Benin lies on the Gulf of Guinea in West Africa. Its total landmass is 112,620km of which 2,000km is occupied by water. It is a mostly flat country with few hills and low mountains. Benin is bordered by Nigeria to the east, Niger to the north, Burkina Faso to the north east and Togo to the west.

Benin has some of the finest beaches and landscapes in West Africa. This beautiful unspoilt coastline measures 121km. The Niger River, which filters in from the north, plays a large part in Benin life. The other major river is the Oueme, forming an estuary that flows into the Atlantic Ocean via the capital city of Porto-Novo. Benin has a total population of 6.5 million. The unit of currency is the CFA franc and the national language is French. Benin, like so many other African nations, was a French colony until 1960.

The capital city, Porto-Novo is a pleasant city of 180,000 inhabitants. History and culture thrive in the older parts of town, where colourful market stalls offer traditional handicrafts for sale. The other main cities include Cotonou, Abomey and Natitingou.

The people of Benin are friendly and receptive. Unusual fishing villages along the coastal lagoons stand on stilts. Away from the water, bustling market stalls in the cities sell Fetishism and Voodoo wares.

The climate of Benin is similar to that of Nigeria. In the north of Benin, the dry season begins in October and ends as late as April. Rains arrive in May or June. Along the coastal region, the rainy season arrives in May or June, with another following in October. The dry season along the coast is from December to February.

The main industry of Benin is the textile industry. Other economical contributors include food processing, chemical production and agriculture.