Benin-Togo Tour from 7 to 16 January at the Vodou Festival

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Arrival day: Airport EN pick-up on 7 January
1 stop
1
Upon arrival at the airport DE Cotonou-Cardinal Bernadin Gantin (COO), you will receive a warm welcome and will be accompanied to your beautiful Inn for check-in. Take DE this moment to relax and prepare for the adventure that awaits you on the African continent.
4 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 2
Tour DE Ganvié and Cultural Visit DE Cotonou
6 stops
2
Ganvie
Ganvié, the African Venice — Immersion in a unique lake village Explore early in the morning DE Ganvié, the largest lake village in Africa, located on Lake Nokoué. This extraordinary village is home DE over 37,000 Tofinu people, who live mainly on water and commute by canoe on a daily basis. Nicknamed the “African Venice”, Ganvié is a living testimony DE the ingenuity DE its inhabitants: in the 18th century, the Tofinu took refuge there to escape slavery. Today, the village remains a lively centre DE life, marked by fishing, craftsmanship and a deep-rooted culture. On the program: navigation through the canals, meetings with locals and immersion in the Tofinu mo DE vie — a mom EN strong authenticity and emotions.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
3
Etoile Rouge
Continue your exploration EN route DE Place DE l'Étoile Rouge: a vast crossroads in the heart DE the city DE Cotonou. The site symbolizes the ambition of General Mathieu Kérékou, who, as a young soldier who took power in a coup d'état, aspired to make Benin the Marxist-Leninist Authority EN Africa. EN erecting several monuments, including the Red Star, left an indelible mark DE this political orientation.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
4
Marche Dantokpa
Dantokpa Point of Sale: vibrant heart DE Cotonou Considered one DE the largest markets in DE West Africa, Dantokpa is a real sensory show that blends vibrant colors, mesmerizing scents and authentic life scenes. Walk its tangled paths, lined with abundant stalls where an astonishing wealth DE products is revealed: fresh fruits and vegetables, fragrant spices, traditional loincloths, handicrafts and local curiosities. A true cultural kaleidoscope, Dantokpa is much more than a Point of Sale — it is an immersion in Benin’s warm and commercial soul.
40 minutes • Admission ticket included
5
Place des Martyrs
Martyrs Square – Remembrance and National Tribute Continue your visit EN route to Place DEs Martyrs, a place of reflection steeped in history. This monument pays tribute to seven Beninese heroes — six soldiers and one civilian — who fell during the attempted DE coup orchestrated by the French mercenary Bob Denard. Symbol DE courage et DE resistance, the square honours the memory DE these men who sacrificed their lives to defend Benin’s sovereignty. A poignant and essential stop to understand the contemporary history of the country.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
6
Monument Amazone
Amazon Monument in Cotonou – A powerful tribute to female bravery Located in the heart DE Cotonou, the Amazon Monument is a majestic symbol DE strength, DE courage and DE resilience. It celebrates the famous Amazons of Dahomey, this all-female elite corps that has marked Benin’s military history with its exceptional bravery and formidable discipline. Faced with this monum ENtale sculpture, depicting a warrior in a DE combat posture, one can only admire the pride and power that ENERGIZES. This emblematic place invites you to travel back in time, discovering DE Amazons’ heritage and their decisive role in the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey. Take a moment to feel the energy DE this place full DE memory, a true symbol of emancipation and DE feminine power. A must-see stop for all those who wish to soak DE the soul of Benin and its heroic past.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
7
Fidjrosse Beach
Enjoy a quiet walk DE the beach DE Fiji, one of the most picturesque coastal sites in Cotonou. Let yourself be carried away by the gentle sea breeze and soothing rhythm of the waves, then continue your visit EN front of the symbolic remains of the crashed plane, exposed on the beach. End DE day and return to Pension.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Cultural visit DE Ouidah and Experience DE the Slave Route
5 stops
8
Foret Sacree de Kpasse
After Breakfast, head to the Sacred Forest DE Kpassè, a place full DE mystery and spirituality, located in DE heart DE Ouidah. This forest is venerated as a sacred site in the Vodou tradition and is an essential place DE worship for depts of this religious practice. EN strolling through the Sacred Forest DE Kpassè, you will discover centuries-old trees, altars dedicated to Vodou deities and ritual sculptures. It is a place where nature and spirituality meet, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience in the heart DE West African spiritual traditions.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
9
Temple des Pythons
The Temple of Pythons in Ouidah, Benin, is an iconic place that is both sacred and steeped in history. Dedicated to the cult DE the deity Dangbé, the sacred python, this unique temple is a must-see for anyone wishing to discover Vodou spirituality and local traditions. During your guided tour of the Temple DE Pythons, you will have the opportunity to observe and touch the living pythons, considered here as embodiments of the spirits of the deceased ancestors. According to local beliefs, interacting with these sacred snakes brings luck and blessings.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
