Alibori Elephant Habitat

The Alibori elephant habitat in northern Benin is a vital component of the transboundary WAP (W-Arly-Pendjari) national park complex. In this semi-arid savanna landscape, crossed by the Alibori River, one of West Africa's most significant elephant populations finds refuge. The animals rely heavily on the river's watering holes, particularly during the dry season, leading to spectacular gatherings. Protecting this habitat is of international importance, as African savanna elephants in this region are threatened by habitat loss and conflicts with expanding agriculture. The vegetation consists primarily of open woodlands and shrub savannas, providing ample food for these pachyderms. Ranger units regularly patrol the area to prevent poaching and secure the animals' migratory corridors. The habitat also plays an important role in the local ecosystem, as elephants actively shape the landscape by toppling trees and dispersing seeds. Integrating local communities into ecotourism initiatives helps foster support for the protection of these iconic animals.

History & landmarks

Gaya-Malanville Border Bridge

The most strategically important bridge connecting Niger with Benin across the Niger River.

Nature

Niger River (Benin section)

A major international river that forms a natural border between Benin and Niger in the extreme north of the country.

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Alibori River

The Alibori is a tributary of the Niger in northeastern Benin, giving its name to the Alibori Department.

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Sota River

The Sota is a right-bank tributary of the Niger in northern Benin, known for its importance to agriculture.

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Mékrou River

The Mékrou is a tributary of the Niger, flowing through the W National Park in northern Benin.

More places

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Goungoun Forest Reserve

A protected forest area in northern Benin, representing an important transition between dry savanna and gallery forests.

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Kandi Basin

A vast sedimentary basin in northern Benin, the Kandi Basin is known for its relatively flat landscape and sandstone formations.

SODECO Cotton Factory Banikoara

An important ginning plant in the heart of Benin's cotton belt, preparing 'white gold' for export.

Cotton Fields of Banikoara

Banikoara is the capital of 'white gold' in Benin, producing the majority of the country's cotton.

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Niger Valley Plain

The depression along the Niger River in the extreme north of Benin, featuring fertile alluvial plains used for seasonal farming.

Buffalo Range of the W National Park

In the transboundary W National Park, large herds of African buffaloes graze in the floodplains of the Niger River.

Malanville Dry Port

An important logistics hub on the border with Niger, handling cargo transshipment for transit trade into West Africa.

W National Park

A transboundary national park between Burkina Faso, Benin, and Niger.