pendjari safari

Adventures in Destinations Unknown

Pendjari National Park: West Africa’s Premier Wildlife Destination

Last modified on January 3rd, 2021 at 17:45

Pendjari National Park is one of West Africa’s premier safari destinations. A wildlife-rich swath of land that lies along Benin’s border with Burkina Faso and Niger, the park is both one of the top places to visit in Benin and a highlight of travel to West Africa.

Pendjari spans an area of 4,800 square kilometers and is a primary component of the transnational W-Arly-Pendjari (WAP) complex. The WAP complex consists of Arli Park in Burkina Faso, W National Park in Niger and Pendjari in Benin. It is the largest remaining intact ecosystem in West Africa. 

The sprawling game park is famous for its diverse array of birdlife and large concentration of endangered mammals. It is houses four of Africa’s big five—including buffalo, elephants, lions and leopards. 

Table of Contents

PENDJARI NATIONAL PARK IN BENIN

Pendjari isn’t like the game reserves in southern or eastern Africa.  Nor should it be treated as such. Travelers expecting to see the Big 5 with little effort, may be better served by visiting places like the Serengeti or Etosha –where vast open spaces facilitate effortless animal sightings.

The shrub-covered landscape of Pendjari makes animal spotting more difficult.

But for bird enthusiasts, conservationists and lovers of ‘I Spy’, Pendjari’s one-of-a-kind wildlife encounters are all the more rewarding.

PENDJARI PARK TRAVEL LOGISTICS

I traveled to Pendjari National Park as part of an overland tour through Ghana, Togo and Benin with Dragoman. The tour consisted of twenty adventure-minded travelers, two group leaders and our large orange truck, Sura.

We visited the area in early February, during the dry season. Benin’s dry months–from December to May–are the best time to visit Pendjari due to lack of rainfall, reduced malaria risk and sparser vegetation. Even during high season, there are virtually no crowds in the park.

Entrance to the national park costs 10,000CFA for 24 hours. For three days in Pendjari, discounted tickets will set foreign travelers back by 25,000CFA.

There are limited places to spend the night in Pendjari. Most travelers stay in the Hotel Pendjari or the Pendjari Lodge .

We chose to camp—a decision that was at once thrilling and, perhaps, a bit risky.

OUR PENDJARI SAFARI EXPERIENCE

We traveled to Pendjari National Park after a memorable visit to the Tata Somba region of Northern Togo and Benin. I was looking forward to two days of animal-spotting and wild camping in West Africa’s best safari destination. 

Our trip to Pendjari National Park began without a hitch. We got our camping permits, paid the entrance fee and rumbled down the dirt roads in our large orange overloading truck. One of the advantages of traveling in an overland truck, is that we were much higher off the ground than we would have been in a standard safari vehicle. The truck had roof seats, too, which allowed us to scan the surrounding landscape in search of animals.

On our first evening in Pendjari, we set out toward our campsite along the park’s dusty unpaved roads. While the grasses may have been high and the shrubbery dense, I was pleasantly surprised by the large number of animals we spotted.

Along the way, we came across elephant herds, antelope and a diverse array of colorful African birds .

After an evening game drive, we set up camp along one of the hippo-filled lakes in Pendjari. Unlike Etosha , Kruger or Hlane , the camping areas in Pendjari are completely in the wild. With nothing but pit toilets and a small clearing for tents, the campsites have little in the way of facilities. There are no fences to act as barriers between campers and the animals.

As we lay in our tents at night, we could hear rustling in the leaves and the loud groans of the hippos in a nearby lake. The experience was thrilling, immersive and raw.

The following morning, we set out on a game drive through the desolate roads of Pendjari National Park. We had two scheduled game drives on our second day in Pendjari—one in the morning and one in the late afternoon. On our morning drive, we spotted more elephant herds, buffalo, birds and antelope. In the evening, after lunch and a short siesta, we continued along the park’s dusty roads in search of lions. 

And we got lucky. About halfway through our evening drive, we spotted a lioness slinking through the tall grasses. She looked at our truck, walked toward us, and then continued onward–allowing us to follow her down the road for about five minutes.

It was a special moment and the highlight of our visit to Pendjari.

Enroute to our campsite, we passed another vehicle. The passengers in the vehicle introduced themselves as the owners of the Pendjari Lodge and warned us against camping in the park. ‘The campsite you wish to stay at tonight is currently closed,’ they told us.

We didn’t think much of the encounter. The passengers in the vehicle—a group of French-speaking foreigners in plain clothes and without identification—didn’t seem to have much authority over the rules and regulations of the park. Plus, we had hired a local park-sponsored guide and we had already gotten the okay to camp at our second location from the staff at the park entrance. 

We ignored the remarks of the French-speaking travelers and opted to camp by the watering hole regardless.

By the next morning, as we made our way toward the park exit, we nearly forgot about the encounter.

Until a safari truck rolled up to us and an irate French-Canadian told us to pay nearly 2,000 euros for camping illegally in Pendjari. 

In the beginning, we thought it was all a misunderstanding. Why would a French-Canadian owner of a lodge get on our case about camping illegally? What authority did he have? He then proclaimed himself the park manager, but had no documentation. Nor did he allow us to explain ourselves. We agreed to follow him to the park entrance, where we would clear up the misunderstanding.

At the park ticket office, however, reinforcements were already waiting for us. The French-Canadian had called in a dozen or so armed men. The men stood in a line, demanding we pay the hefty fine. They blocked our truck from leaving the park and threatened violence if we didn’t hand over cash.

In the end, in order to ensure the safety of its passengers, Dragoman had no choice but to fork over the money.

We left the park feeling defeated. In one of West Africa’s most beautiful wildlife parks, bureaucracy, corruption and extortion got the best of us.

By the very people who were in charge of promoting tourism in the park, no less.

IS PENDJARI SAFE TO VISIT? 

Our Pendjari National Park safari experience was one I’m unlikely to forget–both because of the incredible wildlife I witnessed and because of the unfortunate way our visit ended. After two incredible days of seeing lions, buffalo, elephants and countless beautiful birds, we found ourselves essentially held hostage at gun point by a dozen park rangers. 

Is this experience typical? Is Pendjari safe to visit for tourists?

Unfortunately, I don’t think there is an easy answer to these questions. Pendjari receives far fewer travelers than similar wildlife parks in southern and eastern Africa. As a result, there is little information on visiting Pendjari and the risks associated with traveling to the region.

Benin is relatively safe compared to some of the other countries in West Africa. Yet, the northern reaches of the country (including Pendjari National Park) have felt the spillover effect of increased extremist activity across the border in Burkina Faso. The increased tension has caused the US State Department to elevate the security risk in Pendjari from a Level 1 to a Level 3.

And there is good reason for their concern. In May of 2019, merely three months after our visit, a group of French tourists were kidnapped in the area. Their local guide was found dead.

While the incident was completely unrelated to our run-in with the French-Canadian and his gun-toting reinforcements, it does speak to the unpredictability of travel in the area. Thus, while I don’t necessarily recommend reconsidering travel to Pendjari, I do think that it is important to remain vigilant and up-to-date on the security situation.

ALL IS WELL THAT ENDS WELL

Despite ending on a disappointing note, our safari in Pendjari National Park was one of the highlights of my trip to West Africa. The quality of our animal sightings was comparable to those in Sri Lanka’s Udawalawe National Park , and even rivaled those from my travels throughout southern Africa. 

After the incident in Pendjari, our group was feeling demoralized and frustrated. We had spent the better part of an afternoon arguing and being taken advantage of by an expat who was on a clear power trip. With little negotiating power and nobody to defend our cause, we lost.

Along the road between Pendjari and the next stop on our Benin itinerary, however, our luck changed. It was getting late, and we needed to find a place to camp for the night. Our encounter with the park staff had set us half a day behind schedule.

Near Natitingou, we stumbled upon a lovely campsite at the Chutes de Kota and decided to call it an early night. We set up our tents, cooked dinner and explored the area. Near the campsite, we made our way down a steep set of stairs to a swimming hole at the base of the Kota Waterfall.

Under the starry night sky, we jumped into the natural pool and let the cool water rush over our bodies. It was refreshing. Exhilarating. Rejuvenating.

After a stressful travel day in Pendjari, our midnight swim left us ready for the remainder of our trip through Benin.

It was a reminder that–while travel in West Africa is often wrought with complications, frustrations and bureaucracy–the region is also surprising, unexpected and full of magic. 

____________

Like this post? Pin it! 

Safari in Pendjari National Park

Safari in the best national park in west africa for wildlife.

Pendjari National Park (Parc National de la Pendjari) in Benin is known as the best place to spot wild animals in the whole region of West Africa. Although it cannot be rated as high as any other wild park in East Africa or South Africa in terms of density and diversity of wildlife, Pendjari National Park is worth visiting when traveling to Benin or neighbouring countries.

Various types of antelopes, baboons, warthogs, birds etc. are the easiest to be seen but with a bit more of luck, you can also spot elephants, lions, hippos etc.

About the Pendjari National Park in Benin

Pendjari National Park is located in north western part of Benin, West Africa. It is named after Pendjari river that flows in the park area and creates natural border between Benin and Burkina Faso (in the north).

Atakora range that stretches in north western part of the country makes this part of Benin the most scenic and provides a bit diverse views during driving to and from Pendjari. This wildlife reserve was established in 1961 and later, in 1986 added to UNESCO’s World Biosphere Reserves list.

It boasts stupendous diversity of wildlife from birds, small mammals to four out of the big five: lions, elephants, Sudanese buffaloes and leopards.

When to go for Safari in Pendjari National Park?

The chances of seeing more mammals depending on the season and also length of stay. Like every national park in Africa, also Pendjari has its best time to visit. Although the gate to the park is open throughout the year, a visit to the park during few months in a year should definitely be avoided.

• January – February: best time to visit, dried vegetation, clear view (visibility can depend on the strength of harmattan), bearable temperatures. Because of no rainfall, animals are forced to gather at water sources which means chances of spotting different (big) mammals are much higher during these two months.
• March: the hottest month, scorching sun can be unbearable, although views are clear due to dried grass.
• April – October: rainy season, therefore muddy or even impassable roads (especially in July and August), lush vegetation, bad view.
• November – December: dry season but still lush vegetation that makes it difficult to spot animals, hidden in the grass, treetops etc.

What to Expect From Safari in Pendjari National Park?

As already mentioned, safari experience in Benin can never be the same as safari in Tanzania, Kenya or other top safari highlight destinations. For travelers who have never seen wild animals in their natural habitat, a trip to Pendjari will definitely be one of the highlights.

On the other hand, for the ones who have visited Serengeti or Kruger National Park e.g., Pendjari can be a minor disappointment. Sceneries of savannah with grass, baobabs, palm tree are stunning, but can also get “boring” after 2 days of driving.

For better experience, try to visit the park in January or February and definitely avoid it in high rainy season and just after the rainy season, when roads are harder accessible and grasses close the view.

I visited the park in the beginning of December and vegetation was still lush. Waters did not yet get dry so animals didn’t have to gather at bigger lakes and ponds. On the other hand, strong sun made animals lazy and hiding in grass or under the trees. I was lucky to see many antelopes, baboons, birds, warthogs, hippo in the water, elephant family but no lions and buffaloes.

So, what was my experience in short: not bad, but not the best!

Pendjari National Park Safari  in Two Days

I would recommend a two days visit to Pendjari. If you stay in Natitingou (Nati), you will more or less leave with your guide and driver (all in one) early morning, from 5 am to 6 am and enter the park’s gate in approx. 2 hours. After entering the park, you can climb up the 4×4’s roof and sit on the top seats for a better view.

First game drive will lead you to the north of the park, just close to Pendjari river and end up in Pendjari Hotel for a chill and rest. From 1 pm until 4 pm, scorching sun forces both animals and visitors to resort to shade.

After 4 pm, you will continue with the next game drive. Directions of game drives will also depend on a season of your visit, road accessibility etc. The first day will end up in a Pendjari Hotel, Pendjari Lodge or in Pendjari Camp in the middle of the park close to a big lake full of hippo.

For more adventurous travelers, I definitely recommend the latter! Although, to be honest, I did feel a bit afraid in the night while listening to different wild animals’ voices, I knew that the place is not dangerous. To enhance security, our guide lighted a fire in order to keep animals away from our camping.

Game drive starts again the following morning. The road you are going to take depends on how lucky you were the previous day. Our guide did his best to drive all around the park in order to get more chances of spotting lions, elephants, buffaloes etc. The park’s gate closes at 6 pm so the second day in the afternoon you will more likely be heading back south to the gate in Batia.

