Togo Travel Information

Togo is a small country located in West Africa, known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. If you're planning a visit to Togo, here are the top 10 things you won't want to miss:

1. Visit the Grand Marché in Lomé

The Grand Marché in Lomé is one of the biggest markets in West Africa, and it's a great place to experience the vibrant culture and colorful sights of Togo. Here, you'll find everything from traditional clothing and crafts to fresh produce and spices.

2. Explore the Togo National Museum

The Togo National Museum is a great place to learn more about Togo's history and culture. You'll find a wide variety of exhibits, including traditional masks, pottery, and other artifacts, as well as information on Togo's history and the different ethnic groups that make up the country.

3. Relax on the beaches of Togo

Togo is home to some of the most beautiful beaches in West Africa, and they're a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the most popular beaches include Aného, Aneho Plage, and Togoville Beach.

4. Visit the Koutammakou Landscape

Koutammakou is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the north of Togo, and it's home to the Batammariba people, who have lived in the region for centuries. The landscape is characterized by traditional clay architecture, which is unique to this area.

5. Take a trip to the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park

Fazao-Malfakassa National Park is located in the central region of Togo, and it's home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, lions, and leopards. It's a great place to go for a safari or a hike.

6. Visit the Togoville Royal Palace

The Togoville Royal Palace is located on the shores of Lake Togo, and it's a great place to learn more about Togo's traditional culture and history. The palace is open to visitors, and you can learn more about the customs and traditions of the Togolese people.

7. Explore the Togoville Lighthouse

The Togoville Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in the village of Togoville, and it's a great place to take in the beautiful views of the lake and the surrounding countryside. The lighthouse is open to visitors, and you can climb to the top for a panoramic view.

8. Visit the Togo Independence Monument

The Togo Independence Monument is a national monument located in Lomé, and it's dedicated to the country's struggle for independence from French colonial rule. It's a great place to take in the views of the city and learn more about Togo's history.

9. Visit the Togo Postal Museum

The Togo Postal Museum is a unique and fascinating museum located in Lomé, and it's dedicated to the history of the Togo postal service. The museum is open to visitors, and you can learn more about the history of the postal service and see a wide variety of stamps and other artifacts.

10. Visit the Togolese National Assembly

The Togolese National Assembly is the legislative branch of the Togolese government, and it's a great place to learn more about the country's political system. The building is open to visitors, and you can watch debates and other legislative proceedings from the public gallery.

Climate in Togo

Togo has a tropical climate, with two main seasons: the dry season and the rainy season. The dry season, which runs from November to April, is the best time to visit Togo as it is characterized by sunny weather and low humidity. The rainy season, which runs from May to October, is characterized by heavy rainfall and high humidity.

Temperature

Temperatures in Togo are generally high throughout the year, with average temperatures ranging from around 25-30 degrees Celsius (77-86 degrees Fahrenheit) during the dry season and around 27-32 degrees Celsius (81-90 degrees Fahrenheit) during the rainy season.

Best time to visit Togo

The best time to visit Togo is during the dry season, which runs from November to April, as it is the most comfortable time to visit. The weather is sunny and dry, and it is the perfect time to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, safari, and beach relaxation. However, you should keep in mind that it is also the peak tourist season, so you may find that prices are higher and some of the most popular sites can be quite crowded.

Here are some general travel tips regarding entry requirements that apply across all countries:

Passport

Make sure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in the country you are visiting. Some countries will not allow you to enter if your passport is set to expire within a certain period of time.

Visa

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if you need a visa. Some countries require a visa for entry, while others do not. Make sure to apply for a visa well in advance of your trip as the process can take several weeks. Check the latest Visa requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Health Requirements and COVID-19 Rules

Check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if there are any health requirements for entry. Some countries require vaccinations or proof of medical insurance. Check the latest health requirements and if necessary get an online Visa with our partner iVisa.

Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance, especially if you are traveling internationally. Travel insurance can cover you in the event of trip cancellation, medical emergencies, and other unexpected events. Our travel insurance partner is SafetyWing. For dangerous activities and/or countries consider a rescue service like those offered by our partner, Global Rescue.

Customs

Be familiar with the customs and laws of the country you are visiting. Some countries have strict laws regarding drug possession, alcohol consumption, and dress codes.

Currency

Check the currency exchange rate and make sure you have enough local currency for your trip. Some countries may not accept credit cards or travelers cheques, so it is always good to have some cash on hand. At WhereNext we recommend use a Wise debit card, which provides low cost currency conversions and ATM withdrawals.

Research the country

Research about the culture, customs and laws of the country you are visiting. It will help you to understand the place more and also prepare you better for the trip.

Contact Information

Make a copy of your passport and keep it in a separate place from your passport. Also, leave a copy of your itinerary and contact information with a friend or family member at home.

Hotels

Togo offers a wide range of accommodation options, including hotels, resorts, and guesthouses. Hotels in Togo are generally of a good standard, and there are options available to suit all budgets. Many hotels in Togo are located in the capital, Lomé, and other major cities such as Sokodé and Atakpamé.

Guesthouses

Guesthouses are another popular option for accommodation in Togo. These are often family-run and offer a more authentic and local experience. Guesthouses are often less expensive than hotels and resorts and can be a great option for budget-conscious travellers.

Resorts

Togo is home to several resorts, including beach resorts, which are mainly located in the coastal areas. These resorts offer more luxurious accommodation options and are often equipped with amenities such as swimming pools, restaurants, and spas. They are perfect for travelers looking for relaxation and luxury while enjoying the beach.

Campsites

Togo also offers several camping sites, mainly located in the national parks and protected areas. This option is perfect for nature enthusiasts and travelers who want to explore Togo's nature and wildlife. They generally offer basic facilities such as toilets, showers and fireplaces, and travelers need to bring their own camping gear.

Public transportation

In Togo, the most common form of public transportation is the shared taxi, also known as "woro-woro", which is a minivan that runs on fixed routes and stops at designated locations. This can be a good option for getting around the cities, but keep in mind that it can be quite crowded and uncomfortable during peak hours. Additionally, local buses are available in major cities, but are not as frequent and reliable as the shared taxis.

Private transportation

Another option for transportation in Togo is to hire a private taxi or car. This is a more comfortable and convenient option, but it is also more expensive. Private taxis can be found at major hotels and airports, and it is recommended to negotiate the fare before starting your trip.

Motorcycles and bicycles

Motorcycles and bicycles are also popular options for transportation in Togo, especially for shorter trips and for exploring smaller towns and villages. They can be rented at several locations and are a good way to avoid traffic congestion and explore the country's landscape and culture.

Air transportation

Togo's international airport, Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport, is located in the capital city Lomé, and it serves several destinations in West Africa and Europe. Additionally, there are several domestic airports that connect the main cities in Togo. This is a convenient option for travelers who want to save time and avoid long road trips.

Money Tips for Travel

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Notify your bank and credit card companies of your travel plans to avoid any potential issues with international transactions.
• Bring a mix of cash, credit, and debit cards--and possibly a travel money card.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.
• Make sure to have a backup option for accessing money in case your primary method doesn't work.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• NEVER accept currency conversion at ATMs! Always get your home bank to convert at much better rates.
• Think about getting a Wise or other travel debit card; these can provide much better rates and some free ATM withdrawals.

ATM and Credit Cards

• Research the availability of ATMs and credit card acceptance at your destination before you depart.
• Keep your ATM card in a safe place and be mindful of your surroundings when using it.
• Try to stick to using ATMs that are affiliated with major banks.
• Keep your credit card information safe and secure, and be aware of potential scams.
• Make sure your cards have the necessary security features, such as chip and pin.
• Be aware of the fees associated with withdrawing money from ATMs and using credit cards abroad.

