Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Togo

Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting Togo

If you’re heading to Togo, it’s smart to equip yourself with the right travel apps and tools. These will help you save time, find your way around, and get more out of your trip. Whether you need to navigate the streets of Lomé, translate local languages, or book rides across the country, this list has you covered. Let’s dive straight into the essential travel apps you need for Togo.

1. Google Maps

Google Maps is a must-have for any trip, and Togo is no exception. It’s free and super reliable when it comes to finding your way around large cities like Lomé or Kpalimé. You can search for places of interest, restaurants, and accommodation, then use the directions feature to get walking, driving, or public transport routes.

Make sure to download offline maps before setting off. Togo’s mobile signal can be spotty, especially in rural areas. With offline maps, you’ll still have access to essential information while browsing without data.

2. Maps.me

For offline maps with a little extra local detail, Maps.me is another great option. The app allows you to download entire countries as offline maps, including Togo. It’s free, and users can even contribute new location information, so you’ll get tips from travelers looking to help others.

Navigation works well, and walking routes are excellent, especially for remote areas where other apps might not have detailed information.

3. iTranslate

Togo is a multilingual country, and people speak French in most areas. However, several local languages like Ewe and Kabiyé are also common. iTranslate is a handy app that supports French, but you can go premium if you want access to more languages, including offline translations.

The free version handles French-English translations smoothly. Try to memorize a few simple words or use this tool to break the language barrier when needed.

4. Google Translate

A free alternative to iTranslate is Google Translate. It supports both French and local languages. The app lets you download language packs for offline use, which is useful when you find yourself without Wi-Fi.

One cool trick is using the camera feature that instantly translates text directly from street signs or menus. It’s a lifesaver in busy markets or restaurants where English isn’t common.

5. Rome2rio

Traveling from city to city or border-hopping? Rome2rio is perfect for planning journeys across Togo or beyond. It provides you with multiple ways to get from point A to point B: buses, rideshare, air, and more.

From Lomé to Kara or anywhere else, this tool pulls up options, prices, and timings, giving you more flexibility. The platform offers free searches, and you can even book transport through some of its partner providers.

6. Uber (or Taxify/Bolt)

While Uber is available in many countries, it’s currently not operating in Togo. Instead, you’ll want to check out Bolt, which provides ride-hailing services across the country. It’s similar to Uber, but you’ll find more appropriate local rides at competitive pricing.

If you need affordable and safe transport across Lomé, Bolt will get you from one place to the next without dealing with local taxis. It’s available on both iOS and Android, and offers cash or card payment options.

7. Moovit

For those using public transport, Moovit is a solid option in Togo. It provides detailed bus routes, maps, and timetables. While Togo’s public transportation network might not be as developed as some countries, Moovit helps you navigate the bus routes available.

What makes this app great is its real-time updates, so you’ll always know when the next bus is coming and avoid long waiting times. It can save you lots of guesswork, especially in day-to-day situations.

8. Booking.com

Booking accommodation in advance is smart in Togo, especially for popular spots like Kpalimé or Togoville. Booking.com is reliable, user-friendly, and offers a wide range of hotels, guesthouses, and budget stays across the country. Most of the listings have real user reviews, so you’ll know if the place fits your needs.

You can apply filters to narrow your search results based on price, guest ratings, and proximity to local attractions. The app also offers easy cancellation options, which is helpful in case your plans change.

9. Airbnb

Looking for a more unique stay? Airbnb is another fantastic option for Togo. You’ll find home rentals and private rooms that often offer more comfort and local flavor than traditional hotels.

Not only does the app provide accommodation, but you can also book experiences hosted by locals. From cooking classes to guided tours, Airbnb helps you connect with local culture in a more intimate way.

10. XE Currency

Togo uses the West African CFA franc (XOF), and having a currency converter is super helpful while shopping or exchanging money. XE Currency is free and provides real-time rates for currency conversions across the globe, including the CFA franc.

Download the app and have it on hand whenever you’re budgeting or negotiating prices in the market. It also works offline, so you’ll always get accurate numbers even when you’re not connected to the internet.

11. Revolut

If you’re worried about handling local currency, Revolut is a solid option for a travel-friendly debit card. You can load money into your account and handle multiple currencies simultaneously. It even allows you to exchange your money at competitive rates with no hidden fees.

Revolut also lets you withdraw cash from ATMs in Togo, although it’s smart to carry some cash at all times since card payments may not be widely accepted, especially in rural areas.

12. TripIt

Organizing all your travel plans in one place can be overwhelming. TripIt is a simple app that pulls all your bookings, reservations, and itineraries into one seamless schedule. It works for flights, accommodation, rental cars, and more.

Just forward your booking confirmation emails to the app, and it will generate a complete itinerary. This keeps you from scrolling back through your inbox when you need to check trip details.

13. WiFi Map

Staying connected is important, especially when you’re abroad. Free public Wi-Fi isn’t always available across Togo, so WiFi Map can come in handy. It helps you find nearby Wi-Fi hotspots, including passwords shared by other users.

The app works worldwide, and you can even download the map offline if you want to search for Wi-Fi without needing internet access first.

14. VPN (NordVPN or ExpressVPN)

You might find certain internet services restricted or slow in Togo. A VPN, like NordVPN or ExpressVPN, ensures your browsing is secure and private. It also unlocks content that may be limited by location, giving you full access to international websites and apps.

While both apps are paid, they often come with free trial periods or discounts on long-term subscriptions. If you need uninterrupted internet access, especially for banking or streaming, this tool is worth investing in.

15. WhatsApp

You may already use WhatsApp for messaging, but it’s essential for staying in touch when you’re in Togo. Many locals, businesses, and guesthouses use it as their primary communication tool. Plus, it’s great for free voice and video calls over Wi-Fi.

Since mobile network coverage can be hit or miss in some areas, WhatsApp will help you stay connected with friends, family, and service providers as long as you have an internet connection.

Final Thoughts

Using the right apps and tools will make your travel experience in Togo smoother and more enjoyable. With these must-have apps on your phone, you can spend less time worrying about logistics and more time exploring all the amazing things Togo has to offer.

From navigation and translation to booking accommodation and planning transport, these apps have you covered. Prep your phone, download what you need, and you’ll be good to go!