The Atlas Obscura Guide To Benin

6 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Benin

Updated April 18, 2025

Unusual Attractions in Benin

Cotonou, Benin

Ganvie Lake Village

Africa's Venice on stilts.

Ouidah, Benin

The Temple of Pythons

Dozens of snakes are housed and worshipped within the walls of this Vodun temple.

Ouidah, Benin

La Porte du Non-Retour (The Door of No Return)

A monument to the more than one million enslaved Africans deported from the port of Ouidah.

Bohicon, Benin

Agongointo-Zoungoudo Archaeological Park

This subterranean town of over 50 dwellings lies thirty feet beneath the Earth's surface.

Abomey, Benin

Voodoo Temple of Abomey

A giant chameleon, with a fascinating purpose.

Cotonou, Benin

Amazon Statue

The 100-foot-tall (30-meter) bronze statue was built to recognize the world's only documented all-female army.

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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Benin

6 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Benin

Updated April 18, 2025

Unusual Attractions in Benin

Cotonou, Benin

Ganvie Lake Village

Ouidah, Benin

The Temple of Pythons

Ouidah, Benin

La Porte du Non-Retour (The Door of No Return)

Bohicon, Benin

Agongointo-Zoungoudo Archaeological Park

Abomey, Benin

Voodoo Temple of Abomey

Cotonou, Benin

Amazon Statue

Plan Your Trip

Unforgettable Experiences Nearby

Rhythms & Rituals: West Africa's Spiritual Traditions

Floating villages, bustling markets, clay castles, and mesmerizing ceremonies in West Africa.

Explore Benin

Benin Leaderboard

Places Added

Places Edited

Places Visited

Recent Benin Activity

Stories About Benin

Podcast: Ganvie Lake Village

Podcast: Temple of Pythons

Podcast: Koutammakou

Who Were the Warrior Women of Dahomey?

Podcast: Benin Bronzes

Become an Atlas Obscura Member

Join our community of curious explorers.