10
Ouidah
Get ready for a profound and moving experience, retracing one DE the darkest chapters in human history. This guided tour invites you to follow in the footsteps of African slaves, torn from their native land for an uncertain fate across the Atlantic Ocean. Throughout DE Slave Route, several major historic sites are to be discovered. Each of them bears witness DE the suffering, DE sacrifices and courage of millions of African victims of the transatlantic slave trade. This visit offers a moment DE reflection, DE understanding and DE reflection on the legacies still visible today.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
11
La Porte Du Non Retour
Your experience on the Slave Route ends at the famous Gate of No Return, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with profound historical significance. This iconic monument, located on the beach DE Ouidah, marks the tragic Check-out Point DE millions of Africans enslaved DE slave ships bound for the Americas. The Door of No Return poignantly symbolizes DE the brutality DE the transatlantic trade and the irreversible exile experienced by these men, women and children torn from their homeland. It embodies the collective memory of a painful past and the importance DE never forgetting the human impacts DE this dark period of world history.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
12
Ouidah Museum of History
Ouidah, known for hosting the famous International Voodoo Festival every year, a major event that attracts visitors from all over the world — from Africa, the Americas and the Caribbean. Often misunderstood or misinterpreted, the voodoo religion is one of the oldest and most influential in the world. Through this celebration, participants discover that voodoo is not synonymous DE evil, but rather a spiritual tradition deeply linked to nature, ancestors and harmony between visible and invisible forces. Every 10 January, DE thousands DE faithful and voodoo dignitaries converge on Ouidah, considered the spiritual centre of this cult, to receive the blessing of the supreme voodoo leader. The high priests DE Benin and DE neighbouring countries gather to honour the deities through ritual songs, sacred dances, drumbeats, libations, prayers and symbolic sacrifices.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 4
10 January National Voodoo Day
1 stop
13
Ouidah
We will EN begin a day rich in spiritual and cultural discoveries through traditional Voodoo dances. Gabala & Kokou – Our first stop will take us inside the sacred Tron Kpeto Deka forest, where the Gabala and Kokou dances take place. These powerful rituals invoke the warrior deities of the Voodoo pantheon. Iro Dance – Watch Iro Dance, a colourful, rhythmic celebration performed by DE initiates dressed in traditional costumes. Zangbeto – then observe the spectacular dance DE s Zangbeto, the “guardians of the night”. Fully concealed under DE suits of colored fibers. Egoun-goun – you will discover the Egoun-goun dance, dedicated to the deceased ancestors. Dressed DE imposing and masked costumes. Danse DE l’eau Mami Wata – EN late afternoon, the dance DE l’eau, the mystical siren of voodoo. EN evening, attend a concert at Voodoun Arena, a vibrant cultural scene where traditional music and voodoo songs meet.
7 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 5
Cultural tour DE the city DE Porto-Novo.
6 stops
14
Porto-Novo
Your EN journey begins in the morning with a pick-up at your Pension. Comfortably installed in our air-conditioned vehicle, let yourself be guided through a journey of approximately 50 minutes to 1:30, depending DE your location, to Porto-Novo. Upon arrival EN town, the tour begins with an immersion in the heart DE royal history, at the Honmè Museum. Formerly the residence DE Kings of Porto-Novo, this royal palace transformed EN museum for a unique discovery of Beninese cultural heritage. You will discover: DE testimonies of daily life at the court The traditional architecture of the palace, laden DE symbols Through the stories DE your Guide, you will be immersed in the history DE sovereigns of Porto-Novo, their links with traditional cults, and their role in the political and cultural construction of the country. This first stop lays the foundations of a circuit rich EN discoveries, where memory, DE ntity and Beninese art of living are honored.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
15
Musee Honme (Palais Royal)
In the heart DE Porto-Novo, the Honmè Museum opens the doors DE the old royal palace of kings. This museum, housed in the royal residence of King Toffa, is one of the most important heritage sites in Benin. Through a guided tour, you discover: Royal apartments preserved in their original condition DE scenes of everyday life at court, illustrated by installations and oral histories The Honmè Museum tells the story DE dynasties of Porto-Novo, their role in Beninese society, as well as their links with traditional cults. The architecture of the palace, typical DE the colonial era and influenced by the Afro-Brazilian style, is itself a valuable testimony DE the urban history DE the capital. This visit offers an authentic immersion in the royal and spiritual world of Benin, and is an essential step to understand the deep roots DE of the culture of Port-Nova.
