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Agongointo Underground Town

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Historical site

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The underground town of Agongointo-Zoungoudo near Bohicon is a fascinating archaeological site that was accidentally discovered in 1998 during road construction work. The network consists of approximately 52 subterranean cellars and living spaces believed to have been constructed in the 16th or 17th century during the reign of King Dakodonou. These artificial caverns served as hiding places for warriors and the civilian population during enemy invasions, as well as for food storage. The rooms were excavated into the red laterite soil and feature a constant microclimate that provided relief from the tropical heat. Architecturally, the cellars are characterized by narrow access shafts and interconnected chambers, often equipped with ingenious ventilation holes. Today, the site is managed as an archaeological park, offering visitors insights into the sophisticated defensive strategies of the ancient Kingdom of Dahomey. Agongointo is a unique example of troglodyte architecture in West Africa and remains a significant site for researching the region's pre-colonial military history.

Location: Benin
Top sights: AVOHOU Léonard · Collectivité SENON · YEKPON Charles

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	28	28	28	27	26	25	25	25	26	26	26
Rain mm	15	29	73	102	141	174	176	124	194	142	32	14

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The underground town of Agongointo is open to visitors and can be explored on a guided tour. The underground living quarters and storage chambers are partially lit and accessible.

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Typical hours

Guided tours are typically offered daily, often in the late morning and early afternoon. It is advisable to inquire locally or by phone for the exact departure times.

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Photography

Photography with flash is usually allowed in the underground passages, as the lighting is often dim. In the outdoor area of the site, photos are permitted without restrictions.

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Time needed

The guided tour of the underground town typically lasts about 45 minutes to an hour. Allow extra time for the walk to and from the entrance and for any waiting.

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Combine with

The site is located near Bohicon, making a visit to the lively market of Bohicon worthwhile. The Palace of Abomey, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is also a short drive away.

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Getting there

Agongointo is located about 10 kilometers from Bohicon and is accessible by taxi or motorcycle taxi (Zémidjan). The journey from Bohicon typically takes about 15 to 20 minutes.

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Insider tip

Wear sturdy footwear and bring a flashlight, as some areas of the caves are poorly lit. Ask the guide about the traditional construction methods - the ventilation shafts are particularly impressive.

Geography

Coordinates

7.15800, 2.10500

Facts

The site was discovered by accident in February 1998.
The cellars are located approximately 10 meters beneath the ground surface.
Some rooms served as 'Ahouandodo' (war bunkers) for the Fon warriors.
The entire complex covers an area of about 7 hectares.
Archaeologists recovered pottery shards and tools dating back to the 17th century.
The site development is supported by DANIDA (Danish international aid).

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Licel Cement Plant Bohicon5 km · SEExplore →

Royal Palaces of Abomey13 km · SExplore →

Lama Forest24 km · WExplore →

Lake Azili37 km · NExplore →

Djigbé Forest Reserve44 km · NWExplore →

Hinvi Palm Oil Mill46 km · NWExplore →

Sédent Forest48 km · WExplore →

Couffo River48 km · SExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Agongointo Underground Town (6)

AVOHOU Léonard🌿 nature

Looking out over the subterranean landscape, this viewpoint gives visitors a sense of the hidden network of Agongointo-Zoungoudo underground dwellings.

Collectivité SENON🌿 nature

This communal observation point provides clear sightlines over the historic terrain where ancient warrior hideouts were carved into the earth.

YEKPON Charles🌿 nature

Situated near the archaeological park, this vantage point allows for quiet contemplation of the historic subterranean architecture.

Degueli🏺 historical

Excavations at this site reveal remnants of the subterranean dwellings carved from ferruginous soil to protect 16th-century warriors.

Wankon🏺 historical

This archaeological dig uncovers the complex, interconnected chambers used as a historical refuge during the expansion of the Dahomey kingdom.

Mignonhi🏺 historical

Visitors to these excavated grounds can observe the deep, well-preserved pits that functioned as covert living spaces and armories.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What is the Agongointo underground city?

A system of man-made caves that formerly served as a hideout for warriors.

Is descending into the caves dangerous?

No, there are secured entrances for tourists, but it is cramped.

How much is the entrance fee?

Approximately 2,000 to 3,000 CFA.

Do I need to book a tour?

Visits are always conducted with a local guide on-site.

Who is the visit not suitable for?

People with severe claustrophobia should avoid the descent.

Agongointo Underground Town: where is it located?

Agongointo Underground Town is located in Benin.

Agongointo Underground Town: what is there to see?

Highlights include AVOHOU Léonard, Collectivité SENON, YEKPON Charles.

Agongointo Underground Town: when is the best time to visit?