Book cheap flights to Benin City

The tropical climate of Benin City provides three climate zones. Southern parts of the country are shoreline with very little variety in temperature. Summer season is from November to February, these months harbour the dry Harmattan winds from the Sahara which cause hazy skies. However, it is a great season for wildlife watching. During this time accommodation rates and airline fares are marginally higher. March – May is the hottest period, after the Harmattan lifts. Clear blue skies can be expected with some rain in the south. June – October are usually the wet seasons and uncomfortably humid. This is the city’s low season – accommodation rates are standard throughout and there is less traffic and crowded areas within the city.

South African passport holders need a visa to visit Benin City, Nigeria. Make sure that you have 2 blank pages in your passport and that it has a validity of at least 6 months. The South African Consulate-General in Nigeria is in Lagos at 24 Molade Okoya Thomas Street, Victoria Island, Lagos. Phone: 234 1 461 2067. The South African High Commission is in the capital city Abuja at Plot 371, Diplomatic Zone, Central Business District, and Abuja. Phone: 234 9 782 2850.

All travellers should be up to date with routine vaccinations, as vaccinations are required. Most travellers to Benin City will need vaccinations as well as medications for malaria and travellers’ diarrhoea.

• Vaccinations against hepatitis A & B and rabies are required.

• Be vigilant at all times.

• There is no risk of yellow fever in Benin City. The government of Nigeria requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This applies if you are travelling from a country outside of the US.

• Make copies of bank and credit cards and other important documentation, in case they are lost or stolen.

• Secure valuable, personal belongings within the hotel safe.

• Avoid public or local demonstrations.

• Remain alert when walking around at night, and abide by the local government laws.

The lodges in Benin provide great holiday ideas. Many offer great accommodation fares and have excellent hotel services. Relax and enjoy the tranquil environment as well as spectacular views of the city.

If you find yourself staying close to any one of the Benin markets, hotels in this area offer moderate accommodation rates and easy access to the national museum and cultural heritage quarters.

In the region of the Royal Oba’s Palace, home to the city’s crafts dating back to 900 AD, you will find hotels and lodging at a slightly higher than normal accommodation rate. This area is known to attract renowned politicians, celebrities and businessmen. Just 4 km from the Benin City National Museum you will find a spa and fitness centre. The hotel has an outdoor pool, and guests can enjoy drinks at the bar.

A lavishly royal hotel boast a gallery which displays ancient artworks as well as contemporary pieces; the outdoor Coconut Bar, which serves grilled grub and beer, and a nightclub. These are large, have comfortable beds and good bathrooms. The highlight of a stay here, though, is the excellent live bands at the Coconut Bar.

Bus: Cost-effective and efficient, traveling by bus is the most general mode of transportation used by locals and travellers. A bus route travels throughout the city center as well as suburban areas. However, there are no select bus stops. Upon reaching your destination you have to inform the driver to stop. When being picked up you need to flag the bus, much like you would a taxi.

Taxi: The most costly mode of travelling within Benin City, commuting to-and-fro with taxi services are very quick. Taxis are ready and waiting at all major terminals (both bus and plane) and are ready to assist you upon arrival. Official taxis are painted a deep red colour on the body and bright yellow on the roof.

Motor Bike: Travelling by motor bike is another form of transportation, for licensed drivers. If you decide to do this, there are a number of locations you can rent from but you need to keep in mind that the use of motor bikes is banned during the hours of 7pm and 6am, so you will need to take a bus or taxi at night.