Benin City: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Benin City is the capital and largest city of Edo State, southern Nigeria. It is the fourth-largest city in Nigeria according to the 2006 census, after Lagos, Kano, and Ibadan.

Benin City · CC BY-SA 4.0

Now in the cityBenin Citysunset 06:17 PM

EntryPick a passportThe answer depends on the passport.

Places on the map5

Exchange rate₦1,345.87per 1 $NGN — the local currencyas of Nov 2, 2026

Worth a day trip

Abomey-Calavi≈ 3 hr 40 min Parakou≈ 3 hr 50 min Douala≈ 3 hr 55 min Djougou≈ 4 hr

Safety and health

Safety · official adviceour data as of Nov 3, 2026

UK Foreign Office (FCDO)Avoid parts of the countryPart of the country is off limits entirely.

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Updated information about Ebola screening and Healthcare in Nigeria (‘Entry requirements’ and ‘Health’ pages).

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice

US State DepartmentLevel 3Think twice before you travel; weigh the reasons below.

crime
terrorism
kidnapping

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Reconsider travel to Nigeria due to crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping , and i nconsistent availability of health care services . Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Crime and Kidnapping Violent crime is common throughout Nigeria. This includes armed robbery, assault, carjacking, kidnapping, hostage-taking, roadside banditry, and rape.

Source: US Department of State Travel Advisory

Source: UK FCDO Foreign Travel Advice · US Department of State Travel Advisory

Benin City: Travel guide, prices and free housing · 2026

Getting there and staying

Visa and practicalities

Safety and health

Getting here

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