Africa
Voodoo heritage, stilt villages and the palaces of old Dahomey.
Benin is the birthplace of Vodun, and its spiritual life is part of everyday culture rather than a show for visitors. Ouidah's Route des Esclaves ends at the Door of No Return on the coast, the Royal Palaces of Abomey tell the story of the Dahomey kingdom, and Ganvié is a whole town built on stilts over Lake Nokoué. In the north, Pendjari National Park has elephants, lions and buffalo.
The south is compact and relatively easy to travel, with good roads along the coast and a relaxed pace. Food is hearty: pâte with spicy sauces, grilled fish and street stalls selling fried snacks. The Vodun festival every January is a highlight. Armed groups are active in the far north, including around Pendjari and W national parks, so check your government's current travel advice before planning. November to March is driest; April to July brings the main rains.
January, February, December.