Benin Travel Advisory

There was no change to the advisory level. The “unrest” risk indicator was added. Advisory summary was updated. Exercise Increased Caution in Benin due to unrest, crime, terrorism, and kidnapping. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. Do Not Travel to areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara due to crime , terrorism , and kidnapping . Advisory summary Do not travel to the border region in northern or northeastern Benin for any reason. U.S. government employee travel restrictions U.S. government employees working in Benin are not allowed to travel to the following areas without Ambassador approval due to safety risks: Alibori Department Atacora Department Borgou Department in areas north, east, and west of Parakou Donga Department in the area north of Djougou Official travel in Borgou Department north, east, and west of Parakou as well as official travel in Donga Department north of Djougou is authorized for day trips only. Safety risks prevent emergency consular services to U.S. citizens in the areas of Benin bordering Burkina Faso; Niger; and the Nigerian states of Kebbi, Niger, and Kwara. There are no safety risks in Benin that would stop the U.S. government’s ability to offer routine or emergency services, except in the identified areas of concern. Crime Most coastal and southern areas of Benin are safe. However, violent crime can occur in remote locations. These crimes often happen at night and include kidnapping, assault, and armed robbery. Stay aware of your surroundings in: Urban areas and crowded markets. Areas near roadblocks, which may be manned by armed groups. Armed groups are present throughout the country. Terrorism There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Benin. Visit the U.S. Department of State’s country reports on terrorism to learn more. Terrorist and armed groups have attacked areas near the borders with Burkina Faso an