Allada - Discovering Benin

Travelling to Allada

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Allada, a pretty good destination in Benin (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Allada and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Allada, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Benin, here's everything to know about Allada for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Allada

Allada is a town and commune in the southern part of Benin, located about 50 kilometers northwest of the country's largest city, Cotonou. It was the capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey from 1620 until 1704, and was an important center of the slave trade in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, Allada is known for its art and cultural heritage, and is home to several museums, including the Musée d'Allada, which showcases artifacts from the Dahomey Kingdom. The town is also known for its vibrant market, where visitors can find a variety of traditional goods, such as textiles, pottery, and wood carvings.

What to visit in Allada

Sure, here are some popular tourist attractions in Allada, Benin, along with some information about each: 1. Royal Palace of Allada: This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the former residence of the Kings of Allada. The palace features unique architecture and is home to a museum that displays objects from the Fon dynasty.
2. Sacred Forest of Kpassè: This is a forest that served as a place for traditional worship and rituals. It features unique trees, sculptures, and altars that are significant to the local culture.
3. Temple of the Python: This is a temple that is home to several pythons that are believed to be sacred to the people of Allada. Visitors can interact with the snakes and take part in traditional ceremonies.
4. The Museum of History of Allada: This museum showcases the history and cultural heritage of the area. It features various exhibits such as traditional costumes, religious artefacts, and weaponry.
5. The Slave Route of Allada: This is a historical trail that leads visitors through various important locations related to the Trans-Atlantic slave trade, including the points of capture and the slave markets.
6. Ouidah Beach: This is a stunning sandy beach along the Atlantic Ocean. It is a fantastic location for relaxation and water sports.
7. Artisan Village of Ganvié: This is a traditional village built on stilts over water. It is home to skilled artisans who produce unique crafts such as wood carvings and pottery.
8. Abomey Museum: This museum showcases the history of the Kingdom of Dahomey and features an impressive collection of traditional art and artefacts. These are just a few of the many tourist attractions that Allada, Benin has to offer. Each of these locations is rich in cultural significance and can provide a unique and memorable experience for visitors.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Benin, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Allada.

When to go on holiday to Allada

Allada, Benin is located in West Africa and has a tropical climate with two main seasons - rainy and dry. The rainy season starts around April and lasts until October, while the dry season runs from November to March.
The best time to visit Allada, Benin is during the dry season, which is from November to March. The temperature is cooler and comfortable for outdoor activities, and there is minimal rainfall. This period is also great for wildlife viewing and birdwatching as most animals tend to come out of hiding and are easily spotted.
However, If you don't mind the heat and humidity, the rainy season can also be a great time to visit Allada, as the landscape is lush and green, and there are fewer tourists in the area. Just remember to bring appropriate clothing and gear for the rainy weather if you plan to visit during this period.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Allada

You can get to Allada, Benin by taking a flight to Cotonou, the nearest city with an international airport. From Cotonou, you can take a taxi, shared taxi, or public transportation to Allada. The distance between Cotonou and Allada is about 40 kilometers and it takes approximately one hour to get there by road. Alternatively, you can also hire a private car or take a bus from Cotonou to Allada.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Allada, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Allada

Allada is a town in Benin known for its delicious cuisine characterized by a blend of African and French flavors. Here are some typical foods of Allada with a short description for each: 1. Amiwo: This is a popular meal made from corn flour and water, mixed and boiled to form a sticky paste. It is often served with a stew or soup.
2. Gboma Dessi: Gboma Dessi is a popular vegetable soup made from spinach, tomatoes, onions, and other ingredients. It is usually eaten with fufu or eba.
3. Akpan: Akpan is a popular snack made from cassava flour and coconut milk. It is sticky and sweet.
4. Agbon: Agbon is a type of porridge made from corn flour or millet flour. It is often served with a stew or soup.
5. Adjohoun: Adjohoun is a popular dish consisting of a mixture of beans, tomatoes, onions, and other spices. It is typically eaten with rice or fufu.
6. Goudou Goudou: Goudou Goudou is a popular street food snack in Allada made from fried yam slices. It is crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
7. Atassi: Atassi is a type of pancakes made from corn flour or wheat flour. It is often served with honey or syrup.
These are just a few examples of the typical foods of Allada, Benin. There are many more delicious dishes to explore in Allada's colorful culinary scene.
You can find general info about typical foods in Benin here.

Is Allada an expensive destination for tourists?

Allada, Benin is not generally considered an expensive destination for tourists. The cost of living in Benin is relatively low, so visitors tend to find that their money goes further than in some other parts of the world. However, the cost of a trip can still vary depending on factors such as accommodation, transportation, and activities. It's always a good idea to research and compare prices before planning a trip to ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

Where to find accomodation in Allada

If you are planning to visit Allada in Benin, it is best to find accommodations in the town of Allada itself or in nearby cities like Abomey and Bohicon. These cities have a range of accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and homestays, to suit different budgets and preferences. In Allada, you can find some traditional guesthouses or budget hotels, while in Abomey you can find chains like Novotel and Benin Royal or some other budget options. Bohicon also offers a variety of accommodation options, including hotels and guesthouses.
You can check hotel prices at Allada here:
Booking.com

Is Allada a safe destination for tourists?

Allada is a relatively safe place for tourists, but like any destination, it's important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Here are some tips to keep in mind when traveling to Allada: 1. Be aware of your surroundings at all times, especially in crowded areas.
2. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and valuables with you.
3. Dress conservatively, especially if you're visiting religious or cultural sites.
4. Be cautious when using public transportation, and only use licensed taxis or reputable ride-sharing services.
5. Respect local customs and traditions, and avoid any behavior that could be considered disrespectful.
6. Stay up-to-date on current events and local news to ensure that you're aware of any potential safety concerns. Overall, with some common sense and preparation, Allada can be a safe and enjoyable destination for tourists.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Benin here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Allada.

What type of travelers will enjoy Allada the most?

Allada, Benin is a great destination for travelers looking to explore the country's history and culture. It is recommended for families, couples, and anyone who is interested in learning about the history of the Slave Trade in West Africa.
The Royal Palaces of Allada and its Museum of History & Culture are two of the must-visit attractions in the area. The city also features a vibrant market where travelers can experience the local culture and cuisine.
While Allada is not typically known as a party destination, young people looking for an authentic cultural experience may also find it enjoyable. However, if you're looking for a wild and bustling nightlife scene, you may want to consider other destinations in Benin.

How to get around Allada

The most common forms of transportation to move around Allada, Benin are motorcycles (also known as zemidjans), taxis and buses. Zemidjans are the most popular mode of transportation and are known for their speed and accessibility. Taxis are also available, but they tend to be more expensive than zemidjans. Buses are less common, but they offer an affordable option for longer journeys to nearby towns and cities.

What to see around Allada

Certainly! Here are some suggestions for day trips from Allada in Benin: 1. Abomey, the former capital of the Dahomey Kingdom, which has a rich history and culture to explore.
2. Ganvié, which is known as the "Venice of Africa" and is located on stilts above a lagoon.
3. Ouidah, which is a town with a deeply rooted history of the transatlantic slave trade.
4. Fidjrosse Beach, which is a beautiful beach that's perfect for a relaxing day trip.
5. Porto-Novo, which is Benin's official administrative capital and has numerous museums and historical sites to explore.
6. Lake Ahémé, which is a beautiful lake located in the country's southwestern region.
7. Cascade de Tanougou, which is a beautiful waterfall located near the town of Banikoara.
For every travel information about Benin you can click here.

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