Parakou, Benin: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]
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Ready to pack for Parakou, Benin? If you're planning to go to Parakou, I've got some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.
Contents
- When to go to Parakou
- Important essentials for Parakou
- Activities for Parakou
- Parakou in January: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in February: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in March: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in April: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in May: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in June: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in July: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in August: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in September: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in October: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in November: weather and what to pack
- Parakou in December: weather and what to pack
When to go to Parakou, Benin
Based on the climate and weather in Parakou, Benin, the best time to go is December. See below for details.
What to wear/what to pack for Parakou, Benin
Already know when you're traveling?
Here are some general tips on what to wear in Parakou, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.
What to wear/what to pack for Parakou, Benin by month
January
If you vacation in Parakou during January, you will probably find that it can be sweltering, extremely hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 20 during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can keep you cool and protect you from the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Waterproof sandals
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also filters contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Skirts
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck support pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you find the necessary kind. Many adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most countries.
February
February for Parakou is scorchingly hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the 90s F (mid 30s C) during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Sunglasses
UV protecting legwear
These will keep you protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Bug repellent
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are engineered for cooling and to provide UV protection.
Waterproof sandals
Thin short sleeve shirts
Do bring additional, since these are likely to get wet or dirty.
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed to keep you cool:
Personal cooling fan
thisSkirts
Bug bite relief
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Light linen shorts
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly choice.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to find the correct type. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
March
If you go to Parakou in March, you will notice that it is sizzling, somewhat hazy and very dry. Expect it to rain once in a while. Daytime temperatures are in the 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Bug repellent
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are created to cool you and offer UV protection.
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Bug bite relief
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure bring extra, since these get wet or dirty.
UV protecting pants/skirts
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are engineered to keep you cool:
Personal cooling fan
thisSunglasses
Light linen shorts
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Waterproof sandals
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These are essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We suggest:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb one.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's useful to have a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to pick the right type. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most countries.
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
April
If you go to Parakou in April, you will notice that it is sweltering and somewhat stormy. Expect it to rain sometimes. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (mid 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Light dresses
These Columbia dresses are developed for cooling and include UV protection.
Bug bite relief
Insulated water bottle
Waterproof sandals
Lightweight 'harem' pants
Bug repellent
Protecting pants
These will keep your legs protected from UV rays while also cool. Our favorites:
Skirts
Cooling tank or crop tops
These are specially designed to help you stay cool:
High-SPF sunscreen lotion
Thin short sleeve shirts
Be sure bring extra, since these often get wet or dirty.
Personal cooling fan
thisSunglasses
Light linen shorts
A rain poncho to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a rainstorm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly choice.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's important to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you get the correct type. A lot of adapters available are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
May
If you visit Parakou during May, you may see that it is consistently hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about a third of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisCool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain jacket to layer with a coat
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be essential in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases don't get wet. We like:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent option.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent TSA-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines always losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck pillow
A top rated pillow is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. It's important that you get the correct kind. Many adapters available online are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most places.
June
If you vacation in Parakou during June, you might find that it is extremely hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 70s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 60 and 70% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and cool you.
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can keep you cool and guard against the sun:
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes dangerous contaminants:
thisSunglasses
A rain coat to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants are a lifesaver in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things remain dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a superb kit.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good TSA-friendly product.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's important to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Voltage step down adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Make sure to pick the correct kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel pillow
A versatile choice is this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
July
In July, Parakou is extremely warm, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures routinely are in the low 80s F (high 20s C) and regularly jump into the 80s F (low 30s C) range. At night, lows are in the low 60s F (low 20s C). This is also a rainy time for Parakou, with several of the days of the month having rain. In July, humidity reaches as high as 70%.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Bug repellent
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also cleans contaminants:
thisWaterproof sandals
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Sunglasses
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
A rain poncho to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We recommend these rain boots:
Rain pants
These pants will be vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Umbrella
This one is an excellent choice.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We like:
Health
Emergency motion sickness relief
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an excellent plane-friendly choice.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good kit.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Plug adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. Many adapters currently being sold are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel neck support pillow
A good option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
August
If you visit Parakou during August, you are likely to see that it is pretty consistently hot, somewhat rainy and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally around 70 during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Sandals
Sunscreen lotion
Bug repellent
Extra socks
Breathable footwear or sandals
Light skirts
Short pants or heavy shorts
Light dresses
You can find some great options here
A mix of long and short sleeve shirts
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We use these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants will be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is an excellent option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your things stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent one.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters available online are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most places.
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck pillow
A good option is this one
September
September here is hot, somewhat rainy and very stormy. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day. It rains about half of the time.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Loose-fit shorts
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our pick also cleans contaminants:
thisSunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses include UV protection and keep you cool.
Breatheable shirts
A breathing shirt can cool you down quickly and guard against UV rays:
Sunglasses
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
A rain jacket to layer with another jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We like rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants are vital in a storm.
