LAC
           TOHO

…….. a site for migratory birds

The Site 

Lac Toho, near the village of Kpinnou, is a pleasant trip 95 km east of Cotonou.  Here, visitors discover many species of migratory birds and aquatic plants, and enjoy the daily life in an African village. Visitors will have the chance to explore the area by walking around the lake and taking a traditional canoe.  You will be able to find food and lodging in the city of Lokossa, which is less then 15 km from Lac Toho.  Take the opportunity to discover our local cuisine like, le manioc pilé(pounded manioc), les poissons d’eau douce(ocean fish), and la viande d’aulacode(agouti or cane rat).
Lac Toho is an ornithological site where visitor can see many species of migratory birds.   On the lake our guides will host you with enthusiasm and are ready to show you the lake; where you will see flocks of birds, aquatic plants, traditional fishing methods.  On the shore and the surrounding areas of the lake visitors will see women selling fish, washing their laundry and tending their gardens.  Along with the areas beautiful vegetation, there are also many voodoo fetishes and idols that protect the lake, the village and promote high agricultural yields.     

Commuinty-Based Ecotourism

By visiting Lac Toho, it is participating in the community’s development of the local populations.  All money received through ticket sales directly benefits the community of Kpinnou.  Your participation is protecting and safeguarding the lives of the of the hippos, birds and other aquatic flora and fauna.

 
Species of birds observed    

Spotted Redshank		 Sacred Ibis

Black Crake
Black Stork		 Common Stilt
Abdim’s Stork
Lily Trotter		 Cattle Egret
White-faced
Whistling-Duck
How to Find the Site

Threats

The life of the birds and their habitats are under pressure by humans day-in and day-out.  The birds and their eggs are hunted by villagers to sell on the black market.  A pair of tropical birds can sell for 50.000 CFA (100 USD) and are sent to zoo’s and pet stores.  During the raining season the villagers plant thier gardens on the shore of the lake where the birds make their nests.  This competition continues during the dry season when birds and humans move their activities to the areas with abundant water.  Migratory birds are also used in many traditional religious ceremonies (voodoo). 
 

 

Things to Bring

  • Shoes and clothes for hiking and water

  • Sunscreen
  • Insecticide
  • Potable water
  • Sunglasses
  • Binoculars
  • Photo and video cameras

Life jackets will be provided

Project Partners
AVPN-ONG  

IUCN / SWP

The village of Kpinnou

Peace Corps 

 

Genral Information

Price Foreigners :  3000 FCFA
Price Nationals : 1000 FCFA
Cost includes photographs and pirogue

Contact Us Today!!!

AVPN-ONG
BP 57
Dogbo, Benin

 Tel: (229) 46 32 35 / 92 15 97
Fax: (229) 46 32 67

Website : http://hippobenin.gq.nu

 E-mail: hippobenin@yahoo.fr

 

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