Benin
Travel tips for Benin: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cash is essential. Benin is a cash-dominant economy. While cards work at upscale hotels and international supermarkets in Cotonou, you must carry West African CFA francs (XOF) for almost all daily expenses, including local restaurants, markets, and public transport.
Try the food
- Amiwo: A savory red corn dough cooked in tomato and onion broth, typically served with fried chicken or fish.
- Wagasi: A mild, soft cow's milk cheese characterized by its red rind, often fried and submerged in spicy sauces.
- Pounded Yam (Agoun): A smooth, stretchy dough made from boiled yams, used to scoop up rich peanut or palm nut soups.
Say it in French
- Hello: Bonjour
- Thank you: Merci
- Please: S'il vous plaît
- Excuse me: Excusez-moi
- How much is this?: C'est combien ?
- The bill please: L'addition, s'il vous plaît
- Yes/No: Oui / Non
- Goodbye: Au revoir
Essentials
- Plugs
- Type C / Type E
- Voltage
- 220V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- Tap water
- Avoid — buy bottled
- Emergency
- 112 (ambulance), 117 (police), 118 (fire)
- SIM tip
- Pick up a local MTN or Moov SIM card at Cotonou airport upon arrival for the best nationwide coverage.
Etiquette
Always use your right hand for eating, greeting, and passing items, as the left hand is considered unclean.