Togo may be small, but it has a rich culture and a variety of unique souvenirs that can make your trip unforgettable. If you’re someone who loves to bring home memories in the form of handcrafted items, colorful fabrics, or local delicacies, this guide will help you find the best spots for souvenir shopping in Togo. From vibrant markets to artisanal shops, there’s plenty to discover.
What to Buy in Togo
Local Textiles
One of the most popular items to bring back from Togo is the traditional Kente cloth. Kente is a type of brightly colored, intricately woven fabric made from silk and cotton. It originates from the Ashanti Kingdom but is widely used in many West African countries, including Togo. You can find beautiful Kente patterns that represent different cultural stories and history.
If you’re more into casual fashion, look for pagnes in the markets. Pagne is a versatile piece of fabric that can be used for clothing, head wraps, or even home decor. These fabrics feature rich colors and complex patterns, making them a beautiful and practical souvenir.
Wooden Crafts
If you’re into decor, Togo is known for its handcrafted wooden items. You’ll find sculptures, carved masks, and figurines in most markets. Many of them are inspired by local folklore and traditions.
Carved wooden drums are also a popular item. These aren’t just pretty to look at; they often have deeper cultural significance tied to traditional music and storytelling in West Africa.
Beadwork and Jewelry
Togo is home to skilled artisans who make unique hand-beaded jewelry. These pieces are often made from brightly colored glass beads and can range from simple bracelets to elaborate necklaces. By buying one, you’re not just picking up a souvenir; you’re supporting local craftsmanship.
Handmade Baskets and Pottery
If you’re looking for something useful and decorative, handmade baskets and pottery make great choices. Togolese artisans create beautiful baskets using sustainable materials like raffia and grass. You can use them for storage or as a decorative element at home.
Handmade clay pottery is another option. These are often used for cooking in Togo, but they’ll also work great as home decor if you’re not into bringing back something you’ll actually use in the kitchen.
Spices and Local Food Products
For food lovers, Togo has plenty of edible souvenirs to offer. Purchase local spices like ginger, vanilla, and pepper at affordable prices. These spices will liven up your cooking back home and always remind you of your trip to Togo.
Don’t forget to pick up some locally made shea butter too. Togolese shea butter is high in quality and makes an excellent natural skincare product. It’s also a common ingredient in local recipes and makes a great all-natural souvenir.
Paintings and Artwork
If you prefer something artistic, head to the art stalls where Togolese painters sell their work. You’ll find everything from modern pieces to more traditional themes. These paintings are often vibrant and reflective of everyday life, landscapes, or abstract cultural expressions in Togo.
Best Markets for Souvenir Shopping
Grand Marché (Lomé)
The Grand Marché, or Big Market, in Lomé is one of the best places to find all kinds of souvenirs. From vibrant textiles and handmade jewelry to local crafts and spices, this market has it all. The Grand Marché is the heart of commerce in the capital, so it can get crowded, but the variety of products makes it worth the trip.
Don’t be afraid to haggle here. It’s part of the shopping experience, and you may even be able to get discounts on multiple items. The vendors are friendly and often appreciate a little negotiation.
Nana Benz Market
If fashion is on your souvenir list, head to the Nana Benz Market. This spot is famous for its high-quality fabrics, particularly Wax prints and pagnes. Historically, women cloth traders, known as the Nana Benz, ruled the textile industry in this region. Even though times have changed, you can still find world-class fabrics here.
Whether you’re looking for something to add to your wardrobe or want fabric for future DIY projects, this market is a good place to shop. Prices are generally reasonable, but as with the Grand Marché, haggling is expected.
Aneho Market
Aneho is a small town, about an hour’s drive from Lomé, but it’s worth a visit for its weekly market. Held every Sunday, the Aneho Market is more relaxed than the ones in Lomé. You’ll find a wide variety of crafts, wooden sculptures, and local spices here.
While it may not be as large as the Grand Marché, it offers an authentic, local experience. The atmosphere is calm, making it a pleasant environment for shopping without the hustle of city markets.
Craft Village (Village Artisanal)
Located near the airport in Lomé, the Craft Village is a dedicated spot for buying high-quality artisan-made products. If you’re looking for something handcrafted, this is a fantastic place to shop. The items are made by local craftsmen, and the range includes pottery, sculptures, textiles, and beadwork.
This place offers a more relaxed shopping atmosphere compared to the busy city markets, and the pricing is usually fixed, so there’s no need to haggle. You can also see artisans working on their products, which adds a unique dimension to your shopping experience.
Things to Keep in Mind
Haggling Tips
Haggling is a big part of shopping in Togo, especially in markets. Don’t be shy to negotiate prices. Smile, be polite, and offer a reasonable counter-offer. Often, vendors will start by quoting a high price because they expect you to haggle. If you feel the quoted price is too high, walk away politely—sometimes the vendor will call you back with a better deal.
Support Local Artisans
When you’re shopping for souvenirs, try to prioritize buying from local artisans and vendors. This ensures that your money goes directly to support the community. Fair-trade items are always a good choice and you often get better quality while making a positive impact on the local economy.
Travel with Extra Space
Souvenir shopping in Togo can be tempting, so make sure to pack light or travel with an extra bag. Whether it’s fabrics, wooden carvings, or paintings, many Togolese products can take up more space than you might expect.
Conclusion
Souvenir shopping in Togo is an enriching experience that lets you take a piece of the country’s culture back home, whether it’s through textiles, wooden crafts, or local foods. The markets in Lomé and nearby regions provide a unique opportunity to interact with local artisans and find something truly special.
Haggle with a smile, stay respectful, and enjoy the adventure. Happy souvenir hunting!
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