Benin: Memory & Roots
In the footsteps of memory, from the shores of Ouidah to the cradle of the Dahomey kingdom.
Indicative price per person — personalised quote based on your dates and group.
Highlights
- ◆The Route of the Slaves and the Door of No Return in Ouidah, for a time of remembrance facing the Atlantic.
- ◆Ouidah's Vodun heritage: the Temple of Pythons and the Sacred Forest of Kpassè.
- ◆Ganvié, a lake village built on stilts across Lake Nokoué, explored by pirogue.
- ◆The Royal Palaces of Abomey, the living memory of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
Day by day
- Day 1 · Arrival in Cotonou
You are welcomed at Cotonou airport and transferred to your accommodation. A first breath at the city's own pace, with time to settle in before the journey into memory begins.
- Day 2 · Cotonou to Ouidah: the Route of the Slaves
You travel to Ouidah and walk the Route of the Slaves down to the Door of No Return, standing before the Atlantic. A guided walk of remembrance, in tribute to those who departed from this shore.
- Day 3 · Ouidah: Vodun heritage and remembrance
A day in Ouidah, between the Temple of Pythons and the Sacred Forest of Kpassè, at the heart of a living Vodun spirituality. A quiet time for reflection is set aside, with respect and dignity, to honour the memory of the ancestors.
- Day 4 · Ganvié, the lake city
You set out by pirogue across Lake Nokoué to reach Ganvié, a village raised on stilts by the Tofinu people. An immersion in a way of life shaped by water, from the floating market to homes standing on the lake.
- Day 5 · On to Abomey: the Royal Palaces
You head north to Abomey, former capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey. A guided visit of the Royal Palaces and their museum, where bas-reliefs and stories recall the power of a kingdom that shaped West African history.
- Day 6 · Abomey: the arts and craft of Dahomey
You meet the artisans of Abomey, heirs to the royal appliqué tapestries and bas-reliefs, before making your way back to Cotonou. Time to let everything the journey has stirred quietly settle.
- Day 7 · Cotonou: last steps and departure
Depending on your flight time, a last stroll through Cotonou — the great Dantokpa market, one final keepsake — before your transfer to the airport. You leave with memory rooted a little deeper.
What's included
- ✓ A dedicated guide accompanying you throughout the journey
- ✓ Airport transfers and private travel between each stage (Cotonou, Ouidah, Ganvié, Abomey)
- ✓ Selected, vetted accommodation in comfortable rooms
- ✓ Guided visits to the memorial sites: the Route of the Slaves, the Door of No Return, the Royal Palaces of Abomey
- ✓ Pirogue crossing to the lake village of Ganvié
- ✓ Naveh support and concierge service before and during the trip
Not included
- · International flights to and from Cotonou
- · Visa fees and entry formalities for Benin
- · Travel insurance and medical assistance
- · Meals and drinks not listed in the programme
- · Personal expenses, tips and craft purchases
- · Vaccinations and any related health costs
First departures: 2026-2027 season. Join the priority list.