Visit Pendjari National Park with a Licensed and Experienced Guide

There are many guides all around Natitingou or elsewhere in Benin, but in order to have an excellent experience in Pendjari, it’s important to be sure of your guide’s knowledge and experiences. Official guidance identity cards are

Idivided into 4 categories. Guides with category A have the best knowledge and therefore would more likely charge more money. But it’s absolutely worth paying a few 1000 CFA more for a category A guide!

Kounta N’tcha is a trustworthy and professional guide with many years of experiences in tourism and guidance in Benin as well as in many other countries in West Africa. He is a licensed guide with category A – the highest category in national guidance in Benin.

Kounta is specialized in flora and fauna of Pendjari National Park. He is also very knowledgeable about culture and history of Benin. Besides French, he can also speak very good English which gives him another advantage, since (according to my experiences) it is difficult to find English speaking guides in (Northern) Benin.

Kounta will organize your trip to Pendjari the way you want and adjust it to the length of your stay. He is a guide and driver at the same time. Most of the time, he is based in Natitingou, bigger town close to Pendjari. He can pick you up and drop you off at any place in Nati or nearby.

He does his best to make visitors’ experience unforgettable, he is willing to answer all kind of questions regarding wildlife in Penjdari as well as ready to give you some other advices and hints for your journey. His honesty, respect and friendliness will not leave any of his customers apathetic.

Besides guidance around Pendjari, Kounta is also well known by his 10 days tour through Benin, called “Bénin Coctail 10 jours”, usually starting and ending in Cotonou. The tour can again be adjusted by the length of your stay and preferences and can even be continued to nearby countries such as Togo, Ghana and Burkina Faso.

The highlights of “Benin Coctail” are more or less the following: lake village Ganvié, Royal palaces of Abomey, Road of no return in Ouidah, safari within Atacora mountains (Pendjari), Tata Somba dwellings and tropical beach in Southern Benin.

About the Author: Katja Cof

Related Posts

Off the Beaten Path in DR Congo

Berber Wedding in Morocco

Trekking the Monkey Fingers Canyon in Dades Valley

Snorkeling with Dhow in Blue Lagoon on Zanzibar

Day Trip to Jinja from Kampala – Source of River Nile

Explore Crater Lake Chala

Tour of Khartoum With a Local

Experience Authentic Rwandan Culture Up Close in Musanze

Spend Three Days in Chagga Village Tanzania

Full Day Hike at Rau Forest Reserve Near Moshi

Love your blog!

hello, thank so much. where did you contact Kounta? does he work at an agency? Thanks so much.

Excellent. After reading I am very much interested to visit Panjari. Where do I contact Kounta. I wish to start from Cotonu for short visit of 4 to 6 days. Please advice. Thanks

Comments are closed.

Pendjari National Park

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

Pendjari National Park - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

• Quick Links
• My Living List
• Terms and Conditions
• Travel with a Pen Privacy Policy
• Visa Applications
• Solo Travel
• Cheap Thrills
• JJC’s Guides To…
• Through Our Eyes

• Benin Republic
• Congo-Brazzaville
• South Africa
• Netherlands
• South Korea

Going on Safari in West Africa: A Visit to Pendjari National Park

When you think about African safaris, does West Africa come to mind? Up until about three years ago, Yankari Game Reserve in northern Nigeria was the closest thing to a safari that I knew of in the area. Then I found out about Pendjari National Park and Mole National Park in the Benin Republic and Ghana. Since then, I have been itching to visit both parks.

I finally got to visit Pendjari with Mark over the past holiday and I’m so glad we were able to make the trip. Well, when I say “we”, I mean I. This was Mark’s second visit and my first. Even though I have been on a few other safaris in the past, I was excited about going for my first one in West Africa.

What's Covered in this Post

Getting to Pendjari National Park from Cotonou

Our journey to Pendjari National Park began in Cotonou. We got up early to catch the 7:00 am ‘La Poste’ bus going to Natitingou, northern Benin. The buses were cool and comfortable. They were also fully air-conditioned and had WI-FI in them. We didn’t ride it up to Nati though, we decided to stop at Dassa first. This leg of the journey took about 4 hours.

We left Dassa at about 2 pm the next afternoon and got another bus to Nati. Because we left late and the route the bus took was quite bad, we arrived very late at night. Mark contacted our guide, Kunta, after we checked into our hotel and the next morning, he was there to pick us up and drive us to the park.

Are we there yet?

The Safari at Pendjari National Park, Benin

So how did it go?

On our very first outing, we saw lots of baboons, hippos, crocs, warthogs, waterbucks antelopes and a few other animals. Our first sighting of elephants was in the lodge. We pulled in just as they were leaving the water hole. Still, that was very exciting for me to see.

After a few hours, we returned to the lodge to rest for the afternoon before setting off again for an evening safari. During that safari, we saw more elephants (in the distance), more antelopes, a jackal… but no sign of any lions or cheetahs. Eventually, I gave up looking (for lions) and just enjoyed the ride and the views from the top of the vehicle.

Accommodation: Camping in Pendjari National Park

…And how much did this cost?

Accommodation at the Pendjari Lodge cost 70,000 CFA (N47,000) for a night and dinner was about 6,500 CFA each. We skipped breakfast (which cost around 4,000 CFA (N2,700) the next day and munched on snacks we brought in instead. Our guide also came at a cost. Overall, the entire (8-day) trip – including our stay in Cotonou and Dassa and excluding our transport into the country, cost us about $500.

A few other points to note…

There is an option to visit the waterfalls in Tanongou or the villages around the area during your trip. We skipped this during ours, but it may be of interest to you. Also, the park shares a border with Burkina Faso, which you can walk across and technically visit a new country (or be in two places at once :)).

If you’re going to do a self-drive, be sure to fill up your gas tank as there are no stations after Tanguieta. Don’t forget to bring enough snacks and water but you may want to keep them away from your tent.

The best time to visit Pendjari is during the dry season between November and March. Once it begins to rain, it becomes more difficult to see the animals.

Final thoughts…

I would certainly recommend a visit to Pendjari, especially now that it’s getting more attention from conservationists. Like many parts of West Africa, you’d need lots of patience and perseverance just to get there. But if you’re looking to go on an authentic African safari without shelling out thousands of dollars, this is the park to visit.

Sharing is Caring:

Blog posts you will also enjoy.

Follow my adventures on Instagram and Twitter!

← Previous Post

Solo Travel Horror Stories: What Happens in Karatu, Stays in Karatu!

Next post →.

Take the Quiz- How Well Do You Know Your Nigerian Attractions?

I love to hear from you, leave a comment here cancel reply, 35 comments.

I would love to know how to book a safari tour and also book the lodge. I have never experienced camping

Although my husband makes this so appealing so I am considering it.

Hi Magdalene, you can start by sending the park an email via the address on their website . Mark was a local when we visited, so we had local resources at the time to plan our safari. I don’t have these contacts anymore.

I feel like camping is an acquired taste, haha. I’d much rather go glamping (which is what this is!)

Amarachi, I love love your blog. I’m planning to go to Pendjrai in Nov. Trying to draw a budget.How many days did you spend in Benin? How much did your trip cost totally?

plus i will really like Kunta’s contact . you didnt say how much his expertise cost.

Hi Tayo, thanks for your comment. I included the estimated amount for the trip in the post (excluding our flights/land transport into Benin). The price includes Kunta’s fees – which I don’t have the exact figure for as Mark covered this. I don’t have his contact details as well but I’ll try to get it and edit this comment afterwards…

Discover more from Travel with a Pen

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Type your email…

Continue reading

PENDJARI - BENIN

Pendjari National Park in Benin and it’s surrounding larger wilderness eco-system is one of the largest remaining wildlife strongholds in West Africa. The park, which spans 4,800 km2, is becoming a safe haven for iconic species thanks to improved law enforcement and stability in the region. Pendjari’s expansive landscape contains important wetlands which are critical for many local species including West Africa’s largest population of elephant, cheetah, buffalo, and various antelope species. The park is home to more than 460 avian species and the critically endangered West African lion, of which fewer than 400 adults remain, and 100 live in Pendjari. Historically the park has faced major threats, including poaching, demographic pressure on surrounding land, and exponential resource use. But the Benin Government wanted to change this trajectory and chart a different path for this critically important landscape, with the aim of providing better protection for the people and wildlife who live there. By partnering with The African Parks Network, the National Geographic Society, the Wyss Foundation, and the Wildcat Foundation a lifeline has been thrown to this little-known but globally important protected area.

Click here for more Information about Benin

The Sahara & Zakouma – Chad

Chad has is a country full of adventure and an experience that visitors never forget – Chad is ‘Africa for the hardcore’. Travel here is tough – many of the roads are broken due to years of conflict and lack of maintenance. There are few comfortable hotels and added to that, the summer heat is mind-melting.

So why bother, you may ask? Well, we could list the sublime oases lost in the northern deserts, tell you about the stampeding herds of wildlife in the national parks or the deep blue lure of a boat trip on Lake Chad. But let’s be honest about it, these things alone aren’t why people come to Chad. Chad offers an opportunity to break emphatically with a comfortable Western world and come to a place that promises experiences, good and bad, that you’ll be recalling forever.

The Ennedi desert is an adventure through remote and breathtaking landscapes that sums up our ethos, and takes you to places that few western travellers have ever been. This part of the Sahara offers a vast collection of sandstone mountains sculpted by the wind and sand over millennia into stunning rock formations and arches. Here, you can enter the land of the Tubu; one of Africa’s most traditional and least known people, who live amongst a myriad of petroglyphs and rock paintings from generations before.  A video for you to watch is on this link: Watch Video

Nearby the Zakouma National Park is a park of extremes and abundance – we encounter flocks of tens of millions of red-billed quelea flying to roost, and is the last stronghold of a thriving population of Kordofan Giraffe, Roan Antelope, Tiang and a host of other somewhat unusual antelope species being hunted by a healthy Lion population. Herewith a link to a video on Zakouma: Watch Video

Click here for more Information about Chad

The Cradle of Mankind, Kenya

February 2020

Nowhere in the world is as well-endowed with traditional and tribal cultures as Ethiopia. Our typical cultural expedition takes you into this remote region of the African continent where you will be immersed into an array of tribal lifestyles and biblical-like living museums. You will also enjoy ‘street level culture’ with a fascinating blend of cafes, bars, sidewalk musicians, small galleries and bistros; where it is hard to draw the line between participant and observer, or between creativity and its creators. This trip will include the following incredible attractions: the picturesque and historic town of Lalibela (The Coptic Christian’s “New Jerusalem”), the colourful town of Harer (Africa’s most holy Islamic city), the night-life of Addis, the Dassanech Dimi Ceremony, the Suri Stick Fighters, Hamar bull jumping, The Mursi & the cradle of mankind, the Nyangatom, and the Kara – masters of paint.

After several years of “no foreigner access” to the amazing Donga stick sighting of the Suri in Ethiopia, I am thrilled to say that this door has now re-opened, and all of our trips to the Suri this last season (June to August) have all been lucky enough to experience this awesome spectacle.

• This is on my bucket list. Please send me details of a safari that includes this component

Lowland Gorillas & Forest Elephants, RCA

The Central African Republic (CAR) is a country with staggering rare natural beauty and some of the world’s most amazing wildlife. It’s one of the best places in Africa for encounters with forest elephant and lowland gorillas, and the best places in the world, some say, to see butterflies. It’s also one of the most impoverished and least developed countries on the continent.

Dzanga Bai is a Garden of Eden in the dense Central African Rainforests. It is a clearing in the middle of nowhere, with a tree platform, where large herds of Forest Elephant (especially bulls in musth ready to fight and looking for fertile females) and other species, such as Sitatunga, Bongo, Red Forest Buffalo and even Lowland Gorilla come to drink, feed, search for salt and socialize. It is quite an amazing spectacle for even the most seasoned African traveller.

This is on my bucket list. Please send me details of a safari that includes this component.

Cultural & Tribal Group Trip, Ethiopia

September 2020

After several years of “no foreigner access” to the amazing Donga stick sighting of the Suri in Ethiopia, I am thrilled to say that this door has now re-opened, and all of our trips to the Suri this last season (June to August) have all been lucky enough to experience this awesome spectacle.  A quick video clip: Watch Video

So, why not join Origins on the most amazing cultural expedition of your life, to see people and lifestyles totally unaffected by the western world. You will feel nothing but sheer privilege at being able to travel amongst them. HOWEVER, if you are inconvenienced by spartan accommodation or are apprehensive in unfamiliar situations, then this expedition is not for you!

