Country 15/196: Togo
Destination: Lomé
We took a bus from Accra to Lomé and then from Lomé to Cotonou, so we got to see the whole coast of Togo, including the lovely lake Togo. We loved the country’s laid-back vibe, the never-ending sandy beach, the welcoming people, and the colorful markets.
By the way, we didn’t realize that we felt homesick until we found a French supermarché where they sell delicious Mediterranean food! Baguettes, cheese, olives, and French pastries. We’ve come to realize that even though we love trying new food, by heart, we are true Europeans. But hey, apparently it’s possible to satisfy one’s ‘European’ cravings even in Africa! 😉
Things to see and things to do
Togo’s top tourist destinations include Lake Togo, Koutammakou – the Land of the Batammariba, Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, Mount Agou, and of course the country’s vibrant capital city Lomé. Here’s a list of the city’s main sights:
- Monument de l’independance
- Lomé Grand Market (Grand Marche)
- Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur de Lomé
- Lomé beach
- Palais de Lomé
- Togo National Museum
- Marche aux Fetiches
Where to stay
There are plenty of luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodation options in Lomé.
Are you planning a trip to Lomé? Here you can get a room with a 10% discount!
Budget
Prices vary dramatically in Lomé. Buying food at the local market is very cheap while shopping in French supermarchés or similar modern stores is surprisingly expensive. Accommodation prices also vary from 12 USD/10 EUR for modest guesthouses to 190 USD/160 EUR for fancy 5-star hotels. On Booking, we even found a villa for 2155 USD/1835 EUR per night.
Best time to visit
The best time to visit Togo is from November to February when the temperatures are most pleasant and the weather is sunny and dry. Fazao-Malfakassa National Park is only open from November until April. May to October is the country’s rainy season.
Environmental issues
Severe deforestation caused by slash-and-burn agriculture and the use of wood for fuel is one of the most urgent environmental problems in Togo. The soil and water quality are threatened by pesticides and fertilizers. Increasing water pollution represents health hazards and affects the fishing industry. Only 38% of the people living in rural areas have access to potable water. Air pollution is becoming an increasing issue in urban areas. The nation’s wildlife population is at risk due to poaching and the clearing of land for agricultural purposes.
Romance and adventure
Romance-seekers may enjoy a couple of relaxing days on a peaceful sandy beach, while adventurers may prefer exploring the famous Lake Togo, Lomé, or one of Togo’s three national parks.
196xLOVE
Found lots of LOVE in Togo. 😉 ♥
Honeymoon rating of the visited destinations: ♥♥♥♥♥♡♡♡♡♡
* Note: This is NOT a general rating of the country, it is merely our personal opinion of the mentioned site(s) as honeymoon destinations, based on the level of tourism development, the number and quality of romantic and adventurous activities and sites it offers, and safety. We strongly believe that every country is beautiful in its own way, they may simply be more or less honeymoon oriented/friendly.
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