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Safaris in Pendjari National Park
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Pendjari National Park guide
Overview
Pendjari National Park in northern Benin is one of the most important wildlife areas in West Africa. Covering about 2,755 km² of savannah, woodland and riverine forest along the Pendjari River, it forms part of the W-Arly-Pendjari complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shared with Niger and Burkina Faso.
The park was first protected in the 1950s and has been managed since 2017 by African Parks in partnership with the government of Benin. The Atakora hills form a scenic backdrop to the park’s southern edge.
Wildlife
Pendjari is one of the last strongholds of the West African lion and also protects elephant, buffalo, hippo, roan antelope, kob, hartebeest and leopard. Cheetah have been recorded but are very rare. More than 300 bird species have been recorded.
Key wildlife
Best Time to Visit
Short answer: Feb–May. Also good: Dec–Jan.
Peak Good Quieter
The dry season, from about December to May, is traditionally best for game viewing, when animals gather near water. From about August to October heavy rain can affect the roads. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention.
Getting There
The park is about 630 km by road from Cotonou, home to Cadjehoun Airport (COO), an eight-hour drive. The nearest towns are Tanguiéta and Natitingou.
Fees & Access
Entrance fees
Fees are set by the park’s managers, African Parks and the government of Benin. We are not publishing a fee while governments advise against travel to the park; confirm current rates directly with the park.
Gate hours
Confirm with the park authority before travel
Health
Malaria risk: High. Ask a travel clinic about antimalarials before you go.
Fees and gate times change. Check the latest rates with the park authority before you travel.
Safety and Advisories
Northern Benin has been affected by attacks by armed groups. Governments including the United Kingdom, the United States, France and Canada currently advise against all travel to Pendjari and the neighbouring W National Park. Check your own government’s current travel advisory for Benin before making any plans, and follow it. We do not give travel advice beyond what official advisories say.
Location
Where is Pendjari National Park?
Good to know
Pendjari National Park FAQs
Is it safe to visit Pendjari National Park?
Northern Benin has been affected by attacks by armed groups, and governments including the UK, US, France and Canada advise against all travel to Pendjari. Check your own government’s current travel advisory and follow it.
What animals live in Pendjari?
Pendjari is one of the last strongholds of the West African lion and also has elephant, buffalo, hippo, roan antelope, kob, hartebeest and leopard.
Who manages Pendjari National Park?
The park has been managed since 2017 by African Parks in partnership with the government of Benin.
When is the best time to visit Pendjari?
The dry season, from about December to May, is traditionally best for game viewing. Heavy rain from August to October can affect the roads.
Where is Pendjari National Park?
It is in northern Benin, about 630 km by road from Cotonou, and forms part of the W-Arly-Pendjari complex shared with Niger and Burkina Faso.
Is Pendjari a malaria area?
Yes. Malaria is present, so speak to a travel clinic about prevention before you travel.
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