Waterproof phone bag
Windproof umbrella
This one is a perfect option.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your bags stay dry. We recommend:
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have potentially unsafe tap water, so it's useful to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent choice.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Be careful to get the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel neck pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
October
If you vacation in Parakou during October, you might see that it is really hot and somewhat stormy. Temperatures tend to hover around the 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (low 20s C). Humidity is generally between 50 and 60% during the day. In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Insulated water bottle
Our fave also cleans contaminants:
thisLoose-fit shorts
Breatheable shirts
A breatheable shirt can cool you down quickly and protect you from the sun:
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Skirts
Waterproof sandals
Bug repellent
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Sunglasses
A rain jacket to layer with a jacket
100% waterproof footwear
We suggest these rain boots:
Rain pants
Rain pants can be vital in heavy rain.
Waterproof phone bag
Wind resistant umbrella
This one is a great one to buy.
Waterproof bag/luggage cover
So your suitcases stay dry. We like:
Health
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is an easy-to-carry plane-friendly option.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a excellent value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airports frequently losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel neck support pillow
An excellent option is this one
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Ensure that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.
November
Traveling to Parakou in November, you will notice that it can be sweltering, somewhat hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (low 30s C).
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Skirts
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and cool you.
Loose-fit shorts
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Breatheable shirts
A cooling shirt can keep you comfortable and guard against UV rays:
Insulated water bottle
Our choice also removes contaminants:
thisSunglasses
Health
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some areas of this country may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to bring a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly product.
Travel first aid kit
This one is a great value.
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
December
If you vacation in Parakou during December, you might notice that it is extremely hot, very hazy and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (low 30s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the 60s F (high 10s C). Humidity is generally between 20 and 30% during the day.
What to wear/what to pack:
Clothes + Footwear
Cool and dry dresses
These dresses can provide UV protection and help you stay cool.
Bug repellent
Waterproof sandals
Sunglasses
Breatheable shirts
A good breatheable shirt can keep you comfortable and protect you from the sun:
Loose-fit shorts
Sunscreen lotion, moderate SPF
Skirts
Insulated water bottle
Our favorite also removes contaminants:
this
Health
Travel first aid kit
This one is a good option.
Virus/bacteria filtering water bottle
Some rural areas may have unreliable tap water, so it's wise to take a contaminant filtering water bottle.
Travel disinfecting wipes
Use these to sanitize plane and hotel surfaces.
Hand sanitizer
This hand sanitizer is a good plane-friendly option.
Emergency motion sickness relief
Safety + Security
Money/passport pouch
A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.
AirTag to track your luggage
With airlines frequently losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.
Anti-theft backpack
For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.
Emergency phone
For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Parakou may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.
Given current world events, Benin has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.
Comfort + Essentials
Airplane phone mount
Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount
Travel voltage adapter
A plug adapter that supports outlet types C and E. Check that you find the correct type. A lot of adapters for sale now are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one is sufficent for most locations.
Luggage scale to avoid fees
Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this
Power bank for devices
A portable power bank, like this one
Travel pillow
What we like is this one
What to do in Parakou, Benin
Parakou is the third largest city in Benin, located in the northern part of the country. Despite being a relatively lesser-known tourist destination, Parakou is packed with plenty of interesting cultural and historical attractions, as well as natural wonders. Whether you’re a history buff or a nature lover, here are some top tourist attractions in Parakou.
1. The Royal Palace Of Parakou
The Royal Palace of the Kabiyesi, known as the “King of the City”, is an impressive building located in the heart of the city. The palace is a stunning example of traditional African architecture, with colored clay walls and a series of ornate courtyards. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn about the history of the palace and the significance of the various symbols and motifs used in its construction and decoration.
2. W Park
Parakou is home to one of the country’s largest nature reserves, the W Park. Covering over 5,000 square kilometers, the park is home to an array of wildlife, including elephants, lions, leopards, crocodiles, hyenas, and many species of antelope. Visitors can take guided safari tours to explore the park, as well as enjoy hiking and bird watching.
3. N’Dali Museum
The N’Dali Museum is a cultural center that showcases the rich history and traditions of the indigenous Fon people. The museum features a collection of traditional artifacts, including masks, musical instruments, and pottery, which are used in festivals and ceremonies. There are also exhibits that explore the history of the region's kingdoms and colonial period.
4. The Sacred Forest Of Dankoli
The Sacred Forest of Dankoli is a protected area located on the outskirts of Parakou. The dense forest is home to a variety of wildlife, and also considered a spiritual site by the locals. Visitors can take guided tours of the forest, which includes visits to ancient shrines and temples, and learn about the cultural significance of the forest and its associated rituals.
5. The Mosque of Parakou
The Mosque of Parakou is one of the largest mosques in West Africa, located in the heart of the city. The mosque is notable for its distinctive architecture, featuring brightly-colored geometric patterns on the walls and roof. Visitors can take a guided tour to learn more about the history of the mosque, as well as to observe the daily prayers of the faithful.
In conclusion, Parakou is a hidden gem of a tourist destination that has much to offer visitors seeking to experience the authentic culture, history, and natural beauty of Benin. The top attractions listed above are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the range of things to see and experience in the city. So, if you're looking for an off-the-beaten-path adventure, Parakou is definitely worth a visit.

About your travel guide
Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.
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