Benin
Benin travel guide for Americans
Americans must obtain a visa (e‑visa available) before arrival; if you have a valid visa and yellow‑fever certificate, travel is clear – a change in visa policy would require a new check.
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Key facts
- Visa
- e‑visa required for US passport holders
- Yellow‑fever
- Certificate required
- Currency
- West African CFA franc (XOF) ≈ 560–600 per US$
- Plugs
- Types C & E, 220 V 50 Hz
- Time zone
- UTC+1 year‑round
Entry requirements for US citizens
US passport holders need a visa before travel. Benin offers an online e‑visa; processing typically takes 3‑5 business days. Bring a yellow‑fever vaccination certificate (valid for 10 years). A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond entry.
If a visa is denied or the yellow‑fever certificate is missing, you will be refused entry at Cotonou airport.
- Apply for e‑visa at the official Benin immigration portal (check).
- Upload passport scan, photo, and vaccination proof.
- Pay the fee (≈ 30 USD, check).
US embassy and consular help
Benin has no US embassy; the nearest is the US Embassy in Accra, Ghana. For emergencies, contact the embassy by phone or email (details on the US State Department site).
- US Embassy Accra – 233‑30‑277‑2000 (check).
- Consular hotline for US citizens in Benin – 1‑800‑XXXX (check).
Typical costs in USD
A moderate 7‑day trip to Benin for one adult averages US$1,200–1,500, covering flights, accommodation, meals, transport and entry fees.
| Item | Estimated cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round‑trip flight from US (NYC–Cotonou) | ≈ 900–1,200 (check) |
| Mid‑range hotel (7 nights) | ≈ 300–450 |
| Meals | ≈ 150–200 |
| Local transport & tours | ≈ 150–250 |
| Visa fee | ≈ 30 |
Prices are 2026 estimates; vary by season and booking time.
Flights and time difference
Direct flights to Benin are limited; most travelers connect via Paris, Istanbul or Accra. Flight time from New York to Cotonou is about 13–15 hours including layover. Benin is one hour ahead of US Eastern Time (UTC+1 vs UTC‑5).
- Use the flight‑time planner tool for exact schedules.
Electrical plugs and tipping
Benin uses European Type C and E plugs, 220 V 50 Hz. Bring a universal adapter.
Tipping is not expected; rounding up the bill or leaving 500–1,000 CFA for guides and porters is customary.
Emergency contacts
Police: 117 (check).
Fire: 118 (check).
Medical assistance: call local hotel or use the US Embassy in Accra for consular help.
Questions people ask
Do Americans need a visa for Benin?
Yes. US passport holders must obtain an e‑visa before arrival and present a valid yellow‑fever certificate.
How much does a trip to Benin cost in USD?
A 7‑day mid‑range itinerary typically costs US$1,200–1,500, including flight, accommodation, meals, transport and visa fee.
Where is the nearest United States embassy in Benin?
Benin has no US embassy; the nearest is in Accra, Ghana. Contact them for consular assistance.
What electrical plugs are used in Benin?
Benin uses European Type C and E plugs, 220 V 50 Hz. US travelers should bring a universal adapter.
What is the currency in Benin?
The currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF), with an exchange rate of approximately 560–600 per US dollar.
Verify with the official source
Draft, not field-verified
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
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