Paris to Cotonou flight: Plane tickets to Cotonou

Departing from Paris, fly to Cotonou in Benin with our airline Corsair and let the magic happen. In just six hours, reach the economic capital of Benin in the heart of West Africa. With Corsair, Paris has never been so close to Cotonou!

Whether you choose to stroll along Lake Nokoué or prefer to visit the Alexandre Sènou Adandé Ethnographic Museum to discover Beninese culture, Cotonou will keep surprising you. Take time to explore the Dantokpa market, the largest in West Africa. And for water lovers, Fidjrossè Beach remains the safest and most popular for swimming. El Dorado Beach and Erevan Beach are also accessible.

Upon arrival at Cardinal Bernardin Gantin Airport

You’ve finally arrived on Beninese soil, in Cotonou, located less than 5 kilometers from the city center of the economic capital. To get around Cotonou, as in all major cities of the country, you can use motorcycle taxis called "zémidjans." You can also use regular taxis, recognizable by their orange license plates, or public transportation, mainly buses operated by companies such as ATT, La Poste, Tundé, Confort Lines, or Pax Express.

What to see in Cotonou?

Cotonou, the largest city and economic hub of Benin, offers a wide range of attractions for visitors. Here are some must-sees during your stay in Cotonou:

Dantokpa Market is one of the largest markets in West Africa. You’ll find an impressive variety of goods, from textiles and spices to handicrafts and fresh produce. It’s a great place to experience local culture and shop.

Fidjrossè Beach is one of the most popular in Cotonou. It offers a perfect setting to relax, swim, and enjoy views of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also several restaurants and bars where you can try local dishes.

The Zinsou Foundation is a cultural center dedicated to promoting contemporary African art. It houses an art gallery, a library, and regularly hosts exhibitions and cultural events. It’s a must-visit for art and culture enthusiasts.

Notre-Dame des Apôtres Cathedral is a notable religious building in Cotonou. Its beautiful architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it an interesting place to visit, even for non-believers.

Honmè Museum is a private museum showcasing a collection of traditional and contemporary art objects. It offers a fascinating insight into Benin’s history and culture.

What to see in the rest of Benin?

The rest of Benin is just as rich in history, culture, and nature. Here are some must-visit sites to explore the country’s diversity and beauty:

Ganvié, also known as the “Venice of Africa,” is a stilt village built on Lake Nokoué. It’s a unique site where you can witness daily life on the water and admire picturesque landscapes.

Pendjari National Park is one of the most beautiful natural parks in West Africa. It’s home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, lions, buffalo, and antelopes. A perfect spot for safari and nature lovers.

Abomey is a historic city that was once the capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey. It’s famous for its royal palaces, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palaces offer a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Dahomey.

Porto-Novo is the official capital of Benin and a city full of history. You can visit the Alexandre Sènou Adandé Ethnographic Museum, the Da Silva Museum, and the Royal Palace of Porto-Novo. The city is also known for its colonial architecture and lively markets.

Ouidah is a historic coastal city known for its role in the transatlantic slave trade. You can visit the Door of No Return, the Temple of Pythons, and the Portuguese Fort. Ouidah is also an important center for voodoo culture.

W National Park is another major natural park in Benin. It’s home to diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, making it ideal for nature and safari enthusiasts.

Before your Paris–Cotonou flight

When should you book a Paris–Cotonou flight?

There is no specific best time to fly to Cotonou. Benin, located west of Nigeria, has a tropical climate with a warmer, drier season from December to February, and a rainy season from mid-March to October, with a short dry break in August.

Choose your travel dates based on your plans and book your round-trip ticket. If your travel dates are flexible, note that we also offer cheaper flights depending on your budget. Check out our best fares in Economy class and get ready to pack your bags : Corsair will take you to Cotonou at a lower cost!

What are the travel requirements before your Paris–Cotonou flight?

Before purchasing your airline tickets for a flight between Paris and Cotonou, it is important to review some practical information to ensure your trip goes smoothly.

A journey from Paris to Cotonou, Benin, requires that all administrative and health formalities are in order. Here is a complete guide to help you organize your trip efficiently and stress-free.

Passport : make sure your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned return date. It should also have enough blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Visa : as a French citizen, you will need a visa to enter Benin. You can usually obtain it from the Benin embassy or consulate in France, or online as an electronic visa (e-visa). To get a visa, you will generally need your passport, passport photos, an invitation letter or hotel reservation, and sometimes proof of sufficient funds.
Vaccinations and health : the yellow fever vaccine is mandatory for entry into Benin, so make sure your international vaccination card (yellow card) is up to date and bring it with you. Vaccinations against hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies, and routine vaccinations (measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus) are also recommended. Benin is a malaria risk zone, so consult a doctor for antimalarial advice.
Travel insurance : it is highly recommended to purchase travel insurance that covers medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and trip cancellations. Bring a copy of your insurance policy with you.
Reservations and confirmations : make sure your airline ticket is confirmed and you have all necessary travel documents. Book your accommodation in advance and print your confirmations. Accommodation options in Benin are limited. If necessary, arrange transportation from the airport to your lodging ahead of time.

Travel documents: make copies of your passport, visa, vaccination record, and reservation confirmations. Keep these copies separate from the originals. Note local emergency numbers and contact information for your country's embassy or consulate in Benin.

Currency and finances: the local currency is the CFA franc (XOF), and you can exchange money at the airport or in city exchange offices. Inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid your credit cards being blocked, and check foreign transaction fees. By following these steps, you’ll be well prepared for your trip to Cotonou and can fully enjoy your stay in Benin.

For your journey, plan to arrive at Paris-Orly airport early to check in your luggage and go through security. Then board a nonstop flight to Cardinal Bernardin Gantin Airport. The estimated flight time is about 5 hours and 45 minutes. The time difference with Cotonou is only 1 hour all year round.

As for luggage and what to pack, it will depend on the season you’re traveling. However, plan for practical and seasonal clothing.

How long does it take to travel from Paris to Cotonou?

Generally, nonstop flights from Paris to Cotonou take about 6 hours and 30 minutes. However, the total duration may vary depending on stopovers. So a flight from Paris to Cotonou takes between 6 hours 30 minutes and 15 hours.