Benin is a Country in the MoriAtlas geographic dataset. It is used as a structured place record for organizing nearby regions, countries, and protected-area discovery, and where relevant it can also act as part of the broader geographic area of Africa.

How large and how populated is Benin?

Benin covers approximately 114,763 square kilometers and has an available population figure of 13,754,688, recorded for 2,022. Taken together, these numbers give a much better sense of the location’s real scale than either figure would on its own.

Which countries or regions are associated with Benin?

Benin is associated with the following country or countries: Benin. Where more detailed internal geography is available, it is also associated with the following region or regions: Alibori Department, Atacora Department, Atakora Department, Atlantique Department, Borgou Department, Donga Department, Ouémé Department, Zou Department. This helps show whether the location is narrowly bounded or connected to a wider network of places.

What are the official and native names of Benin?

The official name of Benin is Republic of Benin, and its native name is République du Benin. These naming forms add useful legal, linguistic, and local context beyond the shorter common name used in English interfaces.

What language and time zone information is associated with Benin?

Benin is associated with the following language codes: fr, and with the time zone Africa/Lagos. These are practical metadata points that help the place profile work better across localization, search, and international geographic browsing.

What geographic character defines Benin?

Benin is classified in the dataset as a coastal location. Coastal geography often shapes climate patterns, settlement history, access routes, and the broader natural identity of a place.

What are the main country facts for Benin?

For Benin, the capital is Porto-Novo, the largest city is Cotonou, and the associated currency code is XOF. Together, these facts provide a quick practical snapshot of the country beyond its place on the map.

What codes identify Benin in geographic datasets?

Benin is identified by the ISO code BJ and the country code BJ. These standard identifiers are especially useful when connecting MoriAtlas place records to other structured geographic or statistical systems.

Which regions are associated with Benin?

Benin is associated with the following region or regions: Alibori Department, Atacora Department, Atakora Department, Atlantique Department, Borgou Department, Donga Department, Ouémé Department, Zou Department. This is useful for moving from a country-level overview into more detailed regional park discovery.

Countries

Browse mapped landscapes and protected areas across Benin's diverse regions.

Benin National Parks and Protected Areas: A Geographic Atlas for Exploration

Delve into the geographic landscape of Benin with a comprehensive atlas of its national parks and protected areas. This resource provides a structured view of protected lands, enabling detailed exploration of their distribution and regional context across the country. Understand where Benin's significant natural areas are situated, from savanna ecosystems to important bird areas, facilitating a deeper appreciation of the nation's conservation geography.

Browse categories

Benin National Parks and Protected Areas: A Geographic Atlas for Exploration

Park system

National Parks in Benin: A Regional Park System and Protected Area Snapshot

Comparing conservation scale, establishment age, and savanna habitats across known regional records.

Users can examine aggregate geographic metrics from current atlas records to evaluate the physical scale and historical timeline of Benin's reserves. Comparing compiled data helps clarify how West African savanna ecosystems, coastal wetlands, and varied designation categories spread across the national landscape.

Known protected area

42,281 km²

Area data available for 14 of 15 parks.

Median park size

2,662 km²

Median across 14 parks with known area.

Oldest known park

Forêt classée de N'Dali

Established in 1942.

Largest known park

Complexe W-Arly-Pendjari

Recorded area: 14,948 km².

Designation distribution

Protected area6

Nature reserve4

National park3

Biosphere reserve2

Habitat distribution

Riverine habitat9

Tropical forest8

Savanna5

Wetland5

Coastal habitat3

5 more categories represented

Climate distribution

Tropical7

Subtropical3

About

Browse Benin's Conservation Landscapes and Geographic Park Distribution

Discover National Parks in Benin, West Africa: Explore Mapped Protected Areas

Explore Benin's national parks and designated protected areas, tracing their locations and ecological significance across the West African landscape. A comprehensive view of Benin serves as an essential atlas entry point, enabling users to understand the country's unique conservation efforts and regional park geography.

