Togo - Things to Do in Togo in August

Togo in August

August weather, activities, events & insider tips

August Weather in Togo

29°C (84°F) High Temp
22°C (71°F) Low Temp
51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is August Right for You?

Advantages

  • Dry season peak means excellent road conditions to remote areas like Kpalimé and Cascade de Womé - dirt roads are passable and waterfalls flow at ideal levels after July rains
  • Perfect weather for Mount Agou hiking - morning temperatures start at 18°C (64°F) at elevation with clear visibility for Benin and Ghana views
  • Lome conditions ideal with consistent trade winds reducing humidity to 65% during afternoon hours, making coastal walking comfortable
  • Traditional voodoo ceremonies peak in August before September harvest season - real feels in Aneho and Togoville without tourist crowds

Considerations

  • Hotel prices increase 25-30% during European vacation season - book accommodations minimum 6 weeks ahead or face limited availability in Lomé
  • Harmattan dust hasn't arrived yet, so visibility for photography can be hazy especially for mountain landscapes beyond 10 km (6.2 miles)
  • Some coastal restaurants reduce hours due to staff taking family time - dinner service may end by 21:00 instead of usual 23:00

Best Activities in August

Mount Agou Summit Hiking

August offers the best conditions for Togo's highest peak at 986 m (3,235 ft). Morning starts are comfortable at 18°C (64°F), and post-rainy season means flowing streams and lush vegetation. Clear days offer views into Benin and Ghana. The 6 km (3.7 miles) round trip takes 4-5 hours.

Booking Tip: Hire local guides through village chiefs in Kpalimé - typically 15,000-25,000 CFA per group. Start by 6:00 AM to avoid afternoon clouds. Book transport to trailhead 1-2 days ahead during August.

Tamberma Valley Traditional Architecture Tours

August is harvest preparation season when Tamberma fortified houses are most active. Dry roads make the 450 km (280 miles) journey from Lomé manageable in day trips. Families are preparing compounds for yam season, offering authentic cultural immersion. UNESCO-listed Koutammakou region is accessible without 4WD.

Booking Tip: Arrange through cultural centers in Kara - tours typically 35,000-50,000 CFA including transport and guide. Book 5-7 days ahead as August sees increased domestic tourism. See current cultural tour options in booking section below.

Cascade de Womé Waterfall Visits

Post-rainy season means waterfalls flow at 80% capacity - perfect for swimming and photography. The 14 km (8.7 miles) drive from Kpalimé is smooth on dry roads. Water temperature stays cool at 20°C (68°F) even when air reaches 29°C (84°F). Less crowded than December-January peak season.

Booking Tip: Entry fee 2,000 CFA per person. Local motorcycle taxis available for 3,000-5,000 CFA return. Best visited 10:00-14:00 for optimal lighting. No advance booking needed but bring cash.

Lomé Beach and Fetish Market Experience

Trade winds in August make beach walks comfortable even at midday. The Grand Marché des Fétiches operates with full inventory after restocking season. Beach temperatures are moderated by consistent sea breezes. Perfect for combining cultural immersion with coastal relaxation.

Booking Tip: Fetish market guided tours typically 8,000-15,000 CFA for 2 hours. Beach access is free but sun lounger rental 2,000-3,000 CFA daily. Photography permits required at market - guides handle arrangements.

Aneho and Togoville Historical Sites

August heat makes early morning Lake Togo boat trips ideal - departure by 7:00 AM when temperatures are 24°C (75°F). This is traditional ceremony season before harvest begins. Aneho's colonial architecture exploration is comfortable with consistent cloud cover reducing UV exposure.

Booking Tip: Lake Togo boat trips 12,000-18,000 CFA per person including Togoville visit. Combine with Aneho colonial tour for 20,000-30,000 CFA full day. Book through Lomé hotels 2-3 days ahead during August.

Traditional Textile and Craft Workshops

August is prime season for textile production as cotton harvest approaches. Kente weaving demonstrations in Agbozumé village show full process. Indoor workshops provide relief during midday heat while offering authentic cultural exchange. Artisans have full inventory before September market season.

Booking Tip: Workshop visits typically 10,000-20,000 CFA including demonstrations and purchase opportunities. Transportation to Agbozumé 25,000-35,000 CFA return from Lomé. Book through cultural associations 3-5 days ahead.

August Events & Festivals

Mid to Late August

Traditional Yam Blessing Ceremonies

Local communities throughout northern Togo perform pre-harvest blessing rituals in village squares. These authentic ceremonies involve traditional music, dancing, and spiritual practices that tourists rarely witness. Most respectful viewing opportunities occur in Dapaong region villages.

Throughout August weekends

Lomé Beach Festival Activities

While not an organized festival, August sees increased evening gatherings on Lomé beaches with local musicians and food vendors. Traditional drumming groups perform spontaneously, especially weekends. Best experienced at Robinson Plage area after 18:00 when temperatures cool.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with ventilation - August showers are brief but intense, lasting 15-30 minutes
SPF 50+ sunscreen with zinc oxide - UV index reaches 8 even on cloudy days near the equator
Breathable cotton or linen clothing - avoid polyester in 70% humidity, synthetic fabrics become uncomfortable
Closed-toe walking shoes with good grip - wet season residue makes surfaces slippery, especially around waterfalls
Quick-dry towel - essential for waterfall visits and spontaneous swimming opportunities
Insect repellent with 25%+ DEET - mosquitoes peak during evening hours after brief rains
Portable phone charger - power outages more frequent during August storms, especially in rural areas
Cash in small CFA denominations - card acceptance limited outside Lomé, most activities cash-only
Light cotton scarf - for respectful temple and mosque visits, also provides sun protection
Waterproof phone case - protect devices during waterfall visits and unexpected rain showers

Insider Knowledge

Fuel stations outside Lomé can run short during August travel season - always fill up before heading to Kpalimé or northern regions
Restaurant lunch hours extend later in August heat - many serve until 16:00 instead of closing at 14:00, giving more flexible dining options
Local buses (tro-tro) are most comfortable 06:00-09:00 before heat builds - afternoon rides can be stifling without AC
Friday mosque prayers in Muslim areas create 13:00-14:30 business closures - plan shopping and banking around prayer times

Avoid These Mistakes

Booking accommodations less than 6 weeks ahead - August is peak European vacation time causing 30% price increases and limited availability
Planning outdoor activities after 11:00 AM - heat becomes oppressive by midday, locals do morning activities then rest until 16:00
Bringing only sandals - many attractions require closed shoes for safety, especially waterfalls and mountain hikes

Activities in Togo