Benin 2025

Cotonou, Benin

HN
Haitian Nomad
  • Email address verified
313 reviews
Apr 13 - 19, 2025
Group size: 1 - 15
Benin 2025
Cotonou, Benin

Haitian Nomad
  • Email address verified
313 reviews

Apr 13 - 19, 2025
Group size: 1 - 15

About this trip

Join Haitian Nomad on an unforgettable journey to Benin, a country rich in history and culture. Begin your adventure in the bustling city of Cotonou, where you’ll immerse yourself in the vibrant local markets and coastal scenery. Our exploration takes us to the historical slave route in Ouidah, a poignant reminder of the past, where you’ll walk the same path millions of enslaved Africans once traversed. This experience is both moving and educational, offering deep insights into the region’s impactful history.


Next, we'll visit the enchanting stilt village of Ganvie, known as the "Venice of Africa." Here, you'll navigate through serene waterways and witness the unique lifestyle of the Tofinu people. In Porto-Novo, the Black River’s lush landscapes and tranquil ambiance provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and reflection. The journey culminates in the historic city of Dahomey, where the remnants of the powerful Dahomey Kingdom await exploration. This trip is a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, promising memories that will last a lifetime.


ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND ADJUSTMENT

Who is this trip for?

This trip is ideal for those drawn to cultural depth, historical exploration, and intimate community interactions:


- History Buffs: Perfect for those captivated by the echoes of the past, from the historic slave route in Ouidah to the ancient kingdom of Dahomey. Each site offers a profound look into the struggles and triumphs of the region.


- Community Connectors: Ideal for travelers eager to engage with local cultures and communities. Visits to Cotonou and the unique lake village of Ganvie provide meaningful interactions and insights into the daily lives and traditions of the local people.


- Nature and City Explorers: Those interested in a blend of urban and natural landscapes will find Porto-Novo's Black River captivating, alongside the bustling markets and vibrant street life of Cotonou.


- Reflective Travelers: For those who seek moments of reflection and deeper understanding, this journey offers numerous opportunities to contemplate the resilience and creativity of human cultures through immersive experiences.


Crafted for those who cherish a comprehensive experience, this trip promises rich encounters that marry profound historical insights with vibrant contemporary culture. Whether a seasoned explorer or a curious first-timer, this adventure is poised to enrich your perspective and leave lasting memories.

This trip is NOT for you if:

This trip is not ideal for those seeking a conventional vacation focused on leisure and luxury:


- Comfort Seekers: If you prefer all-inclusive resorts with minimal cultural engagement or are not accustomed to the emotional weight of historical sites, this might not be the trip for you.


- Passive Tourists: Those who prefer to observe rather than actively engage with the environment and culture might find the immersive nature of this trip challenging.


- Inactivity Enthusiasts: If your ideal holiday includes more downtime and less structured activities, the pace and demands of this itinerary may be too intense.


- Convenience Travelers: Individuals looking for quick, easy access to familiar amenities and attractions might find the logistics and locations of this trip less accommodating.


This journey demands curiosity, resilience, and a willingness to step outside comfort zones, making it less suitable for those who value comfort over adventure.

Yellow Fever Vaccine required

Passengers aged 9 months and older must hold a yellow fever vaccination certificate.

Travel insurance

We require everyone to carry travel insurance on all Haitian Nomad trips. This protects you in case of emergency or in case you need to cancel due to unforeseen circumstances.     


You will NOT be able to get any refund or credits from Haitian Nomad should you need to cancel 90 days or less before departure and would need to refer to your travel insurance. Initial deposits are non-refundable after 24hours of booking. 

VISAS

Visa is required for Benin but can easily be obtained online as an E-visa. Please visit www.traveldoc.aero to check all travel requirements and make sure you have all required documentations. Haitian Nomad will not be responsible for last minute cancellation related to documents and no refunds or credits will be issued.

Photography

Please be aware that by attending this trip, you grant Haitian Nomad LLC, its sponsors, its successors, assigns and licensees permission to utilize your name, image, likeness, acts, poses, plays, appearance, movements, and statements in any live or recorded audio, video, or photographic display or other transmission, exhibition, publication or reproduction made of, or during the trip (regardless of whether before, during, or after trip) for any purpose, in any manner, in any medium or context now known or hereafter developed, without further authorization from, or compensation to, you or anyone acting on your behalf.

Cancellation & refund policy

Cancellation and Refund Policy: U.S. regulations allow you 24 hours to cancel your booking for a full refund. Should you need to cancel for any reason after 24hrs from booking, all payments will be final, non-refundable, non-transferable. & no credits issued per the nature of this trip and Flights being non-refundable/non-transferable. It is advised that you purchase "cancel for any reason" travel insurance immediately after booking to protect you in case of any unforeseen cancellation or accident. Additionally, you are solely responsible for securing your international flights, failure to do so and waiting until the last minute usually results in higher fares for which Haitian Nomad isn't liable and any cancellation as a result will not result in any credits or refunds.  Haitian Nomad LLC reserves the right to cancel or postpone a trip due to extenuating circumstances.   

