Togo is a small but beautiful country in West Africa. When it comes to getting around Togo, there are a few options available, and it’s important to choose the one that makes the most sense for your budget and needs. Let’s break down the transportation options, so you can make an informed choice before you hit the road.
Public Transportation in Togo
Public transportation in Togo mainly consists of bush taxis (shared taxis), minibuses, and, to a lesser extent, larger buses. Though it’s a budget-friendly option, most public transport tends to be crowded and uncomfortable.
Bush Taxis
Bush taxis, or shared taxis, are one of the most common ways to get around between towns and villages in Togo. These taxis pick up passengers along the way, so if you’re not in a hurry and want to travel cheaply, this is a good option.
Costs are generally low, but you should be prepared for long waits as drivers only leave once the vehicle is full. These taxis are often cramped, and comfort is not a priority — seating is tight, and vehicles are often old. Safety can be an issue as drivers may not always follow traffic laws.
Minibuses
Minibuses work similarly to bush taxis. They carry more passengers and are slightly more spacious. If you want a bit more legroom, opt for a minibus instead of a bush taxi. These are also a common way to travel between towns.
The minibuses also wait until they are full before departing, but once they get going, they are relatively cheap. Routes are more organized than bush taxis, so you might experience slightly smoother trips. Again, expect some delays and discomfort due to older vehicles and poor road conditions.
Buses
For longer trips between major cities like Lomé and Kara, large buses are available. These buses tend to be slower compared to minibuses and taxis, but they offer a more comfortable experience. However, services may not run frequently, so plan ahead if you want to travel by bus.
Buses are the safest of the public transportation options since they are run by established companies with better-maintained vehicles. Prices are still affordable, making this a good option if you have time to spare and prefer comfort over speed.
Taxis and Private Car Hire
Taxis are a popular choice for getting around in cities like Lomé and other larger towns in Togo. You’ll have the option of shared taxis (which pick up multiple passengers along a route) or a private taxi hire, which gives you the whole vehicle to yourself.
Shared Taxis
Shared taxis are cheaper but less private. They follow set paths and stop on the side of the road to pick up passengers. Prices are low, but the route will not necessarily be direct, as the car will stop frequently to pick up and drop off other passengers along the way.
Private Taxis
If you want more convenience and privacy, you can hire a taxi for yourself. This will cost more than a shared taxi, but the added comfort and flexibility make a big difference. Be sure to negotiate the fare before you start your journey since meters are not commonly used in Togo.
Taxis are generally reliable, especially in larger towns. Most drivers are friendly, but like anywhere else, it pays to be cautious. Always agree on a price beforehand to avoid any misunderstandings.
Taxi Prices
The cost of taxis in Togo varies based on distance and destination. For short trips around the city, expect to pay around 500 to 1500 CFA. For longer trips to other towns or more remote areas, you’ll need to negotiate the price, but these trips can range anywhere from 2,000 to 10,000 CFA or more, depending on the distance.
Rideshare Services
Rideshare services aren’t widely available in Togo yet. Unlike in some larger African countries, app-based services like Uber or Bolt don’t operate here. Your best option for convenience is to flag down a taxi or arrange a ride through a hotel or local contact.
Renting a Car in Togo
If you want more freedom in exploring Togo, renting a car is an option. However, driving in Togo is not for the faint of heart, especially if you’re not accustomed to local traffic or road conditions. Here’s what you need to know about renting a vehicle.
Car Rental Agencies
Most car rentals are available in Lomé. You’ll find international agencies like Hertz or Avis alongside smaller local companies. Prices for car rentals can vary, but you can expect to pay around 20,000 to 40,000 CFA per day for a basic car. SUVs or four-wheel-drive vehicles, which are better suited for some of Togo’s rougher roads, will cost more.
Renting a car in Togo may not always include a GPS, so it’s a good idea to download offline maps on your smartphone before setting off. Be aware that not all rental cars are in great condition, so inspect the vehicle thoroughly before taking it on the road.
Driving Conditions
Driving in Togo can be a challenge. Road conditions in major cities are decent, but once you leave Lomé, you may encounter potholes, dirt roads, and poorly marked intersections. During the rainy season, roads can become muddy and difficult to navigate.
Traffic in towns can be chaotic. Traffic regulations aren’t always followed, and chaotic driving is common. You might find yourself dodging pedestrians, motorcycles, and even livestock in rural areas.
Documents and Requirements
To rent a car in Togo, you’ll need a valid driver’s license from your home country or an International Driving Permit (IDP). Rental agencies will often require this, along with proof of insurance. While some agencies accept credit cards, others may prefer cash payments in CFA.
It’s important to know that some car rental companies in Togo offer a driver with the vehicle at no extra cost. If you’re not comfortable driving, you can take advantage of this and let someone experienced handle the roads for you.
Cost Breakdown of Travel in Togo
Let’s look at a quick breakdown of the costs of various transport options in Togo.
Bush Taxis
Expect fares of about 300 to 1000 CFA for short to medium distances. Longer trips can cost up to 5000 CFA.
Minibuses
Depending on the distance, minibus fares range from 500 CFA to 3000 CFA. They are popular for regional travel.
Buses
Buses are a bit more expensive, but still affordable: 1500 to 5000 CFA for long-distance routes.
Taxis
Short-distance rides within the city range from 500 to 1500 CFA via shared taxis. For private taxis or long distances, plan to negotiate prices upward from 2000 CFA.
Car Rentals
Rental cars cost around 20,000 CFA per day for a basic model, with four-wheel-drive options running higher at around 40,000 to 60,000 CFA per day for tougher road conditions.
Important Safety Tips
When taking public transport, especially at night, avoid isolated areas where you may become vulnerable. Sticking to more populated routes is always a safer choice.
For taxis, always agree on a price before starting your journey so you’re not surprised by a sudden price hike.
If driving yourself, be cautious of traffic in urban areas and poor road conditions in rural parts of Togo. It’s smart to plan longer drives during the daytime since visibility is limited outside major towns after dark.
Lastly, regardless of your transportation choice, it’s always a good idea to have an offline map and enough CFA in cash, as card payments are not always available outside of Lomé.
With a little planning, getting around in Togo can be an adventure. Whether you choose local bush taxis, traditional taxis, or the freedom of renting your own car, there’s a solution that fits every type of traveler and budget!
Leave a reply