Abomey

Abomey is a historic city located in Benin, West Africa. It was once the capital of the Dahomey Kingdom, known for its rich cultural heritage and historic significance. The city is home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Royal Palaces of Abomey, which showcase the legacy of the powerful Dahomey kings.

Visitors to Abomey can explore the fascinating history of the kingdom through the well-preserved palaces and museums.

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Bonjou" - Hello
  • "Kpè" - Please
  • "Awori" - Thank you
  • "Miaduku" - Goodbye

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Historical tour and local cuisine

morning:Start your day at the Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the rich history of the Dahomey Kingdom. Then visit the Historical Museum of Abomey to learn more about the local culture and traditions. Don't miss the chance to taste the delicious grilled fish at Chez Mawuena for your mid-morning meal.

afternoon:In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the Zomaï Cultivation, a sustainable agriculture project focused on organic farming and environmental preservation. Afterward, head to the Artisanal Village to discover traditional Beninese crafts and buy some unique souvenirs.

evening:For a memorable evening, dine at Resto Bar Le Marrakech for a taste of Moroccan cuisine and then enjoy live music and entertainment at a local spot like Le Flamengo Club.

day 2

Nature adventure and cultural immersion

morning:Embark on a morning hike at the nearby Agbomê Mountain to enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes and explore the natural beauty of the area. Afterward, stop by Café Cotonnier for a delightful breakfast with fresh pastries and aromatic coffee.

afternoon:Discover the traditional Batik Making process at a local workshop and try your hand at creating your own piece of fabric art. Then visit the Ethnographic Museum of Porto-Novo to delve into the diverse cultural heritage of Benin and gain insight into the local way of life.

evening:For a relaxing evening, savor the flavors of authentic Beninese cuisine at La Kora Restaurant and wrap up the day with a tranquil stroll along the Boulevard Steinmetz for a taste of the local nightlife.

day 3

Market exploration and culinary delights

morning:Begin your day with a visit to the bustling Dantokpa Market, one of the largest and most vibrant markets in West Africa, to experience the vibrant atmosphere and pick up some fresh local produce and handmade crafts. Don't miss out on trying the delicious grilled meat at Chez Cissé for your mid-morning snack.

afternoon:After the market adventure, wander through the historical Ganvie Village, the largest lake village in Africa, and take a boat tour to explore the unique stilt structures and see the local fishing activities. Then, enjoy a delectable lunch at La Guinguette, known for its tasty seafood dishes and picturesque lake views.

evening:For a lively evening, head to Maquis le VIP for a vibrant atmosphere, great music, and a chance to mingle with locals over refreshing drinks and flavorful barbecued specialties.

day 4

Artistic exploration and traditional music

morning:Spend the morning exploring the vibrant art scene in Abomey by visiting the Zinsou Foundation, an art center showcasing contemporary African artworks and promoting local artists. Then, stop by La Nouvelle Librairie du Bénin to find captivating reads and enjoy a coffee or tea at their cozy café.

afternoon:Visit the St. Gallen Monument, an important site commemorating the agreement between Abomey and the Swiss city of St. Gallen. Then, experience the captivating rhythms of traditional Beninese music at a live performance by local musicians at the Centre Songhai.

evening:For a memorable evening, dine at Le Rendez-vous for a fusion of African and European cuisine, and then head to a vibrant venue like Le Calypso Bar for live music, dancing, and a taste of the local nightlife scene.

Abomey Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Peanut Sauce with Grilled Fish

This dish features a rich and savory peanut sauce served with grilled fish, often accompanied by rice or fufu. It's a staple in Beninese cuisine and can be found at local eateries and restaurants in Abomey.

Must-Try!

Gbegiri with Amala

Gbegiri is a creamy, savory bean-based soup often served with Amala, a starchy and smooth dough made from yam or cassava flour. It's a popular dish in Abomey and can be savored at traditional eateries and local food spots.

Fufu with Egusi Soup

Fufu, a starchy side dish made from cassava, plantains, or yams, is commonly paired with Egusi soup, a flavorful and hearty soup made with ground melon seeds and leafy greens. It's a must-try dish available at various eateries in Abomey.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Abomey Central Market

A bustling hub of local food vendors and stalls offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food. Visitors can sample grilled meats, akara (bean fritters), and spicy sauces while exploring the vibrant market atmosphere.

Pet sitters in Abomey

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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