Gerewol Ceremony, Chad

October 2020

This is possibly Africa’s most spectacular tribal festival. Every year, after the rainy season, the nomadic Bororo (Fulani) people, with roots lost in prehistoric times, meet in secret areas of the Sahel, straddling Niger, Chad and Cameroon, to celebrate. The men devote their time to show off and display their best physical features and celebrate. This is a crucial time to exchange news, make friends, and have love affairs. Click on the link for a quick video clip: Watch Video

Tigrai by Helicopter, Ethiopia

March 2020 and April 2020

During October 2017, Origins Safaris will be positioning Phil Mathews with his EC130 B4 Eurocopter in the Tigrai region of Northern Ethiopia, providing an exclusive opportunity to guests travelling in the region over the optimum season.  Our exceptional itinerary highlights the spectacular scenery, endemic wildlife and lesser known historical sites that remain exclusive to travel by helicopter.  These will not only include the historic and picturesque town of Lalibela, the spectacular Tekezze Gorge, the Mountain churches of Tigrai, the inaccessible regions of the Danakil Depression, but also full overnight stops on the top of The Simien Mountains, and the caldera of Erta Ale Volcano, to totally immerse yourself in such a spectacular region. Herewith a video of a helicopter ride in Ethiopia: Watch Video

Click here for more Information about Ethiopia

The birthplace of voodoo and a pivotal platform of the slave trade for nearly three centuries, Benin is steeped in a rich and complex history still very much in evidence across the country.  A visit to this small, club-shaped nation would therefore not be complete without exploring the Afro-Brazilian heritage of Ouidah, Abomey and Porto Novo, learning about spirits and fetishes.  But Benin will also wow visitors with its natural beauty, from the palm-fringed beach idyll of the Atlantic coast to the rugged scenery of the north. The Parc National de la Pendjari is one of the best wildlife parks in West Africa. Lions, cheetahs, leopards, elephants and hundreds of other species thrive here.

In fact, Benin is wonderfully tourist friendly compared to most of its neighbours. There are good roads, a wide range of accommodation options and ecotourism initiatives that offer travellers the chance to delve deeper into Beninese life. Now is an ideal time to go because the country sits on the cusp of discovery.

Benin has varied resources of wildlife comprising flora and fauna, which are primarily protected in its two contiguous protected areas of the Pendjari National Park and W National Park. The former is known for many species of avifauna and the latter park is rich in mammals and predators.

The Central African Republic (CAR) is a country with staggering rare natural beauty and some of the world’s most amazing wildlife. It’s one of the best places in Africa for encounters with forest elephant and lowland gorillas, and the best places in the world, some say, to see butterflies. It’s also one of the most impoverished and least developed countries on the continent.

The Central African Republic is a landlocked nation within the interior of the African continent that consists of flat or rolling plateau savanna.  In the south west, where the Sangha River flows close to the Republic of Congo, exists a truly unique and special expanse of rainforest.  This is the world of the Dzanga-Ndoki National Park – this protected area has gained international importance and it contains the last unlogged forest and intact fauna in the country.   The Central African Republic is home to many different species from the beautiful blue headed doves to the sleek and slender serval.  In the savannah regions you can find lions, cheetahs, leopards, baboons, antelope, buffalo, and other species of insects, amphibians and reptiles.  In the dense Congo jungle you can find the smaller forest elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, leopards, and other primates.  Located in the rivers you cannot forget the crocodiles, hippos and large variety of fish species. A special population of “Bili” apes is also established within the Congo region; this particular type of chimp is larger than their cousins and they also build their nests on the ground instead of in the trees. The Black Rhino also inhabits the area, one of the last niches this rare species can be found.

Chad has always been someplace where travellers wave goodbye to their comfort zone and say hello to adventure. Put simply, Chad is a country and an experience that visitors never forget. If Ghana and Gambia are ‘ Africa for beginners’, Chad is ‘Africa for the hardcore’.  At the moment terrorism and violence has put the dampeners on even the most ambitious travel adventures here.

Even when at peace, travel here is tough. Many of the roads are broken due to years of conflict and lack of maintenance. There are few comfortable hotels and added to that, the summer heat is mind-melting and travel costs can be astronomical.

So why ever bother, you may ask? Well, we could list the sublime oases lost in the northern deserts, tell you about the stampeding herds of wildlife in the national parks or the deep blue lure of a boat trip on Lake Chad. But let’s be honest about it, these things alone aren’t why people come to Chad. Chad offers an opportunity to break emphatically with a comfortable Western world and come to a place that promises experiences, good and bad, that you’ll be recalling forever.

Chad is best described as having broad, arid plains in the center, desert in the north, mountains in the northwest and lowlands in the south.  Chad’s animal and plant life correspond to the three climatic zones. Chad is home to an abundance of different animals. There are 134 species of mammals -17 of which are becoming endangered – and 588 species of birds in residence. One of Chad’s most prominent mammals is the Red River Hog, or Bush Pig, along with the African Bush Elephant, the Cape Hyrax, and a type of old-world monkey called the Mantled Guereza. While Chad is primarily composed of deserts in the north, to the South there are fertile grasslands which provide a suitable habitat for grazing animals such as buffalo, rhinoceroses, giraffes and antelopes to dwell in. The birds that live in Chad range from the flightless ostriches to the wetland dwelling herons.

Of all the countries of Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo is the closest to “Tarzan’s Africa”. You can very easily imagine him swinging on a vine right in front of you as you travel through this country, visited more by adventurers than tourists. No one goes there to rest and sit in a chair for a couple of weeks. Congo is an experience and asks for active people who (with respect for nature and local culture) like to learn, observe and have no objection against social contact.

Located in central Africa, the Democratic Republic of Congo covers more than 2.3 million square km. More than half of the country is covered by dense rainforests. It is two thirds the size of Europe with only 450 km of paved road – an area of vast jungles and dark corners, scattered outposts and tribal strong-holds, equatorial rainforests and active volcanoes – truly one of the most untamed countries on the surface of the earth.

The rainforests of the Democratic Republic of Congo contain great biodiversity, including many rare and endemic species, such as both species of chimpanzee: the common chimpanzee and the bonobo (also known as the Pygmy Chimpanzee), mountain gorillas, okapi and white rhino. Five of the country’s national parks are listed as World Heritage Sites: the Garumba, Kahuzi-Biega, Salonga and Virunga National Parks, and the Okapi Wildlife Reserve. The civil war and resultant poor economic conditions have endangered much of this biodiversity. All five sites are listed by UNESCO as ‘World Heritage In Danger’.

A land of steamy jungles hiding half the world’s lowland gorillas, masses of forest elephants, and hooting, swinging troops of chimpanzees; the Congo (not to be confused with the Democratic Republic of Congo across the Congo River) is on the cusp of becoming one of the finest ecotourism destinations in Africa. Parc National Nouabalé-Ndoki and Parc National d’Odzala are two of the most pristine forest reserves on the continent and between them they are arguably the highlight of the whole of Central Africa.

The Republic of Congo (Brazzaville) is a surprising Central African gem with seemingly endless pristine tropical forest and fingers of moist savannah covering its interior. Nearly 150 distinct ethnic groups exist in the Congo and the region’s Ba’Aka people are among the most well known representatives of an ancient hunter-gatherer lifestyle. Their lives and well-being are linked intimately with the forest. A mosaic of rivers, forests, savannahs, swamps and flooded forests, the Congo Basin is teeming with life. There are approximately 10, 000 species of tropical plants and 30 percent are unique to the region.

Although South Sudan is one of the lesser-known nations in the world, the very fact that South Sudan is so undiscovered is what makes it likely to attract the first intrepid visitors here.  Tourism in South Sudan is a very new field, however the rewards for those adventurous spirits who are up to the challenge, are immeasurable. South Sudan is a diverse country boasting a wealth of tribal groups and is an anthropologist’s dream. Wildlife buffs can get excited over the vast numbers of large mammals that appear to have survived the decades of war relatively unharmed, trekkers may take on the challenge of the Imatong Mountains on the bountiful border of Uganda, whilst other travellers may dream of following the White Nile across the length of the world’s newest country and its unique splendour.

The White Eared Kob migration in Southern Sudan is one of the biggest animal migrations in the world and has been described as more spectacular than other migrations on the African continent and that its scale may exceed that of Tanzania’s Serengeti.  Boma National Park provide a habitat for large populations of kob and topis (two types of antelope), buffalo, elephants, giraffes, Hartebeests (another antelope), and lions. Southern Sudan’s forest reserves also provided habitat for bongo (also an antelope), giant forest hogs, red river hogs, forest elephants, chimpanzees, and forest monkeys.

“Jambo na Karibuni” (“Hello & Welcome”). This friendly Swahili greeting will be your introduction to all the new friends and acquaintances you make on safari in Kenya. As you plan for the safari ahead we suggest you run through the information that follows so that you get the very most out of your safari. Kenya is rightfully described as “All of Africa in One Country”, and it is exactly that. It is a fact that Kenya enjoys some of the world’s greatest environmental diversity resulting in unparalleled species and sub-species varieties.

Kenya is simply the best wildlife viewing destination in Africa. People from all over the world are drawn here by its essence: the chance to immerse yourself in the spectacle of the big game: the predators and the prey ritually entwined in a cycle of life and death. Kenya straddles the Equator with geography ranging from snow capped Mt. Kenya, the second highest mountain in Africa, to lush tropical rainforest and golden sands at sea level.  Kenya is a land of contrasts and extremes: a country with an extraordinary variety of landscapes and locations, all of them striking in their own particular way. It has earned the epithet ‘the cradle of mankind’ for the discovery of archaeological evidence of the earliest origins of mankind. Kenya not only boasts every known landform but also a wealth of animal and bird life which owes its very existence to the contrasts in the country’s terrain. You do not have to be an ornithologist to enjoy its one thousand species of birds or a zoologist to be amazed by its variety of animals – birds range from the beautiful to the bizarre and the wildlife from the weird to the wonderful…

We are among the last generations to have the opportunity to experience the vanishing cultures of East Africa. Kenya is the tribal home to 40 different ethnic groups, many still living exactly as their ancestors did thousands of years ago. You can immerse yourself in the ways and culture of some of Africa’s proudest and most striking tribes.

  Kenya has 480 kilometres of Indian Ocean coastline and a coral fringe reef, which is home to a colourful plethora of marine life.  You can explore its balmy waters by dhow, yacht or powerboat; dive, snorkel and swim in the clear azure waters over fabulous coral beds; hunt for Marlin, Tuna and Sailfish or explore the mangrove swamps and creeks where the cycle begins.  The coast is home to a striking mix of people and cultures with beautiful ancient architecture contrasting with the modern day bustle of the 21st century.

Tanzania is a true wilderness. Over a quarter of this magnificent country is dedicated to incredibly wild and beautiful national parks and reserves – it is East Africa at its best. Tanzania is a land of superlatives: the deepest, the highest, the largest, and the oldest. Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Loliondo – which make up the famed “Northern Circuit” – tempt you with a million-strong Wildebeest migration, a huge volcanic caldera, a flamingo-rimmed lake, rhino, buffalo, black-maned tree-climbing lions and elephant bathing in rivers. Experience the Ngorongoro Crater, a unique ecosystem isolated from the rolling savannahs that surround it.

Tanzania is dominated by Kilimanjaro; one of the world’s most massive extinct volcano’s and Africa’s highest mountain. It soars some 15,000 feet above the surrounding arid plains, and 2.5 square miles of its surface ascends to over 18,500 feet.

Tanzania is home to 35 species of antelope and over 1.5 million wildebeest – over 80% of the total population in Africa…. Famous parks such as the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Conservation Area offer some of the best safari opportunities in Africa. The Serengeti plains alone support over 3 million animals whilst the Ngorongoro Crater hosts the greatest concentration of large mammals in Africa on the floor of an extinct volcano; a natural refuge for big game. Whilst these two parks are the best known, there are many others that offer more diverse opportunities for the more adventurous. Parks such as the Ruaha and Selous Reserve are huge and relatively untouched. The incredible wilderness of the Miombo woodlands in Southern Tanzania offers dramatically changing scenery and wildlife. And the exotic lure of the islands; Pemba & Zanzibar, are incredible ‘getaway’ destinations.

Lying between Lake Natron and Lake Eyasi the Olduvai Gorge is one of East Africa’s most amazing archaeological hotspots, where Drs. Louis and Mary Leakey discovered Homo Habilis (Handy Man); a 1.8 million year old fossil, whose bones were discovered in the wall of the Gorge. Early hominid footprints, estimated to be 3.5 million years old, were discovered at Laetoli by Dr Mary Leakey here in 1979.