45 minutes • Admission ticket included
16
Porto-Novo
After the discovery of the royal past at the Honmè Museum, the tour continues to the deep spiritual universe of Benin through the meeting with a voodoo priest, depositary of sacred knowledge passed DE generation EN generation. You will have the opportunity to approach some convents (places of initiation and DE worship) where voodoo priests still officiate today. In these often discreet spaces, we discover altars, sacred sculptures and ritual objects used for communication with the deities (Orisha). Meeting with a Vodun priest or priestess Depending on the availability and the opening of the place, a guided meeting can be organized with a voodoo priestess. The exchange allows DE better understand: The role of the priest in the community The revered main deities (such as Sakpata, Hebiosso, DAN or Mami Wata) The meaning DE rituals and ceremonies (consultation with Fa, offerings, dances, songs...)
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
17
Located in the heart DE Porto-Novo, the Pantheon Negro and African is a symbolic place, charged with emotion and DE respect. Built EN tribute to the gran DE black figures of Benin, Africa and the diaspora, this monument honours the memory of the resistance fighters, thinkers, traditional leaders, artists and religious figures who marked the history of the black continent. The site, both memorial and cultural space, is distinguished by: DE monumental sculptures representing the ancestors and heroes of the Black Cause A space DE reflection where spirituality, history and art meet The Panthéon is also a place DE reflection i dentitaire et DE transmission: it embodies the recognition of African dignity and pays tribute to those who fought for freedom, justice and culture.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
18
Located EN center DE Porto-Novo, Toffa Square is an emblematic place dedicated to the memory of King Toffa I, one DE the most influential sovereigns of the Kingdom of Porto-Novo at the end of the 19th century. A true historical crossroads, this square embodies both the royal identity, the resistance to colonization and the cultural anchoring of the Goun people. In the centre DE the square stands an imposing statue of King Toffa, souv ent depicted in traditional dress, symbol DE wisdom, DE power and DE diplomacy. The square is surrounded DE colonial and traditional buildings, witness DE the political and architectural history DE the city. Place DE Toffa is a venue DE gatherings, official ceremonies and DE traditional celebrations. Today, it remains a major landmark for both locals and visitors. It is an ideal stop to evoke royal history, the links between tradition and modernity, and take some pictures in a symbolic and open setting.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
19
After the historical and cultural richness, head to a completely different scenery: the Black River of Adjara, located a few kilometers DE the city. The pleasant and exotic route takes you through the villages and green landscapes DE the Adjara region, a territory rich EN traditions and EN nature. On arrival, the Black River reveals a peaceful environment, bordered DE mangroves, DE water lilies and DE tropical vegetation. This unspoilt place invites you to relax, contemplate and discover DE Beninese river life. On the spot, several experiments are possible: Traditional EN canoe ride to explore the river EN smooth Meeting with locals, including fishermen and craftsmen from the DE l’eau Observation DE the local flora and fauna, in an authentic and quiet setting The visit DE la rivière Noire is ideal to end the day on a natural and soothing Rating, away DE the hustle and bustle of the city, in a spirit of ecotourism.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 6
Cultural Discovery of Issaba – Meeting the Royal Traditions and the Guèlèdè Mask
1 stop
20
Ketou
In the morning we will take the road to Issaba, where you will have the opportunity DE meet the Holli community, a tribe known for its attachment to ancestral customs. You will discover their way of life, crafts, as well as their spiritual connection to the earth and spirits. We will then continue to the historic city DE Kétou, former Yoruba kingdom, to visit its royal palace. Through its courtyards, altars and royal symbols, you will immerse yourself in the world of traditional chiefdoms and customary power still very present in Beninese society. EN end DE jour, head to Covè, to attend a performance of the Guèlèdè mask, classified as an intangible cultural heritage DE humanity by UNESCO. This spectacular ritual mixes dance, music, satire and spirituality, with colorful masks that embody the spirits of ancestors and deities.
