A dissemination blog about travel and gastronomy

Discovering Cotonou: The Vibrant Metropolis of Benin

Located on the southern coast of Benin, Cotonou is a bustling and vibrant city that serves as the economic and cultural center of the country. Although it is not the official capital of Benin, Cotonou hosts many of the country's governmental institutions and is home to most of Benin's commercial and diplomatic activity.

The Dantokpa Market

The Dantokpa Market is one of the most iconic places in Cotonou. This huge open-air market is one of the largest in all of Africa and offers a wide variety of products, from fresh food to textiles and jewelry. Visitors can spend hours exploring the market stalls, bargaining prices, and immersing themselves in the vibrant local culture.

The Notre Dame de Misericordia Cathedral

The Notre Dame de Misericordia Cathedral, locally known as the Cotonou Cathedral, is another of the city's main attractions. This beautiful Catholic cathedral is famous for its distinctive red and white striped facade and its impressive architecture. The cathedral is a place of tranquility and peace amidst the hustle and bustle of the city and offers a place of reflection for visitors.

Lake Nokoué

Lake Nokoué is a vast saltwater lake located north of Cotonou. The lake is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including numerous species of birds and fish. Visitors can rent a boat to explore the lake and its surroundings, or they can visit the nearby village of Ganvié, known as the "Venice of Africa", which is built entirely on stilts in the lake.

The Abomey Historical Museum

A short drive from Cotonou is the Abomey Historical Museum. This museum is dedicated to the history of the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey, which ruled the region from the 17th century until the late 19th century. The museum houses an impressive collection of historical artifacts, including royal thrones, weapons, and religious artifacts.

Whether you're interested in history, culture, nature, or simply experiencing the energy of a booming African city, Cotonou has something to offer all visitors. With its rich blend of local traditions and modernity, Cotonou is truly the heart of Benin.

Gastronomic Products of Cotonou

• Akassa

  Akassa is a staple food in the diet of Cotonou and is made from fermented corn. It is usually served with a spicy sauce and can be eaten alone or as a side dish to other meals. It is a very nutritious food and an important source of carbohydrates.

• Amiwo

  Amiwo is a popular dish in Cotonou that is made with red corn. It is cooked until it reaches a consistency similar to polenta and is served with a variety of sauces and meats. It is a very versatile dish and can be found in almost all restaurants and food stalls in the city.

• Smoked Fish

  Given its coastal location, Cotonou is famous for its fresh fish. One of the most popular ways to prepare fish is by smoking it. Smoked fish has a unique flavor and can be eaten alone or with a variety of sauces and side dishes.

• Tropical Fruits

  Cotonou is known for its abundance of tropical fruits. Local markets are filled with mangoes, pineapples, papayas, bananas, and many other fruits. Many of these fruits are consumed fresh, but they are also used to make juices, desserts, and sauces.

Sporting Activities in Cotonou, Benin

Football

Football is the most popular sport in Benin and there are many fields in Cotonou where tourists can join a local game or simply enjoy watching the locals play.

Surfing

The coast of Cotonou offers some opportunities for surfing. Although it is not a well-known surfing destination, tourists can enjoy the waves and the beautiful sea view.

Cycling

Cycling is an excellent way to explore Cotonou and its surroundings. Tourists can rent a bicycle and tour the city or venture into the countryside to enjoy the natural beauty of Benin.

Running

For running enthusiasts, Cotonou offers a variety of routes, from the beach to the city streets. It's an excellent way to stay in shape while discovering the city.

Yoga

For those looking for a more relaxing activity, there are several yoga studios in Cotonou that offer classes for all levels. Some even offer outdoor classes so you can enjoy the warm weather of Benin.

Places near Cotonou

If you are in Cotonou and wish to explore a bit more, here we present some nearby cities and towns that offer unique tourist and gastronomic experiences:

Ouidah, in Benin, is a tourist destination rich in history and voodoo culture. Visitors can enjoy its vibrant food market, taste the local cuisine in its restaurants and explore the famous Temple of Pythons.

Ganvié, in Benin, is a fascinating lake city known as the "Venice of Africa". It offers a unique experience of cultural tourism and local cuisine, with dishes based on fresh fish and products grown in floating gardens.

Porto-Novo, the capital of Benin, is a tourist destination full of history and culture. Visitors can enjoy its colonial architecture, fascinating museums and a vibrant culinary scene offering delicious local dishes such as 'akassa' and 'amandine'.