Bazoulé Sacred Crocodile Pond

The village of Bazoulé keeps a pond holding a hundred or so West African crocodiles that tradition holds saved the villagers from thirst centuries ago, and the relationship since has been one of respect rather than fear: the animals are fed chickens, are not hunted, and villagers wash and draw water at the same pond. Guides call the crocodiles out onto the bank with a chicken, and visitors are invited to sit behind them.

What you actually see

• The crocodiles - around a hundred animals living in and around the village pond.
• The feeding - the chickens used to bring the animals out onto the bank.
• The coexistence - villagers using the same water the crocodiles live in.
• The origin tradition - the story of the crocodiles leading the village to water.

When to go

November to February is the cool dry season and the animals are most active on the bank. March to May is extremely hot. The rains from June raise the pond.

Honest expectations

Sitting behind a wild crocodile is exactly as risky as it sounds, and the practice draws criticism. The animals are fed for visitors, which shapes their behaviour. A guide is required and fees are collected.

Nearby

Ouagadougou is east, and Sabou is west.