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Cotonou Lighthouse
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Landmark
The Phare de Cotonou is a historic lighthouse that has guided ships to Benin's most important port for over a century. The original structure was completed in 1910 and rebuilt in 1928 to meet the demands of modern maritime navigation. The tower is easily recognizable along the coastline due to its distinctive red and white horizontal stripes. Standing at approximately 30 meters tall, it towers over the surrounding buildings, and its light is visible from a great distance across the Atlantic Ocean. Although its practical importance has diminished in the age of GPS technology, the lighthouse remains a significant symbol of the city's maritime heritage. Located near the Autonomous Port of Cotonou, it features visitors a glimpse into the bustling life of West Africa's naval trade.
- Location: Benin
- Top sights: Monument aux Dévoués · Mosquée Zongo Cotonou
- Nearby: Azizakouè (44 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 27 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 27 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 21 | 33 | 78 | 119 | 174 | 216 | 165 | 93 | 198 | 172 | 55 | 20 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The Cotonou Lighthouse is situated in the port area; external viewing is possible but access inside is usually restricted. It is best photographed from the surrounding beaches.
Typical hours
The lighthouse is visible from outside at any time, best in morning light. No official visiting hours apply as it's not a tourist attraction.
Photography
Photography from the outside is allowed. The contrast of the structure against the Gulf of Guinea makes a nice shot.
Time needed
A quick stop of 10 to 20 minutes is enough to take photos and enjoy the sea breeze. No longer stay is needed.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Dantokpa Market or the Fondation Zinsou art gallery in Cotonou. Both are easily accessible by taxi.
Getting there
The lighthouse is located near the port of Cotonou, reachable by taxi or zémidjan (moto-taxi). The area can be busy, so be cautious.
Insider tip
Go early in the morning to avoid port traffic and capture the lighthouse with a clear sky. Pair the outing with breakfast at a nearby café.
Geography
Facts
- Original structure built in 1910 during the colonial era.
- Reconstructed in its current form in 1928.
- Stands at a height of approximately 30 meters.
- Features a distinctive red and white striped exterior.
- Essential navigational aid for the Port of Cotonou.
- One of the oldest surviving colonial structures in the city.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cotonou Lighthouse (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you climb the lighthouse?
Access to the interior is usually closed to the public.
Where is the lighthouse located?
It is located near the port of Cotonou on the coast.
Is it still in operation?
Yes, it continues to serve for ship navigation in the Gulf of Guinea.
When is the best time for photos?
At sunset, when the light hits the sea and the tower.
Is there a beach nearby?
Yes, the coastline has sandy beaches, but beware of strong currents.
Cotonou Lighthouse: where is it located?
Cotonou Lighthouse is located in Benin.
Cotonou Lighthouse: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monument aux Dévoués, Mosquée Zongo Cotonou.
Cotonou Lighthouse: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Cotonou Lighthouse: why is it worth visiting?
The Phare de Cotonou is a historic lighthouse that has guided ships to Benin's most important port for over a century.
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History & landmarks
Martyrs' Square
A monument and square in Cotonou dedicated to the victims of the 1977 mercenary attack on Benin.
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Jean Pliya Cultural Center
A significant cultural center in Cotonou that hosts theater, exhibitions, and readings.
Autonomous Port of Cotonou
The economic heart of Benin and one of West Africa's most important deep-water ports for transit trade.
Presidential Palace
Official office and residence of the President of the Republic of Benin, known as the Palais de la Marina.
Cotonou City Hall
The seat of the Cotonou municipal government, a central building for local politics and administration.
Cathedral of Our Lady of Mercy
The distinctive red-and-white striped cathedral of Cotonou is an architectural gem and the center of Catholic faith in the city.
Old Bridge of Cotonou
The first bridge to connect the two halves of Cotonou across the lagoon, serving as an important symbol of urban development.
Congress Palace of Cotonou
A major venue for international conferences, cultural events, and political gatherings in Benin.
Nature
More places
Magic Park Cotonou
A popular family entertainment and amusement park in Cotonou, offering rides, games, and leisure activities for children.
Dahomey Amazon Monument
A massive statue in Cotonou honoring the legendary female warriors of the Kingdom of Dahomey.
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Fishing Port of Cotonou
The center of Benin's fishing industry, where hundreds of pirogues and trawlers land their catch daily.
SOBEBRA Brewery Cotonou
Benin's leading brewery, producing a variety of beers and soft drinks for the entire West African market.
Cotonou Petroleum Terminal
A strategic facility for the import and storage of fuels, serving Benin and neighboring countries.
Festi'Parc Cotonou
A modern recreational park and event venue in Cotonou, frequently used for festivals, concerts, and outdoor community gatherings.
Gulf of Guinea
The Gulf of Guinea forms the entire southern coast of Benin and is part of the tropical Atlantic Ocean.
Bight of Benin
The Bight of Benin is a large bay in the northern part of the Gulf of Guinea, where Benin is located.