Lake Nokoué, Protected wetland system near Cotonou, Benin
Lake Nokoué is a large wetland system in southern Benin that connects to the Atlantic Ocean through the port city of Cotonou. The waters receive significant inflow from the Ouémé River and create an ecosystem that supports many fish species.
The lake was designated as a Ramsar Protected Area in 2000 alongside the Porto-Novo Lagoon to safeguard its ecological importance. This international recognition marked a turning point in efforts to preserve the wetland.
Communities living around the lake practice fishing methods that have been passed down through generations, using small wooden canoes and special fish breeding structures called Acadja. This way of life remains central to how people here spend their days and connect with the water.
Visitors will find the best conditions for exploration between November and June, when water levels are lower and more of the landscape becomes visible. Hiring a local guide helps navigate the wetland safely and understand what you are seeing.
The water is home to around 78 fish species, many of which are found nowhere else in the area. This variety of life makes the lake a place where you can sense the richness of Africa's aquatic ecosystems.
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