Uganda – “The Pearl of Africa” – is one of East Africa’s better kept secrets.  It has long been a favourite haunt for back-packers.  Uganda has it all: remote wilderness areas, breathtaking scenery, extraordinary cultural diversity and incredible wildlife.  Uganda is one of East Africa’s better kept secrets.  It has long been a favourite haunt for back-packers.  In the past its tourism strengths have often been ignored in favour of its sexier neighbours… in fact Uganda has it all: remote wilderness areas, breathtaking scenery, extraordinary cultural diversity and incredible wildlife.

It is a lush, green country straddling the equator.  The country’s dominating feature is water: the vast blue of Lake Victoria, the ever-flowing river Nile, Lakes Edward, George and Albert, and the expansive network of wetlands and marsh. Dramatic mountains punctuate the landscape: the snow- capped Rwenzori Mountains (Ptolemy’s famous ‘Mountains of the Moon’), the volcanic ranges of the southwest, and the massive Mount Elgon in the East of the country.

Uganda is a shameless cross-dresser – here lush tropical rainforest and ‘jungle’ snatch your attention away from miles of arid savannah on par with its more famous rivals the Mara & Serengeti. Tourism musts include: Murchison Falls, the Mountains of the Moon and Africa’s greatest river; The Nile – all form part of the mystique that drew explorers, pioneers and settlers from across the world to compete for this beautiful country in the famous ‘Scramble for Africa’ in the 19th century.

Uganda is where the East African savannah meets the West African jungle. Where else but in this impossibly lush country can one observe lions prowling the open plains in the morning and track chimpanzees through the rainforest undergrowth the same afternoon, then the next day navigate tropical channels teeming with hippos and crocodiles before setting off into the misty mountains to stare deep into the eyes of a mountain gorilla? Certainly, Uganda is the only safari destination whose range of forest primates is as impressive as its selection of plains antelopes. And this verdant biodiversity is further attested to by Uganda’s status as by far the smallest of the four African countries whose bird checklist tops the 1,000 mark.

Rwanda is a mountainous country with a moist, temperate year-round climate. Its conical mountains and shrouded equatorial jungles have helped it earn the well-deserved nickname as the “Land of a Thousand Hills”. Rwanda is the most densely populated country in Africa and the country carries the burden of recent history following an infamous civil war.  Mention Rwanda to anyone with a small geopolitical conscience and that person will no doubt recall images of the horrific genocide that brutalized this tiny country in 1994. But since then a miraculous transformation has been wrought and today the country is one of tribal unity, political stability and a promising future.  Visitors to Rwanda are now openly amazed at how far the country has come and how willing its people are to talk about and regret the terrible happenings of the past.   Rwanda has a number of unique delights to offer travellers: Parc National des Volcans in the Virunga volcanoes is home to the Mountain Gorillas to which Dian Fossey dedicated her life.  Nyungwe Forest National Park is one of the world’s most majestic and pristine mountain rainforests. It is believed to be one of Africa’s oldest and largest forests remaining in Central Africa. Home to chimpanzees and 12 other primates species (including a 400-strong troop of Ruwenzori Black and White Colobus Monkeys as well as a rich variety of orchids. Akagera National Park is central Africa’s largest protected wetland and the last remaining refuge for savannah-adapted species in Rwanda. The rolling highlands, vast plains and swamp fringed lakes of this north-eastern territory contain a rich biodiversity and are home to a number of rare species, such as the shoebill stork. With more than 12,000 large mammals and 482 bird species, this breath-taking landscape is every nature lover’s wildest dream. Finally Lake Kivu is one of a string of huge fresh water lakes which lie along Africa’s Great Rift Valley. Lake Kivu is Rwanda’s largest lake, and the sixth largest lake in Africa that is home to a large variety of birds.

Nowhere in the world is as well-endowed with traditional and tribal cultures as Ethiopia. Our typical cultural expedition takes you into this remote region of the African continent where you will be immersed into an array of tribal lifestyles and biblical-like living museums. You will also enjoy ‘street level culture’ with a fascinating blend of cafes, bars, sidewalk musicians, small galleries and bistros; where it is hard to draw the line between participant and observer, or between creativity and its creators. So, why not join Origins on the most amazing cultural expedition of your life, to see people and lifestyles totally unaffected by the western world. You will feel nothing but sheer privilege at being able to travel amongst them. HOWEVER, if you are inconvenienced by spartan accommodation or are apprehensive in unfamiliar situations, then this expedition is not for you!

A journey through Ethiopia’s historic route is a trip back in time. From the reign of King Solomon, Ethiopia (then known as Abyssinia) was the epicenter of religious mystique and the supposed resting place for the Arc of the Covenant. Rumours and mystery are interwoven with history and heritage: the Knights Templar, the so-called Crusaders, came here in search of their Holy Grail.

Although Ethiopia’s rich cultural history may be the primary focus – the sheer breathtaking beauty of this country’s scenery overwhelms your senses and embeds itself in your mind’s eye. Every journey is a visual feast. The spectacular highlands are a haven for endemic and endangered species such as the Simien Wolf, the Walia Ibex, the Gelada Baboon and the Lammergeyer Vulture.

Your journey becomes a quest to absorb and understand the myths and religious crusades that have dominated this land: from the incredible rock-hewn underground churches of Lalibela (‘A prayer in Stone’) and the numerous festivals that happen throughout the year, to the dizzying heights of the Simien Mountain Range (described by one writer as ‘the chess pieces of the Gods’) or the spectacular Danakil Depression – the hottest place on earth. The Ethiopian experience is multi-dimensional and intense.

Big Game Safari – Kenya

Any Time of Year

Kenya is rightfully described as “All of Africa in One Country” and it is exactly that – it is a fact that Kenya enjoys some of the world’s greatest environmental diversity resulting in unparalleled species and sub-species varieties.

Kenya is simply the best wildlife destination in Africa. People from all over the world are drawn here by its essence – the chance to immerse yourself in the spectacle of big game; the predators and prey ritually entwined in a cycle of life and death. Kenya is known for its safaris, diverse climate & geography, expansive wildlife reserves and national parks.

On your luxury Big Game Safari to Kenya you will be visiting some of the most contrasting examples of our Kenyan parks in order to see the extensive range of wildlife and scenery, with stop-overs in Nairobi at either end of your safari, where you will be able to visit the Sheldrick Wildlife Trust Elephant Orphanage.

You will visit the following:

• Meru National Park – a wild, beautiful, lesser-known and more private park, beloved of the late George Adamson and his wife Joy.
• Samburu National Reserve – a rugged, remote park with some of the most colourful game viewing and 6 species rarely seen elsewhere – Grevy’s Zebra, Reticulated Giraffe, Somali Ostrich, Gerenuk, Guenther’s Dik Dik and Beisa Oryx.
• Ol Pejeta – an award-winning catalyst and model for community conservation and home to a remarkable variety of wildlife including White & Black Rhino.
• Maasai Mara National Reserve – a park of wonderful volcanic scenery, rolling grasslands and plenty of game especially during the Great Migration; an amazing spectacle of nearly 2 million zebra & wildebeest move through the Serengeti-Mara ecosystem searching for grass and water.

Join us on an exclusive trip of a lifetime with Big Game Safaris.

Click here for more Information about Kenya

The Wonders of Voodoo, Benin

January 2020

“If you want to plumb the secrets of Voodoo you’ll have to wait for the end of the world”. These are the words of a Voodoo song. Voodoo is one of the least understood religions of the world. There are fifty million believers just in West Africa alone, but few westerners understand many of its beliefs, which go back thousands of years.

Migration Safari – Tanzania

July – October 2020

Tanzania is a true wilderness – over a quarter of this magnificent country is dedicated to incredibly wild and beautiful national parks and reserves. It is East Africa at its best. Tanzania is also a land of superlatives: it has the deepest, the highest, the largest and the oldest.

Tarangire, Manyara, Ngorongoro, Serengeti and Loliondo, which make up the famed “Northern Circuit”, tempt you with a million-strong Wildebeest migration, a huge volcanic caldera, a flamingo rimmed lake, rhino, buffalo, black-maned tree-climbing Lions and elephant bathing in rivers. Experience the Ngorongroro Crater with its unique ecosystem isolated from the rolling savannahs that surround it.

You will also visit Arusha on your you will also visit Arusha on your luxury Migration Safari, which is the gateway to the safari circuit; a small bustling town that exudes a great sense of anticipation and excitement, which sprawls beneath the massive bulk of Mount Meru filled with craft shops selling local artisans’ work.

Our exclusive Migration Safari will let you experience the integral and complete wonders of Tanzania.Top of Form

Click here for more Information about Tanzania

Tribes of South Sudan

Although South Sudan is one of the lesser-known nations in the world, the very fact that it is so undiscovered is what makes it likely to attract the first intrepid visitors here. Tourism is a very new field, and of course there is still conflict in some regions of the country, however the rewards for those adventurous spirits who are up to the challenge, are immeasurable as it is a diverse country boasting a wealth of tribal groups.

Conservation Safaris to the Pendjari, Benin

Pendjari National Park in Benin and it’s surrounding larger wilderness eco-system is one of the largest remaining wildlife strongholds in West Africa. The park, which spans 4,800 km2, is becoming a safe haven for iconic species thanks to improved law enforcement and stability in the region. Pendjari’s expansive landscape contains important wetlands which are critical for many local species including West Africa’s largest population of elephant, cheetah, buffalo, and various antelope species. The park is home to more than 460 avian species and the critically endangered West African lion, of which fewer than 400 adults remain, and 100 live in Pendjari. Historically the park has faced major threats, including poaching, demographic pressure on surrounding land, and exponential resource use. But the Benin Government wanted to change this trajectory and chart a different path for this critically important landscape, with the aim of providing better protection for the people and wildlife who live there. By partnering with The African Parks Network, the National Geographic Society, the Wyss Foundation, and the Wildcat Foundation a lifeline has thrown to this little-known but globally important protected area.

Marine Safaris in East Africa and the Red Sea

December 2020

Our Marine Safaris span across the eastern coast of Africa and the Red Sea, travelling by private live aboard boats to areas that our specialist marine guides know and love. These safaris, conservation quests, vacations and educational experiences take you to unique, lesser known ocean destinations with incredible ecosystems. You shall explore beaches, seagrass beds, mangroves and coral reefs, and you will come face to face with sea turtles, dugong, whales, whale sharks, hammerhead sharks and manta rays. Whether swimming, scuba diving, fishing, sailing, stand up paddle boarding or witnessing marine conservation under a palm tree, the team will immerse you in the ocean’s lore, helping you to appreciate its significance in this ever-precarious world. You will leave with a love and respect for the sea, its creatures and all its natural wonders.

The Sudd Migration, Gambella

February 2020 and April 2020

The Sudd wetlands of southern Sudan and western Ethiopia, nourished by tributaries of the White Nile, are home to an astounding number of white-eared kob – hundreds of thousands of animals – Africa’s second-largest mammal migration. Join us on some of the pioneering expeditions into these road-less and inaccessible swamps.

Black Pharaohs

Sudan is simply the original, mysterious and unique destination, still unknown to the most, this is the area where the African and Arabic culture meet. Its ancient history is very much connected to the Egyptian one, where the Nile Rivers meet and then cross the Sahara Desert and along its valley lay interesting archaeological sites of the Egyptian and Meroitic civilizations, most of them are World Heritage protected by Unesco. This is the Land of Kush, home to the Black Pharaohs who’s kings and queens built “more pyramids than Egypt” (220 vs 11). The astonishing landscape of the three deserts, associated to the beauty of the Nile Cataracts, the hidden Nubian villages and the welcoming people make of this place an innovative, unexpected destination for the modern day explorer.

Global National Parks

National Parks of the World: Tourism, Accommodation, Routes, and Guides

Home » Africa » National Parks in Benin

Pendjari National Park in Benin, Northwest Africa

• 1.1 History
• 1.2 Geographical Location
• 1.3 Historical and Cultural Significance of the Park
• 1.4 Pendjari’s Context within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Network
• 2.1 Notable Fauna
• 2.2 Characteristic Flora
• 2.3 Importance of Conservation
• 3.1 Points of Interest within the Park
• 3.2 Popular Routes and Paths
• 3.3 Viewpoints and Panoramic Views
• 3.4 Safari and Animal Watching Opportunities
• 4.1 Local Communities
• 4.2 Handicrafts and Local Products
• 4.3 Events and Festivals
• 5.1 Best Time to Visit
• 5.2 Getting to Pendjari National Park
• 5.3 Accommodation and Nearby Services
• 5.4 Rules and Recommendations for the Visit
• 6.1 Threats to Biodiversity and the Park’s Ecosystem
• 6.2 Current Conservation Strategies
• 6.3 Opportunities for Volunteering and Citizen Participation
• 7 Photo Gallery

The Pendjari National Park (French: Parc national de la Pendjari), located in the northwest of Benin , is an oasis of biodiversity and a shining example of wildlife preservation in West Africa. As an integral part of the UNESCO Biosphere Reserves Network, the park covers an area of approximately 4,844 km 2 according to the African Parks report in 2022.

