Things to Do in Ouidah Benin
Ouidah is a must-stop destination if you decide to explore Benin.
This coastal town alone holds an essential part of the country’s history, spirituality, and identity.
I had originally planned to spend a few days there, especially to learn more about the Vodun religion and the history of the slave trade.
However, after making a few friends and sharing some wonderful moments, I decided to return.
In the end, I spent two weeks there — and I already know I’ll be back on my next trip.
In this article, I’m sharing 11 things to do in Ouidah.
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Plan Your Stay in Ouidah in Just a Few Seconds!
In a rush to plan your trip? This mini-guide has all the essentials you need!
WHERE TO SLEEP?
- Résidence The Champions 2 (perfect for solo travelers and couples)
- CDA Elijah (the cheapest option)
WHAT TO VISIT?
- Go to the Door of No Return
- Visit the Sacred Forest of Kpassè
- Go to the Temple of the Pythons
WHERE TO EAT?
- L’Amicale (for their shawarma)
- Le Goût Supérieur (for their pizzas. The money collected goes to care for people living in poverty.)
- Hakuna Matata (for local dishes in a lovely setting)
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Ouidah in a nutshell
Located on the Atlantic coast, about 25 miles west of Cotonou, Ouidah is bordered by the ocean and surrounded by lagoons and coconut groves.
Founded in the 17th century on the territory of the Kingdom of Hueda before being incorporated into the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey, the city quickly became a major trading center.
Portuguese, French, English, and Dutch merchants established trading posts there, and Ouidah became one of the main ports of the Atlantic slave trade.
Hundreds of thousands of men, women, and children were deported from here to the Americas during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The city is also considered the spiritual birthplace of Vodun, an ancestral religion that originated in this region long before colonization and is still practiced today.
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11 Things to do in Ouidah Benin
1. Walk the Slave Route
The Slave Route stretches for approximately 2.5 miles (4 km). It connects the historic center to the Atlantic Ocean.
This is the path along which hundreds of thousands of enslaved people were led to the slave ships.
Most were sent to Brazil and Haiti. Sadly, many never reached those destinations.
Walking this route slowly allows you to fully grasp this chapter of history and to honor the memory of those who left their homeland with no possibility of return.
This excursion also gives you the opportunity to discover the must-see sites of Ouidah with a guide.
2. Discover Tchacha Square
Place Tchacha is located in downtown Ouidah. It was once the central hub of the slave trade.
This is where transactions took place between African traders and European slave merchants.
Several statues depict this tragic chapter of history, and the spheres placed on the ground symbolically represent the enslaved people who waited there to be sold.
The square takes its name from Francisco Félix de Souza, an influential Brazilian slave trader who settled in Ouidah in the 19th century.
It is often considered the starting point of the Slave Route.
3. Reflect at the Door of No Return
Facing the ocean stands the final point of the Slave Route. The monumental Door of No Return was erected in 1995.
It symbolizes the last glimpse of African land seen by enslaved people before crossing the Atlantic.
It is a place of remembrance, but also one of reflection.
4. Enjoy the beach
From here, you can enjoy Ouidah Beach.
Wide, wild, and almost deserted, it faces the powerful Atlantic Ocean, yet the atmosphere remains peaceful.
It’s the perfect place for a sunset walk, to watch fishermen return with their colorful boats, or simply to enjoy the ocean breeze.
On weekends, the beach fills with locals who come to enjoy the bars lining the shore.
It’s a great opportunity to experience the beach at its liveliest.
5. Visit the Sacred Forest of Kpassè
The Sacred Forest is an important spiritual site of Vodun.
According to legend, it was here in the 14th century that King Kpassè, the founder of the city, is said to have disappeared and transformed into an iroko tree.
The forest is considered sacred because of this tree, which embodies the spirit of the king.
Today, it is home to many statues representing Vodun deities.
Only part of the site is accessible to visitors, as the rest is reserved for initiates.
The visit, usually led by a guide, helps you better understand the symbols and beliefs associated with this ancestral religion, which is still very much alive today.
6. Go to the Temple of the Pythons
The Temple of Pythons is one of the most visited sites in the city.
Dedicated to the worship of the python, a sacred animal associated with the deity Dan, it houses several live snakes that move freely within the temple grounds.
Pythons are considered protectors and are revered by local residents.
One of the most popular activities is having a python placed around your neck.
I personally believe in leaving animals alone, so I wouldn’t recommend doing that.
When I visited, the site was under renovation and there really wasn’t much to see.
7. Visit the Immaculate Conception Basilica
Located across from the Temple of Pythons, the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception reflects the Christian influence introduced by European missionaries in the 19th century.
Built in 1903, it stands out for its simple architecture and bright white façade.
It’s worth stepping inside and walking around, whether to take a quiet moment for reflection or to escape the bustle of the city.
8. Visit the Zinsou Foundation Museum
Fondation Zinsou has a museum in Ouidah dedicated to contemporary African art.
It hosts free exhibitions showcasing artists from across the continent and the diaspora.
It’s meant to be a cultural break that highlights another side of Benin — one that looks toward the future.
I can’t personally confirm this, though, as the museum was closed during my stay.
