Ganvie is a distinctive village located in the West African country of Benin. One of the most notable things of interest about the place is that it is situated entirely on water. The locals and tourists of the village often call the town the “Venice of Africa. Ganvie is home to a population of 20,000. Further, they have a long history dating back to the 16th century.
The residents of Benin, Tofinou people, who were looking to escape the slave trade prevalent in the region, found Ganvie. Legend has it that a vision of the serpent that instructed them to settle in a lake inspired the Tofinou people to build their village on the water. This is why the village is sometimes called “the village on stilts.”
The residents have settled the village near Cotonou on Lake Nokoué, the largest lake in Benin. The Tofinu people constructed their homes and businesses on stilts that rise above the water, creating a canal network that serves as the village’s main transportation system. The villagers use canoes to navigate the town, and visitors can take boat tours to explore the waterways.
Despite its unusual location, Ganvie is a thriving community with its schools, markets, and places of worship. The people of Ganvie rely heavily on fishing for their livelihood, and many of the homes in the village have fish farms beneath them. The villagers also cultivate crops such as maize, cassava, and vegetables on small plots of land.
Meanwhile, Tourism is a significant industry in Ganvie. Visitors come from all over the world to experience the unique lifestyle of the village. However, the village’s popularity has also led to some challenges, such as overcrowding and pollution of the lake. The people of the area are sincerely addressing these issues, such as the construction of a waste management system and regulations on boat traffic in the village.
For those who have yet to visit Benin, there is no doubt that Ganvie is a fascinating and vibrant village that offers a glimpse into a way of life unlike any other. Its history, culture, and location on the water make it a must-see destination for anyone visiting Benin