National Park Facts

Located within the largest remaining wilderness in West Africa , the Pendjari National Park has faced decades of challenges due to regional instability, inadequate resources, and human pressure. These factors have threatened wildlife and the surrounding communities. However, in 2017, the Government of Benin recognized the importance of protecting natural areas for wildlife conservation and the country’s socio-economic development. They invited African Parks to take over the management of Pendjari, which now covers approximately 4,844 km 2 of protected area. Since then, Pendjari has undergone a significant transformation. Under the administration of African Parks and with the support of a dedicated team of rangers, the park has become a haven of stability for both wildlife and local communities . Measures have been implemented to control unsustainable use of natural resources and combat poaching, allowing for wildlife protection.

Conservation of biodiversity in Pendjari has become a driver of socio-economic development for the surrounding communities. Employment, education, and healthcare opportunities have been created for thousands of people, significantly improving the quality of life for the local population.

Despite additional challenges posed by militant activity that has spilled over from Burkina Faso, park management and local authorities have worked closely to ensure the safety of both visitors and wildlife. A revised security strategy has been implemented, which has proven effective in protecting the park and reducing human-wildlife conflict.

Investment in infrastructure has been another key aspect of Pendjari’s transformation. Park fences have been improved, and other mitigation measures have been implemented to reduce human-wildlife encounters. This has led to a 70% reduction in conflicts between the local population and wildlife.

Furthermore, socio-economic initiatives have been promoted in surrounding communities, such as beekeeping and soybean production. These activities not only generate additional income for local households but also promote sustainable practices that benefit both people and the natural environment.

Despite persistent challenges, the Pendjari National Park remains a beacon of hope in one of Africa’s most vulnerable regions. It inspires the people of Benin to continue protecting their valuable biodiversity for future generations while providing opportunities for sustainable development and the well-being of local communities.

Geographical Location

The park is bordered by the Atakora mountain range to the south and the Pendjari and Mekrou rivers to the west and north, respectively. This strategic geographical position gives it a unique and vibrant ecosystem.

Historical and Cultural Significance of the Park

In addition to its ecological importance, Pendjari National Park is named after the historic Pendjari people. This park represents the cultural and natural heritage of the region, contributing to the knowledge and preservation of its history and traditions.

Pendjari’s Context within the UNESCO Biosphere Reserve Network

Pendjari National Park is recognized by UNESCO as a biosphere reserve, highlighting its significance in biodiversity conservation and promoting sustainable development.

Biodiversity in Pendjari

The rich biodiversity of Pendjari is one of the main attractions of the park. It is home to an impressive variety of flora and fauna, some of which are endangered.

Notable Fauna

The park is home to one of the last populations of elephants and lions in West Africa. Additionally, hippos, buffalos, antelopes, and more than 300 bird species can also be found.

Characteristic Flora

Pendjari presents a wide variety of plants and trees. From gallery forests to savannas and dense shrublands, the floral diversity contributes to the beauty and ecological health of the park.

Importance of Conservation

Conserving biodiversity in Pendjari is essential to maintaining ecological balance, protecting endangered species, and preserving the natural heritage of the region.

Exploring Pendjari National Park

A visit to Pendjari National Park promises to be an unforgettable experience. From safaris to nature walks, there are many ways to explore and enjoy the beauty of the park.

Points of Interest within the Park

Highlighted points of interest include the impressive Tanougou waterfall, the spectacular Pendjari Gorge, and various viewpoints where the diversity of landscapes and wildlife can be appreciated.

Popular Routes and Paths

There are several routes to explore the park, some of which offer the opportunity to see animals in their natural habitat. The Batia route, for example, is popular due to its high concentration of wildlife.

Viewpoints and Panoramic Views

The viewpoints in Pendjari National Park offer stunning panoramic views. An example is the Arli viewpoint, from which visitors can have a clear vision of the vast landscape and wildlife.

Safari and Animal Watching Opportunities

Safaris in Pendjari are an excellent way to experience the rich biodiversity of the park. With expert guides, visitors have the chance to observe animals up close in their natural habitat.

Cultural Experiences

A visit to Pendjari National Park is not complete without exploring the local culture and traditions of the region.

Local Communities

Local communities bring an element of authenticity and a unique experience to the visit. Meeting these communities offers the opportunity to learn about their way of life and their relationship with the natural environment.

Handicrafts and Local Products

Local crafts and products from the region are a reflection of Benin’s rich culture. Visiting local markets, one can find handmade objects, textiles, and delicious local meals.

Events and Festivals

Local events and festivals provide a unique insight into the culture and traditions of the region. These events may include traditional dances, music, and religious ceremonies.

Tips for Visitors

To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit to Pendjari National Park, there are several things visitors should keep in mind.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Pendjari is during the dry season, which extends from November to February. During this period, animals often gather around water sources, making it easier to spot them.

Getting to Pendjari National Park

The park is accessible by road from Cotonou, the capital of Benin, or from Ouagadougou, in Burkina Faso. Additionally, there are local flights landing at the nearby Natitingou airport.

Accommodation and Nearby Services

There are several accommodation options near the park, from luxury hotels to more rustic campgrounds. Additionally, restaurants and shops can be found in nearby towns to stock up on supplies.

Rules and Recommendations for the Visit

It is important to respect the park’s rules to ensure the safety and conservation of the ecosystem. This includes not feeding the animals, staying on marked paths, and not littering.

Challenges and Opportunities in Pendjari National Park Conservation

The conservation of Pendjari National Park faces several challenges but also offers opportunities for active participation and sustainable development.

Threats to Biodiversity and the Park’s Ecosystem

Major threats include poaching, climate change, and the expansion of human activities. These factors can affect the survival of wildlife and the integrity of the ecosystem.

Current Conservation Strategies

Several strategies are in place to preserve and protect Pendjari National Park. These include implementing anti-poaching laws, promoting ecotourism, and collaborating with local communities for sustainable park management.

Opportunities for Volunteering and Citizen Participation

Pendjari National Park offers opportunities for volunteering and citizen participation. Visitors and locals can get involved in various activities such as park clean-ups, environmental education, and contributing to conservation projects.

Photo Gallery

Pendjari National Park

Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.

Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.

PENDJARI NATIONAL PARK: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Getty Images/Flickr RF

Parc National de la Pendjari

This 2750-sq-km national park is one of West Africa's best for wildlife. Visitors may spot lions, leopards, elephants, baboons and hippos. The best viewing time is near the end of the dry season (November to February), when the animals congregate at water holes. With waterfalls, a woody landscape and good tracks, it's a pleasure to drive around. The park adjoins the Parc National d'Arli in Burkina Faso and is bordered to the west, north and east by the Pendjari River.

To maximise your chances of seeing animals, go for an accredited guide with the highest grade (grade 'A'). The list of accredited guides can be found on the park's website, at park entrances and in Nati's better hotels. 'A' guides will have the most in-depth knowledge, have a number of years of experience in the park and can be trusted to handle the terrain and conduct a tour that is both informative and safe.

The main entrances to Pendjari are roughly 100km north of Natitingou, in Porga (near the border with Burkina Faso) and Batia (41km northeast of Tanguiéta, on a good track).

Get In Touch

https://​www​.pendjari​.net​/

Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Tanougou Falls

23.48 MILES

On the park's periphery, some 11km before Batia in Tanougou, you can take a dip in the lovely natural pools at the bottom of these falls.

Nearby Benin attractions

1 . Tanougou Falls

Pictus Safaris

Pendjari NP, Benin

The Jewel of West Africa

£2,795 pp sharing

At a Glance

Dates : December 18th - December 29th, 2023

Extension : No extensions currently available

Prices : This trip is available for £2,795 per person sharing, with a £300 single supplement.

In a sentence : Pendjari is a truly magical destination for any safari connoisseur, home to the few remaining Cheetah, Lion and Bush Elephant in West Africa.

It is a minor miracle that Benin has been overlooked by the safari community for so long. Nestled between Nigeria and Togo, this small West African country boasts many of the few remaining pockets of pristine savanna and forest habitats in the region. In the south, a network of forests managed by local communities offers rare chances to view habituated primates including White-Thighed Colobus and White-Throated Guenon, as well as Anomalures and numerous Duiker species. Further north, the border areas shared with Burkina Faso and Niger represent perhaps the greatest wilderness area in all of West Africa. The WAP complex, made up of Parc W, Arli and Pendjari is home to a fractured population of West African Cheetah, with Pendjari being the only place where visitors stand a chance of seeing these cats. Pendjari is a stronghold for West African Lions, more closely related to the Lions of India than to those in Eastern and Southern Africa. Bush Elephant, Savanna Buffalo, Roan Antelope, Side-Striped Jackal, African Civet, Olive Baboon, White-Tailed Mongoose, Western Hartebeest and Korrigum are all easily seen in this delightful area.

Pendjari itself is not frequently visited by tourists, other then French safari enthusiasts who are 'in the know'. There is limited accommodation available within the reserve, which has recently been taken over by African Parks. Pendjari Hotel is situated in the north of the park, near the border crossing to Burkina Faso, in an area no longer accessible to tourists due to insurgent activities in Arli National Park. The remaining available accommodation is the delightful Pendjari Lodge, perched atop a hill in the centre of the reserve overlooking a small waterhole. The lodge is one of Pictus Safaris' favourite properties, delivering fantastic food each evening, as well as providing clean and comfortable safari tent accommodation. The swimming pool provides a great view of the savanna below, and it is not uncommon to be able to view West African Lion or Bush Elephant as they drink whilst you have a cocktail in hand. Morning and evening game drives are available each day, and we strongly recommend taking as many opportunities as possible to venture into the park to search for Cheetah, Lion, Serval and even Leopard.

On arrival into Cotonou, you will be met by your Pictus Safaris representative and transferred to your hotel (Hotel du Lac or similar). For those arriving early enough, we will gladly arrange a tour of Cotonou for an additional fee. Dinner and a briefing will be provided at your hotel.

Abomey & Bassila

This morning we will leave our hotel shortly after breakfast, making the approximately two-hour drive to the city of Abomey. This city is truly the epicentre of Benin's famous culture of voodoo, and this city has a rich and interesting history. Our local guide has plenty of knowledge to share about the kingdom of Danxome, and we will be sure to visit both the fascinating history museum and former royal palace.

After lunch in Abomey, it is a further five-hour drive to Bassila, a town located within striking distance of Kikele Forest. We will overnight at Hotel La Romance.

Kikele & Natitingou

We recommend an early start this morning, rising at dawn for the very short drive to Kikele Forest. This community-owned forest has been well protected by local people, and this beautiful area has a special and sacred significance to them. This excellent community-wide focus on conservation has been a real boon for the primates that call Kikele home. In particular, this is a stronghold for mona monkey and white-thighed colobus, both of which are fairly well habituated to humans and are typically very photogenic. We will explore this forest on foot with the help of a local guide, before continuing on to Djougou, a bustling market town.

After lunch, we will continue north to the gateway to Pendjari, Natitingou, via the scenic Kota Falls. This small town is dependent on the nearby Pendjari National Park, and we will overnight here at the Hotel Totora.

This morning we will need to go through entry formalities in Natitingou, where the national park has its administrative headquarters. We will also use this opportunity to stock up on any food or water we may miss in Pendjari, as this is the last chance to access shops for quite some time.

By mid-morning, we will have begun our drive to Pendjari itself, which remains 2-3 hours away, depending on road conditions. By mid-afternoon, we will have completed the final entry formalities and we will drive through the buffer zone to Pendjari Lodge. Don't be disappointed if we do not see any game right away, as the buffer zone is largely devoid of wildlife. Once we reach Mare Bali, the first of many small waterholes, we will be in a prime game-viewing area and the Pendjari Lodge is just a short drive away.

Once we are settled into our fantastic accommodation at Pendjari Lodge, we will head out on an evening game drive to explore the area. Mare Bali and Mare Baobab are great areas to begin our search as they are favourite haunts of West African Lion. Pendjari holds the last viable population of Lion in West Africa, and sightings are hit and miss. Previous visitors have seen Lion every day, or not at all, but with the help of local guides we stand an excellent chance of tracking one or more prides down. The plains around the lodge are also a good bet for Bush Elephant, Korrigum, Roan Antelope, Warthog, Buffon's Kob, Western Hartebeest, Bushbuck, Savanna Buffalo, Waterbuck and Patas Monkey, some of which we are likely to encounter today.

