Togo
Breaking down your preparations into manageable phases.
Verify your passport's validity. It should remain valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure date from Togo. If it expires sooner, begin renewal immediately.
Research specific visa requirements for your nationality. For Togo, consider applying for an e-visa through the official Togo Voyage website. This generally takes less time than a traditional embassy visa but still processing.
Schedule an appointment with your doctor or a travel clinic. Discuss required (Yellow Fever) and recommended vaccinations. Obtain any necessary prescriptions, especially for malaria prophylaxis. Many vaccinations take time to become effective, so do not delay.
Finalize and book your accommodation in Lomé. If day trips involve overnight stays (e.g., Kpalimé), book those as well.
Plan your general itinerary, including day trips and activities, but allow flexibility. Research opening hours for attractions.
Begin learning basic French phrases. Use apps like Google Translate (offline mode) and practice greetings in Ewe.
Reconfirm all your flights, hotel reservations, and any pre-booked tours.
Make several photocopies (physical and digital) of your passport, visa, travel insurance policy, Yellow Fever vaccination certificate, flight and hotel confirmations. Store physical copies separately from originals, and digital copies in a secure cloud service.
Do your main packing based on your checklist. Medications in original containers with prescriptions. Inform your bank and credit card companies of your travel dates and destinations to avoid fraud alerts or service interruptions.
Inform yourself on various aspects for a richer experience.
Taking care of these details before you leave brings peace of mind.
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance. Ensure it covers medical emergencies, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellation/interruption, and lost luggage. Verify coverage for West Africa. World Nomads is a trusted provider.
The first few hours in a new country may be disorienting. A checklist for arrival is helpful.
Proceed through immigration and customs. Have your passport, visa (or be ready to apply for VoA), and Yellow Fever vaccination certificate ready.
If desired, purchase a local SIM card from a reputable provider's counter at the airport. You will need your passport for registration.
Exchange a small amount of cash or use an ATM for immediate needs (taxi fare, bottled water). Airport exchange rates might not be the best.
Once at your accommodation, take a moment to become familiar with the immediate neighborhood. Locate nearby restaurants, small shops, and a reliable taxi stand.
Confirm that emergency numbers and your embassy's contact details remain easily accessible on your phone and on paper.
Get the hotel's address and phone number on a card to show taxi drivers.
Allow time for any last-minute souvenir shopping.
If you plan to ship larger items home, confirm shipping costs and customs regulations with international courier services (e.g., DHL) well in advance of your departure. Pack items securely.
Value Added Tax (VAT) refund procedures for tourists are not typically applicable or commonly available in Togo.
Do not expect to claim VAT refunds.
For international flights, plan to arrive at Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport (LFW) at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time. This time for check-in, immigration, and security.
Account for potential traffic delays on your way to the airport, especially during peak hours.
Ensure all necessary documents for your onward or return travel are readily available, including your passport, boarding pass, and any visa requirements for your next destination.
By following this comprehensive pre-trip checklist, you approach your journey to Lomé with confidence, knowing you have addressed important practicalities and are well-prepared for a rewarding travel experience.
Ensure all documents are valid and accessible.
Reconfirm your flight status 24 hours before departure.
Ensure a smooth final step in your journey planning.
