Togo
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About Togo
Togo is a small West African country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. From the bustling markets of Lomé to the serene beaches along the Atlantic coast, Togo offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Places to Visit
- Lomé: The capital city, known for its vibrant markets, Grand Marché, and beautiful beaches.
- Kpalimé: A scenic town with lush forests, waterfalls, and hiking trails.
- Tamakloe: A historic town with ancient ruins and cultural significance.
- Aneho: A coastal town with beautiful beaches and colonial architecture.
Culture
- Traditional Music and Dance: Togo’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its traditional music and dance, such as the “Agbadja” and “Akpesse” dances.
- Festivals: Togo celebrates various festivals throughout the year, including the “Fête de la Réconciliation” and “Festival des Arts et de la Culture”.
Cuisine
- Traditional Dishes: Togo’s cuisine features dishes like “Fufu” (made from cassava or yams), “Kokonte” (made from dried cassava), and “Akple” (made from corn dough).
- Street Food: Try popular street food like “Suya” (grilled meat skewers) and “Fried Plantains”.
Language
- French: The official language, widely spoken in Togo.
- Local Languages: Many Togolese people speak local languages like Ewe, Kabye, and Mina.
Economy
- Agriculture: Agriculture is a significant sector, with crops like cotton, coffee, and cocoa being major exports.
- Phosphate Mining: Togo is rich in phosphate deposits, which are mined and exported.
Tourism
- National Parks: Togo has several national parks, including the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park and the Keran National Park, which offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking.
- Beaches: Togo’s coastline offers beautiful beaches, such as those in Lomé and Aneho, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Tour operators in Togo
Tour Operators
- Across Africa: Offers 7-day tours of Togo, including visits to Voodoo ceremonies, Lake Togo cruises, and village encounters, starting at $2,560 per person.
- Travelstride: Provides small group tours and off-the-beaten-path destinations, with a focus on sustainable tourism and local cultures. They have an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars.
- Global Operator: Offers group tours, small ship cruises, and expedition cruises to Togo, catering to families, students, and adults of various age groups.
Private Tour Operators
- Heritage Tour: Offers 14-day private guided tours of West Africa, including Togo, Ghana, Benin, Nigeria, and Côte d’Ivoire, starting at $7,900 per group.
- Blastours: Provides personalized tours of Togo and Benin, with a focus on cultural immersion and local experiences. They received excellent reviews for their 14-day tour of Ghana, Togo, and Benin.
- Local Guides: Kossi, a local guide, offers private tours of Lomé, Aneho, and Togoville, with a focus on history, culture, and community engagement.
Tour Types
- Cultural Tours: Explore Togo’s rich cultural heritage through Voodoo ceremonies, traditional music, and local crafts.
- Historical Tours: Visit ancient slave dungeons, German cathedrals, and other historical sites.
- Adventure Tours: Go on safaris, hike, or explore Togo’s natural beauty.
- Private Tours: Customize your tour with local guides and experience Togo’s unique culture and history.
Airbnb in Togo
Togo is a small West African country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes. From the bustling markets of Lomé to the serene beaches along the Atlantic coast, Togo offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity.
Language
- French: The official language, widely spoken in Togo.
- Local Languages: Many Togolese people speak local languages like Ewe, Kabye, and Mina.
Economy
- Agriculture: Agriculture is a significant sector, with crops like cotton, coffee, and cocoa being major exports.
- Phosphate Mining: Togo is rich in phosphate deposits, which are mined and exported.
Tourism
- National Parks: Togo has several national parks, including the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park and the Keran National Park, which offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and hiking.
- Beaches: Togo’s coastline offers beautiful beaches, such as those in Lomé and Aneho, perfect for relaxation and water activities.
Zimbabwe offers a unique blend of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it an exciting destination for travelers.
