World's Largest Floating Village | Ganvie: The Venice of Africa

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Published Oct 30, 2025

Synopsis in a nutshell: Somewhere in West Africa, in the southern region of Benin, lies a remarkable town unlike any other: Ganvié, often nicknamed the "Little Venice of Africa." This unique settlement is home to a community of resilient fisherfolk who have built their lives entirely around the water.

Synopsis: In Ganvié, there are no streets, pavements, or conventional paths. Instead, narrow wooden pirogues glide gracefully across the water, serving as the primary means of transportation. The houses here stand proudly above the surface, elevated on wooden stilts that protect them from the lake's ebb and flow. It’s a place where the ground beneath your feet is replaced by rippling waters, and every journey—whether to school, the market, or a neighbor's home—is made by boat.

With a population of approximately 35,000 inhabitants, Ganvié is a thriving town with a rich history and culture, built entirely on the tranquil waters of Lake Nokoué. Its existence is a testament to human ingenuity, born from the need for refuge centuries ago, when people sought to escape the reach of slave raiders. Today, the town remains a living, breathing example of a harmonious relationship between humanity and nature, offering a glimpse into a way of life both timeless and extraordinary.