Fees: On the 5th day of non-payment, you will automatically be charged a $50 late fee. Your booking will be automatically canceled due to non-payment  after missing 2 monthly installments and all previously made payments will be forfeited.  Setting payment reminders remain your sole responsibility and in no way is Haitian Nomad LLC responsible for payment reminders.   As a participant on any Haitian Nomad trip, it is your responsibility to make sure you are in compliance with all country, airline or vendor requirements including vaccines and other documents. No refund or credit will be issued if you fail to obtain the required documents or if there’s a sudden change in country/airline requirements resulting in your cancellation.   All requests for cancellation must be received in writing via email at haitiannomad@gmail.com. Cancellations cannot be made online.  I represent and warrant that I understand and will adhere to Haitian Nomad LLC cancellation and refund policy. As such, is relying on my representations and warranties, and neither the Haitian Nomad LLC will be liable or required to refund me beyond 24 hours of booking. 

What’s included

  • Airport transfers
    Round Trip airport transfers for April 13th arrivals and April 19th Departures
  • Transportation
    Comfortable transportation to all included excursions
  • Accommodations
    Single or Double Accommodations
  • All tours
  • All entrance fees
  • All guides
    (Tipping extra and REQUIRED)
  • MEALS
    Daily breakfast, some lunch and some dinners (Will be confirmed on final itinerary)

What’s not included

  • Extra meals
    (besides your 3 daily meals)
  • Payment Processing fees
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Tips
    $250/person and collected on first day
  • Airfare (flights)
  • Personal items
  • Visas
    required
  • Yellow Fever Vaccine
    Required

Available Packages

Double Occupancy Room
Deposit:$500
5 left

(Double occupancy rate-you will be paired with a roommate)The double occupancy room option is designed for travelers booking in pairs, providing a cost-effective and comfortable accommodation solution. When choosing this option, you will share a room with your travel companion or be paired with another traveler booked in double occupancy.   


We try to provide two separate beds but in some cases/countries, a queen or king-size bed depending on availability

It's an excellent choice for those who want to share their travel experience with a friend or loved one. The room is equipped with all standard amenities, including a private bathroom, air conditioning, Wi-Fi access, and more.  If booking with someone, please book 2 participants in this category as pricing is per person.

Please note that there is always the possibility that you'll share a bed should there not be two beds available. 

$3,200
Deposit:$500
Single Occupancy Room
Deposit:$750
Only 3 left

The single occupancy room option is perfect for travelers seeking privacy and tranquility during your trip. When you select this option, you will enjoy a room all to yourself, offering you a private, quiet space to relax and unwind after a day of adventures. The rooms are equipped with a comfortable bed, typically queen or king-sized, and all standard amenities including a private bathroom, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi access. Single occupancy rooms are an excellent choice for solo travelers or anyone who appreciates their own space. The cost of a single occupancy room is higher than sharing a double occupancy room but the additional expense guarantees you a room tailored to your personal comfort and needs, providing a peaceful retreat for the duration of your trip.

$4,300
Deposit:$750


Itinerary

Arrive in Benin
Arrival

Date: April 13th Arrive Cotonou Airport

Your Organizer


HN
Haitian Nomad
313 reviews
Welcome to Haitian Nomad, a premier travel company dedicated to curating and hosting unforgettable cultural experiences around the globe. At Haitian Nomad, we believe that travel is not just about visiting new places, but about immersing oneself in the richness of diverse cultures, forging connections, and creating lifelong memories. Our mission is to provide you with meticulously designed itineraries that go beyond the tourist trail, offering authentic and immersive experiences that showcase the true essence of each destination.

