Nzulezu Stilt Village: A Unique Experience in Ghana
Discovering Nzulezu Stilt Village
Nzulezu Stilt Village is unlike any other place in Ghana. Located near the western coast, close to the border with Côte d’Ivoire, this village is built entirely on stilts above a lagoon. The village is essentially one long pier, known locally as Main Street, with homes on one side and businesses, a school, and a community center on the other. This setup creates a fascinating blend of residential and commercial life, all suspended above water.
A Journey Through History
The origins of Nzulezu are steeped in legend. It is said that the village was founded under the guidance of a protective spirit in the form of a snail, which led the settlers to this location. While the exact historical details are less clear, the village has thrived by adapting to its unique environment. Today, the community relies on fishing, farming on nearby land, and tourism for its livelihood.
Experiencing Local Culture
The Nzema people, who inhabit Nzulezu, have maintained their cultural traditions over generations. Visitors can engage with the locals to learn about their customs and daily life. While the village lacks modern amenities like electricity, the residents have adapted by using car batteries to power televisions and lanterns for light at night. This resourcefulness is a testament to their resilience and ingenuity.
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
The ideal time to visit Nzulezu is during the dry season, from November to March. The weather is more predictable, and the lower water levels make navigation easier. However, if you’re up for an adventure, visiting during the rainy season offers a different perspective as the village adapts to rising waters.
How to Get There
To reach Nzulezu, you’ll need to travel to Beyin in Ghana’s Western Region. From there, a local guide can arrange a canoe ride through the Amansuri Wetlands, a Ramsar site and the largest inland swamp forest in Ghana. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour and offers stunning views of narrow channels, open plains, and the expansive Amansuri Lake. Lifejackets are provided for safety.
Local Transportation
Once in Nzulezu, the primary mode of transportation is on foot. The wooden walkways connecting the stilt houses allow you to explore the village at your own pace. The craftsmanship of the structures and the surrounding landscape provide a unique and memorable experience.
Nearby Attractions
- Ankasa Nature Reserve: A rarely visited rainforest park with the highest rainfall in Ghana, offering a true jungle experience.
- Fort Apollonia: Located in Beyin, this is the westernmost Colonial-era fort in Ghana and easy to visit when arranging your trip to Nzulezu.
- Childhood Home of Kwame Nkrumah: Visit the birthplace of Ghana’s first president for a dose of historical context.
Nzulezu Stilt Village offers a unique glimpse into a way of life that harmonizes with nature. While the journey may be long, the experience of walking through a village suspended above water, engaging with the Nzema people, and exploring the surrounding wetlands makes it a worthwhile adventure for those seeking something truly different.
