information about Benin

Beaches, rolling hills, savannahs and arid mountains; Benin may be a small country but the landscape is rich and varied. Benin is the former kingdom of Abomey, it was later colonized by the French and gained independence in 1960. Until the 1990’s Benin had a turbulent political history and the country continues to struggle with poverty.

Despite these challenges, the people of Benin are warm and welcoming! There are over forty different ethnic groups in Benin. Music is at the heart of the local culture and animism is practiced by a large majority of the population. Welcome to the cradle of Voodoo!

Our projects take place in the Lake Nokue area, in the heart of villages and lake towns, made famous by the city of Ganvie.

Official title of the country: Republic of Benin

Capital: Porto-Novo

Area: 112 622 km2

Population: 10.3 million inhabitants

Ethnicity: Beninese

Languages: French (official language), Fon, Bariba, Dendi and Yoruba.

Religions: Animism 50%, Christianity 20%, Muslims 15%

our projects in benin

The requirements for all projects in Benin are: a willingness to take initiative, flexibility and the capacity to adapt to any situation. By taking part in the orphanage support program, you will be sharing in the daily lives of orphan children and assisting the dedicated Beninese staff members. Volunteers have the opportunity to help in a nursery for infants or an orphanage for children aged 6 to 18 years old.

Having a background in the field of education is preferable, but not a prerequisite to participate in this internship. We are seeking volunteers who are enthusiastic and love working with kids!

Language Requirements: French

The requirements for all projects in Benin are: a willingness to take initiative, flexibility and the capacity to adapt to any situation.

This program promises a complete immersion in the educational system of Benin. Depending on your preferences and skill sets, you could be involved at different levels from preschool, primary or secondary. The tasks you may be assigned will vary. Possibilities include: assisting teachers in course preparation, teaching different subjects or grading assignments. Your support may also be needed to help students during class, assist with homework or even working as a substitute!

This program is designed for volunteers that have experience within the educational system and are confident in their ability to manage a classroom. The capacity to adapt to different situations is essential.

Language Requirements: French

The requirements for all projects in Benin are: a willingness to take initiative, flexibility and the capacity to adapt to any situation.

This program is restricted to students and/or graduates within the field of health. Volunteers will be required to support medical teams during their interventions and work in cooperation with health professionals. Tasks will be assigned based on your skill set and previous training.

It is important to note that an immersion in the local Beninese health system is certainly an educational experience; an open-mind is a necessity.

Language Requirements: French

additional information:

Length of stay Registration fee Participation fee
For all the projects in Benin 1 to 6 months $700 CAD + tax 58 000 FCFA per week + 93 000 FCFA for 2 days of integration. (Rate Exchange)
what’s included?
  • Pre-departure orientation session
  • Reception
  • Transportation to and from the airport to your accomodation in Cotonou
  • Integration period
  • Registration at the Canadian Embassy
  • Transport to and from the internship site
  • Accomodation
  • Meals
  • Technical Support
Our service includes: detailed and personalized support, plane ticket reservation, visa advice, information about vaccines, a pre-departure orientation day, a participant guide to help with the preparation of your trip, and a confirmation from our partner abroad. The placement is guaranteed or you will be one hundred percent reimbursed.
What’s not included?
  • Plane Ticket
  • Travel Insurance
  • Passport
  • Vaccination
  • Personal expenses
  • Visa (if needed)
  • Exit Tax (if needed)