The Door of No Return: A Journey Through Time at Ouidah
Explore the Door of No Return in Ouidah, Benin, a powerful memorial marking the tragic history of the Atlantic slave trade amidst stunning coastal scenery.
The Door of No Return in Ouidah, Benin, is a poignant memorial that symbolizes the tragic history of the Atlantic slave trade. This historical site serves as a reminder of the past, inviting visitors to reflect on the resilience of those who were taken from their homeland. Surrounded by the serene beauty of the coastline, it offers a unique blend of history and natural beauty, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.
A brief summary to Door of Non Return of Benin
- plage Benin, Ouidah, BJ
- +2348142684028
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and more serene reflection.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history.
- Don't forget to explore the nearby Ouidah museums and markets for a full cultural experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes as some paths around the memorial can be uneven.
- Bring water and sun protection, especially if visiting during the midday heat.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Lomé, head north on the N1 highway towards Ouidah. The journey takes approximately 2 to 3 hours depending on traffic. Once you reach Ouidah, follow signs towards the beach (plage Benin). The Door of Non Return is located along the beachfront area in Ouidah. There is parking available near the entrance.
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Public Transportation (Taxi-Brousse)
From Lomé, you can take a taxi-brousse (shared minibus) to Ouidah. Head to the taxi-brousse station in Lomé, located near the central market. The fare is typically around 1,500 to 2,000 CFA Francs. The journey will take about 2 to 3 hours. Once you arrive in Ouidah, you can either walk or take a local taxi to the plage Benin area. The Door of Non Return is a short distance from the town center along the coast.
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Local Taxi
Once in Ouidah, you can hire a local taxi to take you directly to the Door of Non Return. The fare for a local taxi within Ouidah is usually around 1,000 to 2,000 CFA Francs, depending on the distance. Ensure to negotiate the price beforehand.
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Walking
If you are already in Ouidah, you can walk to the Door of Non Return from the town center. It is approximately a 30-minute walk from the central market area. Head west towards the coastline, and follow the signs to plage Benin.
Discover more about Door of Non Return of Benin
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Djêgba Hôtel
1.1 km
Experience the charm and cultural richness of Ouidah at Djégba Hôtel, the perfect retreat for travelers seeking comfort and local experiences.
Memorial of Remembrance
1.7 km
Explore the Memorial of Remembrance in Ouidah, a poignant monument celebrating history, resilience, and cultural heritage in the heart of Benin.
Marché Zobè
3.9 km
Discover the vibrant culture and artistry at Marché Zobè, Ouidah's bustling town square, where history and local flavors intertwine.
Le Jardin Secret Chez Pascal
4.2 km
Discover the serene beauty and authentic flavors of Benin at Le Jardin Secret Chez Pascal, a charming inn and restaurant in Ouidah.
Ouidah visite-tourisme
4.2 km
Explore the rich history and vibrant culture of Ouidah, Benin's historical gem with stunning beaches and cultural treasures.
Ouidah plage
5.4 km
Discover the captivating blend of sun, culture, and history at Ouidah Plage, a must-visit coastal gem in Benin.
Site historique de Ouidah
5.5 km
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Eglise urhc ouidah
5.5 km
Discover the captivating Eglise Urhc in Ouidah, a stunning church embodying the rich culture and history of Benin's spiritual landscape.
Marché Kpassè
5.5 km
Discover the bustling Marché Kpassè in Ouidah, a vibrant town square filled with local crafts, delicious cuisine, and rich cultural experiences.
La Casa Del Papa
6.0 km
Experience the perfect blend of comfort and culture at La Casa Del Papa, a serene hotel along Ouidah's stunning coastline.
Unmissable attractions to see
Café Boson
0.0 km
Experience the best of local coffee at Café Boson, a charming coffee roaster by the beautiful Plage Benin in Ouidah, Benin.
Guide tourism ouidah Benin
0.6 km
Explore the captivating history, culture, and serene beaches of Ouidah, Benin, a must-visit destination for every traveler.
Memorial de Zoungbodji
1.7 km
Explore the Memorial de Zoungbodji in Ouidah, Benin, for a journey through history, culture, and resilience in a serene and inspiring setting.
Arbre du Retour
1.8 km
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Mémorial ZOMACHI
1.9 km
Discover the rich history and cultural significance of Mémorial ZOMACHI in Ouidah, a poignant landmark reflecting Benin's heritage.
Plage de Ouidah
2.4 km
Discover the stunning Plage de Ouidah, where historical significance meets breathtaking natural beauty along the shores of Benin's Atlantic coast.
The tree of oblivion
2.5 km
Explore the poignant history of Benin at The Tree of Oblivion, a museum dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage and stories of resilience.
Arbre de l'oubli
2.7 km
Explore the profound history and serene beauty of Arbre de l'oubli, a cultural landmark in Ouidah, Benin, where nature meets heritage.
Ouidah Museum of History (Portuguese Fort)
3.9 km
Discover the rich history of Ouidah at the Ouidah Museum of History, where the past comes alive through artifacts and captivating stories.
Pythons Temple
4.0 km
Explore the Pythons Temple in Ouidah, a sacred site that embodies the rich voodoo traditions and cultural heritage of Benin.
Fort Français Ouidah
4.0 km
Explore the historical significance of Fort Français Ouidah, a museum that unveils the poignant tales of Benin's rich cultural heritage and colonial past.
Basilica
4.1 km
Explore the breathtaking Basilica of Ouidah, a fusion of African heritage and modern Catholic architecture in the heart of Benin.
