Visa and Immigration Procedures to Togo

All visitors to Togo are required to have a valid passport and a valid return ticket. Visitors to Togo are required to either purchase a 7-day visa ticket upon landing or have a valid 60 or 90-day visa ticket bought in advance. If you wish to exit and re-enter Togo on the same trip, then you need to buy a special multiple re-entry visa ticket for Togo. Nationals of Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Côte d'Ivoire, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Liberia, Mali, Mauritania, Niger, Nigeria, Senegal and Sierra Leone may enter Togo visa-free.

Togo - Local Climate / Weather

Togo experiences a tropical climate that varies between the southern coast and the northern regions. The southern part of Togo, including the capital, Lomé, is humid and has two rainy seasons: one from April to July and a shorter, lighter one in September and October. The temperatures here are moderated by the ocean, typically ranging between 24°C and 30°C. In contrast, northern Togo has a single rainy season from May to October, and the temperatures are generally higher, reaching up to 40°C in the hottest months. The harmattan wind sweeps through the north during the dry season from November to March, creating a cooler, dust-laden environment. For travelers, the best time to visit Togo is during the dry seasons—November to February and again from July to September—when the weather is more comfortable for outdoor activities and travel across the country. The dry season also offers a respite from the heavy rains and reduced humidity levels, particularly in the south. However, during the harmattan in northern Togo, dust can sometimes limit visibility, which may slightly impact travel experiences. Togo’s relatively small size allows visitors to enjoy its diverse landscapes, from the coastal shores to the savannas in the north, with relative ease in the dry season. Togo’s rich culture is celebrated through various festivals and events throughout the year. One of the most significant is the Evala Festival, held in July in the northern Kabye region, where young men participate in traditional wrestling matches as a rite of passage. Another major event is the Gadao-Adossa festival of the Tem people, which features ceremonial dances and cultural displays. In the south, Lomé hosts the Voodoo Festival in January, which is an immersive experience into the country’s traditional spirituality, celebrated through rituals, music, and dance. These festivals offer travelers a unique chance to witness Togo’s cultural diversity and traditions, making it an enriching destination for cultural exploration.

Togo - Currency & Tipping

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Currency

Togo’s currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF), shared with several other West African countries. It is available in banknotes of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 francs, while coins come in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, and 500 francs. The CFA franc is a stable currency with a fixed exchange rate to the euro, making it reliable for travelers from countries with varying currency values.

Tipping

Tipping in Togo is appreciated but not obligatory, as service charges are often included in bills at hotels and upscale restaurants. For good service in smaller local establishments, a modest tip equivalent to around 5–10% of the bill is a polite gesture. Taxi drivers and guides also welcome small tips, which are seen as a sign of appreciation for attentive or helpful service.

Useful Travel Information

Togo - Voltage & Electrical Outlets

The standard voltage is 220V with a frequency of 50Hz, and the common plug types are the European-style C and E plugs. Travelers should check if their devices are compatible with this voltage or carry a converter to avoid any electrical issues, especially if they use devices designed for 110V.

Togo - Internet Connectivity

The internet environment in Togo is still developing, with limited high-speed connectivity outside urban areas. Lomé, the capital, has better access to Wi-Fi in hotels, cafes, and some public spaces, but connection speeds may not be as fast or reliable as in other countries. For more consistent access, travelers can purchase a local SIM card with data from one of the main providers.

Togo - Water for Consumption (Drinking Water)

Tap water in Togo is not considered safe to drink for visitors, so it’s recommended to stick to bottled water, which is widely available, or use water purification tablets when exploring rural areas. Avoid ice in drinks and, if possible, brush your teeth with bottled water to minimize the risk of waterborne illnesses.

Culture, Religion & Social Etiquette

Togo - Culture

Togo's culture and traditions are vibrant and diverse, shaped by the customs of its over 40 ethnic groups, including the Ewe, Kabye, and Tem people. Music and dance are central to Togolese life, with traditional festivals featuring rituals, masks, and drums that celebrate everything from harvests to spiritual rites. Visitors can experience these rich traditions through local festivals, where hospitality and community are highly valued, creating memorable cultural exchanges.

Togo - Religion

Religion in Togo is a blend of traditional beliefs, Christianity, and Islam, with many Togolese practicing indigenous African religions. Voodoo, in particular, has deep roots in the south and is celebrated with colorful rituals and ceremonies, especially during January’s Voodoo Festival. Respect for religious diversity is essential, as communities often embrace a mix of beliefs that are integral to daily life, especially in rural areas.

