Savalou - Discovering Benin

Travelling to Savalou

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Savalou, a pretty good destination in Benin (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Savalou and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Savalou, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Benin, here's everything to know about Savalou for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Savalou

Savalou is a city located in the central-western part of Benin, in the department of Collines. It is a relatively small city with a population of around 78,000 people. The city is surrounded by rolling hills and is mostly known for its traditional architecture and cultural heritage. Some of the main attractions in Savalou include the Royal Palace, the Temple of Python, and the Museum of Arts and Traditions. It is also a great base for exploring the nearby Tanougou Falls and the Pendjari National Park. The city has a warm tropical climate with two distinct seasons, a wet season from April to October and a dry season from November to March.

What to visit in Savalou

Sure, here are some of Savalou's top tourist attractions: 1. The Royal Palace of Savalou: The Royal Palace of Savalou is one of the most important landmarks in the city. It is the historical and cultural heart of Savalou. The palace dates back to the 18th century and was built by the Yoruba people.
2. The Sacred Forest of Kpassè: The Sacred Forest of Kpassè is a site of great spiritual significance in the region. It is considered to be the abode of the spirits of the ancestors and is considered sacred by the local people. Visitors can explore the forest and learn about the traditional beliefs of the region.
3. The Museum of African Art and History: The Museum of African Art and History is a must-visit attraction for anyone interested in the history and culture of the region. The museum features a wide variety of exhibits and displays that showcase the art, traditions, and lifestyle of the local people.
4. The Cathedral of Sainte-Anne: The Cathedral of Sainte-Anne is a beautiful example of colonial architecture in the region. The cathedral was built in the early 20th century and is known for its striking stained-glass windows and intricate mosaics.
5. The Market of Savalou: The Market of Savalou is a vibrant and bustling hub of activity in the city. Visitors can sample local foods and shop for traditional handicrafts, clothing, and other souvenirs.
Overall, Savalou is filled with unique and interesting attractions that offer visitors the opportunity to experience the region's rich history, culture, and spirituality.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Benin, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Savalou.

When to go on holiday to Savalou

The best time to visit Savalou, Benin is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is generally warm and sunny, with little to no rain. However, keep in mind that this is also peak tourist season, so prices may be higher and popular attractions may be crowded. If you prefer to avoid the crowds, you may consider visiting in the shoulder seasons of April to June or September to October. Just be aware that these months may have occasional rainfall. The rainy season in Benin typically runs from July to August, and during this time there is high humidity and regular rainfall.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Savalou

Savalou is a city located in the central region of Benin. Here are some ways to get there: 1. By air: The nearest airports to Savalou are located in Cotonou and Parakou. You can take a flight to either of these airports and then take a taxi or a bus to Savalou.
2. By bus: There are several bus companies that operate between Savalou and other cities in Benin. You can take a bus from the central bus station in Cotonou or Parakou to Savalou.
3. By car: You can rent a car or take a taxi to travel to Savalou. The journey from Cotonou to Savalou takes around 4-5 hours.
4. By motorcycle: It is also possible to travel to Savalou by motorcycle taxi, which is a popular mode of transport in Benin. However, this option is not recommended if you are not familiar with the local roads and traffic.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Savalou, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Savalou

Here are some typical foods from Savalou, Benin with short descriptions: 1. "Pâte" or "Amidonné" - This is a starchy food made from cassava or yam flour. It is a staple in the Beninese diet and is often served with soup or sauce.
2. "Gbangan" - This dish consists of fried or grilled fish, usually tilapia or catfish, paired with a spicy tomato-based sauce and served with rice.
3. "Aloko" - This is simply fried plantains, often served as a side dish with grilled or stewed meats.
4. "Akoumé" - Another starchy food, akoumé is made from cornmeal and served with a variety of soups.
5. "Kpètè" - This is a snack made from mashed black-eyed peas mixed with spices and deep fried until crispy.
6. "Gbegnimé" - A type of fritter made from grated vegetables such as cassava, sweet potato, and carrot.
7. "Bénie" - Known as "Beignets" in French, these are essentially donuts made from deep-fried dough and often served with a sweet dipping sauce.
Overall, Beninese cuisine is characterized by its use of simple, local ingredients and bold flavors.
You can find general info about typical foods in Benin here.

