Getting around
Driving licence, road conditions, public transport and domestic flights.
Public transport
In Cotonou, France and Belgium recommend car taxis and advise against motorbike taxis (zemidjans), most of which are unregistered according to Canada. Shared taxis (bush taxis) are often overcrowded and poorly maintained.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, useful informationSPF Affaires étrangères (Belgium), Benin: transportGovernment of Canada, Travel advice: Benin
Driving licence
You need an international driving permit (apply before departure) and local insurance to drive.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, useful information
Driving locally
After an accident, take the injured person to the nearest hospital or doctor; if witnesses react violently, leave and report the accident at the first police station. Legal alcohol limit: 0.8 g/l.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, useful informationMain roads are in reasonable condition; towards the north, carry spare fuel as stations often run out.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, useful information
Other transport
In Cotonou, prefer car taxis to motorbike taxis (zemidjans); otherwise, wear a good-quality helmet. Coach companies serve the rest of the country.
Verified factVerified on 10/2/26High confidenceFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, useful informationFrance Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, safety
Sources for this guide
- France Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, useful information · Source updated: September 15, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
- SPF Affaires étrangères (Belgium), Benin: transport · Source updated: September 2, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
- Government of Canada, Travel advice: Benin · Source updated: May 26, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
- France Diplomatie, Travel advice: Benin, safety · Source updated: September 15, 2026 · Checked on October 2, 2026
AfriPilot is not an official body. Information comes from the sources cited and may change: each source's date is shown.