While Togo might not be the first place that comes to mind when considering a trip to West Africa, those who take the time to explore this small nation will find that it has a lot to offer. Togo is a secret treasure that is just waiting to be explored, with its beautiful beaches, energetic marketplaces, and intriguing cultural attractions. It is a little nation that lies between Ghana and Benin yet is frequently disregarded by travellers. But that’s exactly what makes it so unique. It is hard to find a travel experience as distinctive as Togo’s, with its unspoiled natural beauty and genuine culture.
Located in West Africa, Togo is tucked between Ghana, one of the region's best-known countries, and Benin, the birthplace of vodou (also known as voodoo). To the north, it shares a border with Burkina Faso. Stretching about 579km (360 mi) from north to south, this country is only 160km (100 mi) wide.
Citizens of about 15 African countries, including Benin, Ghana and Nigeria, can enter Togo without a visa. Citizens of any other countries can get a visa on arrival for up to 7 days, and if needed, it is possible to extend it for a maximum of 90 days.
The best time to visit Togo is during the dry season, which runs from November to March. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and dry, with cooler temperatures and lower humidity levels. This makes it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and exploring the country's many cultural and historical sites.
To get around locally, the most common mode of transport are taxi-motos and a one-way short trip will usually cost anywhere between around 200-500 CFA (0.35-0.85 USD), while longer trips within the city cost around 2,500 CFA (4.20 USD). Taxis are also available, they are yellow in color and their registration number is usually painted on the car.
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A basic cheap meal in Togo will cost around 2,500 CFA (4.20 USD) per person, while a meal at a mid-range restaurant runs about 4,000 CFA (6.75 USD) per person.
Let's explore some of the must-see attractions and activities that Togo has to offer.
Must-See Attractions and Activities in Togo
Whether you are passing through or settling down, there are some absolute must see’s and things to do in Lomé! Here are some highlights:
1. Explore Lomé
The capital of Togo is colorful and full of life. Visit the Grand Marché market and try local and exotic produce. Check out the Lomé cathedral, which has German influence nearby and visit the West African Art Museum.
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- Grand Marché: Enjoy the hectic market environment. Buy mangoes and browse around eating them in the midday sun. Chat with the vendors and learn about their lives.
- Lomé Cathedral: The Lomé Cathedral looms over the Grand Marché and so you can easily visit it while exploring the market.
- Monument de l’Independence: Although it takes just a few minutes to see, seeing the Monument de l’Independence is still one of the best things to do in Lomé.
- The National Museum: The National Museum is small but houses a collection of cultural and historical artifacts. From tools to clothing to musical instruments, it is a great place to catch a glimpse of Togolese culture.
- West African Art Museum: This museum houses a very large collection of original African art from the entire Western and Central African regions. There are a LOT of pieces to see. They are primarily wooden sculptures but there are other objects that are very cool.
- Beaches: You can’t visit a city next to the ocean without going to the beach! Togo has some amazing beaches and you can easily visit some of them from Lomé!
2. See Traditional Housing in Koutammakou
The mud tower dwellings in this town were built using the same designs for generations, a basic structure built over two floors with dedicated space for all the basics, including animals. They are a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
One of the most remarkable places to explore is Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in northern Togo, near the border with Benin. The Batammariba are renowned for their mud-brick tower houses, called takienta, which some liken to small castles.
3. Relax at Coco Beach
Togo is full of beautiful beaches with coconut trees and wide sandy areas. Coco Beach is one of the more popular beaches, with a lot of food options around for those wishing to spend the day.
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4. Go Hiking in Kpalimé
The countryside in Togo offers lush vegetation, waterfalls, and those looking for an active way to spend the day will love hiking up Mount Agou. On clear days, Ghana can be seen from the top.
Mt Kloto is a modest mountain near Kpalimé in southwestern Togo. The mountain stands 710m (2,330 ft) tall, so most people don’t come here to be blown away by its height. Instead, they visit to take on a hiking trail through the dense forest, enjoying panoramic views and spotting butterflies - more than 500 species can be found here.
5. Spot Local Wildlife
Explore the local wildlife in Togo. Parc Sarakawa is a great location to see ostriches, buffaloes and antelopes, while elephants can be seen at Fazao Majakassa National Park.
Togo has three national parks, and Fazao Malfakassa is the largest. Here’s where you really feel the benefit of Togo being an overlooked country by most tourists, because you won’t find many in the national park either. Enjoy hiking through its lush forest in search of waterfalls and wildlife. The park is home to elephants, antelopes, monkeys, buffalo, and more than 200 bird species.
Other Activities and Attractions
- Akodessewa Fetish Market: To understand the Akodessewa Fetish Market, you might need to rethink your definition of the word fetish. No, it’s not about toes or handcuffs. In the world of voodoo, a fetish is an object believed to hold supernatural or magical powers, often used as a charm or talisman. That’s exactly what you’ll find at Akodessewa Fetish Market, in the form of animal skins, bones, dried herbs, and a concoction of other things that might surprise you.
- Grand Marché in Lomé: A slightly different kind of market from Akodessewa, the Grand Marché in Lomé is a maze of colour, energy, and entrepreneurship. This bustling marketplace stretches across an entire city block, overflowing with vendors selling everything from vibrant wax prints and handcrafted goods to fresh produce and fragrant spices. What sets Grand Marché apart is its rich history of female business owners. The legendary Nana Benz, a group of savvy businesswomen, rose to prominence here, dominating the trade of luxurious wax print fabrics.
