Ganvié has no road access. The only way to reach it is by pirogue from the shore at Abomey-Calavi, about 15 kilometres north of Cotonou. From Cotonou, take a bush taxi or zemidjan (motorcycle taxi) to Abomey-Calavi, then walk or take a short moto ride to the lakeside jetty. The journey from central Cotonou takes about 45 minutes to an hour.
Most visitors go as a day trip from Cotonou. Organised tours from Cotonou hotels include transport to the jetty and a guide. Independent travel is possible — negotiate the pirogue price at the jetty — but be firm, as prices for tourists can be inflated substantially. Going with a local contact or a reputable guide agency reduces the hassle considerably.