Tour operators in Togo
Togo offers a wide range of Airbnb options, from cozy apartments to luxurious villas. Here are some top-rated vacation rentals to consider:
Top-Rated Rentals
- Quiet Villa with Pool: Located in Agodeke, this villa has a 4.58-star rating and features a peaceful atmosphere, clean accommodations, and friendly hosts.
- Appartement Tatiana City: Situated in Lomé, this condo has a 4.7-star rating and offers modern amenities, a welcoming environment, and excellent hospitality.
- Villa Flo Residence: Also in Lomé, this villa has a 4.67-star rating and boasts a beautiful design, comfortable rooms, and a great location.
- Villa 5 Minutes from Sea with Jacuzzi: This villa in Lomé has a 5-star rating and features stunning ocean views, modern amenities, and a relaxing atmosphere.
- Luxurious Duplex: Located near the airport, this apartment has a 5-star rating and offers luxurious amenities, spacious rooms, and excellent service.
Popular Amenities
- Pool: Many rentals in Togo feature pools, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
- Garden: Some rentals offer beautiful gardens, providing a serene atmosphere.
- Jacuzzi: A few rentals feature jacuzzis, ideal for unwinding and rejuvenating.
- Wi-Fi: Most rentals offer reliable Wi-Fi, ensuring you stay connected.
- Airport proximity: Some rentals are located near the airport, making them convenient for travelers.
Average Prices
- Nightly price: The average price per night in Togo is around $44.
- Weekly price: A week’s rental in July or August costs approximately $307.
To find the best Airbnb options in Togo, consider exploring websites like Likibu, VRBO, or Booking.com, which offer a wide range of vacation rentals and homes.
Airlines in Togo
Airlines Operating in Togo
- Ethiopian Airlines: Offers flights to Togo with fares starting from $1,133 for flights from the United States. They provide Business Class and Economy Class options, with amenities like C9 lounge access, priority boarding, and warm Ethiopian hospitality.
- Other Airlines: You can find a comprehensive list of airlines operating in Togo on airlin.es, which provides up-to-date airline flight schedules and route information.
Booking and Information
- Ethiopian Airlines Website: You can book flights to Togo on the Ethiopian Airlines website, which also provides information on baggage fees, special services, and customer support.
- Flight Comparison: Websites like airlin.es allow you to compare flight schedules and routes for various airlines operating in Togo.
Additional Tips
- Check for Updates: Flight schedules and fares are subject to change, so it’s essential to check with the airlines for the latest information.
- Plan Ahead: Booking flights in advance can help you secure better rates and availability.
Bus Services in Togo
Togo has a network of bus services connecting major cities, including Lomé, Cotonou, Lagos, and Accra. Here are some key details about bus travel in Togo:
Popular Bus Routes
- Lomé to Cotonou: Daily buses available, approximately 7 hours, $34-$48
- Lomé to Lagos: Daily buses available, approximately 15 hours, $51-$71
- Lomé to Accra: Daily buses available, approximately 14 hours 29 minutes, $31-$43
Bus Operators
- Greyhound: Partners with Busbud to offer bus tickets.
- Eurolines: Partners with Busbud to offer bus tickets.
- ALSA: Partners with Busbud to offer bus tickets.
- OUIBUS (BlaBlaBus): Partners with Busbud to offer bus tickets.
- National Express: Partners with Busbud to offer bus tickets.
Bus Fare
- Local bus drive: 577.98 XOF (approximately $1-$2 USD)
- Lomé to Tokoin Airport to Lomé: 866 XOF
- Lomé to Tokoin Airport to Sokodé: 44,775 XOF
Planning Your Bus Trip
- Use Togo’s transit authority website or transit apps: Find routes and schedules.
- Visit bus stations or stops: Inquire about schedules and fares.
- Book tickets online: Use Busbud or other ticketing platforms.
Boats in Togo
Togo offers various boat rental options for different needs and preferences. Here are some popular choices:
Boat Rentals in Togo
- Sailboat Rentals: Explore Togo’s coastline on sailboats, perfect for sailing enthusiasts.
