Zangbeto Dance and Cultural Tour in Ouidah

Start your day in Ouidah, the iconic city of southern Benin, and dive into one of the most poignant chapters in African history: the slave trade. Start with a visit to the former slave market, a symbolic place where once captives were rounded up, sorted and sold before being led to the coast. Then continue along the famous Slave Route, a historic 4-kilometre trail that thousands of men, women and children were forced to travel. At each stage, monuments immerse you in the collective memory: The Tree of Oblivion, around which the slaves were forced to turn in a ritual aimed at erasing their identity; The Tree of Remembrance, a place reserved for women so that they can transmit the memory of their origins; Statues and memorial sites, recalling the pain and dignity of those who have gone through this ordeal.

Located by the sea, the Gate of No Return is one of the most emblematic places in the memory of the slave trade in Benin. An imposing and emotional monument, it marks the last crossing point for slaves before they are forcibly shipped to the Americas. Facing the ocean, it embodies the definitive separation from the homeland, families and roots. Inaugurated in 1995, the gate is decorated with frescoes and symbols that tell the tragic fate of millions of human beings. It is a place of silence, reflection and homage, where every visitor is invited to remember, feel, and meditate on the lessons of history.

The Temple of Python is a sacred and captivating site of cultural and historical significance. It is dedicated to the worship of the deity Dangbé, the sacred python. As part of a tour, you will have the opportunity to explore this unique and mystical temple. Upon entering the temple, you will have the chance to approach and touch many pythons. These snakes are considered sacred and are supposed to embody the spirits of deceased ancestors. Local tradition is that interaction with pythons brings luck and blessings. The Temple of Python is closely linked to the Vodou religion, and a tour offers insights into the spiritual practices of the region. The atmosphere is both serene and mysterious, creating a unique experience for those seeking to understand the intertwining of spirituality and nature in Benin.

Next destination: The Sacred Forest of Kpassè, located in Ouidah, is a place full of mystery and spirituality. This forest is venerated as a sacred site in the Vodou tradition and serves as an important place of worship for followers of this religious practice. In the Sacred Forest of Kpassè, visitors can explore ancient trees, altars dedicated to Voodoo deities and ritual sculptures. It is a place where nature and spirituality converge, offering visitors a unique and immersive experience. Local guides can share stories and legends related to the forest, explaining its meaning in Vodou practice and its role in religious ceremonies. It is a place where a special atmosphere prevails, conducive to reflection and the discovery of Benin's cultural traditions. The Sacred Forest of Kpassè bears witness to the richness and diversity of the spiritual heritage of the country.

Lunch break: not included in the tour

After lunch break, discover Voodoo and Zangbeto Dance: An Unforgettable Cultural Immersion A unique experience mixing spirituality, mystery and live performance. During this immersion, you will discover its rites, deities, symbols and role in the daily life of communities. One of the highlights of this experience is the dance of the Zangbéto, the mysterious “night watchmen”. These impressive figures, completely covered in colored fibers, spin at high speed to the rhythm of traditional drums. According to tradition, they hunt evil spirits and look after the security of the village. This experience will allow you to: to attend an authentic voodoo ceremony, respecting local traditions; to observe closely the ritual dances and spectacular performances of the Zangbeto; exchange with voodoo priests and community members to better understand this living culture.