20 Best Places to Visit in Togo

Nestled between Ghana and Benin in West Africa, Togo offers travelers a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage, stunning natural landscapes, and authentic African experiences. Despite being one of Africa’s smallest countries, Togo packs an impressive array of attractions – from the bustling markets of Lomé to the UNESCO-listed Koutammakou landscape and pristine beaches along the Gulf of Guinea.

Planning a trip to this West African gem requires some preparation, especially regarding connectivity and accommodations. To stay connected throughout your journey, getting an eSIM for Togo is essential for navigation, translation, and sharing your experiences. Additionally, booking your flights and accommodations in advance ensures you’ll have the best options for exploring this fascinating country.

Join us as we explore the 20 best places to visit in Togo, complete with travel tips to make your West African adventure unforgettable.

1. Lomé – The Vibrant Capital

Lomé, Togo’s capital and largest city, serves as the perfect introduction to this West African nation. Situated along the Gulf of Guinea, this coastal city blends French colonial architecture with modern African urban life. The Grand Marché (Great Market) stands as the commercial heart of the city, where you can find everything from traditional crafts to colorful textiles and local produce.

Don’t miss the Independence Monument, a powerful symbol of Togo’s freedom from French rule in 1960. The National Museum of Togo offers fascinating insights into the country’s history and cultural heritage through its collection of artifacts, photographs, and exhibits. For beach lovers, the city’s coastline provides a relaxing escape with several beach resorts offering refreshments and water activities.

When exploring Lomé’s bustling markets and navigating to various attractions, having reliable internet access is crucial. An eSIM for Togo ensures you can use maps, translation apps, and stay connected with loved ones while exploring the capital.

2. Akodessewa Fetish Market

Traditional voodoo items and medicinal herbs at the world’s largest fetish market

Located in Lomé, the Akodessewa Fetish Market is the world’s largest voodoo market and offers a fascinating glimpse into traditional West African spiritual practices. Here, local healers and practitioners sell ingredients for traditional medicine and religious ceremonies, including herbs, animal parts, and handcrafted fetishes.

Visitors can tour the market with a guide who explains the significance of various items and their uses in voodoo rituals and healing practices. You might even have the opportunity to consult with a traditional healer or witness a blessing ceremony. While some aspects may seem unusual to foreign visitors, approaching with respect and an open mind provides valuable insights into this important aspect of local culture.

The market is best visited in the morning when it’s less crowded. A guide costs around 3,000-5,000 CFA ($5-8), with an additional fee if you wish to take photographs. Remember to be respectful of the cultural and spiritual significance of this place.

3. Koutammakou – Land of the Batammariba

UNESCO-listed Takienta mud tower houses in Koutammakou cultural landscape

In northern Togo lies the remarkable Koutammakou cultural landscape, a UNESCO World Heritage site and home to the Batammariba people. This region is famous for its distinctive mud tower-houses called takienta, which represent a unique form of traditional architecture that has remained largely unchanged for centuries.

These two-story earthen structures serve as both homes and symbols of the Batammariba cosmology, with different levels representing the relationship between earth and heaven. Visiting Koutammakou offers a rare opportunity to witness a living cultural tradition and learn about the Batammariba way of life, including their agricultural practices, social structures, and spiritual beliefs.

The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to March) when roads are more accessible. Consider staying overnight in a nearby town like Kara to fully experience this remarkable cultural landscape. Find affordable accommodations near Koutammakou here to make the most of your visit to this extraordinary site.

4. Kpalimé – Gateway to Nature

The lush forests and waterfalls around Kpalimé offer excellent hiking opportunities

Nestled in the hills of southwestern Togo, Kpalimé is a picturesque town surrounded by lush forests, coffee and cocoa plantations, and breathtaking waterfalls. Once a German colonial center, the town retains some European architectural influences while serving as the perfect base for nature lovers and hiking enthusiasts.

The surrounding area offers excellent hiking opportunities, with trails leading to Mount Agou (Togo’s highest peak at 986 meters), the beautiful Kpimé and Womé waterfalls, and butterfly sanctuaries teeming with colorful species. Local guides can enhance your experience by pointing out medicinal plants, wildlife, and sharing stories about the region’s history and ecology.

