Tanougou Falls, Waterfall in Atakora Mountains, Benin
Tanougou Falls cascades down through the Atakora Mountains in multiple stages, creating a series of natural pools as the water drops over rock formations. The waterfall sits near the edge of Pendjari National Park in northern Benin.
The falls formed over centuries as water eroded through the Atakora mountain range, carving out the rock formations seen today. This ongoing geological process continues to shape the landscape of northern Benin.
Local communities incorporate the waterfall into their traditional ceremonies, using the natural site for rituals that connect them to their ancestral practices.
Visit between May and September when rainfall fills the pools with more water and makes for better views. The paths to the falls can become slippery, so wear shoes with good grip and move carefully along the rocks.
The different pools allow visitors to jump from various heights into the water, testing their comfort level as they move between levels. This natural setup makes the falls a popular spot for swimming and water play.
GPS coordinates: 10.80537,1.44450
Latest update: December 6, 2025 17:47
Benin brings together centuries of history with landscapes that shift from the Atlantic coast to protected wilderness areas inland. The country holds places where royal dynasties left their mark, like the Royal Palaces of Abomey with walls decorated by Fon artisans, and coastal towns such as Ouidah where Portuguese forts now house museums telling the story of the region's complex past. In the north, Pendjari and W National Parks shelter elephants, lions, and leopards across savannas that stretch into neighboring countries, while along the coast, beaches like Coco Beach and Fidjrosse offer access to the Gulf of Guinea. Daily life unfolds in spaces that reveal how people have adapted to their surroundings. Ganvié sits above Lake Nokoué, a settlement where wooden houses stand on stilts and canoes serve as the main way to move from place to place. In Cotonou, Dantokpa Market spreads out near the Ouémé River, filled with vendors selling everything from cloth to herbs. Churches built during the colonial era, including the red and white striped cathedral in Cotonou, punctuate the cities. Whether you're drawn to wildlife, the layers of human history, or the rhythm of markets and waterfront communities, Benin provides a window into West Africa that mixes old traditions with everyday moments still taking shape.
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