Benin is a West African nation formerly known as Dahomey. It gained independence from France in 1960 and operates as a unitary presidential republic. The country is known for its coastal location along the Bight of Benin, its historical kingdom of Dahomey, and its agricultural economy centered on palm oil and cotton exports.

Benin, officially the Republic of Benin, is a country in West Africa. The territory was part of the Kingdom of Dahomey from the 17th to 19th centuries before becoming French Dahomey in 1894. It achieved full independence on August 1, 1960. The country has since transitioned through various political systems, including a Marxist-Leninist period from 1975 to 1990, before becoming a multi-party republic. Benin is noted for its cultural diversity with multiple indigenous languages and ethnic groups, with Christianity, Islam, and traditional religions being the major faiths.

Largest city:Cotonou

Currency code:XOF

ISO code:BJ

Parks count

Capital

Porto-Novo

Area

114,763 km²

Population

13,754,688 (2,022)

Coastal

Island

Mountainous

Landlocked

Park atlas15 parks

Trace the Mapped Geography of Benin's Protected Areas, from Savanna Ecosystems to Transboundary Parks

National Parks in Benin: Explore West Africa's Key Protected Areas and Conservation Landscapes

Browse a curated list of national parks and other protected areas, exploring their unique features and geographic distribution across Benin's diverse West African terrain. This country-level atlas view provides essential geographic context for each site, understanding its regional significance and conservation role within the nation's boundaries.

National parkAtacora Department

Parc national de la Pendjari: Geographic Atlas and Protected Area Overview in Atacora Department

Savanna plains and quartzite mountain ridges in West Africa

Parc national de la Pendjari represents an ecologically vital protected landscape in the Atacora Department of Benin. This atlas overview details its complex geography, ranging from the flat sandstone peneplain to the permanent waters of the Pendjari River. Learn how these boundaries support one of the most significant contiguous savanna ecosystems in West Africa, featuring diverse habitats from gallery forests to open woodlands.

Area: 4,700 km²
Established: 1961
IUCN: II
Visitors: 7K annual

Explore Parc national de la Pendjari Geography

National parkBenin

Pendjari National Park: Mapping Benin's Primary Protected Savanna Ecosystem and Wilderness

Located in northwestern Benin, bordering the WAP transboundary complex.

Pendjari National Park represents a significant conservation landscape in West Africa, featuring a complex geography of river-fed riparian forests, sprawling savanna plains, and the high-elevation cliffs of the Atakora mountain range. This protected area offers a look into an intact savanna wilderness, serving as a vital sanctuary for large mammals and diverse bird species within its clearly defined boundaries.

Area: 2,755 km²
IUCN: II
Relief: Highland
Climate: Subtropical

Pendjari National Park Atlas and Map

Protected areaBenin

Complexe W-Arly-Pendjari: Regional Geography and Transboundary Protected Landscapes

Sudano-Sahelian savanna and riverine conservation corridors.

As a massive transboundary conservation area, the Complexe W-Arly-Pendjari protects nearly 1.5 million hectares of savanna, woodland, and rocky terrain. The complex links national parks across three countries to maintain a continuous habitat for West African megafauna. Its distinctive landscape transitions from lush gallery forests along river systems to open, dry plains, representing an essential geographic gradient for regional biodiversity.

Area: 14,948.3 km²
Established: 1996
Water: Major water bodies

Complexe W-Arly-Pendjari Protected Area Map

National parkBenin

Parc national du W du Benin: Regional Geography and Protected Savanna Landscapes

Northern Benin flagship protected area and transboundary conservation hub.

Located in northern Benin, Parc national du W du Benin provides a unique window into the Sudano-Sahelian zone. The park features a mosaic of riverine gallery forests along the Mékrou and Alibori rivers, stretching across open Sudanian savannas to meet the rugged edges of the Atacora mountains. This protected area stands as a central pillar in the WAP complex, offering a clear map of interconnected wildlife habitats and significant ecological corridors in West Africa.