Togo - Social Etiquette

Manners in Togo reflect respect and politeness, with greetings holding a special place in social interactions. It’s customary to greet with a handshake and a friendly inquiry about family or health. For all travelers, showing interest in local customs and traditions is appreciated, and dressing modestly, especially in rural areas and religious settings, is a sign of respect. Togolese people are welcoming, and small gestures of politeness go a long way in building friendly connections.

Togo - Food Culture

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Togo’s food culture is a flavorful blend of West African staples and French influences, offering all travelers a unique and delicious culinary experience. Togolese cuisine is centered around hearty ingredients like maize, rice, millet, and cassava, often prepared in spicy stews or served alongside grilled meats and fresh fish. Street food is a must-try, with popular options like fufu (a doughy dish made from cassava), akume (a corn-based porridge), and koklo meme (spicy grilled chicken) readily available from vibrant street stalls. For a sit-down meal, recommended local restaurants in Lomé, such as La Belle Époque and Alt Munchen, provide authentic Togolese flavors as well as French-inspired dishes in friendly, relaxed settings. Togo’s blend of traditional and modern cuisine offers visitors an unforgettable taste of West African culinary tradition.

Togo - Major Tourist Attractions & UNESCO World Heritage Sites

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Togo - Major Tourist Attractions

Togo offers a range of major tourist destinations that immerse travelers in its natural beauty and vibrant culture. Kpalimé, a lush town surrounded by tropical forests and waterfalls, is a popular destination for nature lovers and hikers, with Mount Agou offering rewarding treks and scenic views. Lomé, the coastal capital, is known for its bustling markets, including the famous Grand Marché, where travelers can shop for local crafts, textiles, and unique souvenirs. The Akodessawa Fetish Market in Lomé is another fascinating spot, showcasing traditional medicinal items and spiritual artifacts. For beachgoers, Aneho and Togoville offer serene sandy beaches along Lake Togo and the Atlantic Ocean, where visitors can relax, enjoy water sports, or explore Togoville’s rich history and culture.

Togo - UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Togo’s heritage sites offer insight into the country’s deep cultural roots and historical significance. The Koutammakou landscape, known as the "Land of the Batammariba," is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit for those interested in traditional Togolese architecture and culture. Located in northern Togo, this region is home to the Batammariba people, whose unique takienta clay towers serve as dwellings and symbols of the community’s ancient way of life. Visitors can tour the villages and learn about their traditions, sustainable building techniques, and unique customs. Additionally, Togoville, located near Lake Togo, holds spiritual and historical importance as a center of Voodoo culture, with its colonial-era churches and Voodoo shrines offering a unique glimpse into Togo’s spiritual heritage. These heritage sites provide all travelers with unforgettable experiences that bridge history, culture, and the timeless beauty of Togo’s landscapes.

Togo- Souvenirs

Togo offers a variety of unique souvenirs that capture the essence of its culture, making shopping an enjoyable experience for all travelers. The bustling markets in Lomé, especially the Grand Marché, are excellent places to find authentic handicrafts, including intricately woven textiles, vibrant batik fabrics, and colorful beadwork jewelry. Traditional items like kente cloth and hand-carved wooden masks, which represent Togo’s diverse ethnic heritage, make meaningful mementos. For a more unique experience, the Akodessawa Fetish Market offers items used in Voodoo practices, such as charms and figurines, which serve as fascinating cultural artifacts or conversation pieces. Additionally, Togo’s artisan villages often sell pottery, leatherwork, and musical instruments like the kora (a type of African harp) and drums, which reflect the region’s traditional craftsmanship. For food souvenirs, consider Togolese coffee and cocoa products, as well as the locally brewed sodabi palm wine, which offer a taste of Togo’s agricultural richness. Bargaining is common in Togo’s markets, so all travelers should be prepared to negotiate prices for an authentic and budget-friendly shopping experience. From textiles to traditional crafts, Togo’s markets offer unique and meaningful souvenirs for every traveler.

Things/Items Allowed into Togo

Things/Items Forbidden out of Togo

Things/Items Forbidden into Togo

Voice of Travelers to Togo

Togo Travel FAQs

Togo - Direct Flights to Major Airports

Flight Routes to Togo