Sub Saharan Africa

Benin
Still current at: 27 November 2009 Updated: 07 October 2009

This advice has been reviewed and reissued with an amendment to the Summary (consular assistance) and Local Travel section (update on report of road traffic accident). The overall level of the advice has not changed.

(see travel advice legal disclaimer)

Travel advice for this country

Travel Summary

The World Health Organisation (WHO) has raised its Pandemic Threat Alert Phase to Level 6. The WHO website has further details. Check swine flu for further information.
There is no formal British representation in Benin. In case of an emergency you should contact the British Deputy High Commission in Lagos. There is a Community Liaison Officer in Benin, but this should be used for consular emergencies only. See the General (Representation in Benin) section of this advice for more details.
There is a low threat from terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.
We have provided consular assistance to two British nationals in 2008. One British national was killed in a road accident. See the Road Travel section of this advice.
We strongly recommend that you obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake. See the General (Insurance) section of this advice and travel insurance for more details.