Togo - Things to Do in Togo in February

Togo in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Togo

25°C (77°F) High Temp
22°C (71°F) Low Temp
51 mm (2.0 inches) Rainfall
70% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

  • Prime Harmattan wind season brings cooler evening temperatures (22°C/71°F) perfect for exploring Lomé's markets after 5pm without excessive heat
  • February marks peak season for whale watching along the Atlantic coast - humpback whales migrate through Togolese waters, best viewing from Aného beaches
  • Dry mornings (rainfall typically occurs 3-6pm) ideal for visiting Kpalimé's coffee plantations and Mount Agou hikes before afternoon storms
  • Voodoo Festival season preparation creates busy cultural activities in villages around Togoville, with ceremonies and traditional music performances most weekends

Considerations

  • Afternoon thunderstorms between 3-6pm can disrupt outdoor plans on 10 days throughout the month - indoor alternatives needed
  • High humidity (70%) combined with dust from Harmattan winds creates uncomfortable conditions for those with respiratory sensitivities
  • Peak tourist season means accommodation prices increase 40-60% compared to rainy season months, particularly in Lomé and Kpalimé

Best Activities in February

Mount Agou Hiking Expeditions

February's dry mornings provide perfect conditions for scaling Togo's highest peak at 986m (3,235 ft). Harmattan winds clear the humidity by 6am, offering spectacular views of Ghana border region. Start climbs at 6:30am to avoid afternoon storms - summit accessible via 4-hour round trip through coffee forests.

Booking Tip: Book mountain guides through Kpalimé tourism office 3-5 days ahead, typically 15,000-25,000 CFA per group. Look for guides certified by Ministry of Tourism. Weather window closes around 2pm when storms build.

Atlantic Coast Whale Watching

February coincides with humpback whale migration through Gulf of Guinea waters. Best viewing from Aného and Lome beaches during early morning hours (6-9am) when seas are calmest. Local fishermen report highest whale activity during first three weeks of February.

Booking Tip: Arrange fishing boat excursions through Aného port cooperatives for 8,000-15,000 CFA per person. Book morning departures only - afternoon storms make sea conditions dangerous. No advance booking needed, arrange day before.

Togoville Voodoo Cultural Experiences

February's pre-festival season brings authentic voodoo ceremonies and traditional performances to Lake Togo region. Villages conduct preparation rituals most weekends, offering visitors genuine cultural immersion without tourist crowds. Cooler evening temperatures make ceremony participation comfortable.

Booking Tip: Contact local guides in Togoville for ceremony schedules, typically 5,000-10,000 CFA per person including lake transport. Ceremonies usually occur Friday-Sunday evenings. Respect dress codes and photography restrictions.

Kpalimé Coffee Plantation Tours

February harvest season provides behind-scenes access to organic coffee processing in Kloto Mountains. Morning tours (7-11am) avoid afternoon storms while showcasing traditional arabica cultivation methods. Cooler temperatures make walking through mountainous plantations comfortable.

Booking Tip: Arrange through Kpalimé Centre de Formation Artisanale for 8,000-12,000 CFA including transportation and tasting. Book 2-3 days ahead during harvest peak. Tours typically last 4-5 hours including traditional lunch.

Lomé Grand Marché Evening Shopping

February's Harmattan winds create pleasant evening conditions (22°C/71°F after 5pm) perfect for exploring West Africa's largest market. Vendors stay open later due to comfortable temperatures, offering better selection and negotiation opportunities when tourist buses depart.

Booking Tip: Independent exploration recommended - hire local guide for 2,000-4,000 CFA for 2-3 hours if unfamiliar with market layout. Evening hours 5-8pm provide coolest temperatures and most active vendor participation.

Fazao-Malfakassa Wildlife Tracking

Dry season concentrates wildlife around water sources, improving tracking success for elephants and antelope. February's lower humidity makes multi-hour bush walks manageable, while reduced vegetation provides better animal spotting opportunities. Park access roads are driest this month.

Booking Tip: Book park guides and accommodation through Fazao village 5-7 days ahead, typically 20,000-35,000 CFA for full-day tracking expeditions. 4WD vehicle required - arrange through licensed operators in Sokodé.

February Events & Festivals

Throughout February weekends

Evala Wrestling Initiation Ceremonies

Traditional wrestling ceremonies occur in northern regions around Kara, marking young men's transition to adulthood. February represents peak season for these cultural celebrations with weekend tournaments featuring traditional drums and community feasts.

Mid to Late February

Coffee Harvest Festivals

Kpalimé region celebrates arabica coffee harvest with weekend festivals featuring traditional dancing, coffee ceremonies, and mountain village competitions. Local cooperatives open plantations for visitors during harvest peak.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket with hood - afternoon thunderstorms arrive quickly with 20-30 minute downpours
Breathable cotton shirts, avoid polyester which becomes unbearable in 70% humidity conditions
SPF 50+ sunscreen - UV index reaches 8 even during cloudy Harmattan dust periods
Closed-toe hiking boots for Mount Agou and forest walks - rocky terrain and muddy conditions after rain
Quick-dry pants for outdoor activities - morning dew and afternoon showers create wet conditions
Dust mask or bandana for Harmattan wind days - Saharan dust can trigger respiratory irritation
Insect repellent with DEET - mosquitoes active during humid evening hours around Lake Togo
Portable umbrella for market visits - provides shade and rain protection during variable weather
Light sweater for early morning activities - temperatures drop to 22°C (71°F) during Harmattan periods
Waterproof phone case and camera protection - afternoon storms bring heavy rainfall

Insider Knowledge

Schedule outdoor activities for 6am-1pm window - afternoon storms between 3-6pm are predictable and intense, locals plan around this daily pattern
Negotiate accommodation rates after February 20th - hotel prices drop 30-40% as peak season ends and March heat approaches
Use shared taxi 'zémidjan' motorcycle taxis for short urban distances during dry morning hours - costs 200-500 CFA vs 2,000+ CFA for private vehicles
February is palm wine harvest season - visit rural villages for fresh palm wine tasting between 8-10am when daily tapping occurs

Avoid These Mistakes

Planning afternoon outdoor activities without rain backup - afternoon storms occur 10 days in February, always have indoor alternatives ready
Underestimating Harmattan dust impact - travelers with asthma or respiratory conditions struggle with Saharan dust particles, bring appropriate medication
Booking accommodation too close to main roads during rainy days - flooding occurs quickly in Lomé's lower areas, choose elevated locations

Activities in Togo