Ganvié, the village on the lake
Ganvié is a town of thousands of people living in houses on stilts in the middle of Lake Nokoué. Everything happens on the water: the market, the schools, the visits between neighbours. It is often called the Venice of Africa, but it feels like nowhere else.
Where it is
Boats leave from the jetty at Abomey-Calavi, just north of Cotonou. Allow about 40 minutes to get to the jetty, depending on traffic.
How to visit
Buy your boat trip at the official ticket office at the jetty, not from people on the road. Go in the morning, when the floating market is busiest and the light is soft.
Good to know
Always ask before taking photos of people. Many families live here, and a simple question goes a long way.
