The UNESCO Sites in Benin have resulted from the recognition of 2 cultural and natural landmarks as UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Benin and 6 locations on the Benin UNESCO tentative list. These tourist sites in Benin are acknowledged for their unique and valuable cultural, natural, artistic, and historical significance and are preserved for future generations to enjoy.
In addition to these 2 sites in the Benin UNESCO list, there are many other places to travel to Benin that are being considered for UNESCO recognition. These sites, listed on the tentative list, showcase the rich cultural heritage of the country and are waiting for approval to join the prestigious and famous World Heritage Sites list.
To help visitors discover these remarkable Benin tourist attractions, we have put together an interactive map of the UNESCO sites in Benin.
Benin UNESCO Map
Click markers to show information and photo.
World Heritage Sites in Benin
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Benin
There are 2 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Benin. All of these three sites are listed under the Cultural category.
- Royal Palaces of Abomey
- W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Benin are protected locations for their cultural and natural importance.
Royal Palaces of Abomey
The Royal Palaces of Abomey are a group of earthen palaces located in the city of Abomey in Benin, West Africa. These palaces were once the center of the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The palaces, built in the 17th and 18th centuries, are known for their unique architecture, which includes intricate relief work, courtyards, and ornate columns. They also feature murals that depict historical events, legends, and everyday life in Dahomey. The Royal Palaces of Abomey serve as a testament to the wealth and power of the Dahomey Kingdom and offer a glimpse into the culture and history of the people of Benin.
W-Arly-Pendjari Complex
The W-Arly-Pendjari Complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in West Africa, spanning the borders of Benin, Burkina Faso, and Niger. This protected area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including several threatened species such as the West African lion, cheetah, and elephant. The complex also features a variety of landscapes, from savannas and forests to rocky cliffs and rivers. It is an important site for conservation and research and offers opportunities for eco-tourism and sustainable development.
Benin UNESCO tentative list
- La ville de Porto-Novo : quartiers anciens et Palais Royal
- La Réserve W du Niger et l’habitat vernaculaire du nord Bénin
- Village souterrain d’Agongointo-Zoungoudo
- Basse vallée de l’Ouémé
- Koutammakou, le pays des Batammariba
- Sites marquants de la Route de l’Esclave au Bénin
Tours in Benin
Our choices of tours in Benin are divided into thematic features such as Ouidah, Abomey, and Grand Popo Experience.