We will then return to the lodge for dinner, which is always of a surprisingly high standard given the remoteness of the area. After dinner, we will head out on a night drive, to reveal the nocturnal residents of Pendjari. Lion sightings are possible, as are sightings of White-Tailed Mongoose, African Civet and even Leopard, although sightings of Leopard are rare. 

Days Five to Eight

We now have four days to explore Pendjari as far as possible. Morning, evening and night drives are all available to us and we can target species as the group desires. The most prized sighting in Pendjari is that of the vanishingly rare West African Cheetah, of which there are perhaps only a dozen or so left in this ecosystem. Sightings are very rare, but entirely possible, with perhaps 3-4 sightings each year. The plains to the west of the lodge are the best bet for these elusive cats, and this area also regularly produces sightings of Serval. There is really no telling what else we might encounter in this remarkable ecosystem, as there is so much yet to be learnt about this area.

Tanongou & Koussoukoingou

After a final morning drive, we will make a beeline for the mountain town of Tanongou just outside the park. This town is famed for its numerous pools and waterfalls, and we highly recommend a quick dip - it will be chilly! It's then about a four-hour drive to the village of Koussoukoingou, nestled in the heart of the Atakora mountains. This town is well-known for its unique clay and wood buildings, and also its stunning panoramas across the surrounding valleys. We will overnight at the Otammari Lodge.

Taneka Beri & Parakou

After a late breakfast we will transfer to the nearby village of Taneka Beri, where we will have the opportunity to meet local chiefs and learn more about the community structure and ecosystem surrounding this village. We will then head on to Parakou, another four hours or so away. Provided we arrive in the city sufficiently early, we can explore the area and visit a large local market, a real experience. We will overnight at Ecocentre Le Rucher.

Gnanhouizounme

Today will be a full day of driving, heading south for approximately six hours, breaking for lunch halfway. Our destination is the Gnanhouizounme forest, and we will camp just outside the forest tonight.

Gnanhouizounme, Porto Novo & Cotonou

An early start today as we head into the forest at first light. Gnanhouizounme is a stronghold for a number of species rarely found elsewhere in West Africa, including numerous primates, sitatunga and red river hog. Sightings of large mammals are rare, but we will do all we can to ensure a sighting on our two-hour walk this morning. 

A relatively short drive will take us to Porto Novo, Benin's capital. Our key focus here will be the Jardin des Plantes et de la Nature, where we will lunch and seek out the garden's habituated mona monkeys. After this stop, we will head directly to Cotonou for dinner and homeward flights.

Please be aware that whilst we make every effort to follow the above itinerary as closely as possible, circumstances may occasionally arise that mean the tour deviates from the itinerary.

Dates and Prices

This tour will run in December 2023, aiming to take advantage of the end of the dry season when wildlife populations congregate around water sources, but visiting before the Harmattan winds grip Pendjari and lower visibility. This tour will run from 18th December 2022 to 29th December 2022.

The cost of this holiday is £2,795 per person sharing, with a £300 single supplement. To secure a place on this tour a £1,000 deposit plus any single supplement is required.

Flights and Visas

Pictus Safaris do not offer flight booking services. However, we do recommend the use of travel comparison websites such as skyscanner.net or momondo.com to identify the best fares, and then booking with the airline directly where possible. This will reduce the likelihood of complications and fees should any issues with your booking arise. 

British nationals do require a visa to enter Benin. Clients of other nationalities are advised to check well before travel whether they require an entry visa. Details of the process of obtaining a tourist visa for Benin will be provided to you upon booking. The cost of a Beninoise tourist visa for UK citizens is 50 euro - this will be obtained by completing an online application form, which will allow you to collect your visa on arrival. You will need a passport valid for at least three months after your date of return from Benin.

Weather and What to Bring

The weather in Benin in December is warm and dry, with maximum temperatures of around 35 degrees Celsius. At night, temperatures will drop to around 20 degrees Celsius.

A full packing list will be circulated at least two months prior to departure. Pictus Safaris will be able to provide one extra set of binoculars and two spotlights per group, and clients are welcome to bring additional camera, videography and scope equipment should they wish to. Please note that the use of drones is not permitted in many protected areas. We strongly recommend bringing comfortable, loose-fitting and neutral-coloured clothing on safari - please do not bring camouflage clothing. We recommend against dark coloured clothing (e.g. black or dark blue) as this attracts biting flies. Worn-in hiking boots with ankle support are a must, as are sunglasses, sun protection and a hat. 

Do also remember to budget for any expenses not included in the cost of the trip, including for gratuities and additional activities. We recommend bringing Euros.

Safety and Security

We understand that for some potential visitors, the security situation in Benin is a concern. Pictus Safaris take the safety of clients extremely seriously and we are in constant communication with our ground operators to monitor the security situation in all of our destinations.

The security situation in Benin is generally stable. However, Pendjari is situated on the border with Burkina Faso, where there is significant civil unrest and terrorist activity. In 2019, two tourists were kidnapped in Pendjari and their guide was killed - the tourists were later liberated by French special forces. The border area is now closed to tourists, with the main game-viewing routes being moved further south. African Parks has done a good job of militarising the park, and it is now considered secure.

All Pictus Safaris clients must have travel insurance to travel with us. As travel to Pendjari is advised against by national travel advisory bodies, most travel insurance policies will not be valid here. We recommend High Risk Voyager insurance as it covers medial evacuation from remote areas.

To secure a booking on this fantastic holiday, please fill out the details below.

Thanks for submitting!

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to improve your experience.

• Off The Map
• Environmental Pledge
• Ecosystems supported
• Destinations
• Experiences
• Best time to travel
• Five-year plan
• Donor travel
• Climate emergency
• Potted History
• Home Visits

Pendjari National Park

Pendjari lodge.

Home / Destinations / Benin / Pendjari National Park / Pendjari Lodge

Located in the heart of Benin’s Pendjari National Park on a hilltop overlooking the savannah and a large waterhole, the beautifully spacious Pendjari Safari Lodge is an eco-lodge offering an authentic and comfortable safari experience.

Refurbished in 2021, Pendjari Lodge is today a beautiful and classic build of canvas, stone and thatch consisting of a main lodge and 15 sleeping tents. The shared area includes a dining area, lounge, large terrace, shop, bar and plunge pool. Wi-fi is avaialble but patchy.

Food & service

Serving European and Beninese dishes made using local ingredients, the restaurant and service at Pendjari Lodge is excellent. Dinners are usually a barbecue, serving top quality meat, fish, and shellfish from the coast. Guests are welcome to enjoy meals indoors or outside on the terrace. The option to arrange a picnic or bush breakfasts and dinners is available too.

Well-spaced and perfectly comfortable, there are 12 rooms at Pendjari Lodge. Guests can choose between a traditional canvas safari tent, a hybrid bungalow-tent style or a thatched bungalow. The safari tents are a classic canvas and stone floor build, each with a double bed, an ensuite bathroom and a private terrace. The hybrid bungalow tents blend the comfort of solid walls with a traditional canvas roof. Each has a double bed facing a large window, an ensuite bathroom inside, and a private shower outside. The six thatched bungalows are spacious and light, with large glass sliding doors and windows, a king-size bed and ensuite bathroom, and a terrace overlooking the landscapes and wildlife of Pendjari. There is WiFi, a phone, satellite television, and air conditioning in all the rooms.

Pendjari Lodge is the perfect base from which to explore Pendjari National Park — the only place in West Africa where you can see both lion and elephant — and activities include private game drives, night drives, sundowners and tracking experience. The Tanongou waterfalls are only 12 kilometres from the entrance of Pendjari, a perfect stop either on the way or on departure from the park. Guides are also happy to facilitate market visits in surrounding villages.

To find out more about travel to Pendjari Lodge, get in touch

Subscribe to our newsletter.

Travel ideas, conservation stories and the latest from our exploration team

Email address

What best describes you?

• [ January 14, 2024 ] EQUATORIAL GUINEA – Best 10 day itinerary with island marvels and mainland hidden gems Equatorial Guinea Travel Guide
• [ May 10, 2023 ] TOGO – Best 10-day itinerary for a road trip from south to north Itineraries
• [ November 20, 2022 ] DJIBOUTI – The best 1-week Djibouti roadtrip itinerary with a 4×4 landcruiser Djibouti Travel Guide
• [ November 18, 2022 ] YEMEN – Mainland Yemen itinerary with all the best places to visit in Hadramout Itineraries
• [ January 21, 2022 ] TRINIDAD – Port of Spain city walk: Top 12 things to see and do Trinidad & Tobago Travel Guide
• [ January 18, 2022 ] TRINIDAD – Hyatt Regency hotel review: Best luxury place to stay in Port of Spain Hotel reviews
• [ January 11, 2022 ] ISRAEL – Caesarea day trip from Tel Aviv: Must see Roman ruins Israel

BENIN – Ultimate 2-week Benin itinerary: Culture, nature safari, voodoo & more

Table of Contents

Getting to Benin

Benin hotels, transport in benin, benin travel tips, benin itinerary day 1: arrival, ganvie stilt village tour, cotonou city trip, porto-novo city tour, sakété town visit, ketou city trip, driving in benin, taneka village tour, somba land tour with local family visit, tanougou waterfalls, pendjari national park safari, benin itinerary day 8: kouandé kingdom day trip, benin itinerary day 9: holy hills of dassa, agongointo-zoungoudo underground town visit, abomey royal palaces visit, walking the ouidah slave trade route, voodoo religion in ouidah, benin itinerary day 14: departure.

I do not know why but Benin has intrigued me for a long time and I finally visited with my son. Benin is the third country south of the Sahara that I travelled to. I really enjoyed the below Benin itinerary which includes all major places of interest in Benin. It’s full of culture, history, nature safari, voodoo, and local life. My Benin road trip was just 12 days but this is easily extended to a full two weeks especially if you add more days at Ouidah beach.

Why Benin now? Each Christmas holiday I travel with my family and we travelled a lot to Asia and the Middle East. I have seen so much there that I wanted a change. Since my São Tomé trip and Ghana road trip two years ago I finally convinced the rest of the family to go back to this part of the world. I had a great time and will share my experience of this Benin road trip with you. First, I give some Benin travel tips and then will take you around the country in 14 days. If you’re a bit adventurous I’m sure you will want to go as well.

Planning a Benin road trip

A Benin tour takes a bit more planning compared to more well-travelled countries. There isn’t so much tourism and if you’re on a tight schedule you need to plan in advance to have it all work out. Planning a Benin trip on the spot with little time is not recommended. I used Papillon Reizen (Travel) whose owner I had met several times on a travel trade show. Do note that this is NOT a sponsored article but just a mention as they delivered outstanding service.

There are several options to get to Benin but unless you’re in a neighboring country flying is the only option. Flights aren’t abundant so options are slim but not that bad. Just don’t choose the Tunis Air option as they have delays of 2+ hours on majority of flights. I know from experience. Royal Air Maroc is good as I flew them back home. These two options only make sense if you can connect with a one stop in Casablanca or Tunis though. Other options include Air France from Paris, Brussels Air from Brussel, Ethiopian from Addis Ababa, and Turkish Airlines from Istanbul. Those hubs easily connect around the world. There are also various flights from other African countries but those go beyond the scope of this article as they don’t connect well worldwide.

Hotels in Benin aren’t the most luxurious in the world but travelling to Benin is a luxury on its own. There are no major hotel chains except a Novotel in Cotonou. Booking hotels with loyalty points won’t work. In Cotonou you’ll find some luxury places but if you only need a place to sleep it makes not much sense to pay so much. In smaller cities rooms are basic but for sure are clean. Good hotel prices are around 35-45 euro a night with breakfast, air conditioning and private bathroom. Good rooms with just a ventilator start around 20 euro.

In Pendjari National Park the hotel is the cheaper option but the lodge at about 125 euro is recommended. I also stayed in a local village which was a great experience and I recommend doing this. Of course, you can stay cheaper everywhere but I prefer air conditioning for a good night sleep. I must say that in the north it gets quite cold in the night. In Pendjari I left my lodge open to get cool air in but at 2AM in the night I had to get under the blanket as it was cold.

The only efficient way to see Benin in the timeframe of this itinerary is by car. In some places you need to know where to go so it’s best to have a local drive you around. I hired a private car with driver/guide from Papillon Travel. It’s not so expensive and most importantly you get from place to place quick and easily. The guide and local guides at certain spots can also make things happen. In Porto-Novo they arranged for me to see the inside of the old mosque for example. On your own this is just hassle and probably you’ll overpay a local to get you inside. So, go with a car and driver! It just saves time.

