Ouidah- Travel Tips

What to See, How to Plan & Tours

Ouidah, a coastal city in Benin, is known for its historical significance and cultural richness. Once the chief port of the Kingdom of Whydah, it was a key hub in the transatlantic slave trade. Today, Ouidah offers a unique blend of historical landmarks and spiritual heritage, including the Maison du Brésil, a mansion once used by Brazilian slavers, and the Vodun python temple, central to the region's Vodun religion. The Route des Esclaves, a poignant pathway where slaves were taken to the beach, features monuments like the Door of No Return. Ouidah is also home to the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception and the Sacred Forest of Kpasse, a spiritual site with bronze statues. Known as the spiritual capital of Vodun, the city hosts an international Vodun conference each year. With its mix of history, culture, and religion, Ouidah provides a profound window into Benin's past and present.