Area: 5,632.8 km²
Established: 1950
IUCN: II
Relief: Upland

Parc national du W du Benin Protected Landscape

Biosphere reserveBenin

Mono Transboundary Biosphere Reserve: Mapped Protected Landscapes and Regional Geography

Coastal river deltas, wetlands, and savanna transition zones

The Mono Transboundary Biosphere Reserve preserves a critical intersection of freshwater river systems and marine coastal environments. Stretching along the border of Benin and Togo, this protected area includes expansive mangroves, lagoons, and floodplains that transition into inland savanna. The geography of the reserve reflects a dynamic interface between land and water, encompassing a range of natural terrain that supports both ecological conservation and integrated regional land use.

Area: 3,462.85 km²
Established: 2017
Relief: Lowland
Climate: Tropical

Mono Transboundary Biosphere Reserve Map

Nature reserveAtlantique

Vallée du Sitatunga: Nature Reserve Geography and Wetland Protected Area Context

Community-managed marshland ecosystems in southern Benin

Vallée du Sitatunga encompasses over 67,000 hectares of diverse terrain in southern Benin, ranging from humid forest to expansive floodplains. As a community-led nature reserve, it preserves a vital network of waterways and swamp habitats that sustain rare species such as the sitatunga. This landscape focus offers clear insight into the protected basin geography of the Atlantique region.

Area: 700 km²
Established: 2009
IUCN: VI
Relief: Lowland

Explore Vallée du Sitatunga Nature Reserve

Biosphere reserveBenin

Réserve de biosphère de la Basse vallée de l’Ouémé: Geographic Overview and Protected Area Map

Coastal lagoon and river delta ecosystems in Benin

The Réserve de biosphère de la Basse vallée de l’Ouémé represents a significant protected landscape in southern Benin where riverine and marine influences converge. This biosphere reserve map highlights a dense network of mangroves, seasonally flooded grasslands, and freshwater lakes. Gain insights into the regional geography and hydrologic patterns of this important wetland complex.

Area: 3,143.4 km²
Established: 2020
Relief: Lowland
Climate: Tropical

Réserve de biosphère de la Basse vallée de l’Ouémé Geography

Nature reserveBenin

Forêt classée de la Lama: Nature Reserve Geography and Protected Area Landscape

A dense forest refuge located within the Dahomey Gap

The Forêt classée de la Lama is a significant nature reserve in Benin, characterized by its unique position in the Lama depression. This area preserves a crucial core of dense semi-deciduous forest surrounded by managed buffer zones. Examine the mapped terrain, hydrological features, and the distinct ecological role this reserve plays in West African forest conservation.

Area: 162.5 km²
Established: 1946
Relief: Lowland
Climate: Subtropical

Forêt classée de la Lama Nature Reserve

Nature reserveAtlantique

Forêt relique de Niaouli Nature Reserve: Geography and Protected Landscape Boundaries

A scientific forest refuge in the Atlantique region of southern Benin

The Forêt relique de Niaouli nature reserve covers 220 hectares of protected land, serving as a rare survivor of the semi-deciduous forest that once characterized this part of coastal Benin. This site provides researchers and geography enthusiasts with a deep look into riparian and plateau forest ecosystems. Its ongoing value stems from its long-term ecological data and unique position within the broader West African forest block.

Area: 2.2 km²
Established: 1997
Relief: Lowland
Climate: Tropical

Forêt relique de Niaouli Nature Reserve Atlas

Protected areaOuémé

Basse vallée de l'Ouémé, lagune de Porto-Novo, lac Nokoué: Benin Wetland and Protected Area

Geographic analysis of a major West African riverine and lagoon system

Spanning the lower reaches of the Ouémé River, this protected wetland area in southern Benin integrates complex fluvial and coastal landscapes. The territory includes Lake Nokoué and the Porto-Novo lagoon, creating a vital hydrological basin that supports seasonal floodplains, mangrove fringes, and significant ecological connectivity. Examine the mapped boundaries and natural terrain of this unique West African environmental corridor.

