Ganvie is the fishing village of Benin. What is the most interesting thing to watch in Ganvie is the thatched bamboo huts of the inhabitants of Ganvie perched on the stilts of the lake. The huts are also constructed of mangrove poles. Ganvie is also referred to as the African Venice. This is the residence of about 25,000 Tofinus people.
Ganvie, Benin is a very popular day trip from Cotonou. The village will give a glimpse of the vibrant and colorful lives of the local people. The ride on the lake is a pleasurable experience.
Visitors can take motor boats or small wooden boats which are known as the pirogues. The local guides help to pool through the lagoon. It is better to hire a local guide as they are aware of minute details of the place. The guides are available at an affordable price and they are found at Pirogue Rental place. Women selling fish, fruits, and vegetables from the pirogues are really a charming sight to watch.
Ganvie in Benin is just an hour’s ride from Cotonou. It is better to reach in Ganvie in the morning when the weather is very pleasant. A trip to Benin remains incomplete without visiting Ganvie.