Kpalimé is also known for its artisanal crafts, particularly woodcarvings and batik textiles. Visit the local artisan center to watch craftspeople at work and purchase unique souvenirs directly from the creators. The weekly market is another highlight, offering fresh produce, local foods, and handmade goods.

When hiking in remote areas around Kpalimé, reliable communication is essential for safety. An eSIM for Togo ensures you stay connected even in more remote areas, allowing you to use navigation apps and contact assistance if needed.

5. Fazao-Malfakassa National Park

Elephants and other wildlife roam freely in Fazao-Malfakassa National Park

Covering over 1,920 square kilometers in western Togo, Fazao-Malfakassa National Park is the country’s largest protected area and a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park encompasses diverse ecosystems including savanna, forest, and mountainous terrain, supporting a rich variety of flora and fauna.

Wildlife spotting opportunities include elephants, buffalo, various antelope species, warthogs, and numerous primates. The park is also home to over 300 bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Guided safari tours are the best way to explore the park, with knowledgeable rangers increasing your chances of spotting elusive wildlife while sharing insights about conservation efforts.

The dry season (November to March) offers the best wildlife viewing opportunities as animals gather around water sources. Basic accommodations are available near the park, though facilities are limited. Book your stay near Fazao-Malfakassa here to secure the best options.

6. Lake Togo

Traditional fishing boats on Lake Togo at sunset

Just 45 minutes east of Lomé, Lake Togo offers a tranquil escape from the capital’s hustle and bustle. This saltwater lagoon is surrounded by small villages where traditional fishing methods are still practiced, providing a glimpse into rural Togolese life. The lake is particularly known for its association with voodoo practices, with several villages around its shores considered important spiritual centers.

Visitors can enjoy boat trips across the lake, stopping at villages like Togoville, which is famous for its colonial-era cathedral and voodoo shrines. The area is also perfect for bird watching, with numerous species inhabiting the lake’s shores. For those seeking relaxation, several small resorts and restaurants along the lakeshore offer swimming, sunbathing, and fresh seafood.

The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when the temperature is cooler and the light is perfect for photography. Consider spending a night at one of the lakeside accommodations to fully appreciate the area’s peaceful atmosphere. Find the best lakeside lodges here for an authentic experience.

7. Togoville

The historic cathedral in Togoville, site of the 1884 treaty with Germany

Situated on the northern shore of Lake Togo, Togoville is a small town with enormous historical significance. It was here that the 1884 treaty was signed between local chiefs and German representatives, establishing the German protectorate that would eventually become modern Togo. The town’s name would later be given to the entire country.

Togoville is best reached by boat from Agbodrafo, adding to the adventure of visiting this historic site. Once there, explore the colonial-era Catholic cathedral, built in 1910, which contains a unique blend of European and African religious symbolism. The town is also known for its traditional voodoo shrines and practices, with several sacred sites that can be visited with a local guide.

The town’s quiet streets, lined with traditional houses, offer a glimpse into a way of life that has changed little over the decades. Local guides can share fascinating stories about Togoville’s history and cultural significance. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds and experience the authentic rhythm of daily life in this historic community.

8. Akloa Waterfall

The multi-tiered Akloa Waterfall creates a refreshing natural swimming spot

Located near Kpalimé in the Plateaux region, Akloa Waterfall (also known as Cascade d’Akloa) is one of Togo’s most beautiful natural attractions. Set amidst lush tropical forest, this multi-tiered waterfall cascades down rocky outcrops, creating natural pools perfect for swimming and cooling off in the African heat.

The hike to the waterfall takes approximately 45 minutes through dense forest, with local guides pointing out medicinal plants, bird species, and butterfly varieties along the way. The trail can be slippery, especially during and after the rainy season, so appropriate footwear is recommended. Once at the falls, you can swim in the refreshing pools, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax while taking in the natural beauty.

The best time to visit is during the rainy season (May to October) when the waterfall is at its most impressive, though the dry season offers easier hiking conditions. A local guide is essential not only for finding the falls but also for learning about the ecological and cultural significance of the area.

Share your waterfall adventure with friends and family back home by ensuring you have reliable internet access. A Togo eSIM lets you post photos and stay connected even in these more remote natural settings.

9. Aného – Historic Coastal Town

Colonial architecture and fishing traditions blend in historic Aného

Once the colonial capital of German Togoland, Aného (formerly known as Little Popo) is a charming coastal town located about 45 kilometers east of Lomé. With its rich history as a major trading post, Aného offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into Togo’s colonial past through its well-preserved architecture and historical sites.

