
Ouidah · History and remembrance
Follow the Route of the Captives to the Door of No Return and discuss the history of the transatlantic slave trade with a guide.
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Follow the Route of the Captives to the Door of No Return and discuss the history of the transatlantic slave trade with a guide.

See stilt houses and village life from the water. Pair this visit with a stop in Cotonou.

Explore the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey through its palaces and the stories told by their reliefs.

Spend time exploring museums, markets and architectural heritage, then continue to Adjarra.

Take a canoe trip past the riverside vegetation. This outing complements a visit to Porto-Novo.

Plan a lake outing and ask about trying a clay bath if available locally.

Pair the Amazone monument and the street-art wall with a craft stop. Ask your guide where to find merchants from Dantokpa.
Combine time on the coast with a canoe outing to the Bouche du Roy at the mouth of the Mono.

Ask which ceremonies welcome visitors. Follow your guide’s advice and request permission before taking photos.

Explore performances, encounters and artistic events. Check the official calendar before booking your dates.
Find cultural events and dates announced by Benin’s Ministry of Culture.
View the official calendar →
Discover Vodun traditions and follow the organisers’ guidance during ceremonies.

See the costumes and enjoy the atmosphere of the public parades.
Announced dates: 2–9 January 2027
On Benin’s Atlantic coast, Ouidah welcomes visitors to discover Vodun, a living part of the country’s heritage. If you are visiting Benin in January, plan your stay around the festival and explore the city with a local guide.
Plan my Vodun Days trip →
The festival celebrates Vodun art, culture and spirituality. Previous editions featured seafront concerts, performances in Ouidah’s public squares and public processions from Vodun religious communities. The festival village brought together artisans and food vendors. Check official announcements before deciding which days to attend.
In Ouidah, take time to visit the sites of remembrance along the Route of the Captives and at the Door of No Return. If you’re staying longer, combine the festival with a canoe trip in Ganvié or a visit to Cotonou. During ceremonies, follow the organisers’ guidance and ask permission before taking photos or filming.
Tell us your dates, group size and interests. We can help you find accommodation, arrange transfers and plan guided visits around the festival. Once we’ve checked availability, we’ll send you a personalised proposal with a price.
Plan my Vodun Days trip →