Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, is a country in West Africa neighboring Nigeria, Togo, Niger, and Burkina Faso. It is one of the countries known as politically stable and diverse in terms of religion. Three main religions are: Islam, Christianity, and Voodoo. The working language is French, Benin has approximately 56 local languages.
We fully enjoy, throughout the year, a tropical temperature of 38 – 40 (Celsius) degrees as maximum.
If you wish to visit an authentic African culture, then you must visit Benin.
Here is why it’s safe to visit Benin as a Muslim traveler
Benin is a secular country. I grew up in an environment mixed with various religions and learn to respect and tolerate other religions. It’s a must. You can find mosques, churches, and temples as close as 300 meters to each other. People have mutual respect.
It is a very quiet place to visit, people are friendly, and most importantly foreigners are always welcomed. At the international level, Benin Republic is known as one of the most open countries in Africa.
Traveler Tip: You can easily apply for your tourist visa online.
Here is why you should visit Benin as a Muslim traveler
1) For its gold sandy beaches.
Benin enjoys a tropical temperature throughout the year. Wearing your burkini to go to the beach or swimming pool is allowed. No one is going to tell you not to. It also has a conservative culture that encourages dressing modestly.
2) For its cultural authenticity.
You will get to know a completely different diverse culture and atmosphere. It’s so diverse in culture at a point some Beninese ( people from Benin) can have culture shock just getting to know about other culture within the same country. From North, South, East, and West, the culture differs. You have much more to see than you can find on the internet.
3 ) For it’s nature.
Benin is filled with natural touristic places. Visiting mangroves and natural reserves will blow your mind. In the north, there are beautiful waterfalls, and you may go on a Safari.
Make sure to do a little search and learn more about the history of slavery.
4) For unique Halal food
You can find fresh fruits in almost every street corner at a really low price. It mostly costs less than a dollar. What I love the most is fresh coconut fruit.
Street Food that you must try
Wèli: Fried sweet potatoes that can be eaten with some spicy sauce.
Ata: Fried beans cake
Talé talé: Mix of ripe plantain and wheat flour.
Some unique Halal Dishes
Sokourou: It’s pounded yam usually consumed with groundnut soup (or palm soup) and goat meat.
Télibo: It is made of yam flour and eaten with vegetable stew on the side.
In brief, you will love visiting Benin. This West African country with a diverse culture and food, nice people, and a friendly atmosphere is waiting for you to visit.
Hope to see you soon!