Sacred Forest

This forest in Porto-Novo is a wooded area with dense vegetation that serves as a natural habitat where monkeys and other wildlife roam freely. The land contains natural sections where animals can live without disturbance or interference.

The forest has long served as a place where local communities held spiritual ceremonies and performed religious practices central to their traditions. Over time, it became protected land where these ancient customs continue to be honored today.

The forest holds deep spiritual meaning for Porto-Novo residents, who protect trees and plants for religious reasons that have shaped daily practices for generations. Walking through, you sense how central this place remains to the community's identity and values.

Access to the forest is on foot using marked paths that allow visitors to explore safely and observe the surroundings. Early morning or late afternoon visits work best when temperatures are more comfortable for walking.

Certain animals living here, particularly primates, are considered sacred in local beliefs and have been protected from hunting for generations. This long history of protection means animals approach humans more closely than in typical forest settings.