Makoko, the famous floating village in Lagos, Nigeria, offers Filipino digital nomads a chance to experience one of the most unique communities in Africa while exploring a different side of Lagos beyond the usual tourist spots. From life on the water to the vibrant local culture, visiting Makoko is an unforgettable experience for travelers looking for meaningful and eye opening adventures.
Arriving at Makoko
As I approached Makoko, I noticed that this place was like no other. The fishing village sits right on the water with stilt houses.
I was amazed to see how the residents here live in an informal settlement, surrounded by water. To get around, everyone would use a boat or wooden canoe, which I found fascinating.
Taking a Canoe Ride
I decided to hop on a canoe myself to get a closer look of the floating city. The ride was smooth, and as I glided through the water, I could see children playing, women cooking, and good fishermen.
Any person will notice that life here moves at a different pace, and the locals work together with the local chief to keep the village running.
The People of Makoko
One thing that stood out to me in the floating slum was how welcoming the Makoko residents are.
Even though their lives might seem challenging, they greeted me with warm smiles.
Many of them were eager to share stories about their community and how they’ve adapted to living on water.
Education on the Water
During my tour, I noticed the local school in the village. It’s incredible to think that children are educated in a floating school!
Like the houses on the lagos mainland, it is built on stilts, and I could hear the sound of laughter and lessons drifting across the water.
Any photographer who would visit the place would want to take photos of the primary school.
Challenges and Resilience
Life in Makoko is not easy. Many people in the community face daily challenges, including limited access to clean water, healthcare, education, and stable income opportunities.
However, I was struck by their resilience. They’ve created a way of life that works for them, despite the difficulties.
The Beauty of the Community
As I floated through the village of shanties, I couldn’t help but admire the simple beauty of Makoko.
The reflection of the wooden houses on the water, the colorful boats, and the peaceful rhythm of daily life – it all left a lasting impression on me, beyond the lens of a camera.
Leaving Makoko
When my tourist journey in the floating community came to an end, I felt grateful for the best experience. I didn’t even miss dry land for a while or the internet connection.
Visiting the Makoko stilts village gave me a new perspective on how supposedly poor people can adapt and thrive – keep each other safe and secure in a place that can come to others as a squalor.
But the Makoko residents still look rich in happiness! If you ever find yourself wanting to experience something different from visiting places like the Ogun state, and don’t mind the waterfront part in Lagos, I highly recommend taking the time to see this floating village.
It’s a place like no other, and the spirit of the residents will stay with you long after you leave. So make sure to get reliable travel insurance for medical emergencies, trip delays, and unexpected situations, pack everything you need for the journey, and book a private tour with a trusted local guide to make the most of your experience!
FAQ
The most prominent language spoken by the local community in Makoko is called Egun and it is a blend of French and other local Nigerian languages.
The main economic activities are fishing, sand dredging and salt making. Men in Makoko are mostly fishers. Some women also fish; others trade fresh or smoked fish or process other people’s catches. The incentives distributed in Makoko by the government (such as fishing nets and powered engines) go mostly to the men.
The Makoko Floating School was a building project of Makoko, Lagos, Nigeria which was developed in 2013. The school was abandoned in March 2016 over safety concerns and collapsed in a storm in June 2016. Subsequent iterations have been proposed.