7 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Immersion in the Royal History of Benin – Visit of Abomey
1 stop
21
Bohicon
Founded in the 17th century, this kingdom was one DE the most influential in West Africa and played a central role in the transatlantic slave trade. You will discover the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Royal Complex DEs 12 Kings of Abomey, where each king has left a mark through his palace, symbols and history. Our tour will include: The historical museum of Abomey The statue of King Béhanzin, DE last king resisting French colonization, in Goho Square, a place of national remembrance. The mysterious Temple of the Chameleon, symbol DE transformation and adaptability, two qualities dear to the Fon people. The private palace of King Agonglo, one DE the most important kings in the history of the kingdom. A stopover at the Fetish Point of Sale, rich EN ritual objects, talismans, medicinal plants and elements of voodoo worship. And finally, a visit to a village DE potters, where you can observe the craftsmanship passed DE generation EN generation.
7 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 8
Discover DE Grand-Popo, between nature, culture and traditions
1 stop
22
Grand Popo
Boca DEl Rio: Discover the spectacular river mouth where the fresh waters of the lake meet the Atlantic Ocean. Watch the daily show EN of the return of fishermen by canoe, bringing their fresh fishing offshore. Avlo Beach: moment DE relaxation on this quiet beach, perfect for swimming and contemplating the seascapes. Craft Village: Opened EN 1998, this village invites you to discover local crafts. Villa Karo: place for artistic and cultural exchange, offering exhibitions, workshops and artist residencies. Visit this island where DE cooking salt is harvested. Turtle Sanctuary: DE protected site where turtles come to lay eggs. Mouth of the King: it marks the meeting between the lake and the sea, an area full of history and DE symbols. Old bridge: Take a walk on this historic bridge that offers a beautiful view of the river. Overnight in Grand-Popo: End your day ENjoying the peaceful atmosphere DE the city.
7 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Visit DE the City of Aného, Togoville, Agbodrafo and Lomé
7 stops
23
Aneho Ancienne Capitale Du Togo
After crossing DE the border, continue your journey with a unique experience: discover DE the mouth where Lake Togo meets the Atlantic Ocean. This point DE convergence between the calm waters of the lake and the strength DE the ocean offers a striking natural spectacle that deserves your attention. Approaching DE the mouth, the landscape change is spectacular: the gentle current of the lake gradually mixes with the power DE the Atlantic waves, creating an area of great beauty, but also of important ecological value.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
24
Slave House of Togo
The House DE Slaves of Agbodrafo occupies a particularly emotional place in the history of the transatlantic trade. Once a place DE detach EN unsanitary, it was used to detain people enslaved, pending their forced embarkation to the Americas — particularly the French colonies. Today it has been transformed EN museum and place DE memory, and bears witness DE sufferings endured during one of the darkest periods in human history. The visit DE the Slave House of Agbodrafo is both an educational and deeply emotional experience. This historic site provides DE insight into the horrors DE the slave trade, while paying tribute to the resilience and dignity of African communities. It offers a space DE reflection, DE transmission and DE Awareness DE facing this painful legacy.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
25
Lac Togo
After visiting the Slave House DE Agbodrafo, get ready for a new experience EN route DE the peaceful town DE Togoville. This stage will reveal another facet DE the region, imbued DE spirituality and history. In front of you lies Lake Togo, majestic and soothing, whose calm waters sparkle under the African sun. You will board a traditional canoe, driven by local DE fishermen, masters in the ancestral art of sailing on the lake. As you walk DE the crossing, let yourself be carried away by the gentle DE labreeze, admire the surrounding nature and enjoy the unique calm DE this serene place.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
26
Cathedrale Notre Dame Du Lac Togo
EN entering Notre-Dame du Lac Cathedral, you are immediately struck by the majesty DE its décor. The religious sculptures that adorn the interior are strikingly beautiful and demonstrate remarkable artistic know-how. Inside, the atmosphere is marked DE serenity and DE spirituality. The faithful come to gather, pray and participate in religious celebrations.
