Hunting Dates in Benin’s ATAKORA Region: Hunting Seasons, Opening and Closing Dates, Licenses, Rules and Periods for Hunting

The Atakora region , located in northwestern Benin, is known for its rich biodiversity and excellent opportunities for trophy and sport hunting. However, to legally and safely engage in hunting activities, it is essential to be familiar not only with the local wildlife but also with legislative requirements. Hunting seasons in this region are set annually by the Beninese government, taking into account climatic conditions, ecological balance, and international agreements. The official hunting season in Atakora typically opens in early October and closes at the end of March the following year. These dates are determined by seasonal migration patterns and animal activity, as well as the need to preserve wild species populations. Unlike other regions of the country — for example, southern Benin — hunting in Atakora begins later due to higher humidity and a prolonged rainy season. In recent years, there has been a gradual extension of the hunting season by 2–3 weeks, linked to changing climate conditions and increased tourist flow. Seasonal Activity of Game Animals and Birds Depending on the type of game, hunting seasonality in the Atakora region varies. Large game , such as antelopes, buffalos, and deer, is most active during the dry season — from November to January . During this time, animals gather around water sources, making them easier to locate and track. For small game , including quails, pheasants, and other birds, the best period is February and early March , when molting ends and feeding activity increases. Local hunters also highlight the peak animal activity periods — early morning hours (from 5 to 8 AM) and evening twilight (from 5 to 7 PM). During these times, encounters with large game become significantly more likely. Every November, the traditional hunting festival "Djougou Festival" takes place, bringing together professional hunters, guides, and enthusiasts from various countries. This event combines elements of the region's cultural heritage with practical demonstrations of hunting skills. Restrictions and Bans During Hunting in Atakora Beninese legislation strictly regulates hunting, especially within national parks and reserves in the region. Some species are under state and international protection. For example, elephant , rhinoceros , and leopard are completely excluded from hunting lists. There are also restrictions based on gender and age of animals : it is prohibited to hunt females with cubs, as well as young individuals that have not yet reached sexual maturity. This rule applies to animals such as impala, bubal hartebeest, and waterbuck. Full hunting bans are in effect throughout the entire rainy season — from April to September. Additionally, temporary restrictions apply during breeding seasons of certain species to prevent population decline. Hunting Permit in Atakora, Documents and Club Assistance To gain the right to hunt in Benin, you must obtain a national hunting license , issued by the Ministry of Environment and Forestry. The licensing process includes: Submitting an application through an accredited hunting organization or tour operator; Providing a medical certificate and a safety training certificate; Paying the state fee (approximately $100–150 per season); Receiving a special hunting pass for a specific area. Many foreign hunters prefer working through local hunting clubs , such as “Atakora Safaris” or “Bénin Hunting Club”, which assist with paperwork, equipment rental, and route planning. Liability for Violating Hunting Rules, Fines and Consequences Violations of hunting schedules, illegal hunting of protected species, or hunting without a license are severely punished. Fines can range from $500 to $2,000 , depending on the severity of the violation. Repeat offenses may result in weapon confiscation, administrative detention, and a ban on entering the country for hunting purposes for up to five years. Criminal liability is also in place for killing protected species — for example, illegally hunting an elephant can lead to imprisonment of up to two years and a fine of $5,000 . Tips for Preparation, Choosing Timing, Gear, and Tactics Selecting the right time and location for hunting plays a key role in success. It is best to plan your trip in November–January , when the weather is dry, grass is low, and animals are concentrated near water sources. For big game hunting, rifles in .308 Win or .375 H&H Magnum caliber are recommended, along with quality optics and rangefinders. Shotguns in 12-gauge with various chokes are suitable for bird hunting. Tactics vary by season: at the beginning of the hunting season, ambush hunting near watering holes is effective, while at the end of the season, driven hunts using dogs and guides are preferred. Wind direction should also be considered, and appropriate times of day should be selected. Safety and knowledge of the rules are the foundation of successful hunting in Atakora. Before traveling, it is advisable to consult with local experts and carefully study current regulations and seasonal changes.