Sofitel is proud to announce the opening of the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa, located in Benin, West Africa.
This prestigious addition to Sofitel’s portfolio in Africa reflects the brand’s commitment to strengthening its presence on the continent. Blending luxury with local heritage, the hotel redefines luxury hospitality in the region and exemplifies Sofitel’s pillars of cultural link and refined elegance.
“A pioneer in French luxury hotels for 60 years, Sofitel today embodies refined and committed luxury, combining French elegance and a strong local presence. I am delighted to announce the opening of this first Sofitel in Benin, where I hope that each of our guests will discover the magic of the French art of living, enriched by Beninese culture. I would like to warmly thank all those who have contributed to the opening of this flagship, which also marks our commitment to develop on the African continent, a market with immense potential.” — Maud Bailly, Chief Executive Officer of Sofitel, MGallery, and Emblems
Sofitel’s expansion into Benin is part of the brand’s broader vision for Africa, a continent undergoing rapid transformation. The rate of urbanization is the fastest in the world, with booming cities becoming economic and cultural centres. By 2050, its population is expected to double to more than 2.5 billion, with an increasingly young and dynamic workforce. The rise of the middle class and the increase in domestic and regional tourism underscore the considerable potential for investment in hospitality. As a market leader, Sofitel is committed to strengthening its position in Africa’s major cities. The Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa marks the 16th Sofitel hotel on the continent and sets the stage for continued growth.
Located in Cotonou, the economic capital of Benin and one of the most dynamic hubs in West Africa, the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa is strategically located near the main sites, including the Esplanade des Amazones and the Fishing Route. With a politically stable environment and a rich cultural heritage, Benin is positioning itself as a major destination for tourism and business in the region, focusing on coastal and memorial tourism. As part of the country’s broader economic strategy, the development of a national tourism identity, “Benin: A World of Wonders,” aims to attract more international visitors and elevate Benin on the world stage. With its proximity to the bustling port of Cotonou and just five minutes from Cotonou International Airport, the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa offers a prime location for both business and leisure travellers, on a 29-hectare estate in lush parkland.
Guests of the Sofitel Cotonou Marina Hotel & Spa will enjoy a variety of high-end amenities, including five bars and restaurants offering an international culinary journey. Each of the 198 rooms, comprising fourteen suites and five duplex suites with private pools, offers stunning views of the ocean and the city.
This new flagship not only consolidates Sofitel’s reputation as a leader in luxury hospitality in Africa, but also aligns with Accor’s broader strategy to meet the growing demand for tourism, business travel, and infrastructure development in the region.