Togo

The Land of Small
Wonders and Vibrant Markets

Flag of Togo
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