Cotonou
Benin
- Safety rating
- 5.5/10
- Best time to visit
- The drier months from November to February are the most comfortable, avoiding heavy rains.
- Population
- 1.2M
Overview
Benin's largest city and economic hub is a humid Atlantic port humming with motorbike taxis and a vast, chaotic market. It serves as the lively gateway to the country's voodoo heartland and the stilt village of Ganvié.
Top attractions
Browse the sprawling Dantokpa Market, take a pirogue to the stilt village of Ganvié, and visit the Fondation Zinsou art space.
Getting around
Yellow-shirted zemidjan motorbike taxis are the main way around, supplemented by shared taxis and ride apps.