Memory, Vodun,
Atlantic
Place Chacha
In the heart of the old town, the starting point of the Route of the Captives. Its history is tied to trade and to the slave trade.
The Door of No Return
At the end of the Route of the Captives, facing the Atlantic: the memorial to the transatlantic slave trade, best visited with a guide.
The Temple of the Pythons
Vodun sanctuary dedicated to Dangbé the python, a living tradition. Ask permission before photographing people or rituals.
The Sacred Forest of Kpassè
Remarkable trees, sculptures and ritual spaces, in an atmosphere very different from the town centre. Best explored with a guide.
The Portuguese Fort
A former fortress turned history museum: the best way in to understand the city’s past.
The Basilica of Ouidah
A landmark of the historic centre, recalling the place of Christianity alongside Vodun.
Ouidah beach
At the end of the route, the ocean. Late afternoon is ideal for a walk and for watching the horizon.
Plan your visit
The essentials
Morning: Kpassè forest, Python Temple, historic centre. Afternoon: Place Chacha, the Route of the Captives to the Door of No Return. Evening: the Atlantic, then back to the villa.
The right pace
Day 1: memorial sites and the Route of the Captives with a guide. Day 2: Vodun sites, the Portuguese Fort, the architecture of the centre and the coastline. Leave time for the markets and a sunset.
No rush
Ouidah is best understood by listening to the stories and respecting the customs of sacred places.