Exchange Rates

• Research the currency and exchange rates of your destination before you depart.
• Consider using a card with no foreign transaction fees.
• Be aware of the local customs and etiquette when it comes to paying.
• Keep an eye on the exchange rate throughout your trip and try to make large purchases or withdraw large sums of money when the rate is favorable.
• Be careful of places that may offer to exchange money at rates that seem too good to be true.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It covers a wide range of needs--even some you might not expect!

Medical Coverage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for medical expenses if you become ill or injured while traveling. This can include coverage for doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical transportation. It's also a good idea to ensure that your travel insurance covers COVID-19 related illness and delays!

Trip Cancellation and Interruption

Travel insurance can provide coverage if you need to cancel or interrupt your trip due to unexpected events such as illness, weather, or travel bans. It can also provide coverage if your trip is delayed or if your travel provider goes out of business.

Lost or Stolen Luggage

Travel insurance can provide coverage for lost or stolen luggage, as well as personal items such as passports and electronic devices.

Emergency Assistance and Evacuation

Many travel insurance plans offer emergency assistance services, such as providing information on local hospitals and doctors, assistance with replacing lost or stolen documents, and help with arranging transportation in the event of an emergency. At WhereNext we have partnered with Global Rescue for evacuation services, which are highly recommended if you are undertaking dangerous activities or are travelling to dangerous parts of the world.

Liability coverage

Travel insurance can also provide liability coverage in case you cause an accident or harm someone while you are traveling.

Travel insurance can provide financial protection and peace of mind for travellers in the event of unexpected situations or emergencies. It can help cover the costs of medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. It's always a good idea to review the coverage and compare the different options available before making a decision. At WhereNext we both use and have partnered with Safety Wing for general travel insurance.

When traveling, getting mobile access is very important these days. If you are working remotely, wanting to update social media, or need to access your banks SMS authentication messages having a reliable service is a must. At WhereNext we recommend:

eSIM

Services such as those offered by our partner, Airalo, allow you to easily order and install an eSIM for different countries or regions that you are traveling in.

Dual SIM phone

If you have a phone that supports dual SIM's then you can get a SIM on arrival for each country, this is probably better done at a telco store rather than at the airport.

Extend your home plan

Depending on where you live and your mobile service provider you may be able to extend your plan to cover mobile roaming at reasonable rates.

Keep your primary SIM

With the amount of accounts we all have that require two factor authentication via SMS, keeping a constant number for these accounts is a must.

There are several online communities and platforms that you can use to meet people while traveling, both for making new friends or for networking professionally. Some popular options include:

Facebook groups

There are many Facebook groups dedicated to connecting people while traveling, from expat groups and travel communities to groups specific to certain cities or regions of the country. You can search for groups based on your interests or location and connect with others who share similar interests.

Meetup

Meetup is a platform that allows you to find groups of people that share your interests in your local area. There are Meetup groups all around the world, and they cover a wide range of topics, such as language exchange, sports, and cultural activities.

Internations

Internations is a social network for people who live or work abroad. It has a large community of expats and organizes regular events, activities and gatherings that allow members to connect and socialize.

Couchsurfing

Couchsurfing is a platform that connects travelers with local hosts, who offer free accommodation and a chance to experience the local culture. It's a great way to meet locals and make friends!

Reddit

Reddit has a large community, and there are several subreddits dedicated to connecting expats and travelers. You can use it to ask questions, get advice, and connect with others who are also living or traveling in the country.

Linkedin

LinkedIn is primarily a professional network, but you can also use it to connect with people who work in the same industry or have similar backgrounds. It can be useful to connect with people before you arrive and establish a few professional contacts to help you get started.

At WhereNext, we use Nomad List as a global community and then research more local ones for our destination. These are just a few examples of online communities you can use to meet people; please suggest any others that you think are appropriate for this destination.