Introduction to Benin

Quick Overview

Benin is a small country stretching lengthwise for about 700 kilometres, from the Niger River in the north to the Atlantic coast in the south.

Key Facts

• Type of place: country.

• Location: on the Gulf of Guinea, between Togo to the west and Nigeria to the east.

• Latitude/longitude: 6°29' N, 2°36' E.

• Local time: Heure : 12247

• Capital: Porto Novo.

• Nature of the state: presidential republic.

• Official language: French.

• Currency: CFA franc.

• Population: 11,340,504 inhabitants (2018).

• Area: 114,763 km².

• Density: 98 inhabitants/km².

• Highest point: Mount Sokbaro (658 m).

• Lowest point: sea level.

• Coastline:

• Driving: on the right.

Tourism

With its beaches, a few parks and reserves, and above all a historical heritage tied to a culture and traditions that remain very much alive, the former Kingdom of Dahomey is a well-rounded destination in West Africa. Each year, it welcomes around 250,000 to 300,000 foreign visitors (295,000 in 2018), roughly 10% of whom are French.

Travel Essentials

• Destination: ideal for beginner or slightly experienced travellers.

• By air: France-Cotonou.

• Entry requirements: passport valid at least 6 months after the planned return date + visa + yellow fever vaccination + return or onward ticket.

• Currency to bring: euros.

• Exchange rate:

• Daily "backpacker" budget:

• Best for accommodation:

• Best for getting around:

• Risks:

• Best time for climate/crowds/prices:

• Interests (out of ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Adventure ★★; Culture ★★★; Relaxation/holidays ★/ ★★

Useful Addresses

Socio-Economic Statistics

• "Quality of life": 163/188 (rank in 2018)

• GDP per capita: $2,300 (2017)

• Average monthly income: ()

• Inflation: +0.1% (2017)

• "Official" unemployment: ()

• Population below the poverty line: 36.2% (2011)

• Life expectancy: 62.7 years (2018)

• Migration rate per 1,000 inhabitants: 0 (2017)

• Population growth: +2.68% (2018)

• Literacy rate: 38.4% (2015)

• Urban population: 47.3% (2018)

• Press freedom: 84/180 (rank in 2018)

• Political regime: hybrid regime (81/168 in 2018)

Sources: World Bank, Human Development Indicators, RSF, The Economist, The World Factbook