When to go · Benin
Benin in January
Good month. Dry; Vodun Days in Ouidah around 8–10 January. Book early.
Key facts
- Verdict
- Good
- Crowds
- High
- Benin
- Prices
- High
- Benin
Verdict
Dry; Vodun Days in Ouidah around 8–10 January. Book early.
Weather in January
- Coast and lagoons · Cotonou, Ouidah, Porto-Novo, Grand-Popo, Ganviébest weather
Two rainy seasons; July–August is often a drier, cooler break. Humid all year.
- Plateau · Abomey, Bohicon, Dassa-Zoumésmoke haze
Slightly drier than the coast, with Harmattan haze in January.
- North savanna · Parakou, Natitingou, Atakora, Pendjarismoke haze
One rainy season; heat peaks March–April. Large parts are under travel advisories — check.
Festivals and holidays
Dates as our data lists them. Moving holidays (lunar and Islamic calendars, Easter) shift every year: check the date for your year before you build a trip on it.
New Year's Day
1 Jan
Public holiday.
Vodun Days and Fête du Vodoun big impact
8–10 Jan (2026 dates; 10 Jan fixed holiday)
Ceremonies, masks and concerts in Ouidah; national holiday; full hotels.
Crowds and prices
- Crowds · Benin
- High
- Prices · Benin
- High
High-price month: see what to book ahead.
What to pack
Nothing unusual for the weather this month.
Where to go in January
Rated best or good this month
Coast and lagoons
Best weather of the year (Cotonou, Ouidah, Porto-Novo, Grand-Popo, Ganvié)
Dry season; dusty haze; Vodun Day on 10 Jan.