Area: 916 km²
Relief: Lowland
Climate: Tropical
Access: Access unknown

Basse vallée de l'Ouémé, lagune de Porto-Novo, lac Nokoué Park Atlas

Protected areaAlibori

Forêt classée de la Sota: Exploring Protected Woodlands in the Alibori Department

A historic Sudano-Sahelian savanna and riverine ecosystem

Forêt classée de la Sota stands as a critical protected woodland in northeastern Benin. This expansive 53,000 hectare reserve protects unique Sudano-Sahelian terrain defined by the Sota River basin, supporting a diverse range of savanna wildlife and complex riparian habitats across the Alibori region.

Area: 530 km²
Established: 1947
Relief: Lowland
Climate: Tropical

Forêt classée de la Sota Protected Area

Nature reserveBenin

Forêt classée des Trois Rivières: Geographic Context and Protected Landscape Map

Nature reserve protecting vital northern Benin river catchments.

Spanning over 2,595 square kilometers in northern Benin, Forêt classée des Trois Rivières functions as a critical watershed protector for the Sota, Tassiné, and Bouli rivers. The reserve sustains a fragile Sudano-Sahelian ecosystem where open tree savanna and gallery forests provide refuge for elephants and other wildlife. Its mapped boundaries offer a look at the historical and ecological struggle to maintain intact forest fragments within a landscape defined by agricultural expansion and river basin management.

Area: 2,595 km²
Established: 1949
IUCN: II

Explore Forêt classée des Trois Rivières Geography

View All National Parks in Benin

Landscape and environment

Understand how Benin is shaped by terrain, ecosystems, and seasonal conditions

Benin geography, nature, climate, and landscape context for park-focused travel research

Explore the physical geography, natural setting, and climate patterns of Benin through a location-first overview built for travel research, national park discovery, and broader regional context. This section helps explain how landscapes, habitats, and environmental conditions shape what people search for, where they travel, and how they experience protected areas in Benin.

Benin geography and landscape

Benin is located in West Africa, bordered by Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east, Burkina Faso to the northwest, and Niger to the northeast. The country occupies the southern coastline of the Bight of Benin, which is part of the Gulf of Guinea in the northernmost tropical portion of the Atlantic Ocean. The terrain ranges from coastal plains to hilly uplands in the north.

Benin nature and environment

Benin features a coastal plain that gradually transitions to higher ground in the north. The country has several protected areas and wildlife is typical of West African savanna and forest ecosystems. The coastal region supports mangrove ecosystems along the Bight of Benin.

Benin climate and seasonal conditions

Benin has a tropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. The southern region receives more rainfall than the northern areas. The country experiences a monsoon season from April to October in the south.

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Ways to explore Benin

Useful phrases, related topics, and discovery prompts connected to Benin.

where is benin locatedwhat is benin capitalbenin country factsbenin population and areabenin neighbors countriesrepublic of beninwest africa countrybenin geographybenin populationdahomeybenin capital porto-novobenin cotonoubenin economy

Park map

Trace the distribution of Benin's protected landscapes and conservation sites across its West African geography.

Benin National Parks Map: Explore Protected Areas and Park Geography

Browse national parks and protected areas across Benin's varied terrain, from the Bight of Benin coast to its savanna ecosystems, mapping key conservation sites like W and Pendjari National Parks. This detailed country map provides essential geographic context, helping you understand the spatial arrangement and regional spread of Benin's significant natural heritage.

Open Benin National Parks Map

Explore common questions regarding Benin's protected areas, their mapped geography, and regional conservation context.

Frequently Asked Questions About National Parks in Benin, West Africa

Gain a deeper understanding of national parks and significant protected areas across Benin, including key conservation landscapes like W National Park and Pendjari National Park. These frequently asked questions provide essential geographic context for exploring West African biodiversity, savanna ecosystems, and the broader distribution of Benin's natural heritage.

Other countries

Browse the geographic spread of West African protected landscapes for comparative park exploration.

Discover National Parks in Nearby Countries, Expanding from Benin's Protected Areas

Continue exploring national parks and protected areas in countries geographically adjacent to Benin, mapping the diverse conservation landscapes of the wider West African region. Gain valuable atlas-based insight into regional protected-area spread, compare terrain types, and trace conservation efforts across multiple country park lists.

