Are you looking for a relative off-the-radar escape? Then Togo is the place for you. This silver piece of land is constantly at the ready with new untapped destinations to make even the most intrepid traveler swoon in awe-struck delight. From unexplored palm-fringed beaches, epic history, and culture, to wildlife, Togo has a bit of everything to feed a traveler’s wanderlust.
Rich in history, unique culinary traditions, misty mountains and swamps, windy rivers, and palm-fringed beaches, Togo will easily capture your attention.
Untapped by tourists and preserved by locals, Togo offers incredible views and access to scenic, historic castles, soft sand beaches, wild rivers, and lakes that will truly get you lost on the very brink of discovery. Here you can also cruise like royalty as you split your time between Togo lake and land, with morning sailing through the untouched waters and afternoon exploring storybook villages; Dvego or Dzange village.
Togo is more than just a lively county – it is a state of mind that boasts some of the best historical sites, culture, architecture, and natural beauty, making it an off-the-beaten-track cultural gem. Here, the infinite pleasure of doing nothing is also not to be underestimated; simply lie back, rejuvenate, relax, and take in those stunning views of its unspoiled beauty.
For adrenaline junkies, you can find canyon, trek, rock climb, hike through the heart of Mount Agou and track endangered chimpanzees before you paddle through Lake Togo in search of tilapia and catfish Chrysichthys. You can also stretch your leg and visit the busy fish markets to make your holiday a memorable one.
Highlights
Togo Capital: Lome
Population: 8.28 million
Area: 56,785 km²
Major Religion: Christian
Official Language: French
National Language: Ewe and KabiKaye
Climate: The best time to visit Togo is from November to January: the weather is usually good.
Dialing code: +228
Togo Currency
Currency: West African CFA franc
Symbols: CFA
DESTINATION AND CULTURE
Togo has a melting-pot of cultures. The fortified compounds of Koutammakou are a reminder that the country’s ethnically diverse population didn’t always get along, but nowadays, Muslim, Christian, voodoo, and traditional festivals offer colorful celebrations for all. Believe it or not, Togo epic cultures are infectious.
Togo cuisine
Foodies rejoice! Togo is a burgeoning foodie hotspot, a culinary country where world-class chefs serve up top-notch fare alongside authentic street snacks. Different diverse restaurants offer everything from classic seafood to exquisite drinks– at some of the best prices. You will never go hungry, as Togo is renowned for its sumptuous spread of yummy food and drink.
Togolese features several other Western African cuisines with the additional influences of French and German cuisines. Staple foods include; plantain, millet, yam, and rice. But maize (corn) is the most commonly used of all staples in Togolese Cuisine.
Kpalime
If you are looking for a serene area to chill out when you visit Togo, you should desist from the Kpalime region. This beautiful tranquil area is endowed with cocoa plantations and Mt. Agou which provides impressive views of the picturesque landscape. It is a must-visit!
Lake Togo
If you want to explore a truly wild slice of Togo, then head to Lake Togo. This insane lake will render you speechless. Its scenic beauty makes it a hotspot for photography. Try it.
Things to do at Lake Togo are paddleboarding, hiking, kayaking, and more.
Lome
Lomé – a low-key yet elegant Togo capital – ticks over the buzz of modern energy, and it’s still proud of its brilliant Parasian style boulevards – not to mention its splendid culinary and hospitality on its doorstep – Wonderful!
Grottes De Nok
A visit to Togo is not complete without a touch of this UNESCO Heritage Site – Grottes De Nok. Here you can see the cliff that people (semi-cave men) used as a shelter against warring enemies
Keran National Park
These enchanting, magnificent park holds numerous species of insects, birds, and wild herds of warthogs, deer, antelope, and buffalo, among others. If you are ready to get a “bang” adventurous, then you will want to add Keran National Park to your bucket list!
Aneho Beach
To keep your balance and not end up with a face full of water is one of the best feelings you can get in on Aneho beach. The experience is so much better than a sweaty gym! You will give the beach a bonus for keeping you fit. It’s rude not to!
Mt. Agou
Mt. Agou (Togo’s highest mountain) presents climbers with a suitable challenge. Here, you can admire the natural landscape and lush forest on your way up – the trail up the mountain offers a perfect view of the friendly locals and their lives. Canyoning, Hiking, and Mountain biking are among many other adrenaline activities.
Cascade de Kpime
Cascade de Kpime cascades down a tall cliff that prevents even experienced climbers from a serious challenge. For avid daredevils, this is an experience you will leave to remember forever.
Togo National Museum
Although modest in size, the museum house a collection of historical and cultural artifacts; pottery, paintings, textiles, and musical instruments. It is a perfect place to catch a glimpse of Togolese culture.
Fazao – Malfakassa National Park
Fazao – Malfakassa National Park is treasured by UNESCO Heritage Sites and boasts the largest pristine forest region in Togo. The park holds; elephants, chimpanzees, and other small mammal species. To complement this unique wildlife are the most treasured birds such as Hawk eagles, grew parrot, heron, francolins, swamp, hornbill, and Firefinch, among others.
How to get a visa to Togo
Fill out and sign the application form. Attach your passport – with at least one year upon arrival at Togo and two blank visa pages. Also, hold proof of onward/return airline tickets, and documentation confirming the purpose and duration of your visit to Togo!
Helpful Travelling tips
• Book through an agent directly to save costs. Since OTA’s takes commissions
• Currency and Banking. The currency of Togo is the West African CFA franc. Approximately 1 CFA= 0.0017 $.
• You need to bring an unlocked smartphone with you. You can get a sim card for your stay, which will allow you to add minutes and be able to call your family or friends.
• Dress Modest