Ouidah — History & Memory

The Route of the Enslaved

The Route of the Enslaved in Ouidah: a memorial path retracing the final steps of millions of men, women and children deported to the Americas. Hours, practical info, location.

About The Route of the Enslaved

The Route of the Enslaved

The Route of the Enslaved is one of Benin’s most iconic memorial sites. It retraces the path taken by enslaved people from the town of Ouidah to the beach, where they were shipped to the Americas during the transatlantic slave trade.

Dotted with monuments and places of remembrance, this path invites visitors to better understand one of the greatest tragedies in human history. Today, the Route of the Enslaved is a place of transmission, memory and dialogue, where the past illuminates the historic ties uniting Benin with African diasporas around the world.

Plan my visit

The Route of the Enslaved in Ouidah: a memorial path retracing the final steps of millions of men, women and children deported to the Americas. Hours, practical info, location.

Ouidah
Guided visit

How to visit

The route can be walked, cycled, or driven, ideally with a guide. Along the way, several stops help explain the history of the transatlantic slave trade and reveal the main memorial sites along the route, ending at the Door of No Return, facing the Atlantic Ocean.

Practical Information

Opening hours

  • Every day Accessible year-round
  • Recommended duration 1.5 to 2 hours
  • Access Free access (some areas or guided tours may be paid)
Location

Getting there

Ouidah

Directions
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