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Cotonou Cruise Port
Cotonou, Benin
Cotonou is the largest city in Benin and the economic capital of the country.
Ships in port today
No ships in port today
Safety rank
#483
of 490 ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Today · high / low
85° / 72°
September normals
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Cotonou, Benin
// Cotonou cruise port overview
The cruise port in Cotonou,
explained
Lat: 6.3°NLong: 2.4°ETimezone: Africa/Porto-NovoINTN code: COO
Cotonou is the largest city in Benin and the economic capital of the country. Located on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, it is a bustling port city with a population of over 1 million people.
The city is known for its vibrant culture, with a mix of African, French, and Caribbean influences. The city is home to a variety of markets, restaurants, and shops, as well as a number of historical sites.
Cotonou is also a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. The city is also home to a number of universities, making it a great place to study.
With its unique culture, vibrant atmosphere, and stunning natural beauty, Cotonou is a great place to visit and explore.
// Cotonou Cruise Deals
Price drops on cruises to Cotonou.
6 cruises stop here in Cotonou during the next 12 months. The cruise price drops below represent the largest decrease in price against each Cotonou cruise's 90-day average.
Prices refreshed daily
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// Cotonou Cruise Port location
Where is Cotonou Cruise Port?
Cotonou, Benin cruise port is located in the city of Cotonou, the largest city in Benin. It is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, just east of the border with Nigeria. The port is located on the eastern side of the city, near the beach and the lagoon. It is easily accessible by car or taxi from the city center.
- General location
- Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
- Coordinates
- 6.34°N, 2.43°E
- Time zone
- Africa/Porto-Novo
Cruise port · 6.34°N, 2.43°E
Map data · OpenStreetMap
// Cotonou cruise port guide
What to do in Cotonou
A shortlist of places worth your hours ashore, grouped by the kind of day you want.
Ways to spend the day
3 themesTheme 1
Exploring the City
Cotonou is a vibrant city with plenty to explore. The city is home to a variety of historical sites, including the Royal Palace and the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption. There are also several museums and galleries to visit, such as the National Museum of Benin and the Musée des Civilisations du Bénin. For a more relaxed experience, take a stroll along the beach or explore the city's many parks and gardens.
Theme 2
Shopping
Cotonou is a great place to shop for souvenirs and unique items. The city is home to a variety of markets, including the Grand Marche, which is the largest market in the city. Here, you can find everything from traditional African fabrics to jewelry and crafts. There are also several shopping malls in the city, offering a wide selection of international brands.
Theme 3
Tasting Local Cuisine
Cotonou is a great place to sample the local cuisine. The city is home to a variety of restaurants, offering everything from traditional African dishes to international cuisine. There are also several street food vendors, offering a variety of snacks and meals. Be sure to try some of the local specialties, such as akassa, a type of fritter made from cassava flour, and kuli-kuli, a type of peanut snack.
Cotonou cruise port beaches
3 in our guideA
Akpakpa Beach
Akpakpa Beach is a stunning beach located just a short drive from Cotonou, Benin. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is lined with palm trees and has a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for visitors to enjoy.
G
Grand Popo Beach
Grand Popo Beach is a stunning beach located just a short drive from Cotonou, Benin. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is lined with palm trees and has a beautiful view of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for visitors to enjoy.
O
Ouidah Beach
Ouidah Beach is a beautiful beach located just a few miles from Cotonou, Benin. It is a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. The beach is lined with palm trees and has a stunning view of the Atlantic Ocean. There are also plenty of restaurants and bars nearby for visitors to enjoy.
// Cotonou fun facts
The Grand Mosque of Cotonou
The Grand Mosque of Cotonou is the largest mosque in Benin and one of the most impressive religious buildings in the country. It was built in the late 19th century and is a stunning example of Islamic architecture. The mosque is a popular tourist attraction and is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Benin.
Carnival of Cotonou
The Carnival of Cotonou is an annual event that takes place in the city of Cotonou, Benin. It is a celebration of the city's culture and history, and features traditional music, dance, and costumes. The carnival is held in the month of February and is attended by thousands of people from all over the country. It is a great opportunity to experience the vibrant culture of Benin.
The National Museum of Benin
The National Museum of Benin is located in Cotonou and is one of the most important cultural institutions in the country. It houses a large collection of artifacts from the country's history, including sculptures, masks, and other objects. The museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Benin and is a popular tourist attraction.
Cotonou cruise port shopping
3 in our guideC
Cotonou Artisanal Market
The Cotonou Artisanal Market is a great place to find traditional African crafts and souvenirs. It is located in the heart of the city and is known for its wide selection of handmade items. The market is also known for its friendly vendors, who are always willing to bargain and help you find the perfect souvenir. It is a great place to find unique items and get a taste of the local culture.
C
Cotonou Shopping Mall
The Cotonou Shopping Mall is a great place to find souvenirs and other items. It is a modern shopping center with a wide variety of stores, including clothing, electronics, and souvenirs. The mall is also known for its friendly staff and great prices. It is a great place to find unique items and get a taste of the local culture.
G
Grand Marche de Dantokpa
Grand Marche de Dantokpa is the largest market in Cotonou, Benin. It is a great place to find souvenirs, as it has a wide variety of items from traditional African crafts to modern electronics. The market is also known for its vibrant atmosphere, with vendors shouting out their wares and bargaining with customers. It is a great place to find unique items and get a taste of the local culture.
