Things To Do
in Badou
Badou is a small northern Togolese town set amid savanna landscapes and rural communities. It offers an authentic taste of everyday life, with vibrant markets, friendly locals, and nearby waterways. Visitors can explore traditional villages, sample regional dishes, and observe the rhythms of farming seasons away from major tourist crowds.
The climate is hot and tropical, with distinct wet and dry periods shaping daily activities and travel planning.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
After arriving in Badou, settle into your accommodations and enjoy a hearty Togolese breakfast featuring local dishes like akpessi and omelets. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to absorb the atmosphere and get acquainted with your surroundings. Visit a nearby market to experience the vibrant colors and sounds that characterize local life.
Spend your afternoon exploring the lush landscapes surrounding Badou by visiting the nearby waterfalls. Engage in a short hike and witness the beauty of nature while taking photos of the stunning scenery. Relax by the water, allowing the soothing sounds of the falls to rejuvenate you.
As the sun begins to set, enjoy a traditional dinner at a local restaurant, sampling dishes such as fufu and spicy stews. The evening is perfect for mingling with locals and fellow travelers while enjoying their lively music. End the night under the stars, perhaps at a nearby bar, savoring a locally brewed beverage.
Head to Kpalimé, just a short drive from Badou, known for its thriving craft scene and beautiful hills. After breakfast, visit artisan workshops where you can observe traditional weaving and wood carving. Take time to engage with local artisans, learning about their techniques and the significance of their crafts.
Post-lunch, venture to the exotic plant nurseries that Kpalimé is famous for. Stroll through the vibrant gardens and consider purchasing a few unique plants to bring home as souvenirs. The afternoon culminates with a visit to the nearby Mount Kloto for panoramic views of the surrounding scenery.
As dusk approaches, return to Badou and enjoy a cozy dinner at a local eatery. Engage with locals who gather to share stories and experiences from their day, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. With the evening breeze, listen to traditional Togolese music resonating through the streets until late.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-6 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5L) | $0.25-0.50 |
| 🚌Local transport (short ride) | $0.50-2 |
| 🛍️Market groceries | $5-15 |
| 🏨One-night hotel | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Authentic rural Togolese experience
- Low-cost travel and accommodation
- Limited infrastructure in some areas
- Sparse nightlife and entertainment options
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Parlez-vous anglais?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Badou
Visit one of these nice places.
Early-morning market scenes with vendors arranging wares and colorful textiles; soft light is ideal for portraits and detail shots.
Slim riverbank trails offering tranquil water reflections and silhouettes of locals at work during sunset.
An open field edge where you can capture the expansive savanna, distant trees, and dramatic skies at golden hour.
Quiet lanes with traditional houses and everyday life; great for candid street photography.
Food in Badou
Badou Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Starchy dough made from cassava or yams served with a light, flavorful sauce. Commonly found in markets and home dining.
Must-Try!
Rich peanut-based stew often served with yams or rice, featuring tomatoes and onions.
Cornmeal staple served with a savory sauce of greens and peppers; a regional favorite in northern towns.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant morning-and-afternoon market where fresh produce, grains, fish, and spices are sold; great for street snacks.
Stacks of warm plantains roasted over open coals, often seasoned with chili and salt.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Begin conversations with a friendly greeting; a handshake or simple nod is standard. Maintain eye contact and engage in small talk before asking for favors.
Dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered in many public spaces.
Ask permission before photographing people or sacred sites; a polite explanation improves responses and local relations.
Show respect to elders and community leaders; politeness and patience in conversations are valued.
Bargaining is common in markets; gifts or small tokens to hosts are appreciated in village visits.
Safety
Tipping in Badou
Ensure a smooth experience
Tips are appreciated but not always expected; small tips (about 5–10% or a modest amount) for good service in restaurants and with guides are common.
Cash is widely used (CFA francs or USD in some places); mobile money (e.g., Moov Money, Orange Money, Wave) is increasingly common. Card acceptance is limited outside major towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Cooler mornings and evenings with dusty air; pleasant for outdoor activities but bring a scarf for breeze and sun protection.
Frequent showers and lush greenery; roads can be muddy; good for photography of vibrant landscapes but plan for rain gear.
Very hot afternoons; stay hydrated, schedule outdoor tasks for early mornings or late afternoons.
Badou at Night
Hiking in Badou
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the savanna edge offering sunset views and opportunities to see wildlife.
Gentle trail along a local river with birds, fishermen, and occasional villages.
Short ascent to a hilltop with expansive views of fields and distant tree lines.
Airports
How to reach Badou by plane.
Main international gateway to northern Togo; typically a 2–3 hour drive to Badou depending on road conditions.
Small domestic airport closer to Badou; limited services but useful for domestic connections.
Major regional airport in Benin; useful for international connections when planning overland routes via Benin.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Most residents are engaged in agriculture; communities are close-knit with strong oral traditions.
A large portion of the population is young; markets and schools shape daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The dominant sport with local teams and informal matches in towns and markets.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Badou.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Choose vegetable stews, bean dishes, fruits, and corn-based items like akume; inform cooks about no meat/fish when ordering.