ganvie

ganvié, benin

Ganvié, often called the "Venice of Africa," is a unique stilt village on Lake Nokoué in Benin, home to around 20,000 people from the Tofinu ethnic group. Built over 300 years ago, the village was created as a refuge from slave traders, who avoided water due to spiritual beliefs. Today, residents live in wooden houses on stilts, using canoes for transport, fishing, and trade. Visitors can explore the village through guided boat tours, visiting the floating market, schools, and fish farms. The best time to visit is November–March (dry season). Ganvié is accessible via a 30-minute boat ride from Abomey-Calavi, near Cotonou, with tour fees starting at $10–$20 per person.