Benin is located in Western Africa, and its capital is Porto-Novo. It has a population of approximately 14,462,724 and covers an area of about 114,760 km². Its official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF).
What stands out
People & place
126 /km² across 114,760 km²
Benin has a recorded population of 14,462,724 and a reported surface area of 114,760 km².
Economic snapshot
$21.48 billion nominal GDP
Nominal GDP is recorded at $21.48 billion and GDP per capita at $1,485 for 2024. These measures do not describe income distribution or household wealth.
Practical reference
West African CFA franc (XOF)
Benin uses West African CFA franc (XOF), calling code +229, internet domain .bj.
About Benin
Benin, a slender slice of West Africa stretching from the Atlantic coast to the savannas of the interior, enchants visitors with its blend of vibrant markets, historic sites, and welcoming people.
The country spans roughly 114,000 square kilometers, bordered by Togo, Nigeria, Burkina Faso, and Niger. Its terrain transitions from the low-lying, mangrove‑lined coast and the fertile Ouémé River basin to rolling hills and savanna in the north, while the Atakora Mountains mark its western edge with striking cliffs and waterfalls.
Benin is a cultural mosaic where Voodoo, declared a national religion, coexists with Islam and Christianity. Colorful festivals like the annual Voodoo Festival in Ouidah showcase drumming, dance, and intricate masks, while the cuisine delights with dishes such as *amiwo* (spiced cornmeal) and grilled tilapia seasoned with local herbs.
Formerly the powerful Kingdom of Dahomey, Benin resisted European colonization until the French established a protectorate in 1894. The nation reclaimed its sovereignty in 1960 and later changed its name from Dahomey to Benin in 1975, reflecting a broader national identity.
Key facts
Benin is considered the birthplace of Voodoo, a religion that influences art, music, and daily life across the nation.
Population (2023 estimate): approximately 13.2 million people; area: about 114,763 km².
The historic Royal Palaces of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, contain more than 500 bas-relief murals depicting the kingdom’s military triumphs.
This overview is AI-assisted and grounded with available atlas facts and reference material. Treat linked primary data as authoritative. Read the methodology.
Population, area and economic figures use the latest available values from World Bank Open Data; reporting years can vary by country. See sources and methodology for indicator definitions, mapping attribution, and editorial limitations.
Benin has a recorded population of approximately 14,462,724 people.
How big is Benin?
Benin covers an area of about 114,760 km².
What is the population density of Benin?
Benin has a population density of roughly 126 /km² (people per square kilometre).
What is the GDP of Benin?
Benin has a gross domestic product (GDP) of approximately $21.48 billion as of 2024.
What is the GDP per capita of Benin?
Benin has a GDP per capita of approximately $1,485.
What currency is used in Benin?
Benin uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), with the symbol CFA.
Where is Benin located?
Benin is located in Western Africa, Africa.
What is the native name of Benin?
The native name of Benin is Bénin.
What are people from Benin called?
People from Benin are referred to as Beninese, Beninois.
What is the phone calling code for Benin?
The international dialing code for Benin is +229.
What is the internet domain for Benin?
The country code top-level domain (ccTLD) for Benin is .bj.
What time zone is Benin in?
Benin uses the Africa/Porto-Novo time zone.
What is Benin known for?
Benin, a slender slice of West Africa stretching from the Atlantic coast to the savannas of the interior, enchants visitors with its blend of vibrant markets, historic sites, and welcoming people.
Western Africa