The Republic of Togo is located in West Africa, covering an area of over 56,000 square kilometres. As such, the country is one of the smallest on the African continent.
Togo is home to around 6.7 million inhabitants, of whom about 1.2 million live in the capital, Lomé. Around 50 percent of Togo’s population are Animists. The country is also home to many Catholics and some Muslims and Protestants. Togo’s population is made up of 42 different ethnic groups, which is why over 40 different tribal languages are spoken in the country. The most widely spoken languages in the south of the country are Ewe and Mina, while in the north, the Kabye language is prevalent. The official language of government and communication is French.
Togo’s attractions
Thanks to its location on the Atlantic coast, Togo offers many excellent opportunities for swimming. The beaches near the capital Lomé, such as the beaches of Aného or Robinson’s Plage, are among the country’s most popular. Another popular destination in Togo is the town of Togoville, after which the country is named. Togoville is home to Lake Togo, the largest lake in the country, where water sports can be enjoyed. Togoville also features numerous Voodoo burial sites.
In addition, Togo offers the chance to observe a wide variety of animal species, such as in the Sarakawa Park. This safari park in Kara is home to springboks, wildebeest, monkeys, zebras and water buffalo, among others. Near Sokodé lies the Fazao-Malfakassa National Park, which is home to wild animals such as monkeys, African wild dogs, lions, bongos, leopards and many more. This wildlife can be discovered on safari tours, which are offered during the dry season.
Location and climate
Togo is located in West Africa. It borders Ghana to the west, Burkina Faso to the north and Benin to the east. Togo also has a 52-kilometre-long coastline on the Gulf of Guinea.
Togo has a predominantly humid, hot tropical climate, which almost transitions into a steppe climate in the north. Average temperatures on the coast are around 27°C, while in the north it is warmer, at about 30 to 35°C. In March, temperatures can even rise to 39°C.
The climate in the north is also characterised by a rainy season, which begins in May and ends in October. In the south of the country, there are two rainy seasons. The first rainy season runs from April to June, and the second from September to November. In general, the best time to travel in the country is during the dry season, from around November to April.
Entry and arrival
Togo’s international airport is located about six kilometres from the capital, Lomé. The airport can be reached directly from several European airports, such as those in London or Paris. After landing at Lomé Airport, onward travel is possible by taxi or bus. There are also border roads into the country, although Togo’s road network is poorly developed.
German tourists require proof of yellow fever vaccination, a valid passport and a visa to enter Togo. The visa should be applied for before travel at one of the country’s diplomatic missions abroad. Tourists can also obtain a fee-based visa at the airport, although this is only valid for one week.