- Yacht Rentals: Luxuriate on yachts, ideal for special occasions or relaxation.
- Kayak Rentals: Paddle through calm waters, great for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
- Powerboat Rentals: Speed across the waters, perfect for thrill-seekers.
- Fishing Boat Rentals: Try your hand at fishing in Togo’s waters, suitable for anglers.
Boat Types and Prices
- Wave Ski: $15/hour (up to 3 guests)
- Cuddy Cabin: $250/day (up to 8 guests)
- Jon Boat: $50/hour (up to 8 guests)
- Inflatable Boat: $50/hour (up to 8 guests)
- Traditional Local Boat: $171/day (up to 7 guests)
Boat Tours and Activities
- Fishing Charters: Experience fishing in Togo’s waters with local guides.
- Cruises: Enjoy sightseeing and relaxation on a cruise.
- Sailing Tours: Explore Togo’s coastline on a sailing tour.
- Water Sports: Try kayaking, paddleboarding, or other water sports.
Booking and Information
To book a boat rental or tour in Togo, you can visit websites like Getmyboat or Yacht Market. They offer a wide range of options and provide detailed information on boat types, prices, and activities.⁴ ⁵
Guides in tourism in Togo
Local Guides
- Citigo Lome: Offers tour guides in Lomé, exploring off-the-beaten-track capitals and voodoo markets.
- Kpalime Guides: Provides top-ranked local tour guides for activities in Kpalimé.
- Atakpame Guides: Offers tour activities and independent travel guides in Atakpame.
- Sokode Guides: Provides top-ranked local tour guides for activities in Sokodé.
- Dapaong Guides: Offers tour guides for exploring UNESCO sites like Koutammakou.
Tour Operators
- Mowoki Tours: Offers 2-day journeys to Lomé, Togo, with airport pickup in Cotonou.
- Local Guide William: Provides historical and cultural tours, including Vodun and Togolese cultural identity.
Types of Tours
- Historical & Heritage Tours: Explore Togo’s history and cultural landmarks.
- Cultural Tours: Experience Togolese culture through local experiences, festivals, and cuisine.
- Eco-friendly Safaris: Immerse in Togo’s natural wonders, focusing on sustainable tourism practices.
- Adventure Tours: Enjoy hiking, river rafting, and exploring Togo’s landscapes.
- Food Tours: Discover Togolese cuisine through cooking classes and local dishes.
Tourism industry in Togo
Key Statistics
- Tourist Arrivals: 482,000 tourists visited Togo in 2020, ranking 101st globally.
- Revenue: The tourism sector generated $151 million in 2020, accounting for 1.6% of the country’s GDP.
- Growth Projections: Tourism revenue is projected to reach $66 million by 2028, with an annual growth rate of 0.7%.
Attractions and Activities
- National Parks: Fazao-Malfakassa National Park and Keran National Park offer wildlife viewing opportunities, featuring elephants, lions, and monkeys.
- Beaches: Togo’s 56 km coastline provides beautiful beaches for relaxation and water sports like surfing and fishing.
- Cultural Heritage: Explore ancient cities, traditional villages, and markets, showcasing the country’s diverse culture.
- Festivals: Attend events like the Evala wrestling festival to experience Togo’s vibrant culture.
Challenges and Opportunities
- Limited Funding: The industry faces challenges due to limited funding for tourism marketing and promotion.
- Infrastructure Development: Improving infrastructure, such as roads and airports, is crucial for enhancing the tourist experience.
- Accommodation: There’s a need for more accommodation facilities, especially in rural areas, to cater to budget travelers.
- Investment: Tourism can attract foreign capital and facilitate economic development, making it a promising sector for investment.
Government Initiatives
- Investment in Tourism: The government plans to inject CFA2 billion into the sector in 2024 to revamp the tourism industry.
- Digital Platform: A digital platform for hotel booking and event management is being developed to enhance the tourist experience.
