Hostels in BENIN CITY, NIGERIA

Benin City – Centre of Traditional Art in Nigeria

Benin City in southern Nigeria is the capital of Edo State and is located few miles from the Benin River. Apart from accommodating traditional industry of palm nut processing, this ancient Nigerian city is known for its traditional art and culture.

Accommodation Options
The best accommodations in the city are available in the form of budget hotels. The mid-budget and luxury hotels can also be found. The rooms in expensive hotels offer facilities like internet and wireless access, pool, bar and shuttle services. Fon, Yoruba and many other tribal languages are spoken in the city. People converse with tourists in French.

History
Benin City was originally founded as Igodomigodo in 400 BC. Benin grew in importance by the 10th century and around 14th century, it was chosen as the capital of the Kingdom of Benin. In the year 1485, the city was visited by the Portuguese who conducted slave trade from here. As a result, the city turned rich by the end of the 17th century. The monarchs known as Ogiso ruled the city all over the years. Oba Oranmiyan changed the name of the city to Ile-Ibinu. In 1852, the region became a British protectorate and in 1897, the city of Benin was captured by the British who burnt the city and took away the world famous Benin Bronzes. In 1914, the Benin monarchy was restored under the control of the colonial administration of Nigeria.

Popular Places
The National Museum in Benin City is among the most popular tourist places. Artefacts like bronze statues and replicas of those stolen by the British are the must to watch. Another interesting place in the city is the historical Oba Palace that talks a lot about the city’s history. There are many beaches near the city of Benin, the most famous being the Akodo Beach, the Eloko Beach and the Coconut Beach.

Getting Around
Buses are the most popular and convenient ways to get around the city. Taxis are fast and also available in all parts of the city. Motor bikes can also be hired on rent to have some great moments riding across the city. A completely new visitor to the region must hire a professional guide.   

Places of Entertainment
The Ogba Zoological Garden, housing various species of plants and animals, is a place to have unlimited fun. Another entertaining place is the Okomu National Park, which is bounded by two rivers. The park is famous for abundance of wildlife and hiking tracks. It is indeed exciting to watch the local bronze casters, who are world-famous for their brass work. Another source of entertainment is to watch the local dancers in their colourful costumes performing different cultural dances.   

Currency
Nigerian Naira is the official currency and you have to get your currency exchanged form various points in the city. Don’t forget to check the exchange rates from news available online.
 
Benin City group accommodation | Cheap hostels & budget hotel