Togo is a small yet incredibly diverse country in West Africa that many travelers overlook. But don’t let its size fool you; Togo has a lot to offer those who want to experience authentic culture, unique traditions, and natural beauty. Whether you want to explore lush forests, beautiful coastlines, or traditional villages, this country can surprise you in ways you never expected.
The Basics of Togo
Before diving into the highlights, let’s start with some basic facts that will help paint the broader picture. Togo is bordered by Ghana to the west, Benin to the east, Burkina Faso to the north, and the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It’s a small, narrow country with an area of around 57,000 square kilometers (just a little bigger than the state of West Virginia in the US). Due to its size, you can explore a lot of Togo in a relatively short amount of time, compared to larger countries.
The capital city is Lomé, located on the coast, and it serves as the commercial hub of the country. Lomé is where you’ll likely fly into, and it offers a mix of lively markets, sandy beaches, and some colonial architecture. French is the official language, thanks to the colonial history, but there are plenty of local languages spoken, too. If you’re traveling here, brushing up on a few French phrases might be helpful.
The local currency is the West African CFA franc (XOF), used by several other countries in the region, which makes hopping between nearby nations a little easier if you’re on a West Africa tour.
A Brief History
Togo’s history is important to understanding its culture. The country was colonized by the Germans in the late 19th century, only to be divided after World War I between the French and British as part of a League of Nations mandate. Eventually, the French controlled most of modern-day Togo until the country gained independence in 1960.
The post-independence period was turbulent, with various political changes and coups, but Togo has maintained stability in recent years. However, you can still feel the colonial influence today in the official language, architecture, and customs, especially in the capital, Lomé.
Traditional Culture and Religion
Togo is known for its rich cultural traditions. There are dozens of distinct ethnic groups within the country, each with its own customs, music, and dress. The largest groups are the Ewe in the south, the Kotokoli in the center, and the Kabye in the north. Traditional religion plays a strong role in Togo’s culture as well, with a significant part of the population still practicing indigenous beliefs, including Vodun (Voodoo), which originated in this region.
Christianity and Islam are also widely practiced, particularly in larger cities, but Togo’s cultural roots are never far behind, no matter where you go. Festivals tied to these indigenous beliefs—like the annual Epe Ekpe celebration in Aného—are highly colorful and offer travelers a unique cultural experience.
Top Attractions in Togo
If you’re planning to visit Togo, you should know that it offers a variety of attractions that cater to many interests, whether you’re into nature, culture, or history.
1. Lomé
The capital city is a great place to start. Lomé’s mix of modern and traditional is immediately noticeable. The Grand Marché (or Big Market) is the heartbeat of the city; here, you can find everything from clothing and food to traditional medicine. It’s chaotic, colorful, and shows the vibrant energy of the city.
One unique experience is the Akodessawa Fetish Market, one of the largest Voodoo markets in West Africa. Here, you’ll find various objects used in traditional healing and rituals, making it a fascinating stop (though not for the squeamish).
Lomé’s beaches also offer a perfect escape from the bustling markets. Coco Beach and Lomé Beach are good places to relax, enjoy the sun, or take long walks along the Atlantic coast.
2. Koutammakou
Koutammakou, in the north, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Togo’s most impressive cultural highlights. The site is home to the Batammariba people, famous for their distinctive takienta (mud tower houses). These homes are built in a way that reflects the close relationship between the people and their environment.
While here, you can walk through traditional villages and get a glimpse of rural life that feels worlds away from the hustle of Lomé. The landscape is stunning, with rolling hills and wide-open spaces. If you want to experience authentic village life in Togo, Koutammakou is the place to go.
3. Fazao-Malfakassa National Park
If you’re a nature lover, this national park offers some of the best wildlife experiences in Togo. Located in the center-west part of the country, Fazao-Malfakassa is the largest of Togo’s national parks, with tropical forests, rolling hills, and savannahs. It’s home to a variety of wildlife like antelope, monkeys, and even elephants.
The park isn’t as developed as some national parks in Africa, which makes it feel less touristy. It offers trekking and bird-watching opportunities, along with the chance to explore its natural beauty without crowds around you.
4. Mount Agou
Mount Agou is Togo’s highest point at around 986 meters above sea level. For those who love to hike, a trip here provides incredible views of the surrounding countryside. The hike up is rewarding, with picturesque villages dotted along the way and locals going about their daily lives.
Reaching the summit is fairly straightforward, and once you’re at the top, you’ll be treated with panoramic views of the lush landscapes and even glimpses into neighboring Ghana.
5. Togoville
If you’re fascinated by history and culture, Togoville should definitely be on your list. Located on the shores of Lake Togo, this town has a rich history tied to German colonization and is considered a key spiritual center for the Vodun religion.
Many visits begin with a boat ride across the lake, offering a unique perspective of the landscape. You can explore the town’s colonial-era cathedral and learn more about its past. You’ll also find shrines and other key Vodun sites, making it a mix of spiritual and historical importance.
6. Aného
Aného is another coastal town worth visiting, particularly if you’re interested in Togo’s rich religious traditions. Situated near the Benin border, Aného is a center for Vodun practices in the region. The town also mixes French and German colonial influences, with its dilapidated but charming architecture along the coastline.
Unlike Lomé, Aného feels much quieter and offers a more laid-back atmosphere, further enhanced by its location next to the Atlantic Ocean. Visiting Aného during one of the local festivals can be quite an experience.
What to Know Before You Go
There are some important things to keep in mind before booking your trip.
First, Togo’s visa requirements vary depending on your nationality, so make sure to check well in advance. Many travelers will need to apply for a visa before arriving, although some can also get a visa on arrival at major border points or the Lomé airport.
As for safety, Togo is generally considered safe for travelers, but like anywhere else, you should exercise caution, especially in crowded areas. It’s always a good idea to stay aware of your surroundings, particularly in busy markets.
Lastly, since Togo has a tropical climate, expect hot and humid weather, especially along the coast. The best time to visit is during the drier months from November to February when there’s less rain, and the conditions are more comfortable for exploring.
Final Thoughts
Togo may not be at the top of every traveler’s list, but that’s exactly why it should be on yours. It offers an off-the-beaten-path experience that combines culture, nature, and history in one fascinating package. Whether you’re wandering through Lomé’s markets, hiking through national parks, or exploring traditional villages, Togo gives you the chance to see a side of Africa that’s often overlooked.
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