Cotonou, Place to Go Grand Popo

Destination: Grand Popo

For pure relaxation, you can't beat Grand Popo, one of Benin's finest beaches. Located in the Mono, it's a two-hour taxi ride from Cotonou and a short distance from the Togo border.

Attractions

The beach is the main attraction here but there are also a few other things to see and do. You can head to Heve, one of the main villages in Grand Popo (ask at the Aubergde de Grand Popo for directions). This is a simple, fishing village you can stroll through. There is also some great shopping here and you will sometimes find musicians playing on the beach.

- Aux Beaux Arts

This shop is near the Auberge de Grand Popo, is open from 7 am. To 10 p.m. daily and is run by a local craftsman who makes lamps and other items out of calebasse (a pumpkin-type vegetable). His wares are beautiful, unusual and make good souvenirs or gifts.

- Farafina Boutique

In the same area as Aux Beaux Arts, this store is open every day except Wednesdays and sells various African artwork.

General Information

Cost of travel from Cotonou:

1500 FCFA for a two-hour auto-taxi ride.

Best time to visit

From October to April, during the dry season.

Lodging

Auberge de Grand Popo

Right on the beach with a nice, casual atmosphere. Its 25 rooms range from 12.500 to 22.500; some rooms have fans, the higher-priced ones have air-conditioning. It's best to call ahead and make reservations.

Awalé Plage Hotel

Located on a beautiful stretch of beach, this little gem of a place has 11 rooms ranging from 11.500 to 15.500 per night. It also has a restaurant serving mainly European fare, a beach shack serving fresh fruit juices. Again, it is best to call ahead and make reservations.

Hotel Etoile de Mer

Eight rooms, some with air-conditioning. Rates range from 8.500 to 20.500 FCFA.

Restaurants

The restaurants at both Auberge de Grand Popo and Awalé Plage Hotel are both recommended for seafood, pasta, lunch-time sandwiches, etc. Both are more expensive than the other local places. For alternatives, try some of these: Coin des Amis, Dové Plage, En Plein Air, or the bar/restaurant at the Farafina Boutique. Prices vary.

The south: Abomey | Allada | Cotonou | Dassa zoumé | Ganvié | Grand Popo | Ouidah | Porto Novo| Possotomé | Savalou |
The North: Kandi | Kota falls |Koussoukouangou | Natitingou | Tanéka-Koko | Parakou | Nikki | Pendjari park | Tanougou waterfalls |

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