Ghana National Parks and Protected Areas: Browse Mapped Landscapes and Regional Geography

Access a structured overview of Ghana's national parks and protected areas, presented with a focus on geographic discovery and atlas exploration. Understand the spatial relationships between these protected landscapes and the surrounding natural terrain. This resource details mapped park boundaries and highlights their significance within Ghana's broader regional geography, providing essential context for any atlas-based exploration.

21 parks

Ghana National Parks and Protected Areas

Ivory Coast National Parks and Protected Areas: Mapped Landscapes and Geographic Context

Ivory Coast's protected natural areas offer a window into its diverse landscapes, from gallery forests to savanna ecosystems. This geographic atlas entry provides a structured overview of national parks and other protected lands, highlighting their mapped boundaries and regional context. Explore the country's conservation network and understand the distribution of significant natural territories for informed discovery.

21 parks

Ivory Coast National Parks and Protected Areas

Niger National Parks and Protected Areas: Geographic Atlas Discovery

Delve into the structured geography of Niger's protected areas and national parks. This resource provides an atlas-style view of conservation landscapes across the country, detailing their distribution within the vast Saharan and Sahelian environments. Understand the mapped boundaries and natural terrain that characterize Niger's commitment to protecting its unique ecosystems.

14 parks

Niger National Parks and Protected Areas

Nigeria's National Parks and Protected Areas: A Mapped Geographic Overview

Navigate Nigeria's national parks and protected areas with a focus on geographic discovery. This atlas provides a structured view of protected lands, highlighting their regional placement and natural landscape context. Understand the breadth of conservation areas within Nigeria, from savanna ecosystems to island berg landscapes, aiding in detailed geographical exploration and comparison.

13 parks

Nigeria National Parks and Protected Areas

Burkina Faso National Parks and Protected Areas: Mapped Geographic Distribution

Navigate the protected areas and national parks of Burkina Faso, a landlocked country in West Africa. This atlas provides a geographic lens to understand the spread of conservation landscapes, from savanna ecosystems to gallery forests. Examine mapped park boundaries and their placement within the country's regional geography for structured discovery.

10 parks

Burkina Faso National Parks and Protected Areas

Mali National Parks and Protected Areas: Browse Protected Landscapes and Geography

Navigate Mali's protected natural areas, from the Sudanian savanna to woodland ecosystems, using this comprehensive atlas view. Explore the geographic distribution and mapped boundaries of national parks and conservation lands across this West African nation. Gain structured insight into the country's natural terrain and its importance for regional geography and habitat protection.

4 parks

Mali National Parks and Protected Areas

Togo National Parks and Protected Areas: An Atlas Exploration of Natural Landscapes

Access a structured geographic overview of Togo's national parks and protected natural areas. This atlas-style resource details the mapped boundaries and regional spread of conservation landscapes, offering insight into the country's protected terrain. Understand how Togo's protected areas fit into the broader West African geographic context.

3 parks

Togo National Parks Atlas

Sao Tome and Principe National Parks and Protected Lands: A Geographic Atlas Explorer

Navigate Sao Tome and Principe's unique geography through its protected natural areas. This atlas-style explorer helps you understand the distribution and mapped boundaries of national parks and conservation landscapes across the archipelago. Discover key natural regions, volcanic mountain terrains, and unique island habitats that define the protected lands of this Central African nation.

1 park

Sao Tome and Principe National Parks

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Protected area types

Continue Exploring Benin's Park Designation Categories and Maps

Deepen your understanding of Benin's protected natural landscapes by continuing to browse its specific designation categories. This route provides essential context for comparing park types and their geographic distribution, facilitating a more structured exploration of conservation areas across the nation. Discover the foundational classifications that underpin Benin's national park system and protected lands.

Benin Protected Area Designations

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Continue Your Global Geographic Exploration with MoriAtlas Park Discovery

Dive deeper into the world's protected landscapes and national parks through MoriAtlas's structured atlas interface. Discover how continents and countries are organized, and how individual park geography fits into the broader map. Our platform is built for understanding the distribution and context of protected areas worldwide, facilitating your journey through global natural geography.

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