Benin is considered to be the cradle of Voodoo. In Benin it is recognized as an official religion, followed by some 40% of the population. Most of the Christian and the Muslim population also incorporate some Voodoo elements into their beliefs.

Voodoo doesn’t have any of the negative connotations it has in the West because here people seek help for different issues – from healing to find a job or finding a spouse up to having a child. In order to get the help from the spirits, often, there are animal sacrifices. During ceremonies people can go into trance.

Every year on 10 January the Voodoo Day is celebrated throughout the country but Ouidah remains the main city for the celebration. This event attracts many African descendants coming back to reconnect with their roots.

The procession follows the route on which slaves were transported from Benin to the West ending at Ouidah beach where the Gate of No Return overlooks the Atlantic Ocean.