// Cotonou Cruise Port Terminals
Which Cotonou cruise terminal will your ship use?
Your cruise line assigns the pier — here's what each one means for your day ashore.
3 piers in Cotonou
Pier 1 of 3
Port Autonome de Cotonou
Cotonou, BeninPort Autonome de Cotonou is the main port of Benin, located in the city of Cotonou. It is the largest port in the country and serves as the main hub for international trade. It is also a major cruise ship terminal, with many cruise lines offering trips to and from the port.
Pier 2 of 3
Port de Ouidah
Ouidah, BeninPort de Ouidah is a smaller port located in the town of Ouidah, Benin. It is a popular cruise ship terminal, with many cruise lines offering trips to and from the port. The port is known for its rich history and cultural attractions, making it a popular destination for tourists.
Pier 3 of 3
Port de Grand Popo
Grand Popo, BeninPort de Grand Popo is a smaller port located in the town of Grand Popo, Benin. It is a popular cruise ship terminal, with many cruise lines offering trips to and from the port. The port is known for its beautiful beaches and stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
Wi-Fi
The Cotonou Cruise Port does not offer free wifi access. However, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer wifi access for a fee. Additionally, some hotels in the area may offer free wifi access to their guests.
Safety
Cotonou, Benin is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. However, as with any port of call, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables secure.
Port address
Boulevard de la Marina, Cotonou, Benin
Cotonou cruise port car rental
AvisEuropcarHertzSixtBudget
Piers are assigned by the cruise line — check your ship's docking notice the morning you arrive.
// Weather
Cotonou Cruise Port Weather
Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)·30-year historical averages
Sep averages · Cotonou
78°
Avg · °F
Warm, very wet
- High
- 85°F
- Low
- 72°F
- Rain
- 7.8 in
// Year-round in Cotonou
Average monthly temperature and rainfall. This month is highlighted.
Avg temp °FRainfall in
// Cotonou cruise ship schedule
Cotonou Cruise Port Traffic Today
No cruise ships are scheduled in Cotonou today, Thursday, September 3, 2026. Check the schedule for another date to see when ships are next due alongside.
// Keep exploring
Popular ports in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East)
Other ports cruisers visit most in the Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East).
// Questions
Cotonou cruise port, answered
The things cruisers ask most before a day ashore in Cotonou.
Where is Cotonou cruise port located?
Cotonou, Benin cruise port is located in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Cotonou, Benin cruise port is located in the city of Cotonou, the largest city in Benin. It is situated on the coast of the Gulf of Guinea, just east of the border with Nigeria. The port is located on the eastern side of the city, near the beach and the lagoon. It is easily accessible by car or taxi from the city center.
Is Cotonou a good cruise port to visit?
Cotonou, Benin is not a cruise port. However, it is a popular port of call for cargo ships and ferries. There are no cruise ships that make regular stops in Cotonou, Benin.
How safe is Cotonou cruise port for passengers?
Cotonou cruise port has a safety score of 4.6 out of 10, ranking #483 of 490 ports in Other (Asia/Africa/Middle East). Cotonou, Benin is generally considered to be a safe cruise port. However, as with any port of call, it is important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings. Be sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas, avoid carrying large amounts of cash, and keep your valuables secure.
What is the weather like at Cotonou cruise port in September?
In September, Cotonou cruise port has average high temperatures of 85°F (30°C) and average lows of 72°F (22°C).
What are the top things to do at Cotonou cruise port?
Cotonou cruise port offers 3 featured activities and attractions. Popular highlights include: Exploring the City, Shopping, Tasting Local Cuisine. Cotonou, Benin is known for its vibrant culture and lively atmosphere. Visitors can explore the city's bustling markets, sample the local cuisine, and take in the sights and sounds of the city. There are plenty of opportunities to experience the local culture, from visiting traditional villages to attending cultural festivals. There are also plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, such as exploring the nearby beaches, taking a boat ride along the river, or visiting nearby national parks. With its diverse attractions, Cotonou, Benin is a great destination for travelers looking for a unique and exciting experience.
Can I rent a car at Cotonou cruise port?
1. Avis: Avis offers car rental services near Cotonou cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV models.2. Europcar: Europcar is another car rental option near Cotonou cruise port. They offer a variety of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV models.3. Hertz: Hertz is a car rental company that offers services near Cotonou cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV models.4. Sixt: Sixt is a car rental company that offers services near Cotonou cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV models.5. Budget: Budget is a car rental company that offers services near Cotonou cruise port. They have a wide selection of vehicles, including economy, luxury, and SUV models.
What is the WiFi situation at Cotonou cruise port?
The Cotonou Cruise Port does not offer free wifi access. However, there are several cafes and restaurants in the area that offer wifi access for a fee. Additionally, some hotels in the area may offer free wifi access to their guests.
Where is the cruise terminal at Cotonou cruise port?
The address of Cotonou, Benin cruise port is Boulevard de la Marina, Cotonou, Benin.
What is the Cotonou Cruise Port cruise schedule?
There are no cruise ships scheduled at Cotonou today. Use the cruise ship schedule above to check Cotonou on any past or future date.