Taxis & Rideshare in Cotonou (2026) - Apps, Fares & Tips

In Cotonou, the only door-to-door option you will reliably find is the city's fleet of shared taxis and private-hire cars. These vehicles are everywhere, look for the yellow-and-green licence plates and the roof-top "TAXI" sign. To use one, simply stand at any busy corner or hotel entrance and wave. Drivers will stop, roll down the window, and ask your destination. If you need a private ride (no extra passengers), say "course" and negotiate before getting in. For a cheaper shared ride along a common route, say "place" and pay the fixed per-seat fare when you exit. French is the working language, so having your destination written down or shown on a map helps avoid confusion. For more comfort or late-night travel, hotel desks and some restaurants can radio a private car on your behalf. These cars are unmarked but registered with the establishment, and the dispatcher will quote the fare in advance. There is no international rideshare app operating in Benin at present, so the choice is between flagging a street taxi (fastest and most economical) or booking through a hotel (more comfortable, with luggage or after dark). Check current rates in the booking widget below before you travel, and always agree on the fare or confirm the meter before the driver sets off.