Tourism X Africa

Togo or Benin: Which Should You Visit First?

Updated · Entry rules change; confirm with official government sources before booking.

Short answer: pick Benin for heritage and Vodun, Togo for markets and highlands, and combine them in 8 days.

Benin

Ouidah’s Door of No Return and Python Temple, Ganvié stilt village, Porto-Novo and the Royal Palaces of Abomey.

Togo

Lomé’s Akodessewa Fetish Market and Grand Marché, plus Kpalimé for hand-processed coffee and crafts.

Combine them

Start in Lomé and travel east. See the Vodun Festival guide.

Frequently asked questions

Should I visit Togo or Benin first?

Benin is the better choice for Vodun heritage, the Door of No Return, Ganvié and Abomey. Togo offers Lomé's markets, Kpalimé's hills and a calmer pace. Most visitors do both.

Can I see both in one week?

Yes. Our 8-day tour goes from Lomé to Kpalimé and on to Ouidah, Ganvié, Porto-Novo and Abomey.

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Disclosure: Tourism X Africa is connected with UComeAfrik and Confidence Travel Guide. We list other options so you can compare, and we link to sources so you can check for yourself.

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