TOGO

Togo, a slender nation in West Africa, offers a captivating blend of rich history and diverse landscapes. From its stunning coastline along the Gulf of Guinea to rolling savannas and central hills, Togo’s vibrant culture is shaped by its many ethnic groups and colonial past.

Region: West Africa

Capital: Lomé

Official Language: French. Ewe and Kabiyé are prominent national languages.

Level of Travel Safety: Exercise a high degree of caution. Violent crime, including armed assaults and robberies, is increasing. Be especially vigilant in isolated areas and at night.

A second map of Africa with the country of Togo highlighted in green.

Why Visit Togo?

Untouched Beaches: Discover tranquil, unspoiled beaches along the Gulf of Guinea, perfect for relaxation.

Vibrant Markets: Immerse yourself in the bustling Grand Marché in Lomé, filled with colorful textiles and local crafts.

Diverse Landscapes: Explore Togo’s varied scenery, from coastal plains to lush mountains and savanna.

A vibrant shot of a tropical beach with tall palm trees and a bright blue sky.

Rich Cultural Heritage: Experience the traditions of over 40 ethnic groups through music, dance, and festivals.

Authentic Wildlife: Enjoy quieter safari experiences in national parks like Fazao-Malfakassa, home to elephants and antelopes.

Voodoo Heritage: Learn about the traditional Voodoo religion, an important part of local culture in towns like Togoville.

Two people working in a field of tall, green plants, with one person using a tool.

Essential Trip Information

Most travelers require a visa to enter Togo; check specific rules for your nationality.

E-visa options are available via the official Togolese government portal: https://evisetogo.com

Passport should be valid at least six months beyond your planned stay.

Proof of onward travel and sufficient funds may be requested upon arrival.

Togo uses the West African CFA franc (XOF). Bills: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 francs. Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 francs.

Best Ways to Handle Currency

  • Before Your Trip: It’s advisable to exchange a small amount of XOF before arriving.

  • During Your Trip: ATMs are available in major cities like Lomé, but may be less common elsewhere. Credit/debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted in larger hotels and businesses. Always carry sufficient cash (US$20-50 equivalent) for smaller vendors and rural areas.

  • What to Avoid: High fees at airport currency exchange kiosks.

French is the official language. Ewe and Mina are widely spoken in the south, while Kabiyé is prevalent in the north.

Helpful phrases: “Bonjour” (Hello), “Merci” (Thank you), “Où est…?” (Where is…?).

Violent crime, including armed robbery and carjacking, is increasing.

Avoid walking alone, especially after dark, in isolated areas like public beaches.

Be cautious in crowded markets (e.g., Grand Marché) due to pickpockets.

Do not share taxis with strangers.

Emergency number: 117 (Police), 118 (Fire), 121 (Ambulance).

A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required for entry.

Malaria risk exists throughout the country; antimalarial medication is recommended.

Travel insurance is highly recommended due to potentially expensive healthcare.

Observe food and beverage precautions to avoid traveler’s diarrhea. Tap water is generally not safe to drink; consume bottled or purified water.

Taxis and Moto-taxis: Yellow-plated car taxis and motorbike taxis are common in cities. Negotiate fares before starting your journey.

Bush Taxis: For inter-city travel, these shared private cars or minivans depart when full. You can hire the entire vehicle for more comfort.

No passenger train services.

Car rental is available in Lomé, but road conditions can be poor.

Togo is generally affordable for travelers.

Accommodation

  • Budget guesthouses: US$10–25/night

  • Mid-range hotels: US$40–70/night

  • Limited luxury options mostly in Lomé from US$100+/night

Food

  • Street food and local eateries: US$2–7 per meal

  • Mid-range restaurants: US$10–20 per person

Drinks

  • Beer: US$1–3

  • Soft drinks: US$0.50–1

Transportation

  • Taxi rides: US$1–5 within cities

  • Intercity minibuses: US$5–15 depending on distance

Money-Saving Tips

  • Use local markets for affordable souvenirs.

  • Eat at local maquis (open-air eateries) for authentic cuisine at low prices.

  • Negotiate taxi fares before boarding.

Explore Togo

The vibrant capital city, located on the southern coast along the Gulf of Guinea, known for its bustling Grand Marché and the unique Fetish Market.