- Infrastructure Development: The government is working to improve tourist sites, including the Kamina history museum and Koutammakou cultural heritage site.
Beaches in Togo
Top Beaches in Togo
- Pure Plage: A paradise for beach lovers, combining natural beauty, comfort, and modern amenities. Enjoy refreshing swims, beachfront bungalows, and delicious dishes.
- Blue Turtle Bay: Known for breathtaking views, luxurious bungalows, and exciting activities like scuba diving, kayaking, and beach volleyball. Don’t miss the sea turtle release ceremony.
- Aneho Beach: A serene refuge with gentle sands and clear seas, perfect for sunbathing and relaxation. Experience the local culture and history.
- Agbodrafo Beach: A hidden gem with a blend of history and serenity, featuring straw huts, wooden structures, and an open-air dining area.
- Grand Popo Beach: A resort with sandy shores and a coastal experience, ideal for relaxation and water activities.
- Togoville Beach: A spot that mixes natural beauty with cultural diversity, offering a tranquil setting along Lake Togo’s shoreline.
- Baguida Beach: A favorite spot for leisure and entertainment, with activities like beach volleyball and horse riding.
- Atigan Beach: A tranquil paradise with stunning beauty and sunsets, perfect for strolls and relaxation.
- Amédéi Beach: A hidden gem with a tranquil coastal vacation experience, featuring adjacent forests and waterfalls.
- Kpalime Beach: A tranquil haven amidst vegetation, offering rest and renewal with palm trees and nature.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Togo’s beaches is from November to March, when the weather is agreeable and dry. Some beaches, like Lomé Beach, are best visited during the dry season from November to February.¹
Touristic sites in Togo
Cultural Sites
- Koutammakou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its unique mud tower-houses and traditional Batammariba architecture. Take a guided tour to learn about local customs and purchase handmade crafts.
- Togoville: A historic village on Lake Togo’s northern shore, famous for its role in Togo’s democracy and the House of Slaves. Explore the sacred tree, German-built church, and local voodoo practices.
- Grand Marché: One of West Africa’s largest markets, offering a wide range of textiles, handicrafts, and local produce.
Natural Wonders
- Fazao-Malfakassa National Park: Togo’s largest national park, featuring diverse wildlife, forests, savannahs, and rolling mountains. Go on a safari to spot elephants, monkeys, and antelopes.
- Mount Agou: The highest peak in Togo, offering stunning views and hiking opportunities.
- Waterfalls: Visit the picturesque Cascade de Kpime, Cascade de Womé, and Cascade de Yikpa, surrounded by lush forests and scenic landscapes.
Beaches and Coastal Towns
- Lomé Beach: A popular spot for relaxation, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Aneho: A coastal town with pristine sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and colonial architecture.
- Coco Beach: A beautiful beach with coconut trees and sandy areas, perfect for relaxation.
Other Attractions
- Koutammakou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Koutammakou is home to the Batammariba people and their unique mud tower-houses, known as “Takienta”. Explore the traditional life and skills of the Batammariba people.
- Togoville Royal Palace: This historic palace was the residence of King Mlapa III and features Togolese art and architecture. Visit the St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral and the Mami Wata shrine.
- Aného: This former capital city boasts colonial architecture and a quiet vibe. Walk along the beach and explore the old buildings.
Togo's national parks
Togo’s national parks offer a diverse range of wildlife and natural habitats. Here are some of the top national parks to visit:
Fazao-Malfakassa National Park
This is the largest national park in Togo, covering an area of 1,920 km². It’s home to various wildlife, including elephants, chimpanzees, bushbuck, red-flanked duiker, waterbuck, roan antelope, and western hartebeest. The park’s landscape features semi-mountainous wetland habitats, making it a unique destination for nature lovers and photographers.
Kéran National Park
Located in northern Togo, this park covers an area of 690 km² and features open savannah woodlands, swamps, and riparian forests. Some of the wildlife you can spot here includes elephants, buffaloes, hippopotamuses, lions, and monkeys. The park is also home to over 214 species of birds.
