About Temple of Pythons, Ouidah
Ouidah, a coastal town in Benin, is one of the spiritual centers of Vodun, the religion of the Fon and Ewe peoples that also shaped Haitian Vodou. The Temple of Pythons is a small sanctuary dedicated to Dangbe, a serpent deity associated with peace and protection. Dozens of royal pythons live inside and are treated as sacred, and visitors may hold one under supervision. Pythons are sometimes found wandering in town.
Opposite the temple stands the Catholic Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, a reminder of how closely the two traditions coexist. Ouidah was also a major port of the Atlantic slave trade, remembered along the Route des Esclaves to the Door of No Return. Each 10 January, Benin's national Vodun Day brings drumming, masked dancers and ceremonies to Ouidah's beach and streets. Visitors from the diaspora come to honor their ancestors.
What to see
- Python sanctuary of Dangbe
- Sacred Forest of Kpasse
- Basilica of the Immaculate Conception
- Route des Esclaves and Door of No Return
- Vodun Festival on the beach
Visiting Temple of Pythons, Ouidah: practical guide
- Best time
- November to March; 10 January for the Vodun Festival
- Hours
- Open daily, roughly 8:00 to 18:00
- Entry
- Small fee with an extra charge for photography
- Dress code
- Modest clothing
- Nearest airport
- Cadjehoun Airport, Cotonou (COO), 40 km
Tips from experienced pilgrims
- Pay photography fees before taking pictures
- Book Ouidah lodging early for Vodun Day
- Visit the Ouidah History Museum in the Portuguese fort
Festivals and special days
- Fête du Vodoun (Vodun Day) on 10 January
Etiquette for visitors
Guidance drawn from West African Vodun tradition. Always follow signs and local custodians.
- Always ask permission before photographing ceremonies or shrines; a fee may be expected.
- Remove shoes when entering certain shrines.
- Do not touch sacred objects or possessed devotees.
- Follow the instructions of priests and guides.
- Avoid sensational or mocking language about Vodun.
Location map
Open in OpenStreetMap · Get directions
Frequently asked questions
Where is Temple of Pythons, Ouidah?
Temple of Pythons, Ouidah is in Ouidah, Atlantique Department, Benin, Africa. GPS coordinates: 6.3628, 2.0889. The nearest airport is Cadjehoun Airport, Cotonou (COO), 40 km.
What is the best time to visit Temple of Pythons, Ouidah?
November to March; 10 January for the Vodun Festival
Is there an entry fee for Temple of Pythons, Ouidah?
Small fee with an extra charge for photography Opening hours: Open daily, roughly 8:00 to 18:00
What should I wear when visiting Temple of Pythons, Ouidah?
Modest clothing
Which religion is Temple of Pythons, Ouidah sacred to?
Temple of Pythons, Ouidah is sacred to West African Vodun. Active place of worship.
