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Cotonou
in Benin

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Benin

Cotonou

Cotonou is the economic capital of Benin and the largest city in the country. Located on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean, it is the largest port in West Africa and serves as Benin’s main port of entry. The city is one of the most populous in the region, with an estimated population of 1.2 million.

Cotonou is situated on the south-east coast of the Gulf of Guinea, and is connected to the Benin interior by the N’Dali-Cotonou highway. It is an important commercial hub and is home to a diverse range of industries, including fishing, timber, and manufacturing. The city is also known for its vibrant nightlife, with many bars, restaurants, and nightclubs located along the waterfront.

Cotonou has a long and varied history, dating back to the 15th century when it was a major trading center for the Yoruba people. In the 19th century, the city served as a base for French colonialists, who established the city as the capital of French Dahomey. During this period, Cotonou was also a major port for the slave trade.

Since independence in 1960, Cotonou has seen a period of rapid growth and development, and is now a modern, cosmopolitan city. It is home to numerous universities, museums, and cultural institutions, and is a popular tourist destination. With its beautiful beaches and lively nightlife, Cotonou is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone.

Excursion tips for a day in Cotonou

As a tourist in Cotonou, Benin, there are plenty of exciting activities to experience in just one day. Here are some of the best things to do in the city:

1. Take a tour of the Cotonou Cathedral, the largest church in the city.
2. Explore the Dantokpa Market, the biggest market in West Africa.
3. Visit the National Museum of Benin to learn about the country's history and culture.
4. Relax on the beach and take in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
5. Enjoy a traditional Beninese meal at one of the city's many restaurants.
6. Take a scenic boat ride along the Ouémé River.
7. Shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at the Artisanal Village.
8. Spend the evening at one of the city's lively bars and clubs.

 

to business owners in Cotonou

Experience Cotonou with unforgettable activities by our partner GetYourGuide. The offer is also ideal as a special gift idea for family and friends who are planning to visit Cotonou. Cancellations are possible up to 24h before the start of the activity (unless otherwise stated in the activity description), with a full refund of the booking price.

The climate in Cotonou

Cotonou in Benin has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons. In the wet season from April to July, temperatures are hot and humid, with daily rainfall and occasional thunderstorms. The dry season from August to March is milder, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius and less rain. Humidity is high throughout the year, with an average of around 80%. In short, Cotonou has a hot and humid climate, with temperatures ranging from 25 to 30 degrees Celsius and high humidity throughout the year.

Cruise weather for Cotonou

Our weather forecast for Cotonou helps plan your stay according to the weather. For sunny days, pack light and breathable clothes, swimwear, and sunscreen. For winter weather, it's recommended to bring warm clothes, gloves, a hat, sturdy footwear, and a raincoat.

Date Icon Temperature Wind speed/gusts Cloudiness/Visibility Air humidity/pressure Sunrise/Sunset
Sep. 7th 2024 Sep. 7th 2024 max: 25.0 °C
min: 24.5 °C 		25.9 m/s
32.0 m/s		 97.0 %
24.0 m		 85.3 %
1,014 hPa		 06:42:22
18:54:17
Sep. 8th 2024 Sep. 8th 2024 max: 25.7 °C
min: 24.7 °C 		19.1 m/s
25.2 m/s		 46.6 %
24.1 m		 83.0 %
1,014 hPa		 06:42:11
18:53:46
Sep. 9th 2024 Sep. 9th 2024 max: 25.3 °C
min: 24.7 °C 		23.0 m/s
24.8 m/s		 44.6 %
23.8 m		 86.7 %
1,014 hPa		 06:42:01
18:53:14
Sep. 10th 2024 Sep. 10th 2024 max: 25.0 °C
min: 24.7 °C 		26.6 m/s
34.6 m/s		 82.4 %
24.1 m		 88.5 %
1,013 hPa		 06:41:50
18:52:43
Sep. 11th 2024 Sep. 11th 2024 max: 25.0 °C
min: 24.7 °C 		26.3 m/s
33.6 m/s		 54.9 %
24.1 m		 87.3 %
1,014 hPa		 06:41:39
18:52:12
Sep. 12th 2024 Sep. 12th 2024 max: 25.2 °C
min: 24.6 °C 		27.4 m/s
31.7 m/s		 28.2 %
24.1 m		 88.1 %
1,015 hPa		 06:41:29
18:51:40
Sep. 13th 2024 Sep. 13th 2024 max: 25.1 °C
min: 24.6 °C 		26.6 m/s
32.8 m/s		 47.3 %
24.1 m		 88.6 %
1,014 hPa		 06:41:18
18:51:08
Sep. 14th 2024 Sep. 14th 2024 max: 25.1 °C
min: 24.7 °C 		27.0 m/s
33.1 m/s		 72.3 %
24.1 m		 88.5 %
1,014 hPa		 06:41:07
18:50:37
Sep. 15th 2024 Sep. 15th 2024 max: 25.1 °C
min: 24.5 °C 		28.1 m/s
32.0 m/s		 63.3 %
24.1 m		 87.5 %
1,014 hPa		 06:40:56
18:50:05
Sep. 16th 2024 Sep. 16th 2024 max: 25.3 °C
min: 25 °C 		26.3 m/s
28.4 m/s		 25.9 %
24.1 m		 86.5 %
1,014 hPa		 06:40:45
18:49:33
Sep. 17th 2024 Sep. 17th 2024 max: 25.3 °C
min: 24.5 °C 		28.1 m/s
32.4 m/s		 90.9 %
24.1 m		 87.1 %
1,014 hPa		 06:40:34
18:49:01
Sep. 18th 2024 Sep. 18th 2024 max: 25.6 °C
min: 25.1 °C 		22.3 m/s
29.9 m/s		 59.4 %
24.1 m		 85.6 %
1,016 hPa		 06:40:23
18:48:29
Sep. 19th 2024 Sep. 19th 2024 max: 25.7 °C
min: 25.1 °C 		24.8 m/s
29.6 m/s		 51.9 %
24.1 m		 86.1 %
1,015 hPa		 06:40:12
18:47:58

Cruises to Cotonou

Would you like to travel to Cotonou on a cruise ship or would you just like to know when a certain ship will dock there? Here you will find an overview of the cruise ships that will be calling at the port of Cotonou.

Scheduled ship calls in Cotonou, Benin
Date Ship Arrival Departure Details
Feb. 9th 2025 Sunday, 9th of Feb. 2025 Seabourn Sojourn 07:00 am 06:00 pm
Jun. 14th 2025 Saturday, 14th of Jun. 2025 Seven Seas Voyager 08:00 am 04:00 pm
May 19th 2026 Tuesday, 19th of May 2026 Seven Seas Mariner 07:00 am 05:00 pm
May 20th 2026 Wednesday, 20th of May 2026 Seven Seas Mariner 07:00 am 05:00 pm
May 21st 2026 Thursday, 21st of May 2026 Seven Seas Mariner 07:00 am 05:00 pm

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Maritime AIS Data Cotonou

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