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Benin FAQ

Is tipping customary in Benin?

Tipping 10% is customary in most touristy places.

What is the internet access like in Benin?

Internet access is fairly sparse outside of the largest city, Cotonou.

Can I use my mobile/cell phone while in Benin?

Mobile phone coverage is limited outside of major centres. Ensure you have global roaming activated with your carrier if you wish to use your phone.

What are the toilets like in Benin?

Benin’s toilets may be basic. Be prepared for squat toilets, even in major centres.

Can I drink the water in Benin?

Tap water isn’t safe to drink in Benin. Instead bring water purification tablets or equivalent. For environmental reasons, try to avoid bottled water. Ask your leader where filtered water can be found.

Are credit cards accepted widely in Benin?

Credit cards aren’t commonly accepted outside major tourist areas.

What is ATM access like in Benin?

ATMs are very uncommon and cannot be relied upon to work. Payment in cash is always preferred.

Do I need to purchase travel insurance before travelling in Benin?

Absolutely. All passengers travelling with Intrepid are required to purchase travel insurance before the start of your trip. Your travel insurance details will be recorded by your leader on the first day of the trip. Due to the varying nature, availability and cost of health care around the world, travel insurance is very much an essential and necessary part of every journey.

For more information on insurance, please go to: Travel Insurance

What public holidays are celebrated in Benin?

Jan 1 New Year's Day
Jan 10 Traditional Day
Jan 24 Milad un Nabi (Birth of the Prophet Muhammed)
Apr 1 Easter Monday
May 1 Labour Day
May 9 Ascension Day
May 20 Whit Monday
Aug 1 Independence Day
Aug 8 Eid al-Fitr
Aug 15 Assumption
Oct 15 Tabaski (Feast of Sacrifice)
Oct 26 Armed Forces Day
Nov 1 All Saints Day
Nov 30 National Day
Dec 25 Christmas Day

Please note these dates are for 2013. For a current list of public holidays go to:
http://www.worldtravelguide.net/Benin/public-holidays

Do I need a visa to travel to Benin?

Visas are the responsibility of the individual traveller. The visa requirements for your trip vary depending on where you are from and where you are going. As a general rule most countries expect that you will have at least 6 months' validity on your passport. On arrival visitors may be asked to present return tickets and evidence of means to cover your intended stay.

We keep the following information up to date as much as possible, but rules do change - it's important that you check for yourself. Residents from other countries must consult the relevant embassies or your travel agent.

  • BENIN:
    Australia: Yes - in advance
    Belgium: Yes - in advance
    Canada: Yes - in advance
    Germany: Yes - in advance
    Ireland: Yes - in advance
    Netherlands: Yes - in advance
    New Zealand: Yes - in advance
    South Africa: Yes - in advance
    Switzerland: Yes - in advance
    United Kingdom: Yes - in advance
    USA: Yes - in advance

    Please obtain your Benin visa in advance. We advise you to check current visa requirements with your nearest Embassy or Consulate. Australians & New Zealanders will need to apply through the Embassy in London.

    It may also be possible for most nationalities to obtain a visa for Benin in Accra, Ghana. An express visa in Accra takes 1-3 working days but may be subject to additional fees.

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Benin at a glance

  • 3
  • Porto Novo (population 223,600)
  • 9.6 million
  • French, Fon, Yoruba, Dendi, Bariba, Ge
  • XOF
  • (GMT+01:00) West Central Africa
  • Type C (European 2-pin), Type E (French 2-pin, female earth)
  • +229

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