Travel Vaccines and Advice for Benin

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Benin. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Benin: 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.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

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.

There is currently no cholera outbreak in Benin. Cases are rare and can be avoided with some health precautions. Despite the lack of a current epidemic, the cholera vaccine is still recommended before travel.

The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!

Travelers cannot obtain a visa at the airport upon arrival in Benin. Visa arrangements must be completed at least a week before departure.

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

Sources: Embassy of Benin and U.S. State Department

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.

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

The U.S. government has more safety travel tips for visiting Benin, if needed.

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’.

Traveling 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.

All Americans visiting Benin should register online with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach out in the case of an emergency or evacuation

U.S. Embassy Cotonou
Marina Avenue
01 BP 2012 Cotonou, Benin
Telephone: +(229) 21-30-75-00
Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(229) 21-30-75-00
Fax: +(229) 21-30-66-82
Email: ConsularCotonou@state.gov

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Benin before leaving to confirm correct contact information.

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