How to get to Bénin: flights, stopovers and arrival
Cotonou's Cardinal Bernardin Gantin international airport is the country's gateway. Direct flights connect Paris (around 6h30) and Brussels to Cotonou; from other cities, one stopover is enough.
From Europe
Air France operates direct flights from Paris CDG and Brussels Airlines from Brussels. Gulf carriers and Royal Air Maroc offer alternatives with a stopover, often cheaper. From Geneva, expect a stopover in Paris, Brussels or Istanbul.
From Canada
From Montréal there is no direct flight: the classic route goes through Paris or Brussels, for a total travel time of 12 to 16 hours.
On arrival in Cotonou
- ●Present your e-visa (printed or digital) with your yellow fever certificate
- ●The airport is 15–30 min from the centre depending on traffic
- ●Recommended transfer: have an identified driver waiting for you
- ●Buy a local SIM card (MTN or Moov) on arrival
By road from neighbouring countries
Road connections exist from Lomé (Togo), Lagos (Nigeria) and Niamey (Niger). The coastal Togo–Bénin border is the simplest for travellers.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the Paris–Cotonou flight?
Around 6h30 on a direct flight.
What documents do you need on arrival?
A passport valid for 6 months, an e-visa obtained online and a yellow fever vaccination certificate.
How do you reach central Cotonou from the airport?
The airport is in the city: 15 to 30 minutes by car. A pre-booked private transfer is the most comfortable option.
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