Benin

Benin 
Border Crossing Togo – Benin. No GPS, you can’t miss it, warned in advance by the queues of lorries on the roadside! Chaotic and time consuming, but throughout the officials were very straight, no problems.

Grand Popo. Auberge de Grand Popo. GPS N06 16.772’ E001 49.794’. At the Y junction in the centre of Grand Popo, turn right onto the beach road; follow this beyond the end of the paved section, the auberge buildings are on the right and past an open grassy area on the right, the camp site, with reception at the far end. Camping (close to the sea) is possible and really pleasant, with the use of a shower and toilet in the accommodation nearby. Electricity hook up not possible. Good restaurant and cold beer, but the ‘pression’ is rather watery!
Abomey. Chez Monique. GPS N07 11.814’ E001 58.842’. Not signed at all and not easy to find, but the route is navigable using the Bradt guide or, in extremis, a local on a motorbike! Camping is possible in the large court yard area with the use of, about adequate, facilities. Hook up difficult but not impossible. Good Benin food and only cool beer.
Djougou. Motel du Lac. GPS N09 40.813’ E001 39.164’. It is not signposted, but is unmissable and on the right hand side of the main road from Bassila, opposite a small lake and just before you enter Djougou. Camping is not possible, but the motel is reasonable value and has a good restaurant and cold beer. The main plus was the excellent guide, Zouma Rou Alassane, provided through the motel owner.
Parakou. Hotel Majestic. GPS N09 31.900’ E002 36.870’. Not signposted, but aided by the Bradt guidebook it is relatively easy to find. Hotel service/facilities, including wifi, are reasonable but verge on the overpriced. Camping (rooftent/campervan only) possible but generally better and more flexible at next door Auberge Parakou.