The time of a honeymoon is a fairytale for each couple that announces the start of a life full of adventures and destinations that will be forever remembered. For all those who want to have an incredible combination of culture, adventures, and relaxation, Benin in West Africa is a perfect destination that hasn’t been trodden much by honeymooners. This vivacious state, saturated with history and culture, provides many honeymoon places for the lovers. Let’s take a look at the top 10 honeymoon destinations in Benin, all with their own distinct appeal.
1. Ouidah
Ouidah, the ancient city, is the Vodun religion’s spiritual center and the source of its history and culture. Lovers can visit Ouidah Museum of History,located within the ancient Portuguese stronghold where the House of Slaves was opened, and the sacred Python Temple. Slavery Trail on the way to the Door of No Return on the shoreline is a destructive historical site which will make you make reflections about human experiences.
2. Porto-Novo
The capital of Benin, replete with colonial architecture, occupied by prosperous markets, and renowned for the beautiful Jardin Place Jean Bayol. In addition to the Ethnographic Museum of Porto-Novo and the King’s Palace (musée Honme), visitors will discover a display of artifacts and other items that depict the region’s culture and history. It will be perfect for all couples to laze around the town, being surrounded with its calm streets and bustling marketplaces.
3. Ganvie
This place is so famous and it’s often that it’s called “the Venice of Africa,” so if you want to have unforgettable and unusual experience, you should visit Ganvie. This lake community created from stilt homes in the middle of Lake Nokoué, is perfect combination of peacefulness and scenic surroundings. The couples can enjoy the scenic serenity of the waterways on a canoe tour to the village, experiencing the life of the village residents and the quiet immensity of the waters.
4. Cotonou
Cotonou, which serves as Benin’s economic hub, is where ethnic values and contemporary life are bound together. One of the most striking features of Cotonou is Dantokpa Market, the largest in West Africa, and once there, you will be enraptured by shoppers from many different nationalities. Partners may find time to sunbathe at city’s beaches, place their visit to Zinsou Foundation for Modern African Art or have a peaceful rest at the Fidjrosse Beach.
5. Abomey
To dig into the roots of the region even more, Historical Museum of Abomey is a goldmine of artworks, narrations, and exhibits that enlighten one the traditions, customs, and lifestyle of the Dahomey people. Starting from royal regalia and ending with the everyday objects used by the dwellers of that kingdom, the museum reveals the scene that used to be a history Sightseeing in Abomey with a sweetheart turns out to be more than a survey of Abomey through time but primarily an avenue of deep connection through mutual experiences and new insights. The city’s eccentricity, history, and cultural imprint provide an ideal scene for any couple looking for permanent memories and to solidify their partnership within the splendor of history.
6. Natitingou
Natitingou: Located where Benin’s northwest is, Natitingou holds beautiful natural landscapes and is the entrance to the park, Pendjari. Couples will have an opportunity to observe the impressive beauty of the Atakora Mountains, visit Tata Somba houses, and enjoy safaris in the national parks where they could, for example, see elephants, lions, and different kinds of antelope.
7. Pendjari National Park
For adventurous couples, Pendjari National Park provides a unique wildlife experience that is second to none in the whole of West Africa. This park is home to elephants, lions, hippos, and hundreds of bird species. Spending a night in one of the lodges in the park is a memory worth having.
8. Boukoumbe
The village of Boukoumbé, featuring rolling hills and gently sloping terrain, is just outside the borders of Togo and is populated by the Tatasomba who build all their houses with mud. Pairs of travelers might try authentic Betammaribe regional cuisine in the markets and appreciate the breath-taking scenery as well.
9. Grande-Popo
If you want to relax and enjoy the sea, then Grand-Popo is the place for you with its beautiful beaches in a quiet atmosphere. Couples may prefer to stroll on the beach, go to the mouth of the Mono River area, or simply relax in one of the nice guesthouses or resorts in town.
10. Possotome
The spa resort of Possotomé is renowned for its curative mineral waters, and therefore, it can be very appealing for couples looking to reduce stress. Thermal baths have a relaxing effect while nearby Lake Ahémé can be paddled in a canoe, which adds to the overall experience. It’s a green paradise for a refreshing stroll.
Among these sites in Benin, there’s a specific blend of the culture, history, and nature to each of them perfect for a couples seeking for an unconventional and yet relaxing and indelible honeymoon. Whether you love it or you hate it, the idea of a Honeymoon proves to aid in the creation of a perfect start to your married life. From historic palaces to the sea, Benin is your perfect spot.