Travel Vaccines and Advice for Benin

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Benin. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Benin: COVID-19, hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, cholera, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio and tetanus.

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.

A visa is required for Benin. eVisas are available for short stay or multiple entry travellers. Passports must have six months validity. Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter the country. If you do not have proof of vaccination, you may be vaccinated on site, quarantined or returned to your previous location.

NOTE: Travellers cannot obtain a visa for Nigeria or Ghana whilst in Benin, these visas must be obtained ahead of travel or through the Togolese Embassy in Cotonou.

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

Sources: Embassy of Benin and GOV.UK

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 seasides 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 join 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 trousers 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. Ensure to pack either a raincoat or umbrella to shield you from wet weather.

If you are in Benin and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

While there is no consulate or embassy in Benin, it is served by the British embassy in Ghana:

British High Commission Accra
Julius Nyerere Link, off Gamel Abdul Nasser Avenue
PO Box 296
Accra
Ghana
Telephone: + 233 302 213 250
Emergency Phone: + 233 302 213 250
Fax: + 233 30 2213 274
Contact Form: Click Here

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