A 1-Day Abomey Royal Palaces Tour is a fantastic way to explore the Kingdom of Dahomey’s rich history and cultural heritage, one of West Africa’s most potent pre-colonial kingdoms. Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Royal Palaces, which served as the residence of the Dahomey kings. This 1-day tour is a perfect way to immerse yourself in the history and culture of the Dahomey Kingdom.
Cotonou International Airport (Google Map)
3 Hours Before Flight Time
4 Bedrooms
6 Bathrooms
Historical Museum of Abomey: Located within the palace complex, it houses artifacts such as royal thrones, weapons, and ceremonial objects.
Bas-Reliefs: Admire the intricate wall carvings that depict the history and achievements of the Dahomey kings.
Royal Tombs: Pay respects at the tombs of the Dahomey kings.
Departure from Cotonou or Porto-Novo:
Start early (around 7:00 AM) to make the most of your day.
Travel time: ~2.5–3 hours by car (approximately 140 km from Cotonou).
Arrival in Abomey:
Arrive by 10:00 AM and begin your tour.
Highlights:
Historical Museum of Abomey: Located within the palace complex, it houses artefacts such as royal thrones, weapons, and ceremonial objects.
Bas-Reliefs: Admire the intricate wall carvings that depict the history and achievements of the Dahomey kings.
Royal Tombs: Pay respects at the tombs of the Dahomey kings.
Enjoy a traditional Beninese meal at a local restaurant in Abomey. Popular dishes include akpan (corn dough), wôli-wôli (bean cakes), and grilled fish or chicken.
Visit the Craftsmen’s Village:
Explore the local artisans’ workshops, where you can see traditional crafts like bronze casting, wood carving, and appliqué textiles.
Purchase souvenirs such as handmade jewelry, masks, and fabrics.
Return to Cotonou or Porto-Novo:
Depart Abomey by 3:00 PM to arrive back in Cotonou or Porto-Novo by 6:00 PM.