A picturesque town in the southwest of Togo, nestled amidst lush mountains and waterfalls, perfect for hiking and exploring the Akouavi and Kpime waterfalls.

A historically significant town situated on the northern shore of Lake Togo, just east of Lomé, deeply connected to Voodoo culture and home to the historic Sacred Heart Cathedral.

Located in the northern part of Togo, this region is famous for the Koutammakou cultural landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring the unique, fortified mud huts of the Batammariba people, known as Tata Somba.

Togo’s largest national park, located in the central region, offering diverse landscapes and opportunities for wildlife viewing, including elephants and antelopes.

A large lagoon on the coast, east of Lomé, ideal for boat tours to local fishing villages, birdwatching, or simply relaxing on its tranquil shores.

A coastal town near the Benin border in the southeast, historically important as a former German Togoland capital, offering peaceful beaches and remnants of its colonial past.

Nestled in the tranquil village of Dzogbegan in the Plateaux Region, this monastery provides a serene escape and a unique glimpse into Togolese spirituality.

Located in the northern part of Togo, near Tandjouare, these historical caves were traditionally used by the Moba tribes as a hiding place, offering a poignant insight into the region’s past.

Togo’s highest peak, located near Kpalimé in the Plateaux Region, offering challenging hikes and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, and even Ghana on clear days.

Smart Travel

Key Advantages:

  • Lowest Prices

  • Fewer Tourists

  • Lush Green Landscapes

  • More Availability in Accommodations

Main Drawbacks:

  • Heavy Rainfall

  • Humidity and Heat

  • Limited Access to Some Rural Areas

  • Outdoor Activities Often Interrupted

Key Regions:

  • Lomé: Enjoy cultural sites with fewer crowds.

  • Kara Region: Experience vibrant local markets in a quieter setting.

  • Plateaux Region: Lush forests and waterfalls with fewer visitors.

Key Advantages:

  • Pleasant Weather with Warm Temperatures

  • Manageable Tourist Numbers

  • Wildlife Viewing Opportunities

  • Festivals and Local Events

Main Drawbacks:

  • Variable Rainfall Early in October

  • Increasing Prices Towards Peak Season

  • Hot and Humid Conditions in Late Dry Season

Key Regions:

  • Kloto (Kpalimé): Cooler highlands perfect for hiking and nature.

  • Fazao-Malfakassa National Park: Best for wildlife and nature excursions.

  • Lomé: Cultural festivals and beach activities.

  • December – January (Holiday Season)

  • Easter Holidays (March – April)

Planning Your Trip

Greetings: Togolese people greet warmly with handshakes and sometimes a slight bow. Use your right hand for greetings and exchanges.

Respect for elders: Always show respect to elders; it is customary to greet them first and sometimes wait for their lead in conversations.

Dress Code: Casual and modest clothing is suitable for everyday sightseeing. For visits to religious sites or villages, cover shoulders and knees. In Lomé’s upscale venues, smart casual is appropriate.

Tipping: Not compulsory but appreciated; typically, 5–10% in restaurants and US$1–2 for hotel staff or guides.

Photography: Always ask permission before photographing people, especially in rural areas or traditional ceremonies.

Politics: Avoid discussing politics openly; it can be sensitive. Focus on cultural and travel topics.

Accommodation:

  • Budget guesthouses and hostels: US$10–30 per night
  • Mid-range hotels: US$40–80 per night
  • Higher-end lodges and hotels: US$100+ per night

Food:

  • Street food/snacks: US$1–3 (e.g., grilled fish, fried dough)
  • Casual local restaurants: US$5–12
  • Upscale dining in Lomé: US$15–30+

Transport:

  • Minibuses (tro-tros): US$0.25–1 per trip within cities
  • Taxis: US$2–10 depending on distance
  • Intercity bush taxis: US$5–20 (varies by route)

Activities:

  • Many cultural sites and markets have low or no entry fees
  • Guided tours or national park entry: US$10–30

Daily Budget:

  • Budget: US$30–50 (basic lodging, street food, public transport)
  • Mid-range: US$60–120 (comfortable hotels, sit-down meals, tours)
  • Luxury: US$150+ (premium lodges, private guides, upscale dining)

Free Wi-Fi: Available in some hotels, cafes, and Lomé’s main spots but often slow and unreliable outside urban centers.

