How to get around in Benin

21.08.2023 - 16:25 / lonelyplanet.com

Apart from the capital city of Porto Novo and the major tourist attractions of Ganvie and Ouidah, the large majority of the small West African country of Benin goes unnoticed by most travelers.

There are no train services in Benin, and there's only one commercial airport (Cotonou Cadjehoun International Airport) so you won't be taking any internal flights. A trip to Ganvie will be made as part of a boat tour and most towns and cities are best explored on foot – other than that, expect to get around by road. Unfortunately travelers with mobility and access issues will find that there isn't any special provision for them in Benin.

Here's what you need to know about local transportation to explore the length and breadth of Benin, from Abomey in the north to Grand Popo in the south.

Driving is the fastest and most convenient way to get from one place to another in Benin. You could rent a car, which is a reliable and comfortable way to move around the country, but it is the more expensive option. The costs of car rental in African countries is much higher than in other continents because the transportation network isn't as developed, yet road travel is the most common way to get around and there is a high demand for cars. You can either arrange car rental before you travel, or hire one at the airport or in Cotonou. You'll need an international license to hire a car. The price varies depending on the rental service, and those aged under 25 will be charged more. 

Drive on the right side of the road. Keep a look out for frequent domestic animal crossings (cows and goats mostly, occasionally monkeys). Be prepared for dirt roads and potholes – there are sealed roads but they aren’t in very good condition.

Alternatively, a much more cost-effective and convenient option is to hire a vehicle with a driver who will act as your guide and take you to all the destinations you're keen to visit. Your hotel will be able to help you find a suitable driver-guide. Car rental can cost $200–300 per day while costs for hiring a car with a driver can be as little as $50–150 per day.

If you are traveling on a budget, you could reduce your transportation costs by using bush taxis, which come in two forms: minivans and private cars. This is the best way to get the local experience in Benin because you will travel how the Beninese do.

You can find a bush taxi on any highway or any taxi yard in the big cities of Cotonou and Porto Novo. They connect different cities and towns around Benin, and the price changes depending on the location you’re traveling to, starting from around $5.

You have to play it by ear here, there's no prior planning that needs to be done. All you have to do is ask which direction the taxi is going in and see if