At the end of last month, I got an opportunity to visit Lome, the capital of Togo for a press trip at the request of Hotel 2 Fevrier. As an avid traveller, I usually have an idea of what to expect when visiting a country, at least in regards to sights and attractions but when it came to Togo, nothing immediately jumped out to me as, a “wow factor”, something or someplace that I really had to see.

I also saw that there wasn’t that much content in regards to videos and images of Togo, with most of the attention in that region going to Ghana, Nigeria and even Benin.

So it’s safe to say that I didn’t have terribly high expectations and aside from completing the job that myself and other storytellers and digital creatives were tasked to do, I didn’t know much of what to expect. However, after three full days this promising West African country, I can attest, like with most places I’ve travelled to, that it is worth a visit. Here’s how to spend a few days in Lome and greater Togo.

What to do.

Village D’Art

If you’re looking to go move at a slower pace on your first day, then start at Village D’Art, a small marketplace where you can watch local artisanal work on their craft, like carving sculptures and traditional cloth weaving. There are tailors on sight that can alter any of the premade clothing, in case the fit isn’t to your liking

and you can even ask some of the sculptures to lend a hand to their carving. If you’re looking for less of an intensive marketplace with plenty of artisanal finds, especially woodcarvings, with less of the stress and pressure of a larger marketplace, then add this to your list.

Lome Grand Market

From Ankara wax prints to printed fans, leather bags, and hand-made jewellery and more, Lome’s Grand Marche has it all.

Dozens of stalls, with vendors that are all too eager for your patronage, will call you over to browse through their selections. It is not only a great place for souvenir shopping but also if this is your first trip to West Africa; you get to experience all the bustling electricity of a fast-paced marketplace. Just be ready to haggle for the best price. Walk away initially if you have to, but don’t pay asking price for anything.

Akodessawa Fetish Market

Billed as the world’s largest voodoo market, the Fetish Market is definitely worth a visit if you are interested in the history of voodoo, its use as a medical practice and its different iterations, like white magic

You’ll see a wide variety of dead animals used in the voodoo practices- horse and cow skulls, monkey heads, owls and snakes, including live pythons.

You can also sit with a voodoo priest where a traditional ritual ensuring safe passage to your next destination will be performed.

There are plenty of items for sale and as usual, make sure you negotiate on the prices.

Cascade de Wome

About two hours southwest of Lome, is the fourth largest city in Togo, Kpalime. Its biggest tourism draw can be attributed to the many waterfalls in the area like Kpima, Woatti, Tomegbe and Wome, along with its verdant natural environment. The hike down to the waterfall at Wome is about 150 steps and is manageable for most fitness levels. Although the waterfall itself isn’t all too impressive, it still makes for a great day trip.

The water is refreshing and surrounded by a lush vegetative setting and trust me, after that downhill trek, you’ll want to get in the water for a swim to cool off before returning to the top.

Kpalime Grand Market

Since you’re already in Kpalime for your nature excursion, it makes sense to stop (preferably on your way back to Lome), at the city’s main market that’s dominated by businesswomen.

Most of the vendors sell foods and spices, but you can also find some fetish stalls, hair braiding and other miscellaneous things.

Even if you don’t intend to buy anything, walking through the market gives a good opportunity to people watch, and hear some Ewe, one of the local languages that is not as common in the capital which is dominated by French.

Blue Turtle Bay Beach Club

Who doesn’t love some sand, ocean and sun and thankfully for you, the capital city doesn’t lack for any. Togo’s capital city is along the Gulf of Guinea, which provides stretches of sandy beaches. There are plenty of public beaches, and it’s not uncommon to see fishermen in their colorful boats pulling in the days catch.

If you’re in the mood for some sun and ocean whilst in Lome, then head over to Blue Turtle Beach Club. You’ll find a man-made lagoon for safer swimming if the tides are too strong, that’s filled with floatables, a live DJ spinning great tunes, cabanas for rent/hire, and a restaurant.

There’s also a beautiful garden path that leads up to the beach. I’d save this for your last day, the perfect way to relax after trekking through the capital city and Kpalime and rejuvenate before your next destination.

Independence Monument

If you didn’t know, Togo was once a French colony. They claimed their independence on 27 April 1960 and to commemorate that, the Monument de L’independence was erected. Honestly, it’s probably the most impressive monument in the country. It’s composed of a human silhouette that’s carved within it and is surrounded by well-manicured lawns and palm trees. There’s a black gate that surrounds the monument which was not open when myself and some of the other members of the press trip went, so we paid one of the groundskeepers a few CFA(local currency) and he let us in. (That’s Africa for you! Haha)

Where to Stay

Hotel 2 Fevrier

Hotel 2 Fevrier should be your choice of accommodation whilst in Lome. It’s the country’s only five-star hotel and it offers multiple dining options, including an Asian fusion fine-dining restaurant,

a pool bar, spa, gym and more.

The hotel staff is attentive and there’s a dedicated concierge staff to help you plan day trips to cities like Kpalime. What I really want to highlight about the hotel is the owner’s mission to support the local people and economy. Not only does his hotel employ hundreds of locals, but also he’s also opened up a palm oil plantation in a village near Kpalime and is funding the education of 100 school children.

If you’re looking to lend your money to a great cause, then a stay at Hotel 2 Fevrier might interest you.

Use my BOOKING CODE, kofih2f when booking directly with the hotel for a 15% discount when booking.

Travellers Tip*

If you’re travelling from outside the Western African region, then I highly recommend adding one or more country, like Ghana and Benin, border countries of Togo. Spending a few days in each country’s capital and other cities is a great way to maximize your time in the region. Flights will be considerably less expensive and if you have more time to spare, you can journey by bus or car.

If you’re thinking of a trip to the region or greater Africa and need assistance with trip planning and itinerary, send me an email.