Benin

At a Glance

Benin is a small West African country with a rich cultural heritage as the cradle of the Vodoun religion, which originated here and spread to the Americas. The landscape transitions from palm-fringed Atlantic beaches in the south to the dry savanna of the north, with the remarkable lake village of Ganvié built entirely on water. Curious travellers who engage respectfully with local traditions will find it a genuinely fascinating and deeply hospitable place.

• Birthplace of Voodoo religion — the word itself is Beninese, not Haitian.
• Was the centre of the Kingdom of Dahomey, one of Africa's most powerful pre-colonial states.
• All-female military regiment of the Dahomey ('Agojie') inspired the Amazon warriors in Black Panther.