Travel Vaccines and Advice for Benin

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Benin. The PHAC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Benin: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

There is a high risk of contracting malaria in Benin. Our expert staff will help you identify the key risk factors and suggest the best antimalarial for your health situation.

There is medical care in larger Beninese cities and towns. But the extent of treatment is limited. For those staying in rural areas, there may be a need to travel far to get to the nearest physician.

For more details on any of the above vaccinations, visit our vaccination page or book an appointment by calling or book online now.

Canadians must present a passport to visit Benin, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date of expected departure from that country.

Prior to travelling, ask your transportation company about its requirements related to passport validity, which may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Benin Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Benin?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Benin and Canadian Travel and Tourism

Visit the Canadian Travel and Tourism website for more information on entry and exit requirements.

Benin tends to have a hot and tropical climate. From January to April, the climate tends to be hot and dry. The rainy seasons lasts from May to July and September to December. The best time to visit Benin is during winter, November through February, when it’s drier.

While travel within the country is relatively safe, exercise caution during times of political turmoil. Public demonstrations are a common sight, especially on Friday afternoons.

Benin’s beaches are not recommended for swimming as water conditions tend to be dangerous with strong waves and rip currents. The towns along the coastline are dangerous at night, and petty crime targeting tourist frequented spots occurs.

Travellers should keep their bags and belongings close to their bodies, and avoid travelling too far from their lodging at night.

Around 20,000 people inhabit the village of Ganvie in huts that seem to float upon lake Nokoue. Some have even dubbed it the ‘Venice of Africa’.

Travelling from the Cotonou airport to Ganvie takes approximately 20 minutes by taxi. If you are coming from Porto Novo, the capital, travel time increases to one hour. The only way to enter the village is with a travel tour boat as only locals are allowed to board the regular boats going in.

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Benin:

• French to English Dictionary – There are many spoken languages in Benin, but French is the official language.
• Lightweight and Sun-Protective Clothing – Heat, humidity and sun are abundant in Benin. Avoid wearing synthetic fabrics as they can become uncomfortable in the heat. Long pants and long-sleeved tops will protect you not only from the sun, but from mosquitoes.
• Insect Repellent – Mosquitoes feast at night. Apply repellent whether you’re planning to go out on the town, or stay close to your lodging especially during wet seasons.
• Raincoat – Tropical climate also means plenty of rain. Make sure to pack either a raincoat or umbrella to shield you from wet weather.

Canadian consular services can help travellers with many issues they may face including passport services. Once in Benin, the information for the Canadian consulate is:

Canadian Consulate Cotonou
Haie Vive,
behind Tri-postal and Cotonou airport,
Benin
Tel.: +229 21 30 21 45

If you have any questions about travelling to Benin or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment by calling or book online now.