Excursion Ganvie village and ouidah sacred forest tour at Cotonou

Discover two important area landmarks of Benin, the village of Ganvie and the Sacred Forest in Ouidah. Ganvie is the largest and most beautiful African stilt village with approximately 25,000 inhabitants, of the Tofinou ethnic group, who build their huts on teak stilts and cover the roofs with a thick layer of leaves. The village's principal economic driver is fishing, and through this and other activities, the village has been able preserve its particular customs and the environment. Despite the long-lasting human presence in a closed environment, the lake is not over-fished. Life is simple in Ganvie, unfolding each day within the canoes that men, women and children, thanks to the brightly colored poles, guide with ease. It is with these canoes that men farm and fish, women deliver goods to the market, children go to school and play.

Also visit Ouidah, conquered by the Dahomey army in the 18^th century and transformed into a terminal for the slave trade. Today the laid-back attitude of the locals mixes with the thunder of the distant waves on the beach. This taken with the rhythm of the drums creates an atmosphere outside of time, very well described by Bruce Chatwin in his book, "The Vice-Roi of Ouidah." Near Ouidah is the Sacred Forest, where people believe that the founder of the town, King Kpasse, turned himself into a tree, which is standing in the middle of the site. The forest is the places for rites and sacrifice in honor of Voodoo and for protection of the town.

Discover both of these landmarks, with time to enjoy a relaxed lunch at Casa del Papa, before making the return 1.5-hour trip to the ship.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Ganvie village, Ouidah, Sacred Forest

Note

Please note: Order of sites visited on this excursion may vary depending upon tour group. This tour involves minimal walking, but there are a few steps to negotiate at the embarkment to reach Ganvie, making it less suitable for guests with walking difficulties. Guests are recommended to wear flat, comfortable shoes.