Benin does not allow entry with an ID card only. All travelers are required to present a valid passport upon arrival.
Travelers from most countries are required to present a valid passport to enter Benin. Visa requirements depend on nationality:
Citizens of the following countries can enter Benin without a visa for stays up to 90 days:
Citizens from several countries are eligible for a visa on arrival or an eVisa. You can apply for the eVisa online before your trip for tourism or short stays.
Travelers from countries not eligible for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival must apply for a visa at a Beninese embassy or consulate before traveling.
Note: Always verify the latest entry requirements with official sources, as visa policies can change.
Benin has a few toll roads, primarily on major highways connecting cities like Cotonou, Porto-Novo, and Parakou. Toll fees are typically low but vary depending on the distance traveled and vehicle type.
Benin has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Coastal areas tend to be warm and humid year-round.
The wet season is marked by heavy rainfall and high humidity, especially in coastal and southern regions. Temperatures range from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F).
During the dry season, Benin experiences cooler and less humid conditions. Temperatures in this period typically range from 20°C to 32°C (68°F to 89°F).
The official currency of Benin is the West African CFA franc (XOF), symbolized as CFA.
The CFA franc is used across several West African countries. Banknotes are available in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 CFA. Coins are available in smaller denominations.
Currency exchange services are available at banks and exchange offices in major cities. ATMs are accessible in urban areas, allowing withdrawals in CFA.
Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and shops in larger cities, but cash is still the preferred payment method in most places.