- Fosse aux Lions National Park
: This national park is situated in northern Togo’s Savanes Region and spans 16.5 km². Although it once had a significant African elephant population, their numbers have declined significantly. The park still offers opportunities to spot various wildlife and explore Togo’s natural beauty.¹ ² ³
Best Time to Explore Togo's Wildlife
When planning your visit, consider the best time for safaris and wildlife tours, which is from August to early September and November to April. These periods offer favorable weather conditions for exploring Togo’s national parks.
Cultural sites in Togo
Togo is rich in cultural heritage, with various sites showcasing its history, art, and traditions. Here are some top cultural sites to visit:
Historic Sites
- Koutammakou: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Koutammakou is home to the Batammariba people and their unique mud tower-houses, known as “Takienta”. Explore the traditional life and skills of the Batammariba people.
- Togoville Royal Palace: This historic palace was the residence of King Mlapa III and features Togolese art and architecture. Visit the St. Anthony of Padua Cathedral and the Mami Wata shrine.
- Aného: This former capital city boasts colonial architecture and a quiet vibe. Walk along the beach and explore the old buildings.
Museums
- National Museum of Togo: Located in Lomé, this museum showcases the country’s history, culture, and art. Discover traditional Togolese sculptures, pottery, textiles, and musical instruments.
- Musee International du Golfe: This museum in Lomé features Togolese art and artifacts.
- Musee Kembeto: Located in Kara, this museum showcases Togolese art and culture.
Traditional Villages and Festivals
- Tamberma Valley: This region safeguards ancient northern traditions and offers insights into Togo’s cultural heritage.
- Agbodbo Zoun: Experience the vibrant street festival in Kara, featuring parades and dancing.
- Asigame Festival: Attend the horse racing competitions and cavalry processions in Kara and Sokodé, showcasing northern Togo’s equestrian traditions.
Other Cultural Sites
- Le Monastère de Dzogbegan: Visit this Benedictine monastery, which introduces different cultures and products, such as coffee and yogurt.
- Cathédrale Notre Dame Du Lac Togo: Admire the beautiful architecture of this cathedral in Lomé.
- Grand Mosque: Explore the impressive architecture of the Grand Mosque in Sokodé.
Hotels in Togo
Top-Rated Hotels in Togo
- Hotel 2 Fevrier Lome: 5-star hotel with spacious rooms, clean pool, and lobby. The top-floor restaurant offers great views, and the poolside service is excellent ($188).
- Amedzepe Guest House: A paradise with lovely staff, rooms surrounded by a nice garden, and a clean pool. Homemade juices and jam are a bonus. Breakfast is included.
- Hotel du Golfe: A 4-star hotel with a nice pool, free Wi-Fi, breakfast included, and free parking. Conveniently located near Independence Plaza.
- ONOMO Hotel Lome: A 4-star hotel with amazing staff, good food, and a great room with a beach view. Free upgrade and top-notch service.
- Résidence Hôtelière Océane: A fantastic place in Lomé with unique decor, nice rooms, and amazing staff.
Budget-Friendly Options
- Bella Vida: Offers rooms from $18 per night, making it one of the cheapest options in Togo.
- Guest Houses Lome: Prices start from $29.70 per night.
- Villa at Togo: Prices start from $33.23 per night.
Popular Hotels in Lomé
- Hotel Sarakawa: Offers family-friendly accommodations with a children’s pool and picnic area. Prices start from $126 per night.
- Hotel GHIS Palace: Features an outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar/lounge. Free WiFi, free self-parking, and airport shuttle provided.
- Hotel Riviera Ramatou Plage: Offers a private beach, outdoor pool, and children’s pool. Prices start from $73 per night.
Best Areas to Visit
- Maritime Region: Popular region with many top-rated hotels.
- Kara Region: Known for its scenic beauty and attractions.
- Savanes Region: A great destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
