Exercise normal precautions in Benin. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory.

Reconsider Travel To:

• Park Pendjari, Park W and adjacent hunting zones, and other areas near Benin’s northern border with Burkina Faso, due to terrorism and kidnapping.

Exercise Increased Caution In:

• Urban areas due to crime.

Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.

If you decide to travel to Benin:

• Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
• Use caution when walking or driving at night.
• Keep a low profile.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
• Review the Crime and Safety Report for Benin.
• U.S. citizens who travel abroad should always have a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.

Park Pendjari, Park W and Adjacent Hunting Zones – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Extremist groups have carried out attacks in areas of Burkina Faso adjacent to Benin’s northern border, near Parks Pendjari and W and adjacent hunting zones. Attacks may occur with little or no warning. Western tourists have been kidnapped in Park Pendjari, in northern Benin.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in Benin’s northern border areas. U.S. government employees are prohibited from personal travel and must obtain special authorization for official travel to Parks Pendjari and W and all adjacent hunting zones, and other areas within 50 km of Benin’s northern border with Burkina Faso.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas.

Urban Areas – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution

Violent crime, such as armed robbery and assault, is common. 

Last Update: Reissued with update to Level 3 information