Cheap Flights to Cotonou
One-way
Departing from
Zanzibar
Going to
Cotonou, Benin
This is the lowest one-way flight price found by RatePunk users in the last 24 hours for a flight departing from Cotonou. Fares are subject to change and may not be available for all dates. (Data last updated 11/21/2025).
Facts About Flights to Cotonou
To help you plan your journey, here are some quick Cotonou flight facts and tips.
Cotonou city airports
Cotonou, Benin's largest city and economic hub, is primarily served by Cadjehoun Airport (COO), also known as Cotonou International Airport. This airport acts as the main gateway for both domestic and international air travel to and from Benin. Featuring modern facilities, Cadjehoun Airport offers various services including passenger terminals, cargo handling, and aircraft maintenance. Several major airlines operate here, connecting Cotonou to key destinations across Africa, Europe, and the Middle East, thus facilitating business and tourism in the region. While other smaller airfields exist in Benin, Cadjehoun Airport is by far the most significant for public air transport.
Pro tip: search “Cotonou (Any)” to see fares to all Cotonou airports – sometimes one is cheaper than the others on your dates.
Insights for flights to Cotonou
Cheapest airport
Cotonou (COO)
Cotonou Airport (COO) is your gateway to Benin's vibrant economic hub! Though modest, this airport ensures a smooth entry into a city brimming with culture and trade. Get ready to explore bustling markets and beautiful coastlines right after you land!
Nonstop vs. 1-stop
20+ cities
Cotonou Airport (COO) is a secondary airport, but it still offers connections to over 20 cities! Popular routes include flights to major African hubs like Abidjan and Dakar, making it a convenient option for regional travel.
Number of airlines
10+ airlines
Cotonou is served by over 10 airlines, including popular full-service carriers like Air France and Ethiopian Airlines, as well as some low-cost options for budget-conscious travelers.
Typical price range (round-trip)
$600 - $1500
Generally, flights to Cotonou range from $600 to $1500. Prices tend to peak during the popular travel seasons, such as the dry season from November to March, when many tourists visit. Be sure to book in advance to snag the best deals!
Flight frequency
100+ flights
While flights to Cotonou are available throughout the week, you might find more options during peak travel seasons and possibly during morning hours when airlines schedule more departures. Keep an eye on those travel trends to snag the best deals!
When Is the Best Time to Fly to Cotonou
Timing is everything when hunting for cheap flights. Here are data-backed insights on the best times to fly to Cotonou:
Cheapest month
September
Cheapest month
If you're looking to save some serious cash on your flights, September is your golden ticket to Cotonou! The weather is still warm and inviting, but the crowds have thinned out after the summer rush. Plus, you'll find awesome deals on accommodations and activities, making it a budget-friendly dream.
Best day to book
Tuesday
Best day to book
Tuesdays are the unsung heroes of flight booking! Airlines often release new deals early in the week, and by Tuesday, the algorithm gods are in your favor. So set a reminder and snag those sweet flight deals before everyone else does.
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesday
Cheapest days to fly
Wednesdays often bring a mid-week dip in flight prices, making it the perfect day to take off without emptying your wallet. Airlines are eager to fill those seats, so you can score some seriously cheap flights. Plus, you'll be one step closer to the weekend vibes!
Advance booking sweet spot
2 Months
Advance booking sweet spot
Booking about two months in advance is the sweet spot for nabbing the best flight deals to Cotonou. You'll avoid the last-minute price surges and still have plenty of options to choose from. It's the Goldilocks zone of flight booking – not too early, not too late, just right!
Cotonou Airports & Ground Transportation
One big question for travelers is which Cotonou airport to fly into. Here’s a quick guide to Cotonou’s airports and how to get to the city from each:
Cadjehoun Airport (COO)
Welcome to Cadjehoun Airport, your gateway to Benin! Just a hop, skip, and a jump from Cotonou, this airport offers a taste of local charm with essential amenities to kickstart your adventure. While you won't find sprawling shopping malls here, you will find local vendors selling souvenirs and some snacks to grab. Getting to the city center is a breeze with taxis readily available right outside the terminal. Be sure to negotiate the fare before you hop in, and you'll be exploring Cotonou in no time!
Tip: Brush up on your French – it'll come in handy when haggling with taxi drivers!
Other airports
While Cotonou-Cadjehoun Airport (COO) is your primary gateway to the city, consider exploring alternative airports in nearby cities for potentially better deals or connections. Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW) in Togo, approximately 100 miles away, offers international flights and might be an option if you find a significant price difference, but factor in the cost and time for ground transportation to Cotonou, which typically involves a 3-4 hour bus or taxi ride. Lagos Airport (LOS) in Nigeria, is about 6 hours away and could be an option if you are already planning a trip to Nigeria.
What to Do in Cotonou
Cotonou isn’t just about getting there – it’s about enjoying the country once you arrive! Here are some top things to do in Cotonou, organized by interest:
Sightseeing & landmarks
Cotonou is packed with historical and cultural gems! Visit the Dantokpa Market, one of West Africa's largest open-air markets, or explore the Cotonou Cathedral, a beautiful example of colonial architecture.
Arts & culture
Immerse yourself in Cotonou's vibrant art scene. Discover local artists at the Contemporary Art Museum or experience traditional Beninese music and dance performances. Don't forget to check out the Ganvie stilt village.
Food & nightlife
Get ready for a culinary adventure in Cotonou! Sample local delicacies like Akassa and indulge in fresh seafood by the coast. As the sun sets, explore the city's lively nightlife with bars and clubs offering music and entertainment.
Shopping & fashion
Cotonou offers a diverse shopping experience for all tastes. Hunt for unique textiles, clothing, and crafts at local markets. Explore the boutiques for modern fashion finds, blending traditional and contemporary styles.
Nearby getaways
Escape the city buzz with exciting getaways from Cotonou! Visit the serene beaches of Grand-Popo or explore the sacred forests of Porto-Novo. Ouidah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offers a glimpse into Benin's rich history and spiritual traditions.
No matter your interest – be it art, food, nightlife, or nature – Cotonou has something for everyone. And the best part? Many events and attractions refresh throughout the year, so there’s always something new to experience each visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Flights to Cotonou
Pro Tips for Finding Cheap Flights to Cotonou
Finally, to wrap up, here’s a cheat sheet of pro tips that experienced travelers use to save on Cotonou flights:
Be Flexible with Your Dates: Flying on weekdays or during the off-season can seriously slash ticket prices. Think of it as playing travel roulette – you might just hit the jackpot!
Snag Early Bird Deals: Booking your flight well in advance can unlock significant savings. The early bird catches the low fares, so don't snooze on those tickets!
