Benin

Quick Facts

Capital

Porto-Novo

Population

13,224,860

Area

112,622 km²

Region

Western Africa

Languages

• French

Currency

Cost of Living (World Bank)

Safety & Peace

LGBTQ+ Friendly

Human Development Index (UNDP)

UNESCO World Heritage Sites (3)

• 🏛️

  Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba

  Inscribed 2004

• 🌿

  W-Arly-Pendjari Complex

  Inscribed 1996

• 🏛️

  Royal Palaces of Abomey

  Inscribed 1985

Natural Beauty (World Bank)

Wildlife & Birdwatching

Food & Cuisine

Luxury Infrastructure

US Travel Advisory

There was no change to the advisory level. The “unrest” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise Increased Caution in Benin due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Advisory summary Do not travel to the border region in northern or northeastern Benin for any reason. U.S. government employee travel restrictions U.S. government employees working in Benin are not allowed to travel to the following areas without Ambassador approval due to safety risks: Alibori Department Atacora Department Borgou Department in areas north, east, and west of Parakou Donga Department in the area north of Djougou Official travel in Borgou Department north, east, and west of Parakou as well as official travel in Donga Department north of Djougou is authorized for day trips only. Safety risks prevent emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara. There are no safety risks in Benin that would stop the U.S. government’s ability to offer routine or emergency services, except in the identified areas of concern. Crime Most coastal and southern areas of Benin are safe. However, violent crime can occur in remote locations. These crimes often happen at night and include kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery. Stay aware of your surroundings in: Urban areas and crowded markets. Areas near roadblocks, which may be manned by armed groups. Armed groups are present throughout the country. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Benin. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorist and armed groups have attacked areas near the borders with Burkina Faso and Niger. There have also been kidnappings for ransom in areas of the Alibori and Borgou Departments near the Nigerian border. Terrorists may target: Places frequented by foreigners anywhere in the country Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants Schools Places of worship International diplomatic missions Local security forces Unrest There have been instances of military activity and civil unrest that resulted in violence in Benin. This type of violence may lead to road and land border closures as well as impacted operations at the Cotonou International Airport. Although U.S. citizens have not been targeted, sporadic military activity or civil unrest may happen suddenly and poses a risk. Kidnapping Kidnapping for ransom occurs in Benin. Criminal groups and terrorist organizations target both locals and foreign visitors. Level 4 - Do Not Travel - Benin’s northern and northeastern border regions Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Terrorists and criminal organizations carry out attacks in northern Benin. Foreign nationals and residents are at risk of kidnapping in this region. The areas of greatest risk are: Pendjari and W National Parks Alibori Department Atacora Department The Forest of the Three Rivers The Oueme Superior Forest All areas east of Route Nationale 10 up to the Benin-Nigeria border, including the cities of Kalele, Nikki, and Segbana If you decide to travel to Benin: Have a plan to leave in an emergency that does not depend on U.S. government help. Review our information on Crisis and Evacuations. Review our information on Terrorism, Travel to High-Risk Areas, Crime Abroad, U.S. Citizens Missing Abroad, and for Victims of Crime. Give your itinerary to a family member or friend. Develop a communication plan with family, your employer, or host organization. This helps them monitor your safety and location as you travel through high-risk areas. Specify how you'll confirm you're safe (text, calls, etc.), how often, and who you'll contact first to share the information. Carry a copy of your passport and visa (if applicable). Leave originals in your hotel safe. Do not display signs of wealth, like expensive watches or jewelry. Do not physically resist any robbery attempt. Monitor local media for breaking news. Be prepared to adjust your plans. Keep travel documents up to date and easily accessible. Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to get important updates and alerts from the U.S. embassy. Enrolling helps the U.S. embassy contact you or your emergency contact in an emergency. Review the Country Security Report for Benin. Visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website for the latest Travel Health Information for Benin. Whether you are a first time or frequent traveler, use the International Travel Checklist. We highly recommend that you buy travel insurance before you travel. Check with your travel insurance provider about evacuation assistance, medical insurance, and trip cancelation coverage.