Benin 🇧🇯 is a fascinating country located in Western Africa, part of the Africa region. Officially known as Republic of Benin, it is home to roughly 14.5 million people and covers an area of about 112,622 square kilometres.
On this page you will find a complete profile of Benin — its capital Porto-Novo, its people and languages, the money used there, where it sits on the world map, and plenty of facts worth remembering the next time the country comes up in a quiz.
Benin on the map
Benin lies in Western Africa, in the Africa region of the world. Measuring roughly 112,622 square kilometres, it ranks 103rd in the world by total area.
Benin has a coastline as well as land borders with Burkina Faso, Niger, Nigeria and Togo — a crossroads position that has influenced its culture and economy for centuries.
Porto-Novo serves as the capital — the centre of government and, for most travellers, the gateway to everything else Benin has to offer.
Map data © OpenStreetMap contributors
Population and languages of Benin
Benin is home to approximately 14.5 million residents — the 76th largest population on the planet. Its people are known as Benineses.
The main language spoken here is French. Learning even a handful of phrases before a visit goes a long way with locals.
Like every country featured on Spin a Country, Benin rewards curiosity — its festivals, food and everyday customs tell a story that statistics alone never can.
Practical information about Benin
The official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF, symbol Fr). Exchange rates fluctuate, so check current rates before travelling.
The international dialling code for Benin is +229. Websites from the country typically use the .bj internet domain.
If Benin came up on your random spin, take five minutes to memorise its flag, capital (Porto-Novo) and population — these are the three facts most often asked in geography quizzes.
Neighbouring countries
Benin shares borders with 4 countries:
Fun facts about Benin
- Benin's flag emoji is 🇧🇯 — its two-letter country code is BJ and its three-letter code is BEN.
- Benin covers 112,622 km², ranking 103rd in the world by area.
- With about 14.5 million people, Benin holds the 76th spot in the world population ranking.
- Benin is a member state of the United Nations.
- Benin shares borders with 4 countries.
Benin — frequently asked questions
- What is the capital of Benin?
- The capital of Benin is Porto-Novo.
- What is the population of Benin?
- Benin has a population of approximately 14,462,724 people, ranking 76th in the world.
- Where is Benin located?
- Benin is located in Western Africa, part of the Africa region.
- What language is spoken in Benin?
- The main language spoken in Benin is French.
- What currency is used in Benin?
- Benin uses the West African CFA franc (XOF).
