The Taneka villages in Benin, located in the Atacora region, are known for their unique cultural heritage, traditional mud-brick architecture, and their role as a living testament to the rituals and customs of the Taneka people.
Benin: Savalou – The Dankoli Voodoo Temple
The Dankoli Voodoo Temple is one of the most famous and active Voodoo sites in West Africa. It plays a significant role in the practice of Voodoo.
The temple is a sacred site and is a place where people come to seek blessings, make offerings, or resolve problems. It is often visited by those seeking success in business, relationships, fertility, and other life challenges.
There is not much at the site itself. The temple is centred around a large, sacred wooden fetish (or totem), which is believed to embody powerful spirits.
Visitors bring offerings such as palm oil, kola nuts, chickens, goats, or cowries. The most common offering is the pouring of palm oil over the fetish, which is often accompanied by prayers or requests. Rituals include lighting candles, chanting, or making sacrifices to appease or petition the spirits. Often if the request is granted, people return to make a more significant sacrifice – such as a goat.
When we arrived there was a large group from Israel, who were collectively requesting the release of the hostages held in Gaza. They were following the guidance of some locals who were showing them the processes. Later in the day, we heard that a ceasefire was imminent between Israel and Gaza. I am not sure if they knew this already – or whether their request had been miraculously granted. Perhaps they will be back with a goat!
Planning your visit
The best time to visit
The Dankoli Voodoo Temple is one of the most famous and active Voodoo sites in West Africa. It plays a significant role in the practice of Voodoo.
The temple is a sacred site and is a place where people come to seek blessings, make offerings, or resolve problems. It is often visited by those seeking success in business, relationships, fertility, and other life challenges.
There is not much at the site itself. The temple is centred around a large, sacred wooden fetish (or totem), which is believed to embody powerful spirits.
Visitors bring offerings such as palm oil, kola nuts, chickens, goats, or cowries. The most common offering is the pouring of palm oil over the fetish, which is often accompanied by prayers or requests. Rituals include lighting candles, chanting, or making sacrifices to appease or petition the spirits. Often if the request is granted, people return to make a more significant sacrifice – such as a goat.
When we arrived there was a large group from Israel, who were collectively requesting the release of the hostages held in Gaza. They were following the guidance of some locals who were showing them the processes. Later in the day, we heard that a ceasefire was imminent between Israel and Gaza. I am not sure if they knew this already – or whether their request had been miraculously granted. Perhaps they will be back with a goat!
Where to stay in Dassa-Zoumé
Maktub Ecofarm
Maktub Ecofarm, also known as Maktub Ferme Auberge chez Armand, is an eco-friendly guesthouse located in the Ayédèro district of Dassa-Zoumé, Benin. Managed by Armand and Johanna, this family-run micro-farm practices sustainable agriculture, raising sheep, ducks, and turkeys, and cultivating fruits and vegetables with biodiversity-friendly methods.
The accommodation comprises bungalows constructed from local materials, featuring thatched roofs and private bathrooms. Guests can enjoy meals prepared with farm-fresh produce in the on-site restaurant. Additional amenities include free Wi-Fi, barbecue facilities, and a children’s playground
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