Wander through the town to admire the blend of German colonial buildings, traditional Togolese structures, and the influences of returning Brazilian slaves who settled here in the 19th century. The Catholic mission, established in 1895, and the old colonial cemetery provide interesting historical perspectives. As a fishing town, Aného also offers the opportunity to witness traditional fishing methods and the vibrant atmosphere of the local fish market.

The town is easily accessible as a day trip from Lomé, though spending a night allows you to experience the peaceful evening atmosphere and perhaps catch a spectacular sunrise over the ocean. Visit on market days (typically Wednesdays and Saturdays) to see the town at its most lively.

10. Agbodrafo and the Slave House

The historic Woold House in Agbodrafo served as a holding place for enslaved people

Formerly known as Porto Seguro, Agbodrafo is a small coastal town with a profound historical significance related to the transatlantic slave trade. The town’s main historical attraction is the Woold House (Maison des Esclaves), a former slave house where captives were held before being transported across the Atlantic.

A guided tour of the Woold House reveals the harrowing conditions endured by enslaved people, including the small underground chamber where they were kept. This powerful site offers important insights into this dark chapter of history and serves as a place of remembrance and reflection. The town itself has a peaceful atmosphere with beautiful beaches and colonial-era buildings that tell the story of its complex past.

Agbodrafo is also the main departure point for boat trips to Togoville across Lake Togo. Consider combining these two historical sites in a single day trip from Lomé. Local guides provide valuable historical context that enhances the experience of visiting these significant places.

11. Kara – Northern Hub

The vibrant central market in Kara showcases northern Togolese culture

Kara is Togo’s second-largest city and serves as the main urban center for the northern region. Located in a valley surrounded by the Kabyé mountains, this bustling city offers visitors an authentic glimpse into northern Togolese culture, distinct from that of the coastal south. Kara is also the gateway to many of northern Togo’s attractions, including the UNESCO-listed Koutammakou landscape.

The city’s central market is a highlight, where you can find everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods, textiles, and traditional medicines. The vibrant atmosphere provides excellent opportunities for photography and cultural immersion. For those interested in local crafts, Kara is known for its pottery, blacksmithing, and woodcarving traditions.

Kara is also home to several educational institutions, giving it a youthful energy. The surrounding area offers hiking opportunities in the Kabyé mountains, with spectacular views and the chance to visit traditional villages. The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to March) when roads to surrounding attractions are most accessible.

Find comfortable accommodations in Kara to use as your base for exploring northern Togo’s cultural and natural attractions.

12. Tamberma Valley

The fortress-like tata houses of the Tamberma Valley showcase unique traditional architecture

Part of the larger Koutammakou cultural landscape, the Tamberma Valley in northern Togo is home to some of the most remarkable traditional architecture in West Africa. The Batammariba people build distinctive two-story fortress-like mud houses called “tata,” which serve as both homes and defensive structures, reflecting centuries of traditional knowledge and cultural practices.

Visiting the valley offers the opportunity to enter these unique structures (with permission) and learn about their construction techniques and symbolic significance. Each tata is designed according to traditional cosmological principles, with different levels and spaces serving specific functions related to daily life, storage, livestock keeping, and spiritual practices.

Local guides can arrange visits to villages where you can interact with residents, learn about their way of life, and perhaps witness traditional crafts or agricultural activities. The valley’s dramatic landscape of rolling hills and scattered tatas makes for spectacular photography, especially in the golden light of early morning or late afternoon.

When exploring remote areas like the Tamberma Valley, having reliable navigation and communication tools is essential. An eSIM for Togo ensures you can use maps and translation apps even in these off-the-beaten-path locations.

13. Mount Agou

Breathtaking panoramic views from Togo’s highest peak

Rising to 986 meters (3,235 feet), Mount Agou is Togo’s highest peak and offers adventurous travelers a rewarding hiking experience with breathtaking panoramic views. Located near Kpalimé in the southwest region, the mountain is surrounded by lush forests, coffee and cocoa plantations, and small traditional villages.

The hike to the summit takes approximately 3-4 hours each way, depending on your pace and fitness level. While challenging in parts, it’s accessible to most reasonably fit hikers. A local guide is essential not only for finding the best trail but also for sharing knowledge about the mountain’s ecology, the surrounding communities, and local legends associated with this prominent landmark.

