Unlike the UK, Benin is not well-endowed with fun places for young children to play. Until NOW that is…

A few months back ‘MAGIC LAND’ opened just opposite the airport in Cotonou. Our first visit (back in December) was a little disappointing. However, since then they have got their act together somewhat, and it really is a fun day out for parents and kids alike (well, let’s say a fun half-day). Here’s a brief low-down of its attractions:

Merry-go-round, dodgems, flume ride, up-and-down-froggy ride, large bouncy castle, trampolines, mini roller-coaster, mini-helicopters, rodeo bull, ball pool and various electronic games.

In fact, when we went today, our kids had their first experience of playing tennis using wii technology. Wow – clever stuff! As I’m going through a ‘multi-photo collage’ phase at the moment (in case you hadn’t noticed) here’s another one showing what Magic Land has to offer:

There’s also a small café which does fairly edible pizzas and the like. There is a strict notice as you go into the park, saying: “For the well-being and education of our children, no smoking or alcoholic drinks are allowed in the park.” Good idea, but we did laugh when we noticed that the café in the park actually sells beer!!

It’s 500cfa for kids to get in and 1000cfa for adults (about 50p and £1 respectively). Then rides are 500cfa each, but the dodgems are 1,000cfa per car. Not bad value for money! Health and safety standards are reasonable, though not like back home. The park even has litter bins and decent toilets (is this really Africa?!?)

So…fed up of taking your kids to the beach or the pool? There’s now an alternative – Magic Land. Have fun!