SIM Cards: Local providers like Togo Cellulaire offer prepaid SIMs for about US$5 with data packages ranging US$5–20 for 1–5 GB.

eSIMs: Limited availability; better to buy a physical SIM upon arrival.

Recommended coverage: Medical emergencies, theft, trip cancellations, and delays (road transport can be unpredictable).

Healthcare: Medical facilities outside Lomé may be basic; ensure evacuation coverage is included.

Adventure activities: Check policies for exclusions on activities like hiking or river excursions.

Togo offers a range of accommodations suited to different traveler types:

Luxury:

  • Beach resorts near Lomé and Aneho offering ocean views and upscale amenities
  • Eco-lodges near Fazao-Malfakassa National Park for wildlife enthusiasts

Mid-range:

  • Boutique hotels in Lomé with modern comforts and local charm
  • Guesthouses in Kpalimé known for their tranquil settings and mountain views

Budget:

  • Simple guesthouses and hostels in main towns from US$10–30 per night
  • Basic rural homestays that offer cultural immersion experiences

Unique Stays:

  • Village homestays for authentic Togolese living experiences
  • Riverside lodges close to nature reserves

Tip: Book accommodations in Lomé and popular tourist areas early during the dry season (November to March).

Togo’s transport system is functional but can be basic outside cities. Plan accordingly:

Trains:

  • No passenger train services; rely on road transport.

Buses and Bush Taxis:

  • Minibuses (tro-tros) run regularly between Lomé and other cities; affordable but often crowded.
  • Bush taxis are shared vehicles for intercity travel; faster and more direct but less comfortable.

Flights:

  • Domestic flights are rare; Lomé is the main international airport.

Car Rental:

  • Renting a car is possible in Lomé; 4×4 recommended for rural or park areas.
  • Driving conditions vary; roads can be rough, especially during rainy season (May–October).
  • Note: Driving is on the right side of the road.

Public Transport in Cities:

  • Lomé has taxis and shared minivans; taxis can be negotiated for fares.
  • Walking is often the best way to explore local markets and neighborhoods.

Handy Tips

Togo’s official currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF), fixed to the Euro but not directly convertible to US dollars at every exchange point.

Exchanging Currency: Use banks or authorized exchange bureaus in Lomé or major towns. Avoid airport kiosks due to poor rates.

Using Cards: Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted mainly in Lomé hotels and some restaurants. In rural areas, carry cash as card acceptance is limited.

ATMs: Available in Lomé and major cities but can be unreliable; carry enough cash for rural travel.

Tipping Etiquette:

  • Restaurants/Bars: 5–10% if service is good; gratuity rarely included.
  • Taxis: Round up or tip small change (~$0.50–$1).
  • Hotel Staff: $1 per bag for porters; $1–3 for housekeeping per day.
  • Tour Guides: $5–10 per day, depending on the length and quality of the tour.

French is the official language, widely spoken in government and business. However, many local languages thrive: Ewe, Kabiyé, Mina, and Dagomba.

Useful French phrases:

  • “Où est la station de taxi?” (Where is the taxi stand?)
  • “Combien ça coûte?” (How much does it cost?)
  • “Puis-je avoir un reçu?” (Can I get a receipt?)

In Lomé, English is less common but understood in tourist spots.

Pro Tip: Smile and greet locals in the local language or French—it’s appreciated and opens doors.

Togo is relatively safe but take usual precautions: avoid walking alone at night, especially outside Lomé and in poorly lit areas.

Emergency numbers:

  • 117 or 118: Police
  • 116: Fire
  • 112: Medical emergency

Keep the contact info for your embassy handy, especially if traveling outside Lomé.

Togo uses 220V/50Hz with Type C and E plugs (two round pins).

Visitors from North America or other regions will need a plug adapter and possibly a voltage converter for some devices.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Always use bottled or boiled water for drinking and brushing teeth.

Bottled water is inexpensive and widely available.

In restaurants, ask for bouteille d’eau minérale (bottled mineral water).

Government offices and many businesses close on:

  • 1 Jan: New Year’s Day

  • 27 Apr: Independence Day

  • 1 May: Labor Day

  • 15 Aug: Assumption Day

  • 1 Nov: All Saints’ Day

  • 25 Dec: Christmas Day

Note: Some holidays involve local festivals and can affect transport and accommodation availability.

