Togo

The Land of Small
Wonders and Vibrant Markets

Flag of Togo

Togo, a West African country on the Gulf of Guinea, is known for its beaches, forests, and the Koutammakou region’s mud houses. Home to iconic sites like Lomé, the Akosombo Dam, and Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, Togo offers a unique mix of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

The country’s geography includes coastal plains, plateaus, and savannas. Togolese culture blends Ewe, Kabye, and French influences, evident in its music, dance, and cuisine like fufu (yam paste) and grilled fish. Known for its vibrant traditions and warm hospitality, Togo is an enchanting destination for nature lovers and cultural explorers.

Travel Documents

Documents

Toll

Driving

Currency

Laws

Legal

Safety

Flights

Travel Documents

Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-ECOWAS citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into Togo.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in Togo.

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) nations can enter Togo with a valid passport or ID card and stay for up to 90 days without a visa.
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from most other nations must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa prior to entering Togo.
  • Visa on Arrival: Available for many nationalities at Lomé-Tokoin International Airport or land borders, valid for 7–90 days depending on purpose.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) may still require a Togolese visa—verify with the Togolese embassy.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) must typically obtain a Togolese visa.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry—check embassy requirements.

ID Card Entry

  • The following citizens can enter Togo using only a valid national ID card:
    • Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) member states (e.g., Ghana, Nigeria, Benin, Senegal).

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days. Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 1 year.
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days. Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit.

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free or visa-on-arrival stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period.
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules may apply for work, study, or long-term stays—contact the Togolese Immigration Office.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions via the Ministry of Health website.
Toll

Driving in Togo

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, the main toll road in Togo is:
    • Lomé–Atakpamé Road: A key north-south route with toll booths at select points.
    • Additional toll roads may be under development—check official sources for updates.

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates: Vary based on vehicle type and distance traveled. For the most current rates, visit the official Togolese Road Authority website: https://www.transports.gouv.tg/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: West African CFA Franc (XOF) is accepted at all toll booths.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Limited acceptance—primarily cash-based; major cards may work at urban toll points.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: An e-toll system is not widely implemented—check https://www.service-public.tg/ for updates.

Driving in Togo

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 50 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80 km/h
    • Highways: 100 km/h
  • Road conditions: Vary; major roads like Lomé to Kara are paved, but rural roads can be unpaved or poorly maintained—exercise caution.
  • International Driving Permit (IDP): Recommended alongside your national driver’s license for non-ECOWAS citizens.

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: Togo does not currently use a vignette system for road use, but road taxes may apply—check https://www.transports.gouv.tg/ for the latest information.
  • Road Safety: Remain vigilant due to uneven road quality, pedestrians, and livestock crossings, especially at night or in rural areas.
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable in cities like Lomé but less so in rural areas—keep an updated physical map as a backup.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 117 for emergencies (police) or 118 (fire/ambulance).

Useful Links

Togo Currency

Official Currency

  • The official currency of Togo is the West African CFA Franc (XOF).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, 10,000 XOF
  • Coins: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, 200, 250, 500 XOF
  • Symbol: ₣ (sometimes written as CFA)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services available at banks, airports, and major hotels.
  • ATMs widely available in urban areas like Lomé for direct XOF withdrawals.

Payment Methods

  • Cash: Preferred, especially in rural areas and for small transactions.
  • Credit/Debit Cards: Accepted in cities, hotels, and larger establishments—Visa and Mastercard are most common.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and rural areas.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards.
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of West African States (BCEAO) website: https://www.bceao.int/.
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in Togo

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in Togo, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences. Even small quantities can lead to criminal charges.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Public intoxication is frowned upon and may result in fines.
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Avoid discussing political instability or regional conflicts—respect local customs and traditions.
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties including imprisonment. Public displays of affection may attract unwanted attention or legal consequences.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings, or critical infrastructure. Always ask permission for portraits of locals.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 1L spirits | Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over €10,000 (or equivalent in XOF).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, endangered species products.
  • Counterfeit goods (may face fines or confiscation).

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport.

Complaints

Beach Access

  • Public beaches must allow free access within a reasonable distance of the shoreline—private properties may restrict further inland areas.

Key Resources

Togo Travel Safety

Togo is generally safe for travellers, with low crime rates and a reputation for hospitality. However, travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in Togo.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets or Lomé’s Grand Marché. Violent crime against tourists is extremely uncommon.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: Togo is considered safe, with locals often assisting visitors. Avoid isolated areas at night.

Road Safety

  • Driving can be challenging due to uneven road conditions and aggressive drivers in urban areas like Lomé.
  • Avoid night driving in rural areas due to poor lighting and road hazards.
  • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety: Avoid tap water; drink bottled water. Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for long-term stays or rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required for all travelers over 9 months old—certificate checked at entry.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against malaria (widespread) and dengue (coastal risk).
  • Altitude Sickness: Minimal risk as Togo’s highest elevation is under 1,000 meters.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: Private facilities like Clinique Biasa in Lomé offer higher standards. Rural areas often lack advanced care.
  • Pharmacies: Available in cities but carry essential medications for rural travel.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 117 (police), 118 (fire/ambulance).
  • Ambulance: 118 | Fire: 118 | Police: 117.
  • Tourist Police (Lomé): +228 22 21 33 33 (verify locally).

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Rent a 4x4 for rural areas—check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use local guides for trails in areas like the Kpalimé region.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect local traditions and avoid political discussions.
  • Air Quality: Pollution can be moderate in Lomé—monitor via the World Air Quality Index.

Key Links

Flying to Togo

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