Drone captures Benin's water village, Ganvie, thriving like "Africa's Venice"
In the West African country of Benin, the village of Ganvie, established on Lake Nokoue by those who escaped slavery in the 17th century, was photographed by drone.
- World
- Published Date: 03:10 | 04 May 2026
- Modified Date: 03:11 | 04 May 2026
With around 30,000 residents, the village on water can be reached by a half-hour boat ride from the country's largest city, Cotonou.
The local people, who spend most of their days on boats, are known as "water people."
Famous as the "Venice of Africa," the village's inhabitants make a significant portion of their living through fishing.
In the village, which has schools and places for worship, the locals have sustained their lives on water for centuries.
The village, which has grown over time, is one of the most visited areas by tourists in the country.
Some parts of dry land are also present over the lake. The villagers meet their needs from floating markets, sometimes engaging in barter trade.
Students travel to school by boats in the village, which was captured on drone footage.