Benin
West Africa
Benin is a country in West Africa, home to 14.5 million people, with an area of 112,622 km². Its capital is Porto-Novo.
- Capital
- Porto-Novo
- Population
- 14.5 million
- Area
- 112,622 km²
- Region
- West Africa
- Density
- 129 / km²
- Status
- Sovereign state
Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.
Experience the magic of Benin 🇧🇯, a West African gem that boasts a diverse cultural heritage 🗿, stunning natural beauty 🏞️, and lively markets 🛍️. From the ancient city of Abomey to the beaches of Grand Popo, immerse yourself in this captivating country!
Benin at a glance
- Language
- French is the official language, but there are many other languages spoken, including Fon, Yoruba, and Bariba
- Currency
- West African CFA franc (XOF)
- Religion
- Christianity and Islam are the two main religions in Benin, although many people also practice traditional African religions
- National dish
- One of the national dishes is called "riz sauce d'arachide," which is a dish of rice cooked with peanut sauce and often served with chicken or fish
- Climate
- Benin has a tropical climate, with a rainy season from April to October and a dry season from November to March
- Main industries
- Agriculture is the main industry in Benin, with cotton, maize, and cassava being important crops. Other industries include mining, manufacturing, and tourism
- GDP
- $12.8 billion (2020 estimate)
- Development
- Benin is considered a developing country with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 165 out of 189 countries (2020)
Things to do in Benin
Some of the main tourist attractions in Benin include:
- The Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
- The Pendjari National Park, a wildlife reserve that is home to elephants, lions, and other animals.
- The Ouidah Museum of History, which explores the history of the slave trade in West Africa.
- The Ganvie stilt village, a unique community built on stilts over a lagoon.
- The Dantokpa Market in Cotonou, one of the largest markets in West Africa and a hub for trade and commerce.
- The Somba people's Tata Somba houses, a type of fortress like home built by the Somba people in northern Benin.
These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Benin has to offer. Visitors to the country can also enjoy its rich culture and traditions, including music, dance, and cuisine. Some popular dishes in Benin include "akpan" (a type of cornmeal cake), "fufu" (a starchy side dish), and "gari" (a type of cassava flour).
Benin in pictures
Benin on video
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Benin compared with its neighbours
How it sits against the other countries of West Africa.
| Country | Population | Area | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
 Senegal | 18.4 million | 196,722 km² | Dakar |
 Guinea | 14.8 million | 245,857 km² | Conakry |
| Benin | 14.5 million | 112,622 km² | Porto-Novo |
 Togo | 9.5 million | 56,785 km² | Lomé |
Ranked 75th of 195 countries by population and 100th by area.
Questions about Benin
What is the capital of Benin?
The capital of Benin is Porto-Novo.
How many people live in Benin?
About 14.5 million people. Ranked 75th of 195 countries by population and 100th by area.
How big is Benin?
Benin covers 112,622 km², in West Africa.
What language is spoken in Benin?
French is the official language, but there are many other languages spoken, including Fon, Yoruba, and Bariba.
What currency is used in Benin?
West African CFA franc (XOF).
Is Benin a country?
Yes. Benin is a sovereign state and is counted among the 195 countries this generator draws from.