The Museum of the Zinsou Foundation
4.2 km
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Sacred Forest
4.6 km
Discover the Sacred Forest in Ouidah, a serene park blending nature and spirituality, rich in history and cultural significance.
Forêt sacrée de Kpassè
4.6 km
Discover tranquility and spirituality in the Sacred Forest of Kpassè, a lush haven in Ouidah, perfect for nature lovers and cultural explorers.
Essential places to dine
La Manne
2.8 km
Experience authentic Beninese cuisine at La Manne in Ouidah—where local flavors and warm hospitality come together.
Chez Maman Brunelle
3.7 km
Discover authentic African flavors at Chez Maman Brunelle in Ouidah – where every dish tells a story.
La Cabane du CCRI
3.9 km
Experience authentic Beninese cuisine at La Cabane du CCRI in Ouidah – where every dish tells a story.
Chez Bruno
3.9 km
Experience the best of Beninese cuisine at Chez Bruno, a vibrant restaurant in Ouidah known for its delicious dishes and welcoming atmosphere.
Le Vatican
4.0 km
Experience authentic West African cuisine at Le Vatican in Ouidah—where every meal tells a story.
L'oasis
4.1 km
Discover L'oasis in Ouidah: A delightful restaurant offering authentic Beninese cuisine in a serene setting perfect for travelers.
Alozo Terrasse
4.1 km
Experience authentic African cuisine at Alozo Terrasse in Ouidah, where every dish tells a story and every visit feels like home.
Wilson @ Restaurant Thérèsa 2
4.1 km
Experience authentic Beninese cuisine at Wilson @ Restaurant Thérèsa 2 in Ouidah – a culinary journey through local flavors and culture.
Les Délices de Gorée Ouidah
4.5 km
Discover authentic Beninese cuisine and fine wines at Les Délices de Gorée Ouidah – a must-visit culinary destination.
Maquis Chez Soi
5.2 km
Discover authentic Beninese cuisine at Maquis Chez Soi in Ouidah - where tradition meets taste in every delicious dish.
Maquis Cabana
5.3 km
Savor authentic Beninese cuisine at Maquis Cabana in Ouidah, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors and culture.
Les délices de la côte
5.3 km
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La Reine des Fourneaux
5.3 km
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Ankpete
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Ouidah at Ankpete, where barbecue delights await every food lover.
Bar Restaurant La Joie
5.6 km
Experience authentic Beninese cuisine at Bar Restaurant La Joie in Ouidah – where local flavors meet warm hospitality.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hakuna matata restaurant grillades
3.0 km
Experience the vibrant culinary scene of Ouidah at Hakuna Matata Restaurant, where local flavors and warm hospitality meet.
Citro grill
3.6 km
Discover the rich flavors of Beninese cuisine at Citro Grill, a top-rated restaurant in Ouidah that offers a memorable dining experience.
Juil Company
3.6 km
Explore Juil Company in Ouidah for unique home goods and authentic Beninese craftsmanship that embodies local culture and artistry.
Elu shop
3.8 km
Explore the vibrant fashion scene of Ouidah at Elu Shop, where local culture meets contemporary style in a delightful shopping experience.
Mtn Jonkey Ouidah
3.8 km
Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Mtn Jonkey Ouidah, where local culture meets modern retail in the heart of Benin.
Le Saint Esprit Éducateur
3.8 km
Explore Le Saint Esprit Éducateur in Ouidah: A unique print shop showcasing local artistry and craftsmanship, perfect for meaningful souvenirs.
Restaurant L'Amicale
3.9 km
Discover the rich flavors of Ouidah at Restaurant L'Amicale, where local and international cuisines come together in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Mohamed GSM
3.9 km
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Marché Aux Puces (Ouidah)
3.9 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local culture at Marché Aux Puces, Ouidah’s premier electronics market for tourists and locals.
Ets chez Maman juste
4.0 km
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Petito gsm
4.0 km
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Établissement Giscard Destin
4.0 km
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Centre De Formation La Lumière Des Anges
4.1 km
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ADÕ XÕ
4.4 km
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acɔ́ (Atcho)
4.5 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Millénium Ouidah Beach
0.5 km
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Cabo Escuna
3.1 km
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La Référence
3.8 km
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Bar-café-restaurant
4.0 km
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Evivi
4.0 km
Discover the vibrant essence of Ouidah at Evivi, where drinks, culture, and music come together in a lively bar atmosphere.
Table judes
4.0 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Ouidah at Table Judes, a lively bar offering local drinks, music, and a warm atmosphere perfect for relaxation.
BOFIS
4.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Ouidah at BOFIS, where local drinks and a lively atmosphere await you in the heart of Benin.
Bar Restau Point d'Escale
4.6 km
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Mea culpa
4.8 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Mea Culpa, a vibrant bar in Ouidah, where local culture and relaxation blend perfectly for an unforgettable evening.
Bar les CELEBRITES
4.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Ouidah at Bar les CELEBRITES, where local cuisine meets lively atmosphere.
Chez tout chaud
4.9 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Ouidah at Chez Tout Chaud, a local bar offering refreshing drinks and a lively atmosphere.
DUGE
5.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Ouidah at DUGE, a lively bar blending local culture with refreshing drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Buvette Houessinon
5.5 km
Discover the lively spirit of Agakpé at Buvette Houessinon, a vibrant bar offering local drinks and a taste of authentic culture.
Bar La Joie et Fils
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Bar La Joie et Fils in Ouidah, a must-visit bar for every traveler.
Bar Escal+
5.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Escal+ in Ouidah, where refreshing drinks meet local culture in a lively atmosphere.
