to perpetuate the commemoration of the great man and valiant warrior that was Bio Guéra. It offers a dedicated place where the community can pay tribute to this illustrious figure, thus reminding us of his heritage and his impact on the region.

• Lac Nokoue - Ganvié, often called the “Venice of Africa”, is a unique and fascinating village located in the middle of Lake Nokoué in Benin. What makes Ganvié remarkable is that it is built entirely on stilts, with houses, markets, schools, and other structures rising above the water.

Visiting Ganvié offers a distinctive experience as you sail through the village by boat, exploring its bustling waterways and vibrant community life. The village has a lively atmosphere with local traders paddling their canoes filled with goods, children going to school by boat, and fishermen casting their nets.

Ganvié’s floating structures and interconnected canals offer a glimpse into the daily lives of its inhabitants. The village has a rich history, and its water-based settlement is said to have been a strategic decision by the Tofinus to escape slave traders in the past.

• Ouidah - Lunch break: not included in the tour
• Foret Sacree de Kpasse - Next destination: The Sacred Forest of Kpassè, located in Ouidah, is a place full of mystery and spirituality. This forest is revered as a sacred site in the Vodou tradition and serves as an important place of worship for followers of this religious practice.

In the Sacred Forest of Kpassè, visitors can explore ancient trees, altars dedicated to Voodoo deities, and ritual sculptures. It is a place where nature and spirituality converge, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience.

Local guides can share stories and legends related to the forest, explaining its significance in Vodou practice and its role in religious ceremonies. It is a place where a special atmosphere prevails, conducive to reflection and the discovery of Benin’s cultural traditions. The Sacred Forest of Kpassè bears witness to the richness and diversity of the spiritual heritage of the country.

• Temple des Pythons - The Temple of Python is a sacred and captivating site of cultural and historical significance. It is dedicated to the worship of the deity Dangbé, the sacred python. As part of a tour, you will have the opportunity to explore this unique and mystical temple.

Upon entering the temple, you will have the chance to approach and touch many pythons. These snakes are considered sacred and are believed to embody the spirits of deceased ancestors. Local tradition holds that interaction with pythons brings luck and blessings.

The Temple of Python is closely linked to the Vodou religion, and a tour offers insights into the spiritual practices of the region. The atmosphere is both serene and mysterious, creating a unique experience for those seeking to understand the intertwining of spirituality and nature in Benin.

• Ouidah - It is time to embark on a profound journey, highlighting a dark chapter of human history. As part of a tour, you will follow in the footsteps of enslaved Africans who traveled this path centuries ago. The journey usually begins at the Gate of No Return, a symbolic portal through which slaves were forced to board ships, leaving their homeland for an uncertain and dangerous future.

The Slave Route includes key landmarks. These sites bear witness to the suffering and sacrifice of millions of Africans subjected to the brutality of the transatlantic slave trade.

Visitors will gain insight into the historical, cultural, and economic aspects of the slave trade, learning about its impact on both the African continent and the diaspora.

• La Porte Du Non Retour - Your Slave Route experience culminates at the Gate of No Return, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site that symbolizes a painful chapter in history, especially during the transatlantic slave trade. This gate is linked to the departure point of enslaved Africans, forced to board slave ships bound for the Americas. It represents a powerful symbol of the difficult realities of the slave trade and the irreversible journey undertaken by millions of Africans leaving their homeland through this fatal passage. Today, the Door of No Return serves as a memorial and poignant reminder of the human impact of this tragic period. This marks the end of our visit, and we will take you back to your hotel.
• Fidjrossè - To end your day in style, explore the vibrant graffiti wall of the port of Cotonou, and stroll along the beach enjoying the fresh air. An unforgettable experience awaits you!

• All Fees and Taxes
• In-vehicle air conditioning
• Wifi on board during the tour
• Guide
• Free transfer to Lomé/Cotonou if you book one of our tours the day before or the day after
• Bottle of mineral water

• Personal and additional needs
• Lunch

The cultural tour of Cotonou, Ganvie, and Ouidah offers an engaging journey into the vibrant cultural diversity of these cities. This thoughtfully curated tour will lead participants through the highlights of Cotonou, showcasing its historical significance and modern vibrancy. Additionally, this unique experience will feature treasures such as the scenic Lake Ganvié, often referred to as the Venice of Africa, and the historic city of Ouidah, renowned for its Slave Route to the Gate of No Return.

The second part of the tour will bring visitors to Lake Ganvié, providing an opportunity to explore the lake villages and observe the daily life of the lake’s residents. Following this, the tour will proceed to Ouidah, noted for its historical connection to the slave trade. The Exclave Route, a testament to the challenging past and resilience of the Beninese people, will be a pivotal part of the journey. This comprehensive adventure unveils the richness and diversity of the region.

• Free transfer to Lomé or Cotonou if you book one of our tours in Togo, the day before or the day after the tour

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.