20 minutes • Admission ticket included
27
Togoville
Continue your exploration with a walking tour, starting with the Monument DE l’Amitié Germano-Togolaise, a historic symbol of the ties between the two nations. You will then head to the famous "Twin Tree", a sacred tree of high symbolic value. The visit continues in a voodoo convent, where you will have the opportunity DE ask all the questions that arouse your curiosity about this often unknown religion. Take DE this immersion to attend DE libation ceremonies, interact with initiates, and experience moms EN rich in traditions, spirituality and living culture.
1 hour • Admission ticket free
28
Continue your day in the direction DE Lomé to visit the Fetish Point of Sale, a fascinating experience that will plunge you into the heart of African traditions. You will discover a vast collection of objects and DE talismans that embody the very essence DE these cultures rich in history. This tour will also offer you a unique opportunity to deepen your knowledge of Voodoo practices and observe the objects used in traditional ceremonies. The Fetish Point of Sale is a real treasure where exoticism reaches its peak. Each element has a special meaning in the local rituals and beliefs, and you will be amazed by the depth and diversity of these traditions.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
29
Grand Marche
Assiganmé, which means “Grand Point of Sale” EN local language, will leave you speechless: a real tableau DE the urban bustle, considered one DE the largest markets in the subregion, thanks in particular to the emblematic presence of the famous “Nana Benz”. Walk through its bustling alleys before heading DE to the next stop DE your visit, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart DE Lomé. The cathedral is reminiscent of European churches, especially St Mary’s Chapel in Würzburg, while its architecture evokes that DE Steyl Church in the Netherlands. Let yourself be amazed by the beauty DE this gothic building in the heart of a young country, a true architectural masterpiece, which houses a magnificent organ EN.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
Day 10
Excursion to Kpalimé and visit DE la casca DE Womé
4 stops
30
Check-out DE Lomé for a trip from EN viron DEux heures EN route to Kpalimé, enjoying the scenery and Togolese nature. Arriving at the foot of Mount Agou, you will begin the ascent by car to the hilltop village DE Kebo Djigbé, known for its spectacular panoramas and very popular with tourists. A short hike will take you through the village to the top of Mount Agou. This is the perfect time to take out your cameras and capture breathtaking views. With a little DE luck, you will also have the opportunity to interact with the local inhabitants.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
31
The Castle Viale
You will continue your visit to the Château Viale, which is very frequent EN summer DE its unique architecture and its exceptional geographical location. Perched EN high, the site offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city DE Kpalimé, its green surroundings, and even, on a clear day, the borders of Ghana. With a little DE luck, you can see the reflections of Lake DE la Haute Volta in the distance. Although the site suffers from a lack of maintenance and DE renovation, it remains a must-see site, both for the beauty of the landscape and for the sense of peace EN that emerges from it. A stopover that is fully worth a visit.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
32
Cascade de Wome
Next stop: the casca DE de Womé, ideal for a revitalizing break. Nothing DE beats a swim DE in its cool and invigorating waters to recharge the batteries before heading back on the road ahead. With a little DE luck, you will meet other travelers who have come to enjoy this natural site, the perfect opportunity to exchange your experiences in a friendly atmosphere. To access the hidden waterfall, you will have to descend a steep trail, adding a touch of adventure to the tour. After this moment DE relaxation, you will go up the same path, with your senses awakened and your mind light.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
33
Fermes Et Village De Kpalime Dzokoto
Closing of the circuit at the Farm: a moment DE sharing EN nature To conclude these days rich EN cultural and human discoveries, we give you EN DE z at the Farm, a peaceful setting in the middle of nature, located near Kpalimé. A moment DE conviviality, DE relaxation and DE celebration to mark the end DE this beautiful adventure. On the agenda: Traditional meal shared EN group, prepared with DE local products from the DE la ferme eco-farm Cultural entertainment: traditional dances, live concert, percussion, and other artistic performances Warm and festive atmosphere in an EN plein air space, surrounded DE nature and DE smiles Time for exchange, DE thanks and DE celebration of the bonds created during the trip This moment DE groupe à la Ferme is the perfect opportunity DE close the circuit on a happy Rating, in a spirit DE sharing, DE celebration. End of the tour and return to Lomé
4 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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