- Sacred Heart Cathedral: A quick stop but a top thing to do in Lomé is the Sacred Heart Cathedral. Built in 1901 by German colonists, it became and still is one of Togo’s most iconic religious landmarks.
- International Museum of the Gulf of Guinea: If you want to learn some history and culture, head to the International Museum of the Gulf of Guinea in Lomé.
- Lake Togo: Lake Togo is actually the largest lagoon in Togo, located just east of Lomé. While many visit to enjoy the lake's serene nature, watch for birds, ride in a canoe, and go fishing, the towns on its shoreline are just as much of an allure. The most popular include Togoville, Aného-Glidji, and Agbodrafo.
- Aneho Beach: No visit to Togo is complete without grabbing your towel, putting on your swimsuit, and heading to the beach. Close to the Benin border, Aneho Beach, with its golden sands and swaying palm trees, is a welcome escape from the hustle of Lomé and its busier shores.
- Kara: Togo’s second-largest city offers a different vibe from the capital of Lomé with its strong Islamic influence. The city is home to the Tem (Kotokoli) people, known for their rich traditions such as music, dance, wrestling events, and lively festivals.
- Mt Agou: Standing proudly at an elevation of 986m (3,235 ft), Mt Agou is Togo’s tallest peak and one of the best places to go hiking. Trails are well-marked, and there’s something to tackle no matter your fitness level.
- Bafilo: Bafilo, in northern Togo, is famous for its traditional cloth, which has been woven and worn for generations. The vibrant colours and intricate patterns carefully crafted onto the fabrics each tell a story of the local culture and heritage.
Togo Travel Guide
Welcome to Togo, a small West African country known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and warm hospitality. Togo is bordered by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east, and Burkina Faso to the north, and boasts a diverse mix of cultures and traditions, with over 40 ethnic groups living within its borders.
One of the main draws of Togo is its beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Guinea, including the popular resort town of Lomé, the capital city. Visitors can also explore the lush forests and national parks, such as Fazao-Malfakassa National Park and the Togodo Reserve, which are home to a variety of exotic animals and bird species.
Togo's rich cultural heritage is reflected in its vibrant music, dance, and art scenes, with festivals and celebrations taking place throughout the year. Visitors can also experience traditional Togolese cuisine, which includes dishes such as fufu and soup, grilled fish, and a variety of stews.
Whether you're looking for adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, Togo has something to offer every type of traveler. So come and experience the warmth and hospitality of this fascinating West African country.
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Getting Around in Togo
Public Transportation: To get around locally, the most common mode of transport are taxi-motos and a one-way short trip will usually cost anywhere between around 200-500 CFA (0.35-0.85 USD), while longer trips within the city cost around 2,500 CFA (4.20 USD). Taxis are also available, they are yellow in color and their registration number is usually painted on the car.
Bus: Buses are the most common mode of transport when it comes to long distance travel. There are various companies to choose from, but one of the most reliable is Rakieta.
Car: Bush Taxis are another common way of traveling long distance, and they range from smaller cars to minivans that fit up to 15 persons. They tend to be slow but they can travel anywhere around the country.
Travel Tips for Togo
Here are some travel tips for Togo that can help you have a safe and enjoyable trip:
- Get vaccinated: Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccinations before traveling to Togo. In addition, some travelers may need specific vaccinations, such as yellow fever, depending on their itinerary.
- Dress appropriately: Togo is a conservative country, and it's important to dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing, shorts, or tank tops, and opt for lightweight, loose-fitting clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
- Stay hydrated: Togo can be hot and humid, especially during the wet season. Make sure to drink plenty of water and stay hydrated throughout the day, especially if you're doing outdoor activities.
- Be cautious with street food: Togo has a vibrant street food scene, but it's important to be cautious when eating street food to avoid getting sick. Look for vendors with clean cooking areas and avoid food that has been sitting out for a long time.
- Learn some French: French is the official language of Togo, and while some locals may speak English, it's helpful to know some basic French phrases to communicate with locals and navigate the country.
- Take precautions against mosquito bites: Togo is a malaria-endemic country, so it's important to take precautions against mosquito bites, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing and using insect repellent.
- Respect local customs: Togo has a rich cultural heritage, and it's important to respect local customs and traditions. For example, it's customary to greet elders and people in positions of authority with a handshake or small bow.
- Be aware of scams: Like any destination, there are some scams to watch out for in Togo, such as fake charity organizations or taxi drivers who overcharge tourists. Be cautious and use common sense when dealing with unfamiliar people or situations.
By following these travel tips, you can have a safe and enjoyable trip to Togo.
Togo Travel Costs
The cost of traveling to Togo can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the time of year, the length of your stay, your travel style, and your personal preferences. Here are some rough estimates of what you can expect to spend:
| Expense | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $10-30 USD | $50-100 USD | $150-300+ USD |
| Transportation | $5-20 USD (buses) | $2-5 USD (taxis) | $40+ USD (rental cars) |
| Food and Drinks | $1-3 USD (street food) | $5-15 USD (mid-range restaurants) | $20+ USD (high-end restaurants) |
Overall, a budget traveler can expect to spend around $20-30 USD per day, while mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $50-100 USD per day. Luxury travelers can expect to spend upwards of $150 USD per day or more. Keep in mind that these are rough estimates and actual costs can vary depending on your specific travel style and preferences.
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