Tourism in Benin

Tourism in Benin is a small industry.[1] In 1996, Benin had approximately 150,000 tourists.[2] By 2014 number rose to 242,000. A small country with a high concentration of tourist attractions,[3] Benin's national parks and culture are among its main tourist attractions.[2] Abomey is one of Benin's main tourist attractions, with palaces that became a World Heritage Site in 1982.[1] The capital city Porto Novo's attractions include its museums and architecture.[1]

Cotonou is the only international airport in Benin.[1] There are direct flights to Benin from Belgium, France, and a number of African countries.[4] There are 578 kilometres of railroad in the country, which were developed under a joint effort with the Republic of Niger.[5]

Benin's government regards tourism as a method of diversifying its economy, attracting more foreign investment, and decreasing Benin's dependence on its agricultural industry.[5][6] Although the government has a National Policy of Tourism Development, it has not made a strong effort to improve tourist facilities or to market Benin as a tourist destination.[6]

Some of the best wildlife areas in West Africa are found in north Benin, where Pendjari National Park and W National Park are located.[7] The best time to see the Pendjari National Park's wildlife is towards the end of the dry season.[8] The park is accessible to travellers and accommodation is available. W National Park is located in Benin's far north, and stretches across Burkina Faso and Niger. The park has a wealth of wildlife, but is difficult to access from Benin.[7]