Ganvié is located in the Lake Nokoué, southern Benin. The city stands on the waters of the lake, supported by small islets that make up a series of bustling and chaotic channels. Its origin dates back to the 18th century, when the Tofi people took refuge in the middle of the lake to flee from the slavery by the Fon ethnic group, since the Fon religion forbade them to attack in water.

People move in rowing boats in this aquatic labyrinth and no motorboats are allowed because they scare the fish and pollute the waters. They live off fishing, and every morning in the floating market, a parade of women in colorful boubous arrive in their rickety canoes, loaded with fruit or vegetables.

The morning self-washing is done in the lake, where the children learn to row before they can walk. Religious festivals and voodoo make their inhabitants to dress in white. It is an irresistible place for any photographer, despite the difficulties of taking photos. It is a lake world that still treasures the magic of black Africa full of life, color and mystery.