Reviews

MB
This recent trip with Haitian Nomad was / is definitely one for the books. The group of Ladies I traveled with were awesome, the tour guide Fallou was amazing....well let's just say...I almost became part of his family. (LOL) Thank you Haitian Nomad for the experience, the education at Goree Island, and of course more culture. Until my next adventure with Haitian Nomad next month. Peace and Love always to the Haitian Nomad Family. sincerely, J. Monique'
By Monique' B for Senegal 2024: Welcome to Africa on Nov 19, 2024
RN
This trip was truly a phenomenal experience. Haitian Nomad provided excellent customer service, accommodations, and communication throughout all phases of the trip (planning, during the trip, and post-trip). The itinerary was top-notch and gave me exactly the adventure I wanted. I will certainly be traveling with Haitian Nomad again in the future.
By Ryan N for Egypt 2024: A Luxury Journey into the past on Nov 18, 2024
Thank you so much for your glowing review! We’re thrilled to hear that your Egypt trip with Haitian Nomad was a phenomenal experience and that you appreciated our customer service, accommodations, and communication throughout the journey. Crafting top-notch itineraries that deliver the adventure and cultural immersion our travelers seek is our passion, and it means the world to us that we hit the mark for you. We’re honored to have been part of your travel story and can’t wait to welcome you on another unforgettable adventure in the future!
By Haitian Nomad on Nov 18, 2024
HN
CC
Senegal is another country that has been a dream visit, and traveling with Haitian Nomad was the company I was no doubt going to go with. Senegal is a beautiful place and the 'Teranga' is so real here.... Teranga is a Senegambian expression which roughly translates into 'good hospitality', it is one of the most friendliest places one could visit and no surprise why it's a popular West African destination. I cannot express enough how amazing this trip is and strongly recommend booking with Haitian Nomad.
By Clifford C for Senegal: Return to the Motherland 2022 on Nov 18, 2024
Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt review! We’re honored that Haitian Nomad was your choice for fulfilling your dream of visiting Senegal. You captured the essence of Senegal beautifully—the warmth of Teranga truly makes it a one-of-a-kind destination. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that this trip exceeded your expectations and that you felt the genuine hospitality that makes Senegal so special. We’re thrilled you had an amazing experience, and your recommendation means the world to us. We can’t wait to host you on another unforgettable journey soon!
By Haitian Nomad on Nov 18, 2024
HN
CC
My 3rd trip with Haitian Nomad and I would highly recommend. If you had told me 20 years ago suggesting travel to Rwanda, I would not have taken much consideration, but over time, I became open to it. When Haitian Nomad posted the itinerary, I could not pass up the opportunity! Rwanda conjures up many thoughts in people and sadly, sometimes it is of the 1994 genocide, but for any nation there's more to it than a tragedy. I wanted to visit because I wanted to see the beauty and richness of the culture and the people. I will say again, Haitian Nomad delivered. The accommodations were top class were amazing, everything else from activities, transport, food, etc, were on point. I doubt I could have planned a trip like this myself, and I would do this again. Rwanda was amazing and I would do this trip again.
By Clifford C for RWANDA & UGANDA: NYE African Luxury on Nov 18, 2024
Wow—your third trip with Haitian Nomad! Thank you so much for your continued trust in us to curate your travel experiences. We’re thrilled to hear that Rwanda lived up to your expectations and left such a meaningful impression. Rwanda is indeed a destination that surprises and inspires, offering so much beauty, culture, and resilience beyond its history. It’s an honor to have been able to showcase the richness of the country and its people through our itinerary. We’re delighted that everything, from the accommodations to the food and activities, was on point for you. Knowing that we’ve delivered an experience you’d do all over again means the world to us. We can’t wait to have you join us on another adventure in the future!
By Haitian Nomad on Nov 18, 2024
HN
CC
What is there to say about this trip, I cannot say enough what an amazing experience it was! I had always wanted to do a Haitian Nomad trip and I am glad and proud this was my first. For personal fulfillment reasons, I've always wanted to travel to Bénin; it was through Rich's company I was able to realize it. Haitian Nomad did their best to provide activities and accommodations that would have been challenging for me to organize on my own. I must commend him for organizing a trip that might have overwhelmed anyone else, but he did quite alright. From visiting Togo then travel to Benin we were open to discovering very beautiful locales and seeing a lovely variety of cultures. I really can't thank him enough for the experience, and I will treasure it.
By Clifford C for Benin X TOGO: a Journey Back to Abomey on Nov 18, 2024
Thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful review! We’re truly honored that your first Haitian Nomad trip was to Benin, a destination so meaningful to you. Knowing that we could help you realize this personal fulfillment makes this journey even more special for us. Organizing a trip with such cultural depth and variety is always a challenge we’re happy to take on, and we’re thrilled to hear that the activities, accommodations, and experiences met your expectations. Traveling through Togo and Benin, exploring beautiful locales, and immersing in the richness of the cultures are moments we hope you’ll treasure forever. Your heartfelt words mean the world to us, and we look forward to having you join us on more amazing adventures in the future!
By Haitian Nomad on Nov 18, 2024
HN
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References

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My favorite memory was when I celebrated my 50th birthday all year. During this year, I experienced my first trip to Haiti and Saut-d'eau. I got no picture to share. 🚫 This was a spiritual voyage for me, but I didn’t know it until I experienced it. This trip was also a highlight of my life. Thank you HNM! Congratulations on your success! Donna Marie
By on 15 Sep, 2024
My trip to the Amalfi Coast with Haitian Nomad was beyond Excellent. Haitian Nomad exceeded my expectations in quality, organization, and leadership. Richard's leadership qualities and abilities are what you look for when hiring a company hosting trips all over the world with over 20+ participants at one time. The Amalfi Coast was my first trip this past June - and it won't be my last. I enjoyed everything from the beginning - all the way to the end. The accommodations and comradery was great. I have to say that I have met some amazing people that I will continue to build a relationship with. Do not hesitate..... choose a destination and give Haitian Nomad a try..... Happy Traveling.
By Nadia A on 24 Jun, 2024
Let me start off with saying I had a ball on the trip. Toi was the best ambassador she had everything planned out for us. It was a trip that was well needed and I was glad that I took the chance to go half way around the world and I had a blast. Toi gets 200 stars she was the best. I would go on another trip as long as Toi is the ambassador. Toi thank you so much for showing up and showing out the best. I had a blast.
By Sidonie Q on 17 Apr, 2024
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