Is Savalou an expensive destination for tourists?

Savalou is generally considered to be an affordable destination for tourists visiting Benin. However, the cost of your trip will depend on several factors such as your accommodation, transport, and activities. Generally, there are budget-friendly accommodations, mid-range hotels, and luxury accommodations to cater to the needs of all kinds of travelers. Local transportation is also quite affordable, but hiring a private car can be expensive. When it comes to food, you can find a variety of local dishes at affordable prices. Overall, Savalou is an accessible destination for tourists looking to explore Benin on a budget.

Where to find accomodation in Savalou

Savalou is a small city located in central Benin, so there are limited options for accommodation. However, there are some good options available in nearby towns such as Dassa-Zoume and Abomey. Dassa-Zoume is located about 20 km east of Savalou and can be reached by car or public transport. It has a few small hotels and guesthouses available for travelers. Abomey, located 50 km south of Savalou, is a bigger town and offers more options for accommodation, including hotels, guesthouses, and local homestays.
You can check hotel prices at Savalou here:
Booking.com

Is Savalou a safe destination for tourists?

Savalou is generally considered a safe place for tourists to visit. However, as with any travel destination, it is important to take precautions to ensure your safety. This may include avoiding wandering alone in unfamiliar or dimly lit areas at night, being cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas, and carrying only the necessary cash and documents with you when out and about. It is also important to research the current political and social climate of the region before traveling. It is always a good idea to consult with a reputable travel agency or to speak with locals or other travelers who have visited the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Benin here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Savalou.

What type of travelers will enjoy Savalou the most?

Savalou is a city located in the central region of Benin, mainly known for its cultural and historical attractions. The city is suitable for all types of travelers, including couples, young people looking for fun, and families.
For couples, Savalou offers a romantic environment with beautiful natural landscapes to explore, such as the Mont Agou, the highest mountain in the region, and the Cascade de Kouda, a stunning waterfall just outside the city. The city also has many traditional markets, where couples can find unique souvenirs and gifts for each other.
For young people looking for fun, Savalou offers an exciting nightlife scene with lots of nightclubs and bars, such as Chez Tatiana and Le Malibu. The city also hosts many music festivals, such as the annual FIAFA (International Festival of Arts and Culture) and the Festival culturel de la ville de Savalou.
For families, Savalou has many cultural and historical attractions, such as the Royal Palace of Savalou and the Musée National Honmè, where families can learn about the history and culture of the city and the country. The city also has many parks and green spaces, such as the Parc National des Monts de l'Atakora, where families can enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, climbing, and picnics.

How to get around Savalou

In Savalou, the most common modes of transportation are shared taxis, motorcycles, and cars for hire. Shared taxis are usually the cheapest and most convenient option for short distances, while motorcycles (locally called "zemidjans") are more suited for navigating through narrow and crowded streets. Cars for hire, often known as "taxi brousse," can be hired for longer distances or to travel in greater comfort. Buses and minibusses are also available, but they tend to be crowded and less reliable.

What to see around Savalou

Sure, here are some nice places you can visit in a day trip from Savalou, Benin: 1. Ganvié: It is a village built on stilts over Lake Nokoué and is known as the Venice of Africa.
2. Abomey: It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, and the historical capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey. It has a traditional museum featuring ancient artifacts, palaces, and homes of the kings and queens.
3. Ouidah: It is a coastal town known for its historic landmarks, including the Door of No Return, a monument to the transatlantic slave trade.
4. Pendjari National Park: It is one of the most beautiful and ecologically diverse national parks in West Africa. The park has elephants, lions, cheetahs, buffalo, and many more wildlife species.
5. Royal Palaces of Abomey: These palaces are a UNESCO World Heritage site and were once the seat of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
6. Possotomè: It is located just south of the capital city Porto Novo and is known for its culture and traditions. It is also home to the Temple of the Pythons, where worshippers gather to venerate the snakes.
I hope this helps you plan your day trip from Savalou, Benin.
For every travel information about Benin you can click here.

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