Benin: sightseeing in Grand-Popo

Currently, Grand-Popo is one of the most popular destinations for tourists visiting Benin. But it is also the perfect place to relax for the inhabitants of large cities such as Cotonou, Lomé, Abomey-Calavi, etc.

Why? Well because this small town has a splendid beach of fine sand, coconut palms and palm trees. It is also full of wildlife areas of all kinds, fish species such as sea turtles and marine vegetation (mangroves, grasses, rushes, etc.).

All these characteristics make Grand-Popo the perfect exotic place to spend excellent moments in contact with nature. In addition, this unique island in southwestern Benin has no shortage of activities to brighten up a tourist trip.

What to do during your tourism in Grand-Popo?

To furnish your tourist trip in the fishing village, you will have the choice between several animations.

Stopover at the Avlo peninsula

Located between the Gulf of the Atlantic and the Mono River, the peninsula of the village of Avlo or Avloh covers an area of ​​5 km². Why do you have to stop there? Because its landscape will surely leave you speechless.

Indeed, the panorama of this region of Grand-Popo includes coconut trees along the beach, mangroves with red mangroves and many other surprises. On site, you will also find a wooden footbridge built to allow the inhabitants of the islet to have access to fresh water. During this short stop, don't forget to:

• Enjoy a fishing trip with a cast net;
• Grab shellfish with blue claws ;
• Go see the women at the salt production and discover how they dry fish products.

After your little escapade on the Avlo peninsula, head for the Bouche du Roy.

Explore the Bouche du Roy

A clumsy translation of " Boca del Rio ", Bouche du Roy refers to the estuary of the Mono River. Covering an area of ​​9,678 km², this masterpiece of nature has several plant and animal species. It is accessible by motorized canoe from the bank of Grand-Popo.

At the mouth of the Roy, the right bank sags regularly, the waves do not break at the crossroads where fresh water and salt water meet. In addition, this river place is calm, soothing, and ideal for taking a dip.

It is therefore not surprising that this little corner of paradise is part of the Mono Delta Cross-Border Biosphere Reserve.

Explore the Mono River Bank Voodoo Temples

Grand-Popo is also a religious city. Do not miss, during your discovery of the place, to visit the many voodoo temples and religious buildings erected along the bank of the Mono River.

Visit villa Karo

To end your sightseeing tour in Grand-Popo, take a trip to Villa Karo. Artists' residence and Finno-African cultural center, it houses a museum, a library, etc. This building run by the association of Friends of Villa Karo produces theatrical performances and carries out cinematographic projections. It is open to the public every Friday evening. Something to start the weekend with a smile.

Where to eat during your tourism in Grand-Popo?

To make your tourist stay more interesting, do not miss the culinary specialties of the region. To do this, go to the restaurants below.

Boca del Rio

Specializing in French and European cuisine, the Boca del Rio restaurant is the perfect place to take a break along the way. The friendly atmosphere that reigns there will allow you to taste the fish species (seafood and fish) in complete serenity.

Tastes of Africa Grand-Popo

For an evening by candlelight, the Saveurs d’Afrique restaurant is undoubtedly one of the best addresses. You will taste excellent African dishes under a decorated straw hut. You will also find European dishes which you will enjoy in the charming atmosphere of the beach.

The Restaurant Bar of the Museum of the Sun

Located next to the Basilica and opposite the Zinsou Foundation, the restaurant-Bar Musée du Soleil has many surprises in store for you. Check it out and you won't be disappointed.

Where to rest for tourism in Grand-Popo Popo?

After a great day of walking and exploring, you obviously need to rest. Here are some hotel complexes in Grand-Popo that could accommodate you.

Le Millenium Popo Beach Hotel

Located by the sea, Millenium Popo Beach Hotel is a sublime place that illuminates your meetings of all kinds and immortalizes your stay. You have free access to wi-fi everywhere, as well as a parking lot for 200 cars.

L’Auberge de Grand-Popo

Made up of old colonial buildings, the Auberge de Grand-Popo has an absolutely breathtaking setting nestled in a space without walls. A private beach, a garden, an outdoor swimming pool, a bar and a terrace are among the convivialities found there. A warm welcome and very good room service are offered.

L'Hotel-Village Awale Plage< span class="ez-toc-section-end">

In Grand-Popo, the Hotel Awale Plage is found along a fine sandy beach lined with coconut palms. Its natural setting, its beautiful beach, its catering service make it the perfect setting to rest well after having experienced strong sensations during your day.

What to remember? Grand-Popo is one of Benin's tourist beacons. Very popular with tourists as well as Beninese, it is a destination that is really worth the detour. It has a cultural, religious, natural and culinary heritage that will not fail to surprise you. So make your reservation without delay, and above all, take the time to savor every moment you spend in the fishing village..