Things To Do
in Bohicon

A vibrant market full of color, textiles, produce and local life — excellent for candid street photography and portraits of traders.

Photograph arrival and departure scenes, old signage and the bustle of goods and passengers in a classic West African transport hub.

UNESCO-listed palaces with intricately carved bas-reliefs, traditional architecture and historic artifacts — a must for cultural and architectural shots.

Fields, roadside shrines, village markets and artisanal workshops offer authentic rural scenes and portraits of everyday life.

A fermented corn dough typically served with spicy tomato or peanut (groundnut) sauce; widely available at market stalls and local eateries.

Must-Try!

A rich peanut-based stew with vegetables and fish or meat, served with rice, akassa or fufu — a regional favorite found in most maquis.

A soft, mild cheese made from cow’s milk used in stews or grilled — look for it in markets and in traditional dishes.

Simple sweet fried plantain — a ubiquitous side or snack available at street stalls and restaurants.

The city’s central market is ideal for fresh produce, spices, grilled fish stands, beignets and snack stalls. Try street brochettes, akassa with sauce or freshly fried doughnuts while you wander through the maze of vendors.

Stalls near the railway and bus terminus serve quick meals to travelers — brochettes, fried fish and plantains, and small grilled cheese snacks are common and inexpensive.

Always greet people with a polite ‘Bonjour’/‘Bonsoir’ in French or local greetings; a simple handshake and brief exchange of niceties goes a long way.

Dress conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or rural villages; shoulders and knees covered are recommended.

Always ask permission before photographing people, shrines or ceremonies; a small gratuity is often appreciated for portraits.

Show deference to elders and follow guidance at traditional sites and Voodoo shrines; avoid intrusive questions about private religious practices.

Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. For table service, leaving small change or rounding the bill is common; for guides or drivers, consider 10% or a modest tip if service was helpful.

The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Cash is king in Bohicon — carry small notes for markets and taxis. ATMs and card acceptance are limited; larger towns like Cotonou and Abomey have better banking services. Mobile money is growing but not universally accepted in all stalls.

Expect frequent heavy afternoon showers and high humidity; some unsealed roads can become muddy or difficult for local transport. Carry waterproof gear and plan flexible day trips.

Intermittent rains return with humid conditions; markets remain busy but outdoor evening activities may be disrupted by showers.

Cooler mornings and evenings with dry, dusty winds from the Sahara — air can be hazy and mornings crisp, making this a pleasant time for travel and hiking.

Temperatures rise and humidity can climb before the rains arrive; stay hydrated, avoid the midday sun and favor early-morning activities.

About an hour or two by road from Bohicon, these granite outcrops and wooded hills offer short hikes, panoramic viewpoints and sites of local pilgrimage.

Gentle rural walks and farm-track hikes around Abomey and surrounding villages let you explore historic landscapes and traditional agricultural areas.

The most popular sport across Benin; local matches and street football are common pastimes among youth and communities.

Traditional physical contests and community games are part of cultural festivals and rural life, especially during celebrations.