What budget should you plan for a trip to Benin | Paris

Dreaming of discovering Benin, this West African gem rich in history, culture, and diverse landscapes? Before packing your bags, one essential question arises: how much should you budget for a trip to Benin? Between the price of a Paris–Cotonou flight, accommodation, meals, must-see activities, and daily expenses, it’s important to have a clear idea of the cost of living in Benin to plan a smooth trip without any surprises.

In this article, we offer you a complete guide to estimate your budget — from your Corsair plane ticket to small on-site expenses — along with practical tips to help you manage your costs and make the most of your journey.

The Price of a Paris–Cotonou Flight with Corsair

The first step in your travel budget for Benin naturally concerns the plane ticket. With Corsair, you can enjoy direct Paris–Cotonou flights, fast and comfortable, allowing you to start your trip with complete peace of mind.

For a round trip to Cotonou from Paris, expect to pay around €550, depending on your travel dates and when you book.

If you’re looking for more comfort, the Premium Class lets you travel in a more spacious seat with extra legroom and priority boarding, making your airport experience smoother. For an even more exclusive journey, Business Class offers a true haven of comfort: fully lie-flat seats, gourmet meals worthy of a fine restaurant, and attentive, personalized service from the crew. You’ll arrive in Cotonou completely rested and ready to make the most of your stay.

By booking your Corsair tickets several months in advance, you’ll increase your chances of getting the best fares while enjoying a wide selection of seats. With Corsair, your journey begins the moment you board — in comfort and peace of mind.

Getting Around in Benin

Once you’ve arrived in Cotonou with your Corsair flight, transportation becomes an essential part of planning your travel budget in Benin. The country offers a variety of transport options suited to every type of traveler.

For short city trips, motorcycle taxis known as zemidjans are the most common and most affordable option. You’ll generally pay less than one euro for short distances. However, it’s advisable to agree on the fare before the ride and to wear a helmet for safety. For more comfort — especially if you have luggage or are traveling with family — regular taxis remain inexpensive, with urban fares rarely exceeding five euros.

If you plan to explore several regions, renting a car with a driver can be an excellent option. Depending on the duration and type of vehicle, expect to pay around €50 to €60 per day. It’s a great way to visit at your own pace major sites such as the beaches of Ouidah, the Route des Pêches, or the Royal Palaces of Abomey. Buses and minibuses, on the other hand, offer a very economical alternative for long-distance travel, though comfort and punctuality may vary.

In summary, the cost of living in Benin remains very affordable when it comes to transportation, and every traveler will find an option to match their budget — from the local zemidjan to a private car service for a more upscale stay.

Accommodation in Benin: What Budget Should You Plan?

The cost of accommodation in Benin varies widely depending on the type of lodging and level of comfort you’re looking for. To enjoy a smooth and pleasant trip, it’s important to know the different options available and choose the one that best fits your travel budget in Benin.

For travelers on a budget, hostels and guesthouses offer simple rooms starting from €10 to €25 per night, often located in city centers—ideal for independent travelers or short stays. Three-star hotels are a great balance between comfort and price, with rates ranging from €40 to €70 per night, sometimes including breakfast.

If you’re looking for a more luxurious stay, four- and five-star hotels with pools and quality services generally range between €100 and €200 per night. These establishments are perfect for relaxing after a day of exploration, whether in Cotonou, Ouidah, or Ganvié. Some even offer on-site activities such as local cooking classes or organized excursions—a real plus for travelers wanting to combine comfort and cultural experiences.

Tip: choose accommodation with a pool if you’re traveling during the hot season (November to April), as temperatures can exceed 30°C. For excursions to villages and local markets, pack lightweight, comfortable clothing but bring modest attire to respect local customs.

With these guidelines, it’s easy to estimate your accommodation budget in Benin and choose a stay that matches your expectations—whether you’re seeking an affordable adventure or a luxurious getaway.

Illustration de la validation d'une location de vacances à la Réunion

Meals and Restaurants in Benin: How Much Should You Budget?

The cost of living in Benin is very affordable, including when it comes to dining, allowing you to enjoy the local cuisine without exceeding your budget.

For quick meals in the street or small local eateries such as maquis or snack bars, expect to pay around €2 to €5 per person. You can try Beninese specialties like chicken yassa, wagasi (local cheese), or akassa served with spicy sauce.

In mid-range restaurants serving local or international cuisine, the average cost is about €8 to €15 per person, drinks included. Some establishments in Cotonou and Ouidah also offer a pleasant setting with sea or city views — perfect for a relaxing dinner after a day of sightseeing.

For a fine dining experience in high-end hotels or gourmet restaurants, plan for €20 to €35 per person. These venues are often located in 4- and 5-star hotels and offer a refined culinary experience — ideal for travelers flying Premium or Business Class with Corsair who wish to extend the comfort of their flight into their dining experience.

Tip: don’t miss the local markets to taste exotic fruits such as mango, pineapple, or soursop. Prices are very reasonable — often less than one euro per kilo — and it’s an authentic way to experience the cost of living in Benin day to day.

Must-See Activities in Benin

Benin is a country rich in history, culture, and natural landscapes. To accurately plan your travel budget in Benin, it’s important to take into account the cost of essential activities and visits.

In Ouidah, one of the most famous sites, you can visit the Temple of Pythons and the Slave Route for about €5 to €10 entry. Nearby, the Ouidah History Museum offers a fascinating immersion into the country’s past for only €3 to €5.

For nature lovers, an excursion on Lake Nokoué and the stilt village of Ganvié is a must. A canoe ride generally costs between €10 and €20 per person, depending on the duration and type of visit. It’s also an opportunity to discover local daily life and take memorable photos.

In Cotonou, the Dantokpa Market and the craft markets are free to visit, but plan a few euros to buy souvenirs or local handicrafts. For a more guided experience, organized tours usually cost between €15 and €30, depending on the duration and number of sites included.

Beninese beaches, such as those in Grand-Popo or Ouidah, are freely accessible, but some water activities (kayaking, windsurfing) may cost between €10 and €25 per person.

👉 Blogger tip: combine cultural visits with relaxation on the beach to make the most of your trip. Pack light clothing, a hat, and sunscreen, as the weather is warm and sunny almost all year round.

By including these activities in your schedule, it becomes easy to calculate a realistic leisure budget while enjoying Benin’s must-see attractions without any surprises.

Estimated Overall Budget for a Trip to Benin for Two People

To help you plan your trip, here’s a realistic estimate of the budget for two people for a one-week stay in Benin, combining comfort, leisure, and local gastronomy:

Paris–Cotonou flights with Corsair: around €1,000 for two people.
Accommodation: for a comfortable hotel with a pool, expect between €700 and €1,400 for 7 nights, depending on the level of comfort.
Meals: plan around €250 to €400 for two people, combining local restaurants with a few fine dining experiences.
Local transportation: approximately €100 to €200, including taxis, car rides with a driver, and local excursions.
Activities and sightseeing: around €150 to €250 to enjoy cultural sites, canoe excursions, and water activities.
Everyday expenses (souvenirs, small extras): plan for €50 to €100.

Estimated total budget: €2,350 to €3,450 for two people for a full week, including comfort, leisure, and cultural discoveries.

With this budget, you’ll be able to fully enjoy your stay in Benin — between idyllic beaches, historical heritage, and local cuisine — while traveling in the best possible conditions.

Book your direct Paris–Cotonou flight with Corsair now and begin your Beninese adventure in comfort and peace of mind, in Economy, Premium, or Business Class according to your preferences.