Things to Do in Togo

About Togo

Nestled along West Africa's Gold Coast, Togo reveals itself as a tapestry of landscapes compressed into one of the continent's smallest yet most diverse nations—where palm-fringed beaches transition to lush highlands within a mere 60 kilometers. This slender slice of Africa pulses with the authentic rhythms of daily life largely untouched by mass tourism, offering travelers a rare glimpse into vibrant markets, traditional vodun culture, and communities where centuries-old customs blend seamlessly with contemporary West African energy. Here, adventure seekers and cultural explorers discover a destination that rewards curiosity with genuine encounters and landscapes that shift dramatically with every northward mile.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: While the West African CFA franc is the official currency, ATMs are limited outside Lomé, so withdraw sufficient cash in the capital before traveling to rural areas, and always carry small denominations as change can be scarce at local markets.

• Moto-Taxi Navigation: Zemidjans (motorcycle taxis) are the most common and affordable way to get around, but agree on the fare before starting your journey and consider wearing long pants to avoid burns from the exhaust pipe.

• Market Timing: Visit the famous Grand Marché in Lomé early in the morning (before 10 AM) to avoid the intense midday heat and crowds, and don't miss the vibrant fabric section where Togo's renowned "Nana Benz" cloth merchants operate.

• Visa Requirements: Most visitors can obtain a visa on arrival at Lomé-Tokoin Airport for around 30,000-50,000 CFA francs, but bring a printed hotel reservation and proof of yellow fever vaccination as these are frequently checked by immigration officials.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Togo is during the dry season from November to March, when temperatures hover between 25-30°C (77-86°F) with low humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring Lomé's beaches and the northern savanna parks like Fazao-Malfakassa. December through January offers the most comfortable conditions but coincides with higher accommodation prices and the vibrant Epe-Ekpe Festival in January (featuring traditional Ewe voodoo ceremonies), while late February brings the colorful Evala wrestling festival in Kara where young Kabyé men demonstrate their strength in initiation rites. April marks the transition to the rainy season with increasing humidity and occasional showers, though savvy budget travelers can score deals before the heavy rains arrive in May. June through October brings Togo's punishing rainy season with temperatures reaching 28-32°C (82-90°F), oppressive 80-90% humidity, and torrential downpours that can wash out roads to northern regions and make hiking in the Togo Mountains treacherous, though this period offers rock-bottom prices and dramatically fewer tourists if you don't mind getting drenched daily.