Along the trail, you’ll encounter diverse vegetation, from tropical forest to grassland, and possibly spot various bird species and butterflies. The summit offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape, extending into neighboring Ghana on clear days. Early morning starts are recommended to avoid the midday heat and afternoon clouds that can obscure the views.

After your hike, consider staying in the Kpalimé area to explore other natural attractions. Find comfortable accommodations near Mount Agou here to rest after your mountain adventure.

14. Badou and the Akloa Waterfall

Coffee plantations around Badou showcase the region’s agricultural heritage

Nestled in the western part of Togo near the border with Ghana, Badou is a charming town surrounded by coffee and cocoa plantations, lush forests, and spectacular waterfalls. Known as the “town of a thousand hills,” Badou offers a pleasant climate and stunning natural scenery that make it a favorite destination for nature lovers and hikers.

The region’s main attraction is the Akloa Waterfall, a multi-tiered cascade surrounded by dense forest. The hike to the waterfall takes you through coffee plantations and tropical forest, with opportunities to spot colorful butterflies and birds along the way. During the rainy season, the waterfall is particularly impressive, though trails can be more challenging.

Badou is also known for its coffee production, and visitors can tour local plantations to learn about traditional growing and processing methods. The town itself has a relaxed atmosphere with friendly locals and basic but comfortable accommodations. Visit during the harvest season (October to December) to see coffee production in full swing.

15. Kloto Forest

Kloto Forest is home to hundreds of butterfly species and diverse plant life

Located in the highlands near Kpalimé, the Kloto Forest is a biodiversity hotspot and one of Togo’s most important ecological treasures. This semi-deciduous tropical forest is home to an incredible variety of plant and animal species, including over 500 butterfly species that have earned the region its nickname as the “butterfly forest.”

Guided hikes through the forest reveal its rich biodiversity, with knowledgeable local guides pointing out medicinal plants, exotic birds, butterflies, and occasionally monkeys and other wildlife. Several trails of varying difficulty wind through the forest, leading to scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and traditional villages where you can learn about how local communities interact with and protect the forest.

The forest is also home to the Butterfly Sanctuary, where researchers study and conserve the region’s lepidoptera. Visitors can learn about butterfly life cycles and conservation efforts. The best time to visit is during the rainy season (April to October) when the forest is at its most lush and butterfly populations peak, though trails can be muddy.

When exploring Kloto Forest, you’ll want to capture and share its natural beauty. A reliable eSIM ensures you can post your butterfly photos and forest adventures instantly.

16. Sokodé – Cultural Crossroads

Vibrant cultural festivals in Sokodé showcase traditional music and dance

Sokodé is Togo’s third-largest city and an important cultural center, particularly for the country’s Muslim population. Located in central Togo, the city serves as a crossroads of cultures, with influences from various ethnic groups creating a rich tapestry of traditions, cuisines, and artistic expressions.

The city is known for its vibrant markets, particularly the central market where traders sell everything from fresh produce to handcrafted goods and imported items. The Friday mosque is an important religious landmark, and visitors can observe (from a respectful distance) the Friday prayers that bring the Muslim community together.

Sokodé is famous for its cultural festivals, particularly the Adossa festival celebrated by the Tem people, featuring traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes. If your visit coincides with a festival, you’ll witness authentic cultural expressions that have been preserved for generations.

The surrounding area offers opportunities to visit traditional villages and natural attractions. Consider spending at least two days in Sokodé to fully appreciate its cultural significance and use it as a base for exploring central Togo. Find accommodations in Sokodé here to experience this cultural crossroads.

17. Atakpamé

Atakpamé’s hillside setting offers scenic views and a pleasant climate

Built across seven hills in central Togo, Atakpamé is a picturesque city known for its pleasant climate, scenic views, and rich cultural heritage. Originally founded by the Ana people, the city later became an important German colonial center, and this diverse history is reflected in its architecture and cultural practices.

The city’s hillside setting creates a naturally terraced landscape with winding streets that offer surprising views around every corner. The central market is the heart of daily life, where locals trade agricultural products, textiles, and handicrafts. Atakpamé is also known for its cotton production and traditional weaving, with opportunities to purchase high-quality locally made textiles.

