Tourism in Benin
Tourism in Benin is a small industry.
Cotonou is the only international airport in Benin.[1] There are direct flights to Benin from Belgium, France, and a number of African countries.[4] There are 578 kilometres of railroad in the country, which were developed under a joint effort with the Republic of Niger.[5]
Benin's government regards tourism as a method of diversifying its economy, attracting more foreign investment, and decreasing Benin's dependence on its agricultural industry.[5][6] Although the government has a National Policy of Tourism Development, it has not made a strong effort to improve tourist facilities or to market Benin as a tourist destination.[6]
Some of the best wildlife areas in West Africa are found in north Benin, where Pendjari National Park and W National Park are located.[7] The best time to see the Pendjari National Park's wildlife is towards the end of the dry season.[8] The park is accessible to travellers and accommodation is available. W National Park is located in Benin's far north, and stretches across Burkina Faso and Niger. The park has a wealth of wildlife, but is difficult to access from Benin.[7]
See also
- Wildlife of Benin
- Music of Benin
- Culture of Benin
- Visa policy of Benin
References
- ^ a b c d Williams, Stephen, Dec 2002, Benin: The belly of history, African History.
- ^ ISBN 1-85743-183-9, page 88.
- ^ Benin: Overview, Lonely Planet
- ^ Benin: Getting there & around, Lonely Planet
- ^ ISBN 0-415-97662-6, page 198.
- ^ a b Travel and Tourism in Benin, Euromonitor.
- ^ ISBN 1-84353-118-6, page 927.
- ^ Benin: Sights, Lonely Planet.