7-Day Itinerary for Togo
Togo is a small but diverse West African country offering vibrant cities, quiet beaches, rich culture, and scenic landscapes. It’s an underrated destination where you can experience a little bit of everything in just a week. This itinerary covers the highlights while moving at a relaxed pace, allowing you enough time to enjoy every moment.
Day 1: Arrive in Lomé
Kick off your journey in the capital, Lomé. The city is the perfect introduction to Togo’s blend of African culture and colonial history. Start by visiting the Lomé Grand Market where you can wander through endless stalls of colorful fabrics, handicrafts, and local goods.
In the afternoon, explore the National Museum, which offers a small but informative exhibit on the history and culture of Togo. You’ll learn about the different ethnic groups in the country and see traditional artifacts.
Wrap up your night at a seaside restaurant along Lomé Beach and enjoy some grilled fish with a cold beer while watching the sunset.
Day 2: Lomé to Kpalimé
In the morning, make your way to Kpalimé, about a two-hour drive from Lomé. This charming town, nestled near the base of the Plateau Region’s mountains, is known for its cooler climate and lush surroundings.
Upon arrival, check out the town’s artisan center where you can watch local craftsmen create beautiful wood carvings and batiks. You’ll be tempted to pick up a souvenir or two.
If you have time in the afternoon, hike up Mount Kloto. The trail is fairly easy and takes about 2-3 hours to complete. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with stunning views of the surrounding valleys and forests.
Day 3: Exploring Waterfalls Around Kpalimé
Today is all about nature. Kpalimé is a great base for exploring several nearby waterfalls. One of the most popular is Tomegbe Waterfall, located about a 45-minute drive from town. It’s an easy hike through the forest, making it ideal for a relaxed morning.
Another option is Womé Waterfall, which requires a bit more effort to reach but is usually less crowded. You can take a dip in the cool, refreshing water or simply enjoy the lush scenery.
In the afternoon, return to Kpalimé to relax or explore the town’s laid-back vibe a bit more before dinner.
Day 4: Kpalimé to Togoville and Aneho
Head back towards the coast today with a stop in Togoville, a historical town that played an important role in Togo’s colonial past. Take a short pirogue (traditional canoe) ride across Lake Togo to reach the town. Once in Togoville, walk around the small streets and visit the local Catholic Church, where you can learn about the 1884 treaty that led to Togo becoming a German protectorate.
Afterwards, drive to Aneho, Togo’s former capital. The town has an intriguing mix of French and German colonial architecture. While you’re here, take time to walk along the coast and soak up the relaxed atmosphere. If you’re up for it, visit the Sacred Forest of Glidji nearby, a significant spot for local ancestral ceremonies.
In the evening, find yourself a local restaurant in Aneho and try some traditional Togolese dishes like akpan or foufou.
Day 5: Aneho to Klouto Forest and Koutammakou
Get ready for a mix of nature and culture today. Start your journey with a drive to the Klouto Forest Reserve, a great spot for an early morning hike. The forest also doubles as a butterfly sanctuary, so expect to see plenty of beautiful butterflies fluttering around you.
From here, continue your journey north to Koutammakou, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is home to the Batammariba people and known for its unique mud tower-houses called “tatas.” You can visit some of these traditional homes to get a glimpse of the daily life of the Batammariba community.
Spend the evening in a simple guesthouse in the area, where you can enjoy some local hospitality and eat a hearty meal before resting up for the next day’s adventures.
Day 6: Kara and the Surrounding Areas
Today takes you to Kara, one of Togo’s key northern cities and a good base for exploring the region. Kara doesn’t have the same hustle and bustle as Lomé, making it a nice change of pace.
Just outside Kara, visit the Sarakawa National Park. If you’re lucky, you might see elephants, antelopes, or even some buffalo. The park is not crowded, which is perfect for anyone looking to soak up nature in peace.
After your safari-like adventure, visit the nearby village of Pya, where you can learn about the Kabye people. They are known for their traditional ironworking techniques. Don’t be shy; the locals are usually welcoming and might even show you part of the process.
Day 7: Back to Lomé
Head back to Lomé today. It’s about a five-hour drive, so take it easy and enjoy the ride. If you missed out on any sights in Lomé on your first day, now’s the time to catch up.
If you’re a beach lover, Lomé’s long stretches of golden sand will be a perfect way to end your trip. Grab a drink, kick back, and enjoy your last evening by the water. You’ve earned it after a week of exploring Togo’s hidden gems.
Final Thoughts
This itinerary offers a balanced mix of Togo’s vibrant cities, rich culture, and natural beauty. It’s designed to be flexible. If you want to take a slower pace or add some extra activities, you’ll have plenty of time. Togo might be small, but it’s packed with experiences worth savoring.
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