There are a few things to keep in mind when travelling to Benin. These include:

• Benin vaccinations : Yellow fever is mandatory so get it and make sure to bring your vaccination passport. Malaria tablets are also needed as malaria is present. Protect against mosquito in all cases as Dengue also exists. My wife had it when we did a Mekong cruise from Vietnam to Cambodia and it’s really annoying for a longer period. Hepatitis A&B vaccinations I recommend anyone even if you don’t travel for lifetime protection. For the rest it’s standard but do check with your doctor.
• Benin visa : You probably need a Benin visa. Check with the embassy. Most countries can easily apply for Benin visa online and confirmation for me was instant after paying the 50 USD fee.
• Medicines : Take standard items including anti traveler’s diarrhea pills and OSR. During all years I have been travelling I got sick just once, but you never know. Even the Pharaohs curse in Egypt didn’t catch me when I visited Cairo for 10 days . Do take a roll of toilet paper, wet towels and hand sanitzier for when you’re out exploring. Toilet paper and soap isn’t always available on the road.
• Travel insurance : Of course I recommend his. I pay about 28 euro per month for the family and it’s worth it for sure.

These are the most important Benin travel tips. Keep those in mind if you plan a trip to Benin but always check if anything else applies to you! Now let’s look at the Benin itinerary I followed.

As most flights arrive in the afternoon or late evening (especially Tunis Air with 3 hours delay) you probably won’t have time to do anything this day. I do recommend picking up a Benin simcard at the airport before heading to your hotel. At the time of writing 5 GB (3G/4G) costs about 9 euro which should be enough for a week or two. It for sure is the most reliable way for internet access throughout the country as hotels in smaller cities do not always offer Wi-Fi. If they do it’s often a shared 3G/4G connection so having your own is best. Make a hotspot on your phone if you also want to use your laptop.

Just half an hour after clearing immigration I was in bed as I stayed at the airport hotel 500 meters away. It isn’t the best location in Cotonou, but I only needed to sleep so I didn’t care much about the location. The next day my Benin road trip would start at 10:00 which is a great time for a first day.

Benin itinerary day 2: Ganvie stilt village & Cotonou

A visit to Ganvie stilt village is a great first day trip from Cotonou. It just takes a morning or late morning with lunch which is great so that in the afternoon there is time to do a Cotonou city trip.

My Tunis Air flight arrived with a 3-hour delay at midnight, so I delayed my Ganvie day trip until 10:30 AM. At 11:00 my private driver dropped me in Calavi. The boat ride to Ganvie stilt village is about 20-25 minutes. Make sure to put on sunscreen and maybe a hat as the sun is strong. When I arrived in Ganvie I noticed one big difference with Nzulezo in Ghana : All houses are separate and no “roads” connect them. The tour in Ganvie takes just over an hour if you don’t take lunch. I highly recommend going to see how the local life is on the water. After the visit make sure the boat drops you in Cotonou at the central Dentokpa market to start the Cotonou day tour. It saves time.

In Cotonou there are a few places of interest of which the Dentokpa market is one. Stroll for an hour and be amazed how busy this market is. You can then visit the cathedral, craft market or go check out the beaches with fishermen. In case you haven’t done yet it’s also a good time to change money and buy a local simcard. Cotonou is the economic and political center of Benin but doesn’t have that much places of interest. It isn’t the capital, that is Porto-Novo which has more history. I was back at the hotel around 18:00 for dinner and some evening beers in the bar. It was a great first day in Benin.

Benin itinerary day 3: Capital Porto-Novo and to Ketou

It’s time to leave Cotonou and make a (day) trip to Porto-Novo about an hour away by car. This is the capital of Benin and a must see as it has much colonial heritage. From there you can either go back to Cotonou, stay in Porto-Novo , or continue to Ketou for the night (see next day). I recommend going to Ketou as it’s interesting and the other options have you drive more on day 3. Sakété on the way there is a nice bonus.

Porto-Novo is the capital of Benin, but all government and trade is in Cotonou. A Porto-Novo day trip is all about colonial heritage. Both from the French Colonial Empire and Colonial Portugal . I recommend having your private driver drop you at the botanical gardens and make your way from there, passing all places of interest, and finish at the house of the Nine-head monster.

After exploring the Botanical Gardens first go to the central square with the statue of King Toffa I. Continue to the cathedral and make your way towards the old mosque. You’ll pass some other churches, markets, and colonial buildings. You can also visit the inside of the old mosque, but you need someone to open it. That’s why I highly recommend getting a local guide who can show you all and more places of interest. I saw more as I expected. From the old mosque it’s a short walk to the Nine Headed Monster house. Make sure your driver is there to pick you up, so you don’t need to walk back and thus save time. Have lunch in Porto-Novo before going up north to Ketou.

Sakété is halfway between Porto-Novo and Ketou and worth stopping for half an hour. The facade of the old mosque in Sakété was once listed as a tentative UNESCO site. It was removed from the list but having a look at the mosque for 10-15 minutes is a nice stop on the way to Ketou. The locals are very friendly and will greet you with a smile and if you ask show you the interior of the mosque. Ketou is the end destination of the third day. I stayed at residence Celine, a basic but clean hotel.

Benin itinerary day 4: Ketou and a long drive to Taneka

As I said a night in Ketou is worth it as in Ketou there are two places that I recommend including on a Benin itinerary. They’re the Palace of Ketou where you can meet the king and the other place is the Magic door of Ketou. Visit them early morning before continuing your Benin road trip to Taneka land (a long drive).

The Magic door of Ketou is in an old fort. There is a telling that when the fort was attacked the enemy took the door that protected the fort. They didn’t succeed as a strong wind blew the door back in its place protecting the fort once again. Today the door is a holy place.

The Palace of Ketou is located at the edge of town. A guide showed me the various rooms and he normally also introduces you to the king. The king unfortunately was out of town. Kings in Benin are plentiful but do not have political power. They do have strong social power in the community though.

Driving in Benin takes time as some roads aren’t in the best condition and some roads are full of trucks. The drive to Taneka is 7-8 hours but this might shorten 2-3 hours once the road from Dassa to Natitingou is fully paved. In Dassa you can stop for lunch at Auberge de Dassa which just next to the road. Driving wasn’t boring as daily life is concentrated a lot around the roads. I saw sellers selling all kinds of items including gasoline from Nigeria (see photo below). I arrived in Taneka at the eco lodge around 7PM. The locals prepared a nice dinner and after some beers I went to bed.

Benin itinerary day 5: Taneka village and Somba land

Taneka land and Somba land are two distinct communities and a must visit in Benin. Taneka village I found personally one of the highlights of this Benin itinerary. Somba land is special as they have unique two story castle like houses.

After breakfast a local guide showed me the traditions of the Taneka. The village has 9 dignities of which you for sure will meet one. I met with the one in charge of child health and medicine. He was at a farm field watching over the kids harvesting yam. The guide then accompanied me for a 2-hour stroll through the village explaining the daily life. The houses are typical round thatched roof mud houses although some are upgraded to square houses with metal roofs. He also explained to me about the various deities living in the village. The Taneka are proud of their local customs . After the visit I continued north in about an hour to Natitingou for lunch at Le Belier.

After lunch and a few cold beers, it was time to visit Somba land which is a 45-minute ride away from Natitingou. Somba land stretches all the way cross border into Togo. They are famous for their two-story castle like houses called Tata Somba which are listed as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site (in Togo it is a UNESCO site already). I visited a local family in Kossoucoingou to see how they live inside a Tata Somba. A Benin road trip isn’t complete without a visit as this is something unique in the world like the round Chinese Tolou near Xiamen . In the evening I stayed at Totora Hotel Natitingou which has magnificent views.

Benin itinerary day 6-7: Pendjari National Park safari

The safari in the Pendjari National Park for sure is the natural highlight of this Benin itinerary. It’s the only park in West Africa now that is suitable for a great game safari. The park is located about 50-60 kilometers north of Natitingou and borders Burkina Faso. It’s inscribed as a transborder UNESCO World Heritage Site together with Arly National Park (Burkina Faso) and W National Park (Niger) as the W-Arly-Pendjari Complex. Its total area is 2755 square kilometers and is home to a lot of wildlife.

Don’t expect the big five but it is home to the West African lion, elephants, hippos, 12 species of antelopes, some smaller game, and an abundance of birds for which the park is most famous. If you’re lucky you can also spot cheetah and leopard but just a dozen are left in the whole park though.

I departed Natitingou at 08:30AM and drove to the Tanougou waterfalls first. If you have seen the Iguacu Falls in Argentina any other falls are small, but it was however interesting to see some falls in the otherwise dry northern parts of Benin. A dip in the cold water is nice before lunch at the eco lodge near the falls.

After lunch it was time to enter Pendjari National Park for an afternoon game drive. I was only able to spot various antelopes, crocodiles, boar and some birds. Nothing else in the afternoon. I must say that during my visit areas of the park close to the border of Burkina Faso were closed due to turmoil just across the border. In the park I stayed at the Pendjari Lodge which is very comfortable and pretty luxury including a pool. Dinner was lovely and delicious. Make sure to try the Pendjari cocktail; it’s very nice. Sunset can be seen from the lodge and is magnificent.

The next day it was time for an early morning game drive which the guide told me normally is the best time to spot wildlife. So, I set my alarm at 06:00AM to have a very early breakfast. My son didn’t like that, but he would cheer up soon. After a drive of just 30 minutes into Pendjari National Park I was face to face with a West African Lion just 5-10 meters from the car (see photo at top of article). This was a magnificent moment as it’s critical endangered and just 100 are left in the park. A thrilling experience! We spend about 30 minutes watching the king of the park. The remainder of the morning safari was more of the same: Antelopes, boar, buffalo, and birds. No elephants as they were probably in the restricted area and no hippos as the Pendjari River was also off limits.

After lunch at the Pendjari Lodge we drove back to Natitingou where I booked the Totora Hotel again for its pool. This time for 2 nights. For dinner I went back to Le Belier as it is much better as the restaurant of the hotel. This time a roasted leg of lamb. Delicious!

Kouandé kingdom is a city an hour drive from Natitingou. It’s not a long day trip from Natitingou so it’s not needed to depart early, but I started at 08:00AM. I wanted time in the afternoon for the hotel pool. Once arrived in Kouandé a local guide introduced me to the King of Kouandé. Kings in Benin do not have political power as said before, but they do have social power. The Kouandé Kingdom is made up of 4 families (communities) of which each takes turn. If a king dies the oldest man of the next family will succeed. You cannot reject this as this is socially not accepted. Once, the eldest son was living in France and never experience the local life. He had to return to become king and rule the kingdom. If you visit Benin, make sure to add at least one visit to a king to your Benin itinerary. It’s very interesting!

Next up was a visit to a local family. Houses are built around a courtyard where the family lives. If I talk about my family, I normally mean my wife and two kids. This isn’t the case in Benin where family means brothers, sisters, cousins, kids all living together. Each couple has a house in the courtyard where they live with their kids. They don’t eat together but cook their own meals. Each one must give a part of the food to the family elders as they do not cook themselves.

I continued my way to a cooperative shea butter production facility. In Benin there are many African shea nut trees from which the locals make shea butter (fat). This is exported for use in cosmetics around the world as lotion or moisturizer. Interesting to see how this manual labor is done! So make sure to add it on your itinerary if you’re planning a Benin road trip.

It was already lunch time, but I decided to not have lunch in Kouandé but drive back to Natitingou. Before reaching Natitingou a short visit to the Kota waterfalls is recommend. Small falls as well but worth stopping. In Natitingou I made a short stop at the museum before relaxing the rest of the day in the hotel pool. If you want to go out in the evening then make sure to try choukachou which is a local beer made from sorghum. I love to try new craft-beer . Don’t have to much as day 9 of this Benin itinerary is the second day with a very long drive!

From Natitingou the drive south to Dassa is the same bumpy road of day 4. The drive takes 6-7 hours, but I decided to only depart at 9AM as in Dassa the only place I would visit was one of the holy hills. The holy hills of Dassa are a must add-on for any Benin itinerary as they give some better understanding of Voodoo . A religion practiced mainly by the Fon people in Benin. Voodoo consists of a hierarchy of major deities that govern all earth to spirits of small things.

The holy hill in Dassa cannot be visited alone. It’s not allowed for outsiders to climb so you need a local guide as he/she is the only one allowed to take outsiders up. The climb takes 30 minutes as the hill isn’t that high. It is said that in ancient time and old king retreated on the hill and one day disappeared. Only a snake trail was found from the top of the hill towards the forest below. It’s believed he turned into a snake and now both the top of the hill and the forest are sacred. Today, if someone of the community dies the same path is followed before the burial in the forest. At the top of the hill various spirits are present.