9. Explore Zobé Market
Markets are always an experience in themselves, and that’s even more true in Benin. Zobé is the beating heart of the city.
It’s the perfect place to shop for daily essentials. You’ll find everything from fresh fruits and vegetables to fish and colorful fabrics.
Some sections also sell many items used in Vodun rituals.
As in all markets in West Africa, avoid taking photos and always maintain a respectful attitude.
10. Go to a Vodou Ceremony
One of the reasons I loved Ouidah so much is that I got to learn more about the Vodun religion thanks to my friends.
So, I recommend that you attend a Vodun ceremony.
The spirituality there is vibrant and collective. It’s a unique experience, but remember that you’re not welcome everywhere!
Make sure you have permission to attend the event before going.
Vodun is not tourist folklore; it’s a deeply rooted religion in daily life, and this can sometimes create tense situations.
A local friend once wanted to take me to an event. I followed him, but I can assure you, I really felt that I needed to leave quickly…
For a shorter introduction to Vodun, you can opt for this tour, which will take you to key places in the city and let you discover the Zangbeto dance, the guardian of the night.
11. Wander in the city
As everywhere, I recommend exploring the city without a fixed plan and letting yourself be surprised by the presence of deities, sculptures, or fetish houses… around every corner.
Keep in mind that you are a tourist and not welcome everywhere, so follow the locals’ advice.
If someone tells you not to go further in a certain direction, turn back.
When is the best time to visit Ouidah?
Since the city is located in the south of the country, it enjoys a tropical climate, warm all year round.
However, despite the heat, rain is frequent during two periods: from April to July, and then from September to October.
This can make getting around a bit tricky, as the roads become sandy. Still, the vegetation is beautiful, and the streets are free of tourists.
The best time to visit is the main dry season, from November to March.
Temperatures are high, but the air is drier and rainfall is rare. It’s also during this period, in January, that the famous Vodun Days are celebrated.
August, between the two rainy seasons, is also an option worth considering.
How many days do you need in Ouidah?
I recommend spending at least 2 days in Ouidah: one day to walk the Slave Route and learn more about the transatlantic slave trade, and another to discover Vodou and the must-see sites that help you better understand this region.
However, if you want to take your time, attend a Vodou ceremony, interact with locals, or simply slow down the pace, 4 to 5 days is ideal.
How do you get to Ouidah?
It all depends on where you are coming from, but here are the 2 most common options.
From Cotonou
The most economical option is the shared taxi. Departures are frequent, especially from Place de l’Étoile Rouge.
That said, for travelers new to exploring Africa, it can be a bit tricky to understand how to take these taxis.
You can also opt for a taxi or a tuk-tuk, which I recommend booking through the Gozem app for more comfort.
Finally, you can take a moto-taxi from Cotonou to Ouidah if you have light luggage.
The trip takes about 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic.
From Grand Popo
Getting to Ouidah from Grand-Popo can take a little longer: approximately 1.5 hours by road.
Shared taxis run regularly along the coast. Ask locals to show you where to catch them and advise you on the price. It’s also possible to arrange private transportation through your accommodation.
BOOKING A PRIVATE DRIVER allows you to travel at your own pace, without any hassle. There’s no need to negotiate, comfort and safety are guaranteed, and you can make stops along the way if you wish.
Prices vary depending on the season and type of vehicle, but it remains affordable, especially if you share the cost with others.
Click here to rent a private driver and explore Cotonou, Ouidah, and Porto-Novo freely!
How to get around in Ouidah?
Ouidah is a fairly compact city if you stay in the downtown area, so getting around is never a big issue.
On foot
The city center is easily explored on foot. It’s actually the best way to wander the streets, admire the architecture, and take your time meeting locals.
By motorbike
Zemidjans (motorcycle taxis) are everywhere in the city. I recommend this budget-friendly option to reach the beach or farther sites like the Sacred Forest. Make sure to negotiate the price before hopping on.
Where to stay in Ouidah?
- Ouidah offers many accommodations that don’t always appear on the most popular booking platforms.
But if you don’t have time to explore on-site to find a hotel, I recommend these two:
- Résidence The Champions 2: I spent my entire stay here. The hotel is clean and modern. Perfect for solo travelers or couples.
- CDA Elijah: This is the most budget-friendly option in Ouidah. I recommend it for solo travelers or those on a tight budget.
ALSO READ: 15 Hotels Where to Sleep in Benin
How to travel responsibly in Ouidah?
Ouidah is a city deeply shaped by its history and spirituality. Traveling here requires respect and awareness.
Some tips:
- Adopt a respectful attitude during visits related to the slave trade.
- Always ask for permission before photographing people or voodoo ceremonies.
- Prefer official local guides to support the local economy.
- Buy souvenirs from market artisans.
- Stay in accommodations run by locals, not foreigners.
- Don’t give money to children to avoid “white saviorism.”
- Dispose of your trash in bins.
- Don’t disturb the local wildlife and don’t feed the animals.
These are just a few ideas, but of course, I share other eco-friendly practices you can apply in Ouidah and anywhere in the world!
Ouidah is a fascinating city that truly deserves some time, both to better understand the history of the slave trade and the voodoo spirituality. I hope you enjoy the city as much as I did.
Feel free to leave any questions in the comments if you have them.
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