When to go
The best time to visit Benin is from
November to January: the air is dry and the weather is usually good. It is true that it's hot during the day, especially in the north, but less so than in the following period, from February to May.
The rainiest and sultriest months are May and June on the coast, while they are July, August and September in the center-north.
What to pack
In
winter: in Cotonou and the coast, bring light clothes for the day, a light sweatshirt for the evening, and a light scarf for the wind-borne sand and dust. In the north, bring light clothing, a sweatshirt and a light jacket for the evening, and a scarf for the desert wind. For women it's best to avoid shorts and miniskirts.
In
summer: bring light clothing of natural fibers, a light sweater and a light raincoat for the rain showers.
For women, it's best to avoid shorts and miniskirts.
Back to the climate of
Benin