Silversea Expedition Cruises A COTONOU

Experience the local lifestyle and traditions of Cotonou and Ganvie during this memorable, half-day sightseeing excursion.

Abomey-Calavi and Ganvie Stilt Village

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to Abomey-Calavi. Upon arrival, embark a motorboat for a cruise on Nokoue Lake en route to Ganvie, Africa's largest stilt village. On arrival begin your guided tour along the narrow alleyways between the stilt houses and take in some local entertainment. Afterward, embark the motorboat and return to Abomey-Calavi.

Cotonou Craft Market

Next, drive to bustling Cotonou for a visit to the Cotonou Craft Market. Upon arrival, some free time is made available to browse the market for souvenirs. Following your visit, re-board your coach for the brief drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Souvenir shopping is available at the craft market. Cash in US Dollars and Euros are acceptable. No Credit Cards. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Guides and transport are the best available but may fall short of your expectations. Vehicles, equipment and guides may not be to Western standards but are the best available in this particular area. Order of sites may vary.

Explore the storied history, traditional lifestyle and unique religion of Benin during this full-day excursion to Ouidah and Ganvie.

Ouidah, Kpasse Sacred Forest, History Museum

Depart the pier for the drive west to Ouidah, the 'Voodoo City' of Benin. Upon arrival, visit the Kpasse Sacred Forest, a wooded area dotted with voodoo sculptures, and observe a brief ritual dance. Leaving the forest, re-board your coach and head to the Museum of History, a former Portuguese slave fort. Following your visit, drive along the Slave Route to the imposing Door of No Return.

Lunch, Abomey-Calavi and Ganvie

Next, proceed for a buffet lunch at a beachfront restaurant. After lunch, continue on to Abomey-Calavi. Upon arrival, embark a motorboat for a cruise on Nokoue Lake en route to Ganvie, Africa's largest stilt village.

Ganvie Walking Tour

After disembarking your motorboat, take a guided tour of Ganvie. Stroll through the narrow alleyways between the stilt houses, and stop at a local souvenir shop before embarking the motorboat for the return cruise to Abomey-Calvi. Your tour concludes with an approximately 45-minute drive back to the pier.

Please note: This tour requires a moderate amount of walking and is not suitable for guests with limited mobility or those who utilise a wheelchair. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. Photo and video taking are prohibited inside the museum. Souvenir shopping is available in Ganvie. Cash in US Dollars and Euros are acceptable. No Credit Cards. Local conditions may be challenging; therefore, we urge flexibility and understanding as we visit unique and somewhat remote destinations. Guides and transport are the best available but may fall short of your expectations. Vehicles, equipment and guides may not be to Western standards but are the best available in this particular area. Order of sites may vary.