Cotonou, Benin: A Hidden Gem in Africa

I recently unlocked an incredibly niche yet breathtakingly beautiful destination in Benin—Cotonou. I can't believe more people don't know about it! Day 1: I arrived in Cotonou in the morning and took a taxi from the airport to my hotel to check in. The hotel is conveniently located right in the city center. After a short rest, I walked to Ganvie, a village built on stilts. It's the largest lake village in Africa, with a network of waterways and houses built directly on the water. It's full of vibrant local life. I recommend spending about 3 hours there, renting a small boat to navigate the canals and experience the unique water village atmosphere. Day 2: After breakfast, I took a taxi to Cotonou Cathedral. This cathedral has a unique architectural style and exquisite interior decoration. I spent 1–2 hours wandering inside, taking in the solemn atmosphere. In the afternoon, I went to the coastal road and strolled along the shoreline, enjoying the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean and watching locals playing by the sea. As evening approached, I watched the sunset over the ocean—it was absolutely stunning. I spent about 3 hours there. Life in Ganvie is truly fascinating. The residents live, work, and trade on the water, as if time has slowed down. The sunset at the coastal road is also exceptional, with orange and red hues filling the sky, contrasting with the blue ocean. Every photo I took was frame-worthy. When you visit Cotonou, you must try the local Atieké. I recommend Chez Tétè restaurant, located on the main street in the city center. Their Atieké is served with tender grilled fish and perfectly cooked rice. The fish is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. Dipped in their unique sauce, every bite is incredibly satisfying! I stayed at Hotel de la Plage, which is a 5-minute walk from the beach. The hotel is clean and comfortable, with cozy rooms and exceptionally friendly staff. They also provide a free breakfast every day, making it excellent value for money. To visit Ganvie, you can find a reliable boatman locally and negotiate the price before boarding. Also, the weather in Cotonou is quite hot, so be sure to protect yourself from the sun with high-SPF sunscreen, a hat, etc. Cotonou is truly a place full of surprises, from its unique cultural landscape to its delicious food. I'm sure you'll fall in love with it too. Start planning your trip now!