Road Trips in Togo

The largest city of Togo is its capital – Lomé – a cherry on top of every trip to this African country. Large streets, delicious cuisine, and lively bars are among the few out of many highlights of the city. 

Among the most peculiar places in Lomé, you’ll find Grand Marche and Fetish Market, where you’ll encounter local priests casting spells and curses. This shouldn’t come as any surprise as Togoville, located at a stone’s throw away from the capital, has been the main centre of voodoo practices for many decades.

Those who came to Togo to enjoy long hours spent on its golden beaches should definitely direct their steps to Aneho with its palm-fringed strands. You can also try visiting the savannahs of the north with such local jewels as Koutammakou where you can admire mud houses which are homes to the Batammariba tribe. 

If you enjoy spending your free time close to pristine nature, you can travel to the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, the largest nature reserve in the country. This semi-mountainous wetland is known for a myriad of animal and bird species.

Suggested Road Trips in Togo

here are three road trips for first-timers in Togo:

• Lomé to Kpalimé: This is a scenic drive that takes you from Togo's capital city of Lomé to the charming town of Kpalimé. Along the way, you'll pass through lush forests, rolling hills, and traditional villages. Kpalimé is known for its beautiful waterfalls and stunning views of Mount Klouto. It's also a great place to experience traditional Togolese culture, with its lively markets and art galleries.

• Kara to Atakpamé: This road trip takes you from the northern city of Kara to the central town of Atakpamé. Along the way, you'll see some of Togo's most stunning natural scenery, including the stunning Kabye Plateau and the beautiful waterfalls of Womé. Atakpamé is known for its traditional craft markets and beautiful architecture, making it a great place to experience Togolese culture.

• Lomé to Aneho: This road trip takes you along Togo's beautiful coastline from Lomé to the historic town of Aneho. Along the way, you'll pass through charming fishing villages, beautiful beaches, and scenic lookout points. Aneho is known for its beautiful colonial architecture and rich history, making it a great place to explore and learn about Togo's past.

All of these road trips can be done in a day or two, depending on how much time you have and how much you want to explore along the way. Just be sure to plan your route carefully and check road conditions, as some areas may have unpaved or bumpy roads. Additionally, it's always a good idea to have a local map or GPS system on hand to help you navigate.

Togo can boast an extensive network of bush taxis, which are quite unreliable and slow. Therefore, the best way out will be to rent a vehicle at one of the certified car rental companies. These are available in major cities and at the Lomé Airport. Choose your vehicle wisely and consider additional insurance just in case of a road accident.

While driving around Togo, you’ll experience poor road state and many unlit areas. You should avoid travelling outside the cities at night. The most dangerous time in Togo is the wet season when many roads simply become impassable. While travelling around Togo, you’ll encounter frequent police checkpoints where you’ll be asked to show your documents. Frequent roadblocks are also a common phenomenon in Togo.

When taking a road trip in Togo, there are several things to be aware of to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Here are some things to keep in mind:

• Road conditions: Togo's roads can be bumpy, unpaved, and poorly maintained in some areas, so it's important to be prepared for rough driving conditions. Be cautious when driving on unpaved roads, especially during the rainy season when they can become slippery and muddy.

• Safety: Togo is generally a safe country for travelers, but it's always important to take precautions to ensure your safety. Keep your valuables out of sight, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious when interacting with strangers.

• Traffic: Traffic in Togo can be chaotic and unpredictable, especially in major cities like Lomé. Be prepared for traffic jams, erratic driving, and pedestrian traffic.

• Health: Togo is a developing country with limited healthcare resources, so it's important to take steps to stay healthy while on your road trip. Be sure to drink plenty of water, avoid street food, and take necessary precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses like malaria.

• Culture: Togo has a rich and diverse culture, and it's important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly when visiting villages or religious sites, and ask for permission before taking photos of people or places.

• Navigation: Togo's road network can be confusing and difficult to navigate, especially in rural areas. Be sure to have a local map or GPS system on hand, and ask for directions if you're unsure of where to go.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a safe and enjoyable road trip in Togo. As with any travel, it's always a good idea to research your destination and take necessary precautions to ensure a smooth and memorable trip.

The best time of the year for taking a road trip in Togo is during the dry season, which typically runs from November to February. During this time, the weather is generally dry and sunny, with cooler temperatures in the mornings and evenings.

Taking a road trip during the dry season offers several advantages. The roads are generally in better condition, with less mud and flooding from rainfall. Additionally, wildlife is more active during the dry season, making it a great time for wildlife viewing and nature walks.

However, it's important to keep in mind that Togo's climate can vary depending on the region. In the northern part of the country, the dry season may be shorter and the weather may be hotter and drier. In the south, where the climate is more tropical, the dry season may be longer and the weather may be more mild.

If you're planning a road trip during other times of the year, it's important to be prepared for the weather conditions. During the rainy season, which typically runs from March to October, roads can be muddy and flooded, and there may be more mosquitoes and other pests. It's also important to keep an eye on weather forecasts and be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.

In general, the best time for a road trip in Togo is during the dry season when the weather is more predictable and the roads are in better condition. However, with proper preparation and planning, a road trip in Togo can be enjoyable and rewarding year-round.

The cost of a road trip in Togo can vary depending on several factors, such as the length of your trip, your itinerary, and your travel style. Here is an approximate breakdown of the costs you can expect for a day, week, or month per person:

Day: On average, you can expect to spend around $30-50 per day per person on a road trip in Togo. This would cover basic accommodation, food, transportation, and attractions.

Week: For a week-long trip, you can expect to spend around $200-350 per person. This would include mid-range accommodation, meals at local restaurants, transportation costs, and admission fees for attractions.

Month: For a longer trip of a month or more, you can expect to spend around $800-1200 per person. This would include a mix of basic and mid-range accommodation, meals at local restaurants, transportation costs, and admission fees for attractions.

As for car rental costs, prices can vary depending on the type of car you choose and the rental company. On average, you can expect to pay around $30-50 per day for a basic car rental in Togo. It's important to note that some rental companies may require a deposit or insurance, which can add to the overall cost.

It's also important to keep in mind that prices can fluctuate depending on the time of year and demand. During peak travel seasons, prices may be higher, so it's always a good idea to book in advance and shop around for the best deals.

Overall, Togo can be an affordable destination for a road trip, with plenty of options available to suit different budgets. By planning ahead and keeping an eye on your expenses, you can have a memorable and affordable road trip in this beautiful country.

Here are some guidebooks and road maps that can be useful for a road trip in Togo:

• Bradt Travel Guides Togo: This guidebook is an excellent resource for travelers who want to explore Togo's culture, history, and natural beauty. It offers practical information on accommodations, transportation, and attractions, as well as in-depth cultural and historical insights.

• Michelin National Map Togo: This detailed road map is an essential tool for navigating Togo's highways and byways. It offers detailed information on major and minor roads, as well as topographic features and points of interest.

• Lonely Planet West Africa: This guidebook covers the entire region of West Africa, including Togo. It offers practical information on travel essentials, as well as cultural and historical insights into the countries in the region.

• Reise Know-How Togo Travel Map: This detailed map offers comprehensive coverage of Togo's road network, as well as topographic features and tourist attractions. It's an excellent resource for travelers who want to plan their own routes and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.

• Togo Tourist Map: This map is produced by the Togolese Ministry of Tourism and offers a detailed overview of the country's tourist attractions, including national parks, cultural sites, and beaches.

Overall, these guidebooks and road maps can be useful resources for planning and executing a road trip in Togo. They offer practical information on transportation, accommodations, and attractions, as well as cultural and historical insights into the country.