Benin, a French-speaking West African nation that borders Togo to the west, Nigeria to the east and Burkina Faso and Niger to the north. Benin is truly a great country to visit on any West African itinerary. You'll find a large quantity of palatial ruins and temples of the once powerful Kingdom of Dahomey (1800s–1894). Moreover, Benin is the birthplace of Vodun (Voodoo) and all that goes with it—to this day Vodun remains the official religion of the country, and an important part of the life of ordinary Beninese. The national parks of Benin are also well worth a visit for their wildlife. The country is also, fortunately, one of the most stable and safe countries of the region for travelling.