From traditional art and music to jewellery and textiles, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to buying souvenirs in Benin. Markets and boutiques are plentiful and in every major city you will find several, not to mention weekly markets in every village.
The best place to find all sorts of handicrafts from all over West Africa is definitely the handicraft village of Cotonou. Here you will find the famous textiles, decorated calebasse, jewellery and sculptures of all shapes and sizes, wooden or stone nativity scenes typical of Benin, or all kinds of masks and musical instruments from all over West Africa.
Ouidah is teeming with vendors, both in town and along the beach, and in Grand Popo you’ll find a boutique famous for its kalebasse work and decoration.
In Ganvié, the hotel-restaurant “Chez M” has an interesting adjoining boutique, which is also very well stocked with rather old items from Nigeria. Even in small towns such as Possotomé or Koussoukoingou, there is ample opportunity to buy handicrafts or local products, such as honey and shea butter, from community accommodation or directly from families.
While in Abomey you will find the wonderful and original textiles of the Royal Dahomey Factory, as well as an endless theory of small boutiques.
Don’t forget to pack a small bottle of sodabi, the palm distillate that flows freely during voodoo ceremonies and is much appreciated by grappa lovers.