Benin: 7 reasons to visit Pendjari National Park

Do you like nature ? The Pendjari will amaze you. Any visit to this reserve allows you to rub shoulders with enchanting savannah landscapes. The park has managed to preserve its ecosystem, which allows it to offer dazzling greenery and a unique harmony. If you like nature, you would like to stay there for several days to enjoy the beauty of the place.

In any case, it is advisable to spend at least one night in the park to have enough time to spend in a memorable adventure.

The Lodge de la Pendjari is moreover a comfortable accommodation in the center of the park that allows tourists to spend peaceful and pleasant nights. Located on top of a hill, this newly renovated lodge offers breathtaking views of the savannah. Chic restaurant in the middle of nature, good quality cuisine, friendly welcome, everything is there for an unforgettable stay in the park.

La Pendjari is a perfect place for an incredible safari

Spanning 2755 km², Pendjari National Park is one of the best destinations in sub-Saharan Africa for an incredible safari. Indeed, this nature reserve has several hunting areas. If you have the soul of a hunter, you can therefore take advantage of this large space to sharpen your skill. Obviously, to make your passion for hunting a reality in the magnificent Pendjari Park, you will have to strictly respect the rules of visit and hunting in force.

If this is not a problem for you, remember to keep your weapon and your hunter's hat to live a unique and unforgettable experience during your stay in the park. The period from January to February is the most favorable. With the harmattan (25 °C – 30 °C), the grass dries up, which allows for better visibility for a magnificent safari.

Pendjari National Park has an exuberant fauna

The PNP offers an abundant and very diversified fauna. More than 360 species of birds have been recorded there. The Crowned Crane and the Pluvian Fluviatile are, for example, some rare bird species found in this park. October — December is the best time to see the birds in the park because of the migration cycles.

Aren't you fascinated by Aves? Don't worry, besides the birds, there are a multitude of animal species in the Pendjari. In West Africa, this park is the last animal reserve where you can still observe lions and elephants in the same place in the wild. Yes, in this natural setting, you can not only observe lions and elephants, but also:

• Buffaloes;
• Monkeys;
• Hornbills;
• Warthogs;
• Crocodiles;< /li>
• Antelopes…

The enclosure is also home to hippos, baboons and even hyenas. You can also observe endangered species in West Africa such as the damalisque and the cheetah. The only solution to enjoy the show is to take a walk in the Pendjari. So don't deprive yourself of it !

Petite astuce : Make your visit between March and April. These are the hottest months of the year with temperatures ranging between 35°C and 42°C. During this period, animals gather around waterholes. The grass being cut, it allows a better observation of wildlife.

Once there, do not hesitate to ask all kinds of questions to your guide. He is the only one who can explain to you the way of life of the animals and tell you the different stories relating to the experiences in this reserve.

The flora of the Pendjari national park is very attractive

The Penjari is characterized by breathtaking landscapes. The flora consists of large trees such as the baobab. This iconic West African tree is usually nearly 25 meters tall when fully grown. You can observe other trees such as Danielia, acacia, rônier or Kigelia. Apart from trees, the park also has savannahs namely:

• Tree savannas ;
• Shrub savannas ;
• Grass savannahs.

During your visit to the park, you can also enjoy the heady scent given off by the beautiful flowers (gloriosa spec, adenum obesum, crinum ceylanum, etc.) that adorn the landscape of the park. 

The beauty of the Tanougou waterfalls leaves you speechless

Pendjari National Park owes its beauty not only to its captivating wildlife and diverse landscapes. The Tanougou waterfalls are also attractions that make this reserve exceptional. Thanks to these waterfalls, you will enjoy an impressive panorama.

This wonder of nature is worth a detour, as it has a basin at its feet that is ideal for swimming. As soon as you are there, do not just enjoy the stunning view offered by the place. Let yourself be tempted by a swim. With or without a swimsuit, you will certainly have a memorable experience.

La Pendjari is a site preserved from mass tourism

One of the advantages of the Pendjari is the fact that it is little used. Since visits are not massive as can be seen in some parks, tourists benefit from a truly authentic setting. The place therefore embodies the protection of biodiversity. If you are looking for a perfect reserve for a safari experience off the beaten track and the crowds, the Pendjari Park opens its doors to you. Enjoy it while there is still time.

The Pendjari allows you to enjoy cultural visits in the Tata Somba

When we go to Pendjari, we are often focused on the magnificent landscape and the exceptional fauna of the place. However, it is possible to plan cultural visits during a stay at Pendjari. Indeed, you can visit for example the beautiful traditional Tata Somba houses. These fruits of traditional architecture are part of the UNESCO World Heritage. Originally, these were forts used to protect and resist enemies and wild beasts. Today these constructions are also used for residential purposes.

In summary, there are many reasons to visit Pendjari National Park. The beauty of the flora and fauna of this game reserve tops the list. However, you can also visit this park for the incredible safari experience it offers, but also for the cultural visits that you can enjoy once there. To benefit from an unforgettable experience, it is advisable to book a guide-driver.

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