Location

  • Name : Institut Régional de Santé Publique (IRSP), Ouidah, Benin, Africa
  • Address : IRSP, Ouidah, Benin, Africa (click here)
  • Accessibility : Free shuttle services from the airport to the venue. More info on ground transportation here.

Travel information

Flights

  • The only International Airport is Cotonou International Airport - Cardinal Bernardin Gantin (COO), located in Cotonou, Benin.
  • Flights from major hubs like London, Paris, Brussels, New York, are available.
  • Visa requirements : Ensure you check the signed visa waiver agreements with Benin to see if you have to apply for a Visa. If so apply for an e-visa. Please note that the visa process can be long and we recommend you to start the process as soon as possible. if you need an invitation letter please contact us at acpss2025@gmail.com.

Ground Transportation

  • From the Airport:
    • Shuttle services to the venue/hotels (details to be provided closer to the date). Whenever you have your flight details, please fill in this form to help us organize the shuttle services.
  • Local Transport: Options include taxis, and ride-hailing apps like GoZem. You can also experience the local moto-taxis for short distances.
  • Approximate transportation fare: vary depending on the distance, the means, and time of day. Make sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey. They mainly accepted only cash in local currency and don't provide receipts. In case you are using a ride-hailing app, the fare will be displayed on the app.

Accommodation

The summer school venue has several accommodation options available that are included in the registration fee. You can choose to stay at the venue or at nearby hotels. In the later option check the alternative accommodation section.

Alternative Accommodation

We have partnered with several hotels near the venue to offer discounted rates for attendees:

  • Hotel Terra Nostra: 15 minutes from/to the venue using the moto-taxis, go to the hotel
  • Hotel Diaspora Benin: 20 minutes from/to the venue using the moto-taxis, go to the hotel
  • Hotel Djegba: 25 minutes from/to the venue using the moto-taxis, go to the hotel
  • If you're interested in booking a room at one of these hotels, please fill in this form to help us organize the reservation.
  • If you need help with booking or have any questions, please contact us at acpss2025@gmail.com.

Local Culture and Tips

  • Weather: Typically, August is warm in average 27°C (80°F) with a high of 31°C (88°F) and a low of 23°C (73°F). Ouidah is a coastal city, so it can be humid.
  • Currency: The official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF). Typically, 1 USD is equivalent to 550 XOF and 1 EUR is equivalent to 655 XOF. Cash is widely used. Credit cards are not accepted in general but hotels and restaurants might accept them, but it's recommended to carry cash. We'll organize a currency exchange service at the venue. Please fill in this form if you know the amount you want to exchange.
  • Health and Safety:
    • Vaccination requirements: Vaccination against yellow fever is compulsory to enter Benin. The vaccine is now valid for life. It is imperative to be vaccinated before departure at an approved center. There is no more covid-19 test/vaccination required to enter Benin.
    • Emergency numbers: information will be provided at the venue.
    • General tips: Avoid displaying valuables openly and use trusted transport options.
  • Electricity: the standard voltage is 220 V and the plug type is C and E (french/europe model). Make sure to bring a universal adapter otherwise.
  • Languages: The official language is French. People don't speak English in general. But they speak Fongbé, Yoruba, and other local languages.

Things to Do

Extend your stay and explore :

  • Local Attractions : TBP
  • Cultural Experiences : TBP
  • Guided Tours : TBP

Emergency Contacts

  • Venue Help Desk : please contact the registration desk for any assistance.
  • Local Emergency Numbers : TBP

FAQs

  • How safe Benin is?
    • Benin is a safe country to visit. The event takes place in the south and is considered totally safe. However, northern Benin is marked as red (unsafe) on the map for safety, due to possible incursions by armed terrorist groups and the risk of attack or kidnapping, travel to the border areas of Burkina Faso, a large part of Niger and part of Nigeria, including the Pendjari and W national parks, and the areas adjoining these parks, is formally inadvisable. This level of vigilance is incompatible with tourist activities. France's Diplomacy provides security information you may want to check (It's in French). Moreover, it is recommended to take the usual precautions and avoid displaying valuables openly. Also don't hesitate to ask for assistance.
  • Is the venue accessible for attendees with disabilities?
    • Yes, the venue is accessible. Don't hesitate to contact us if you need any assistance.
  • What payment methods are accepted locally?
    • Mainly cash in local currency. Credit cards are not widely accepted.