Savè Hills
Granite domes rising out of the plain in central Benin, climbed for the view.
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The hills at Savè are granite inselbergs, domes of hard rock left standing when the softer material around them eroded away, rising several hundred metres out of the plain in central Benin with bare rounded surfaces and vegetation only in the cracks. Several can be climbed from the town on scrambling routes, and the tops give a long view across the surrounding country. Rock climbing has been developed on some faces.
What you actually see
- The granite domes - inselbergs rising several hundred metres out of the plain.
- The bare rock - the smooth surfaces with vegetation only in the cracks.
- The summit views - the plain running away in every direction.
- The climbing routes - the faces developed for rock climbing.
When to go
November to February is the cool dry season and the best for climbing. Start early; the rock heats up badly. The rains from April make the surfaces dangerous.
Honest expectations
The rock is smooth and slippery and scrambling routes have real exposure. There is no shade on the domes. A guide from the town is worth taking.
Nearby
Dassa-Zoumè is south, and Parakou is north.
What to pack for Savè Hills
Chosen from what this place is for. Tap a kit for the full checklist.
Opening times, ticket prices and seasonal closures change - check the official source before you go: official site.