Avrankou Travel Guide

Explore and discover Avrankou, a small town in Southern Benin that has much to offer visitors seeking a unique cultural experience, from museums and historical sites to natural attractions.


Introduction to Avrankou

Avrankou is a small town in Southern Benin, a West African country known for its cultural diversity and natural beauty. Despite its size, Avrankou has much to offer visitors seeking a unique cultural experience. From museums and historical sites to natural attractions, there is something for everyone in Avrankou. In this travel guide, we will explore the best places to visit, must-try foods, where to stay, and more.

List of Places to Visit in Avrankou

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Musee de la Fondation Zinsou: This museum is dedicated to contemporary African art and has an impressive collection of works from both established and up-and-coming artists. It provides a unique insight into modern African art.

Sacred Forest of Kpassè: This forest is considered to be sacred by the locals and is a great place to experience traditional customs and beliefs. It features several shrines and beautifully carved statues.

Royal Palace of Porto-Novo: Located in the nearby city of Porto-Novo, the Royal Palace is a fine example of West African architecture. It is a UNESCO Heritage site and is worth the visit.

The Temple of Pythons: This temple houses several pythons that are considered sacred by the local people. Visitors are allowed to touch them, and it is said to bring good luck.

Natural Attractions of Avrankou: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Da Silva Beach: Located on the coast, this beautiful beach is a great spot for swimming and sunbathing. It also offers stunning views of the ocean.

Foret de Togba: This thick forest is ideal for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. It provides a unique and serene escape from the city buzz.

Lake Nokoue: This body of water, located near Porto-Novo, is a great place for bird watching, fishing, and exploring the nearby villages.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Avrankou

Hiking

One of the best ways to explore Avrankou’s natural wonders is by hiking. Foret de Togba and Lake Nokoue areas are great spots. You can either hire a guide or explore on your own.

Biking

Cycling is a great way to explore the countryside around Avrankou. You can rent a bike from local stores, and there are various routes to choose from, depending on your level of difficulty.

Best Things to Do in Avrankou: Activities and Tours

Boat tour: A boat tour on Lake Nokoue to visit the floating village is a must-do activity.

Cooking class: Learn to cook local dishes and bring home the flavors of Avrankou with you.

Traditional music and dance performance: To experience the local culture, attend a traditional music performance. You will witness the vibrant drumming, dancing, and singing.

Week-Long Itinerary for Avrankou

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Musee de la Fondation Zinsou
Day 2 Explore Sacred Forest of Kpassè
Day 3 Take a cycling tour
Day 4 Spend the day at the beach
Day 5 Learn to Cook Local Cuisine
Day 6 Hike in Foret de Togba
Day 7 Visit the Royal Palace of Porto-Novo

Food and Drink Scene of Avrankou

Must-Try Dishes

Fufu and Soup: A widespread West African dish made from cassava flour and served with soup. The Avrankou variation of this dish is a must-try when in town.

Yovo Doko: This soup consists of diced vegetables, and meat and it is served with rice.

Akassa: Also known as cornmeal pancakes, this breakfast food is a staple in Avrankou.

Local Beverages

Palm Wine: This alcoholic drink is popular in West Africa and is made from the sap of a palm tree. It has a sweet-sour taste.

Zobo: This tasty drink is made from hibiscus flowers and served both hot and cold.

Where to Stay in Avrankou: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Ayelawadje: This hotel is located close to various attractions in town and offers comfortable rooms at reasonable rates.

Hotel Lea: This budget-friendly hotel features a garden and terrace and is ideal for budget travelers looking for a relaxing stay in Avrankou.

What to Buy in Avrankou: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Wooden Crafts: Avrankou is known for its impressive wooden crafts made by local artisans. These crafts are made from native trees like Ebony and Mahogany and include masks, figurines, and jewelry boxes.

Clothing and Textiles: Benin has a rich textile tradition, and Avrankou is no exception. Don’t forget to buy some locally made textiles and clothing.

Local Culture and Customs of Avrankou

The local culture in Avrankou is a blend of traditions of various ethnic groups. The Fon is the largest cultural group in the town, and their customs and beliefs play a vital role in the local culture. Visitors are expected to dress modestly in public places, and it is considered respectful to ask for permission before taking photos of people or places.

Best Time to Visit Avrankou

The best time to visit Avrankou is during the dry season from November to February. The weather is mild, and there is little rainfall, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Avrankou

Do:

  • Dress modestly when visiting public places.
  • Try the local cuisine.
  • Attend a traditional music performance.

Don’t:

  • Take photos of people or places without permission.
  • Disrespect local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Avrankou

Avrankou is relatively safe for visitors, but it is always essential to stay aware of your surroundings and avoid walking alone in isolated areas.

Health in Avrankou

Visitors to Avrankou should take precautions to prevent malaria, a prevalent disease in West Africa. It is advisable to take antimalarial medication, use insect repellent, and wear long sleeves and pants at night to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Avrankou: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Avrankou

The closest airport to Avrankou is the Cotonou International Airport, approximately 35km away. Some hotels may offer airport shuttle services.

Bus Stations Near Avrankou

There are several bus stations in Cotonou, where visitors can board a bus to Avrankou.

Other Options

There are several car rental services available in Cotonou, which allow visitors to drive themselves to Avrankou.

How to Get Around in Avrankou

The best way to explore Avrankou is by foot or bike. Taxis and cars are also available for hire.

Where to Go Next from Avrankou: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Porto-Novo: The nearby city of Porto-Novo is worth the visit, especially for history lovers.

Ouidah: A UNESCO World Heritage Site and a center of Benin’s voodoo culture, Ouidah is located approximately 40km from Avrankou.

Conclusion

Avrankou may be a small town, but it has much to offer visitors seeking a unique cultural experience in West Africa. From museums and historical sites to natural attractions and delicious cuisine, there is something for everyone in this vibrant town. With this travel guide, visitors to Avrankou can experience the best that the town and its surroundings have to offer.