Togo
Morning (7:00 AM - 12:00 PM): Start with the Grand Marché. Grab a quick, authentic street food breakfast like gari foto or fresh juice. Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM): Discover the city's historical landmarks. Visit Lomé Cathedral, then the Independence Monument. Afterward, consider a trip to the National Museum of Togo or the Palais de Lomé for art and history.
Evening (6:00 PM onwards): Head to the coastal area (Kodjoviakopé) for dinner at a beachside restaurant, enjoying fresh grilled fish. If time allows, find a local "maquis" with live music for Lomé's lively nightlife. Use private taxis for quick transfers to make the most of your limited time.
These itineraries give structured ideas for various lengths of stay, for capturing Lomé's essence.
Morning: Immerse yourself in the Grand Marché. Afternoon: Visit Lomé Cathedral, Independence Monument, and the National Museum/Palais de Lomé. Evening: Enjoy dinner at a mid-range restaurant offering Togolese cuisine, followed by live music at a local bar.
Morning: Visit the fascinating Fetish Market with a local guide to learn about traditional Vodou practices. Approach respectfully. Afternoon: Head to the Village Artisanal de Lomé to see artisans at work and purchase authentic crafts. Evening: Relax at your hotel pool or take a leisurely stroll along Lomé Beach.
Full Day: Take a day trip to Togoville, a historical village on Lake Togo. Explore the German-built cathedral, the local museum, and learn about the region's historical and spiritual significance. Enjoy a boat ride on Lake Togo. Return to Lomé in the late afternoon.
Days 1-3: Follow the Weekend Getaway. Day 4-5: Kpalimé Excursion (Overnight). Day 4: Travel to Kpalimé (2.5-3 hours drive). Afternoon: Cascade de Kpimé waterfall, swim, cocoa/coffee plantation. Overnight in Kpalimé. Day 5: Morning hike up Mount Agou or explore another waterfall. Artisan center in Kpalimé. Return to Lomé late afternoon. Day 6: Coastal History & Relaxation. Full Day: Trip to Aneho, potentially combining with Avétonou Beach. Day 7: Departure Preparation. Morning: Last-minute shopping. Afternoon: Head to airport.
Combine the Lomé comprehensive experience and day trips with extensions to other Togolese regions or cross into neighboring countries. For stays of several weeks or months, consider renting an apartment in Lomé. This makes for an authentic living experience and allows for self-catering.
Add 2-3 days to explore further north into Togo, visiting cities like Sokodé and Kara to experience different ethnic groups.
Extend your trip to include Ghana (e.g., Accra, Cape Coast castles) or Benin (e.g., Cotonou, Ganvié stilt village, Abomey palaces).
Take French or local language classes, volunteer with a local NGO, or explore local neighborhoods and markets in depth.
Customize your trip to your passions, focusing on Lomé's aspects that interest you most.
Lomé: Dedicate time to Lomé Cathedral, Independence Monument, National Museum, Palais de Lomé (for its historical transformation), and the unique Fetish Market. Day trips: Prioritize Togoville (German treaty, Vodou heritage) and Aneho (former colonial capital, colonial architecture).
Focus on daily exploration of local maquis and street food stalls. Try a different staple dish (fufu, akume, tchéké) with various sauces. Visit the Grand Marché to explore fresh ingredients and try different snacks. Seek out specialized grilled fish spots near the beach. Try traditional beverages like Akpan or bissap juice.
Within Lomé, opportunities are limited. Focus your adventure on day trips or overnight stays to Kpalimé for hiking, exploring waterfalls, and experiencing the lush green landscapes. Consider a fishing trip from Lomé Beach with local fishermen. For specific tours, check GetYourGuide.
Choose hotels with good swimming pools for relaxation and recreation. Visit the Village Artisanal for an engaging cultural experience observing crafts. Enjoy relaxed strolls along the beach or in less crowded park areas. Opt for private transport for comfort and safety with children. Incorporate flexible downtime to allow for children's needs.
Lomé: Marvel at the German colonial architecture of the Lomé Cathedral and other downtown buildings. Explore the revitalized Palais de Lomé for its art exhibitions and architectural beauty. Visit the Village Artisanal for traditional Togolese crafts and observe artisans at work. Day trips: Consider Kpalimé for its artisan centers.
Lomé: Spend time at the Fetish Market with a knowledgeable guide to gain insights into Vodou beliefs and practices. Visit the Lomé Cathedral and Grand Mosquée to comprehend the religious diversity. Wellness: Seek out spa services at upscale hotels for relaxation. While not a "wellness retreat" destination, finding moments of tranquility is possible.
Lomé accommodates all budgets. These plans assist in managing costs while enjoying your trip.
Accommodation: Stay in budget guesthouses or auberges. Food: Eat almost exclusively street food and at local maquis for meals. Transportation: Rely on shared taxis (wazou) and zemidjans (moto-taxis) for all city movement. Activities: Focus on free attractions: Grand Marché, Lomé Beach, Independence Monument, walking around. Shopping: Bargain hard at markets for souvenirs.
Accommodation: Stay in comfortable mid-range hotels, often with a pool and air conditioning. Food: Enjoy a mix of local eateries and mid-range restaurants, sampling both Togolese and international cuisines. Transportation: Use private taxis occasionally for convenience, supplemented by shared transport. Activities: Include entry to museums, guided city tours, and perhaps a day trip with private transport. Shopping: Explore artisan markets and some boutique shops.
Accommodation: Stay in top luxury hotels like Hotel Sarakawa or Hôtel du 2 Février, enjoying all amenities. Food: Dine at fine dining restaurants within luxury hotels and explore the best mid-range international options. Transportation: Arrange a private car with a dedicated driver for seamless travel. Activities: Opt for curated private tours, exclusive experiences, and premium excursions. Shopping: Indulge in high-quality artisan crafts and any available luxury goods.
Best for beach activities, city exploration on foot, and comfortable outdoor experiences. Fewer rain disruptions make this ideal for general sightseeing and hiking (if venturing outside Lomé). Consider this season for festivals if they align, as outdoor events are more predictable.
The landscape is lusher and greener. Fewer tourists mean lower prices for accommodation and flights. Prepare for rain, but embrace the opportunity to see a different side of the country. Focus on indoor activities like museums or covered markets during heavy downpours. Waterfalls (near Kpalimé) are at their most impressive during and after the rains.
Carry a good quality Travel umbrella or a Lightweight rain jacket for unexpected showers.
Benefit from lower prices and fewer crowds at attractions. Focus on cultural sites, indoor markets, and culinary experiences during heavy downpours.