Dassa was also the starting point of the slave trade in Benin. From there slaves were brought to Abomey and onwards to Ouidah. Make sure to stop at the central square, once home to the slave market, before continuing to your accommodation. In Dassa the best place to stay is at the eco farm Maktub by Armand. The lodges are clean and comfortable. Dinner and breakfast was delicious but on a farm that should be so!

Benin itinerary day 10: Abomey and Bohicon

Abomey and Bohicon are two cities in Benin about 100 kilometers north of Ouidah/Cotonou. They are connected and if you drive from one to another you don’t even notice you arrived in the other. Abomey is famous for its UNESCO World Heritage Listed royal palaces of the Dahomey Kingdom. Actually, 2 of 12 palaces are in Bohicon (just ruins now). In Bohicon just a decade ago and underground town was found. A bit more touristy as the places in north Benin but a visit must be included on a Benin itinerary.

It’s best to start at the Agongointo-Zoungoudo Underground Town in Bohicon late morning so that you have time for Abomey after lunch. This underground site with various dwellings was discovered just a decade ago when a new road was built. Not much is known but it’s likely they date to the 16 th century at the time of the reign of the second king of Abomey. They were probably used as dwelling as it gave good protection. A small opening in the ground opens to a 10-meter-deep cave. From this cave smaller caves can be reached in various directions. The various dwellings are NOT connected by underground corridors as some say.

It was interesting to see this so make sure to not miss it. Just make sure when you go do not wear any red clothes as the forest is also home to a spirit that doesn’t like red clothes. You’re not allowed to enter even with any red in your clothes. A visit takes about 90 minutes after which I went for lunch in Abomey.

Abomey was once the capital of the Kingdom of Dahomey which existed from the early 17 th century until it was added to the French Colonial Empire in the late 19 th century. The Kingdom of Dahomey was once the most important kingdom in the area reaching from Ouidah to Abomey and another 100 kilometers more north. It became so large as it conquered smaller kingdoms all the time.

Each king had to build a new palace so you can imagine that Abomey is filled with palaces. There are 12 in total of which 2 are in current Bohicon. Most are in ruins but two are restored and one of them also houses the museum. One exhibit is a king’s throne on top of human skulls. A bit creepy though! In the kingdom human sacrifice was practiced, voodoo the main religion and war prisoners were traded as slaves with the Europeans. Today the palaces are a UNESCO World Heritage Site because they played an important role in West African history.

A visit to the royal palaces of Abomey takes about 2 hours. The city itself is just a regular city so I don’t recommend spending too much time there before continuing to Ouidah. I stayed at Casa del Papa hotel at the beach for the remainder of my Benin road trip.

Benin itinerary day 11-13: Ouidah

Ouidah can be explored in a day so you can easily do that on day 11 as I did and depart Benin on day 12. I have written this Benin itinerary as a 2-week itinerary which includes 2 full relax days on Ouidah beach. Not everyone travels as I do. You can of course mix those relax days also between any of the other days. In Ouidah the slave trade history and voodoo religion are the most important places of interest. The city is listed as a tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s also the most touristic city in Benin as most places of interest in the south can be reached from there as day trips.

The slave trade route from the main square in Ouidah to the Door of No Return at the coast is a must visit. It’s a 4-kilometer hike passing various places related to slave trade. There are sculptures, memorials but also a restored old house and a slave cemetery on the way. Although there isn’t that much left to see (compared to the slave forts in Ghana ) the walk is a must do to understand how the slaves walked. Keep in mind that some walked all the way from Dassa! From the Door of No Return they were brought by ships to the America’s.

I did the walk in opposite direction and started at 10AM and reached town just before 12PM. Passing the mangroves, you can see women that work in the salt production as well. Make sure to bring enough water as the sun is scorching. In town I visited the cathedral and had lunch before exploring rest of the city.

Ouidah is the spiritual capital of Voodoo religion . I started at the Phyton temple just opposite the cathedral. This was the only place I was underwhelmed as I expected more. It’s a very small place with two deities and a small house with many phytons inside. You can take pictures with them and after that visit the many handicraft stalls. I continued to the sacred forest passing the local market. At the sacred forest the local guide explained me more about Voodoo religion as I didn’t know that much about it. I recommend having a local guide as he can explain Voodoo as this is NOT about dolls & needles.

I finished the day at the Portuguese colonial fort which now houses the Ouidah museum. It’s a small place but worth stopping. It was early afternoon when I returned at Papa del Casa Hotel which is far out of town. I celebrated New Year’s Eve there with my son.

On day 12 I departed but this Benin road trip has two more days in Ouidah to relax. I hope this Benin itinerary helps you plan your trip to Benin. It’s a beautiful diverse country in West Africa and not known to many in the world. Pendjari National Park was for sure the natural highlight for me and the visit to Taneka land the best local experience. It was also great to understand more about Voodoo religion and learn even more about the slave trade.

You must be a bit adventurous to travel in Benin but with a private car and driver this is pretty easy. Hotels are clean and comfortable. Food is good and delicious. So, if you want to learn more about Benin culture and history then go! It’s so differnt as northern Africa where I did a Tunisia road trip a year earlier. I had a great time in Benin and I hope this Benin road trip report helps you plan your trip.

Stay tuned for more stories and subscribe to the newsletter or follow CTB on social media ( Facebook , Twitter , Instagram including Instagram stories; on all social media you can find CTB @christravelblog) to get updated information.

Did you visit Benin too or do you have questions? Please leave a comment at the bottom of the page. Love to hear from you!

• colonial portugal
• french colonial empire
• local customs
• west africa
• west africa gold coast

Related Articles

Brazil – a 5-day minas gerais itinerary: belo horizonte, ouro preto & diamantina.

Table of ContentsPlanning a Minas Gerais itineraryMinas Gerais itinerary day 1: Half day PampulhaMinas Gerais itinerary day 2: Day trip Ouro PretoMinas Gerais itinerary day 3: Day trip Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do CongonhasMinas Gerais itinerary day 4: Day trip DiamantinaMinas Gerais itinerary day 5: [read more]

DJIBOUTI – The best 1-week Djibouti roadtrip itinerary with a 4×4 landcruiser

Table of ContentsPlanning a Djibouti road trip itinerary How to get to DjiboutiHow to get a Djibouti visaHotels in DjiboutiDjibouti road trip: How to get aroundIs Djibouti safe?Djibouti itinerary day 1 & 2: ArrivalGet a Djibouti sim card & exchange moneyDay 3: Beautiful Moucha Island day [read more]

GHANA – Cape Coast Castle day trip from Accra & Elmina Castle slave fort tour

Table of ContentsCape Coast Castle day trip from AccraCape Coast Castle historyCape Coast Castle tourElmina day tripElmina slave fort tourElmina fishing villageElmina Dutch fort CoenraadsburgGallery Cape Coast Castle slave fort tour Most people, if not all, who visit Ghana will add a Cape Coast Castle [read more]

All text, images, photos and videos are copyright © by Chris Travel Blog / CTB Global® 2009-2024, all rights reserved. Unauthorized use and/or duplication of this material without express and written permission is strictly prohibited. Excerpts and links may be used, provided that full and clear credit is given to Chris Travel Blog / CTB Global® with clear written note and link to the original content. Read the privacy statement to learn how personal data is collected and stored!

Safari Pearl is your source on the Palouse for comics, games, costumes, and theatrical make-up. Our selection of comics and graphic novels offer captivating stories for every taste, age, and reading level. We also have a great selection of board games, card games, role-playing games, 40K, and Age of Sigmar. Games are a great entertainment value, they bring people together, and they build brain power. Feel free to try a game or join an event in our store game room. Safari Pearl is also your local, year-round source for costumes, cosplay, and stage make-up. We can supply everything you need for your theatrical production, we'll happily help you plan a theme party, and we love Halloween...

Shop Our Web Store - Browse Our Pokemon And Magic Singles

Calendar Of Events - Safari Pearl Customer Wish List

Send An eGift Card - Check Your Gift Card Balance

Safari Pearl 660 W Pullman Rd Moscow, ID 83843 Monday - Saturday 11:00 am - 7:00 pm Sunday Noon - 5:00 pm 208-882-9499 - [email protected] Map it!

The Daily Evergreen

• June 1 Murrow students conclude storytelling in Greece after three weeks
• May 22 Dave Cillay named interim chancellor of WSU Pullman
• May 7 Elizabeth Chilton leaving WSU, taking job as president of University of New Hampshire
• May 2 In loving memory of Dash Dog
• April 17 Wheatfield Underdogs: the story of the 2023–24 WSU MBB team
• TOP FEATURES

Safari Pearl celebrates 31 years in community

Moscow and Pullman regulars are the reason local game store is still open, owner says

COURTESY OF SAFARI PEARL

“What used to be niche no longer is, what used to be entirely nerdy is now not quite so nerdy. I wouldn’t quite go so far as to say it’s hip and cool, but it’s pretty darn close,” Simmons said Saturday at Safari Pearl.

RACHEL KOCH , Evergreen reporter September 23, 2019

On Saturday in Moscow, Safari Pearl Comics celebrated 31 years of operation with a sidewalk sale. Displays of comics, board games, costumes and more sat on tables outside of the shop with two employees outside.

All the items outside were marked 31 percent off in honor of Safari Pearl’s anniversary.

Store founder Kathy Sprague left managing a restaurant in Seattle to open a comic shop in Moscow, where she grew up, she said.

“My first location was about the size of our bathroom here,” she said. “It was a mud porch in the front of a used book store. I started in this one tiny room with two long boxes of comics.”

Sprague first developed an interest in comic books in 1984 when she would go to a local comic book shop with a friend, she said.

“My best friend was flirting with the guy who owned the comic book store at the time. For her cover to go in and flirt with him, I would go in and buy comics,” she said. “They dated for a while, they broke up, and I own a comic store.”

Sprague and Tabitha Simmons co-manage Safari Pearl Comics.

“I’ve worked here off and on for 22 of our 31 years,” Simmons said. “I’m Kathy’s partner. We’ve been married for 25 years. She needed some help in the store, so I just stepped in and started helping.”

Simmons attributed the longevity of Safari Pearl Comics to its adaptability to meet the customers’ requests over time, she said.

She added that the comic industry is growing in popularity due to the success of the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, which has also opened people’s minds to try stereotypically nerdy things.

The UI football team came to Safari Pearl to buy miniatures for their new Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition campaign, she said.

“What used to be niche no longer is,” Simmons said. “What used to be entirely nerdy is now not quite so nerdy. I wouldn’t quite go so far as to say it’s hip and cool, but it’s pretty darn close.”

Simmons added that those who do not know as much about comics have no reason to feel nervous about entering Safari Pearl.

Another reason for Safari Pearl Comic’s longtime success is that it stands out in the industry, Sprague said.

“Our store is kind of unique,” she said. “It’s one of the older stores in the country at this point because we are 31 years old. I believe we are the only lesbian-owned comic book store in the country. We’re certainly the only 31-year-old lesbian-owned comic book store.”

Many of their regular customers have helped keep their business afloat thanks to the close relationships both Sprague and Simmons have formed throughout the years, Sprague said.

“I have a customer, I’ve watched his daughter grow from a toddler,” Sprague said. “She just finished her Ph.D. in economics.”

Sprague and Simmons also host an all-day Thanksgiving dinner at Safari Pearl in which people can come in and play board games, Sprague said.

Safari Pearl Comics is open from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 12-5 p.m. on Sundays. It is located at 660 W. Pullman Rd. in Moscow.

Rachel Koch is a junior marketing major from Ridgefield, Washington. She enjoys watching old black-and-white horror movies in her free time.

Terracotta Pullman opening Moscow location in May

Ask Life: How to stay connected with alma mater after graduating?

WSU radio station participates in Vinylthon

Dash Dog, WSU’s ‘honorary mascot,’ recovers after two surgeries

It’s raining kittens on the Palouse

Pullman celebrates Festival of Colors

Five kilometers of dogs

Ask Life: Plans to make for Easter?

Music festival to celebrate local youth, highlight musical talent

WSU professor-game developer makes games representing Black culture

• Meet our Staff
• Submit a News Tip
• Join the Evergreen
• Advertise With Us

Receive News Headlines Right in your Inbox!

You will be redirected to “Room Raccoon” our reservation platform. Do you want to continue ?

Our magnificent Lodge has a unique hilltop position that boasts breath-taking views over the savannah and to our waterholes below.

The communal terrace overlooks a large waterhole close to the lodge and the original waterhole in the distance, so you can sit and enjoy an aperitif while watching herds of elephants, buffalo and many other amazing animals congregate there to drink.