Benin - Tourism and Travel

The Republic of Benin is located on the Gulf of Guinea, in West Africa.

Benin has an area of 43,483 square miles (112,620 square kilometers).

The Niger River runs along the border between Benin and Niger.

There is a tropical climate in the north and an equatorial climate in the south.

Porto-Novo is the capital of Benin.

8,935,000 people live in Benin.

41% are Fon, 16% are Adja, 12% are Yoruba and 10% are Bariba.

French is the official language. Other languages spoken include Fon, Yoruba, Bariba, Somba, Houeda and Adja.

43% of the people are Christian, 24% are Muslim and 17% are Vodoun.

The economy of Benin is primarily based on agriculture and transit trade.

Two thirds of export earnings come from agricultural products.

Offshore oil is also exported.

Benin has a presidential system of government.

The official currency of Benin is the CFA franc, which equals 100 centimes.