Benin
| Official Language | French |
| Second Language | Fon, Yoruba |
| Population | ~14 million |
| Passport Color | Green |
| Passport Rank | #80 |
| Dialing Code | 229 |
| Country TLD | .bj |
Benin Overview
Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, is a West African nation on the Gulf of Guinea (Africa). It is bordered by Togo to the west, Burkina Faso and Niger to the north, and Nigeria to the east, with a short Atlantic coastline to the south. The political capital is Porto-Novo, while the largest city and economic hub is Cotonou.
Benin is the historic heartland of the Kingdom of Dahomey and a center of Vodun (Voodoo) culture. Highlights include the UNESCO-listed Royal Palaces of Abomey, the stilt village of Ganvié on Lake Nokoué, and wildlife-rich Pendjari and W National Parks.
The economy is driven by agriculture and trade, with key crops like cotton and cashew nuts, plus logistics and re-exports through Cotonou Port. French is the official language, with Fon, Yoruba, Bariba and others widely spoken. The currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF).
Offering cultural depth, coastal lagoons, and northern safaris, Benin attracts students, researchers, and travelers interested in history, biodiversity, and West African arts.
Quick Facts About Benin
| Coordinates | 9.3077° N, 2.3158° E |
|---|---|
| Bordering Countries | Togo, Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria |
| Region / Continent | Africa (West Africa) |
| Total Area | ~114,763 sq km |
| Population Density | ~110 people per sq km |
| Highest Point | Mont Sokbaro – ~658 m |
| Major Rivers | Ouémé, Mono, Niger (border areas), Alibori, Sota |
| Climate Type | Tropical in the south; savanna/semi-arid toward the north |
| Famous For | Dahomey heritage, Vodun culture, stilt village Ganvié, northern safaris |
| Major Landmarks | Royal Palaces of Abomey (UNESCO), Ganvié, Ouidah (Route des Esclaves), Pendjari & W National Parks |
| Official Language | French (national languages incl. Fon, Yoruba, Bariba) |
| Currency | West African CFA Franc (XOF) |
| Government Type | Presidential Republic |
| Time Zone | UTC+1 (WAT) |
| Major Exports | Cotton, cashew nuts, shea products, textiles, re-exports |
| Visitor Entry | eVisa available; visa policy varies by nationality—check current rules |
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