Things to Do in Ganvié

Ganvié sits in the middle of Lake Nokoué, about 20 kilometers north of Cotonou, and it's genuinely one of those places that makes you do a double-take. Built entirely on stilts over the water, this floating village is home to around 20,000 people who've made their lives on the lake for centuries. The Tofinu people originally settled here in the 16th and 17th centuries to escape slave raiders, taking advantage of a local taboo that prevented their pursuers from venturing onto water. What started as a refuge has evolved into a thriving community where daily life revolves entirely around the lake - from fishing and transportation to commerce and education. You'll find houses, schools, markets, and even a post office all connected by a network of waterways that serve as the village's streets.

Dining in Ganvié itself is fairly limited - you'll find a few simple restaurants serving fresh fish, grilled tilapia, and local specialties like akassa (fermented corn paste), but most visitors eat before or after their lake excursion. The fish here is genuinely excellent though, caught fresh from the lake daily. If you're doing a full-day tour, ask your guide about lunch arrangements - some can organize meals with local families for an authentic experience. For more dining variety, you'll want to head back to Cotonou or Abomey-Calavi, where you'll find everything from street food to upscale restaurants serving both local and international cuisine.

The dry season from November to March offers the most comfortable conditions with lower humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for spending hours on the water. That said, Ganvié is fascinating year-round since daily life continues regardless of weather. The rainy season (April to October) actually has its own appeal - the lake is fuller, vegetation is lush, and there are fewer tourists, though you'll need to be prepared for afternoon downpours. Early morning visits work well any time of year, as temperatures are cooler and the light is beautiful for photography.