Benin

Travelers from most countries are required to present a valid passport to enter Benin. Visa requirements depend on nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of the following countries can enter Benin without a visa for stays up to 90 days:

• Togo
• Senegal
• Morocco
• Burkina Faso
• Niger
• Mali
• Ivory Coast
• Ghana

Visa on Arrival and eVisa

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.

Visa Required

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 does not allow entry with an ID card only. All travelers are required to present a valid passport upon arrival.

Toll Roads in Benin

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.

Toll Payment Methods:

• Cash: Toll booths accept payments in cash (West African CFA franc - XOF).
• Electronic Payments: Some toll booths may accept electronic payments, though it's safer to carry cash.

Driving Tips in Benin:

• Right-Hand Driving: In Benin, you drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Speed Limits: Urban areas: 50 km/h, highways: 90-110 km/h, depending on the road.
• Road Conditions: Major roads are in decent condition, but some rural roads can be poorly maintained, especially during the rainy season.

Weather in Benin

Benin has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Coastal areas tend to be warm and humid year-round.

Wet Season (April to October)

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).

Dry Season (November to March)

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).

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to March) when weather conditions are more favorable for travel and outdoor activities.
• Prepare for Rain: If traveling during the wet season, be prepared for sudden downpours and muddy roads, especially in rural areas.

Currency in Benin

The official currency of Benin is the West African CFA franc (XOF), symbolized as CFA.

Banknotes and Coins

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

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

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.

Travel Tips

• Carry Cash: It's advisable to carry cash, especially when traveling to rural areas where card payments are uncommon.
• Currency Restrictions: The CFA franc cannot be easily exchanged outside West Africa, so exchange any leftover currency before leaving the region.