Visitors can explore the colonial-era buildings, including the old German administrative headquarters and the Catholic mission. The surrounding area offers hiking opportunities with trails leading to panoramic viewpoints and nearby villages. The city’s elevation provides a cooler climate than much of Togo, making it a pleasant place to visit year-round.

18. Dzogbegan Monastery

The distinctive circular chapel of Dzogbegan Monastery offers spiritual tranquility

Nestled in the mountains of the Plateaux region, the Dzogbegan Monastery offers visitors a unique spiritual experience in a breathtaking natural setting. Founded by Benedictine monks in 1961, this monastery continues to be an active religious community while welcoming visitors seeking peace and reflection.

The monastery’s most striking feature is its circular chapel, which blends traditional European monastic architecture with African design elements. Visitors can attend mass, explore the beautiful grounds, and purchase products made by the monks, including honey, jam, and handicrafts. The monastery also has an associated convent run by nuns.

Beyond its spiritual significance, Dzogbegan offers spectacular mountain views and access to hiking trails that wind through the surrounding forests and agricultural lands. The monastery provides simple accommodations for those wishing to stay overnight, though advance reservations are required. The peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty make this a perfect place for those seeking quiet contemplation.

The journey to Dzogbegan involves traveling through beautiful mountain scenery, so allow extra time to enjoy the views. The best time to visit is during the dry season when roads are more accessible.

19. Dapaong and the Savanna Region

The savanna landscape around Dapaong showcases northern Togo’s distinct ecosystem

Located in Togo’s northernmost region, Dapaong serves as the gateway to the savanna landscapes that characterize this part of West Africa. The city and its surrounding areas offer visitors a glimpse into a way of life adapted to the semi-arid environment, with distinctive architecture, agricultural practices, and cultural traditions.

The region is home to several ethnic groups, including the Moba and Gourma peoples, known for their unique cultural practices and traditional architecture. Visitors can explore local villages to learn about traditional building techniques, agricultural methods, and crafts such as pottery and basket weaving.

The Thursday market in Dapaong is one of the largest in northern Togo, attracting traders and shoppers from surrounding areas and neighboring Burkina Faso. The savanna landscape surrounding the city is particularly beautiful during the brief rainy season (June to September) when the grasslands turn green and wildflowers bloom.

Due to its remote location, Dapaong receives fewer visitors than southern destinations, offering a more authentic experience for those willing to make the journey. Book accommodations in advance as options are limited in this region.

20. Bassar and Traditional Iron Working

Traditional ironworking techniques have been preserved for centuries in Bassar

The Bassar region in central Togo is renowned for its traditional iron-working heritage that dates back centuries. The Bassar people developed sophisticated techniques for mining and smelting iron ore, creating tools, weapons, and ceremonial objects that were traded throughout the region. Today, visitors can witness these ancient techniques that have been preserved through generations.

A visit to Bassar typically includes demonstrations of traditional iron smelting and forging, where skilled craftsmen transform raw ore into useful implements using methods passed down through generations. The Bassar Cultural Center provides insights into the historical and cultural significance of ironworking in the region, with exhibits of traditional tools and artifacts.

Beyond its metallurgical heritage, Bassar offers visitors the opportunity to explore traditional villages, sacred groves, and natural attractions including hills with panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The region is also known for its distinctive cuisine, particularly dishes made with yams, which are a staple crop in the area.

The best time to visit is during the dry season (November to March) when roads are most accessible. Consider hiring a local guide who can provide cultural context and facilitate interactions with community members.

Conclusion

Togo may be small in size, but it offers travelers an incredible diversity of experiences – from the vibrant markets and beaches of Lomé to the UNESCO-listed cultural landscapes of the north, from lush forests and waterfalls to savanna ecosystems teeming with wildlife. Each region of the country presents unique cultural traditions, natural attractions, and opportunities for authentic interactions with local communities.

Whether you’re drawn to Togo for its rich cultural heritage, natural beauty, or the chance to explore a less-visited corner of West Africa, proper preparation will enhance your experience. Staying connected is essential for navigation, translation, and sharing your adventures, so securing an eSIM before your trip is highly recommended.

Similarly, booking your flights and accommodations in advance ensures you’ll have the best options for exploring this fascinating country. With its warm hospitality, diverse attractions, and authentic cultural experiences, Togo rewards travelers willing to venture beyond the typical tourist destinations of Africa.