Shops: Usually open from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, Monday to Saturday; many close on Sundays.

Markets: Bustling morning markets run daily; main market days vary by town.

Supermarkets: Found mostly in Lomé, open 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM.

Fufu: Staple made from cassava or yam, served with spicy sauces.

Koklo Meme: Grilled chicken marinated in a fiery red sauce.

Akume: Corn dough often paired with palm nut or peanut sauce.

Gboma Dessi: Spinach stew with fish or meat.

Djenkoume: Steamed cornmeal cake, common in the south.

Agouti (grasscutter): Local delicacy, hunted wild game.

Pâte: Thick millet or maize paste served with sauces.

Fried Plantains: Popular street food snack.

Koklo Noutchô: Roasted chicken, seasoned with local spices.

Ablo: Steamed fermented corn cakes, usually served with sauce or grilled fish.

Alcoholic:

  • Tchoukoutou (Tchouk): A traditional, locally brewed beer made from sorghum or millet, with a distinct sour-sweet taste. It’s often served in calabashes. A true local experience.

  • Sodabi: A potent, clear palm wine or spirit distilled from palm sap. It can be quite strong, so consume with caution.

  • Local Beers: Popular commercially brewed beers include Castel Beer and Flag.

  • Palm Wine (Vin de Palme): Fresh, unfermented or lightly fermented sap from palm trees, sweet and slightly milky.

Non-Alcoholic:

  • Jus de Bissap (Hibiscus Juice): A refreshing, tangy, and sweet drink made from hibiscus flowers, often flavored with mint or ginger.
  • Jus de Gingembre (Ginger Juice): A spicy and invigorating drink made from fresh ginger, often sweetened.
  • Kinkeliba Tea: A traditional herbal tea known for its refreshing and medicinal properties.
  • Fresh Coconut Water: Directly from the coconut, a hydrating and natural drink, especially by the coast.
  • Various sodas: Locally produced sodas and international brands are widely available.

Koutammakou Landscape: UNESCO-listed Batammariba homeland with traditional mud tower-houses.

Togoville: Historic town famous for its role in voodoo culture and colonial history.

National Museum of Togo: In Lomé, showcasing ethnographic collections.

Voodoo Festival: Annual celebration with colorful ceremonies (usually January).

Aného: Colonial town with old forts and slave trade history.

Craft Markets: Known for weaving, pottery, and woodcarving.

Traditional Dance and Drumming: Central to community life, performances often held during festivals.

Ewe and Kabiyé Heritage: Explore villages to see traditional lifestyle.

Slave Route: Historical sites linked to the transatlantic slave trade.

Sacred Forests: Sites of spiritual importance and biodiversity.

Lomé Beaches: Clean and quiet spots for relaxation (e.g., Plage de Baguida).

Akodessewa Market: The largest voodoo market in West Africa.

Nightlife in Lomé: Bars and clubs along Boulevard du Mono, with live music and dancing.

Traditional Music Shows: Look for drumming and dance evenings at cultural centers.

Boat Trips: On Lake Togo or the Mono River for nature and bird watching.

Horseback Riding: Available near some beach resorts.

Local Cinema: Lomé has a few cinemas showing Togolese and French films.

Sunday Fairs: Artisan markets and food stalls with live music.

Sports: Football is popular, with occasional matches at Stade de Kégué.

Yoga and Wellness: Growing scene in Lomé, some hotels offer wellness packages.

Lomé Waterfront Bars: Chill spots with ocean views, fresh seafood, and cocktails.

Live Afrobeat and Highlife Music: Popular at venues like Le Phare du Canal.

Craft Beer Pubs: Small breweries emerging in Lomé’s expat scene.

Beach Bonfires: Organized by resorts or locals during weekends.

Local Dance Clubs: Play a mix of traditional and modern African music.

Art Galleries: Some host evening openings with drinks and live performances.

Street Food Nights: Sample grilled fish, spicy kebabs, and fried snacks under the stars.

Festival Season: Voodoo and cultural festivals bring vibrant nighttime celebrations.

Wine Tastings: Limited but occasionally available at upscale hotels.

Rooftop Cafés: Increasingly popular for sunset drinks in Lomé’s city center.