10 Things to Do in Ganvie Floating Village (Village Flottant de Ganvie) Porto-Novo Benin
Ganvie Floating Village (Village Flottant de Ganvie) is an incredible site in Porto-Novo, Benin, located in the middle of Lake Nokoué. This picturesque village is made up of stilt houses, boats, and canoes, and is one of the most remarkable places to visit in West Africa. The village is home to the Tofinu people, who have lived here for centuries, and it is a great place to explore and learn about the culture and history of the region. Here are 10 things to do when you visit the Ganvie Floating Village.
1. Explore the Stilt Houses
The most iconic feature of the Ganvie Floating Village is its stilt houses. These houses are built on top of the lake, and are connected by a network of walkways and bridges. Take a stroll through the village and admire the unique architecture and design of the stilt houses.
2. Take a Boat Tour
One of the best ways to explore the Ganvie Floating Village is to take a boat tour. You can find boat tours that will take you around the lake and give you a glimpse of life in the village. You can also find boat tours that will take you to other nearby villages, such as Agoue, where you can learn more about the Tofinu culture.
3. Visit the Market
The Ganvie Floating Village has a lively market where you can find a variety of goods, such as food, clothing, and souvenirs. This is a great place to get a taste of the local culture and buy some unique items.
4. Learn About the Tofinu People
The Tofinu people are the original inhabitants of the Ganvie Floating Village, and have been living here since the 17th century. Take a tour of the village and learn about the history and culture of the Tofinu people.
5. Go Fishing
The waters of Lake Nokoué are home to a variety of fish, and fishing is a popular activity in the Ganvie Floating Village. Rent a canoe or boat and try your hand at fishing for tilapia, catfish, and other local species.
6. Visit the Voodoo Temple
The Voodoo Temple, located in the Ganvie Floating Village, is an important site of worship for the Tofinu people. Take a tour of the temple and learn more about the traditional religion of the Tofinu people.
7. Take a Cooking Class
The Ganvie Floating Village is a great place to learn about the local cuisine. Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional dishes, such as fufu, akassa, and sakpata.
8. Go Bird Watching
The Ganvie Floating Village is a great place for bird watching. The lake is home to a variety of bird species, including egrets, herons, and kingfishers. Take a walk around the lake and see what kinds of birds you can spot.
9. Take a Hike
The Ganvie Floating Village is surrounded by lush forests and hills. Take a hike and explore the surrounding area. You might even spot some wildlife, such as monkeys and antelopes.
10. Relax and Enjoy the Views
The Ganvie Floating Village is a beautiful and peaceful place. Take some time to relax and enjoy the views of the lake and the stilt houses. It is a great place to just sit back and take in the beauty of the village.
Ganvie Floating Village is a unique and fascinating place to visit. Whether you are interested in exploring the stilt houses, learning about the Tofinu people, or just relaxing and enjoying the views, there is something for everyone at Ganvie Floating Village.