Africa
Is Benin safe?
L2Exercise increased caution
Is Benin safe?
The south, including Cotonou, Ouidah, Porto-Novo and Abomey, is relatively calm. The north has terrorist and kidnapping risk near Burkina Faso and Niger, including W and Pendjari parks, and the FCDO advises against travel there.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 2: Exercise increased caution, updated 2026-01-06.
- Homicide rate: 1.1 per 100,000 people (2017, UNODC via World Bank).
- Road deaths: 26.8 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Emergency numbers: Police 117 · Fire 118 · All emergencies 112.
- Solo women: Manageable in the south with usual care; expect attention. Avoid walking alone at night and be careful on beaches after dark.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Terrorism and kidnapping in the north (Alibori, Atacora, W and Pendjari parks)
- Bag snatching and theft from motorbike riders in Cotonou
- Road crashes, especially on zem motorbike taxis
- Strong rip currents on the Atlantic coast
Common scams
- Inflated prices for foreigners at markets and taxis
- Unofficial 'guides' at Vodun sites demanding large fees
Laws visitors break by accident
- Photographing military, police and government buildings is prohibited
- Drug offences are prosecuted
Safety by place in Benin
Quick answers
Is Benin safe for tourists?
The south, including Cotonou, Ouidah, Porto-Novo and Abomey, is relatively calm. The north has terrorist and kidnapping risk near Burkina Faso and Niger, including W and Pendjari parks, and the FCDO advises against travel there.
Is Benin safe for solo female travelers?
Manageable in the south with usual care; expect attention. Avoid walking alone at night and be careful on beaches after dark.
What is the emergency number in Benin?
Police 117 · Fire 118 · All emergencies 112.
Safety by place
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- Benin e-visa portal
- Government of Benin
- Speedtest Global Index: Benin
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.