Things To Do
in Lomé
Nestled along the Gulf of Guinea, this vibrant city is the capital and largest city of Togo, known for its bustling markets and beautiful beaches. It serves as the country's administrative and industrial center, playing a crucial role in Togo's economy, particularly through its port, which is vital for international trade.
Rich in culture and history, Lomé offers a unique blend of traditional Togolese heritage and colonial architecture, making it a fascinating destination for both tourists and researchers.
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Au revoir" - Goodbye
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $15 - $30
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum, where you can explore Togolese artifacts and culture. Enjoy a guided tour to gain deeper insights into Togo's rich heritage.
Head over to the Grand Market to experience local life and shop for textiles and crafts. Don't forget to taste some local street food for an authentic experience.
Enjoy dinner at a beachfront restaurant with views of the ocean. Relax and take in the vibrant atmosphere of Lomé during the evening.
Spend the morning at Plage de Lomé, a popular beach where you can swim and sunbathe. Consider renting a beach chair and umbrella for ultimate relaxation.
Have lunch at a beachfront café and try some fish specialities. Afterward, enjoy water sports like jet skiing or kayaking.
Take a leisurely walk along the beach as the sun sets. Orelax with a drink at a nearby bar, listening to the sound of the waves.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with diverse traditions and festivals.
- Welcoming and friendly local population.
- Stunning natural landscapes, including beaches and parks.
- Affordable cost of living compared to many other countries.
- Growing economy with opportunities in agriculture, tourism, and mining.
- Limited infrastructure and public services in some areas.
- Political instability and occasional civil unrest.
- Health care facilities may not be up to international standards.
- High unemployment rates among the youth.
- Issues with access to clean water and sanitation in rural areas.
Best Activities in Lomé
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a day of relaxation, swimming, and sunbathing at the beautiful Lomé Beach.
Experience the vibrant local culture and shop for unique traditional items at the fascinating Fetish Market in Lomé.
Explore the bustling Grand Marché for a mix of local goods, food, and vibrant atmosphere.
Engage in water activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing at the scenic Lake Togo.
Enjoy the picturesque views of the ocean by taking a leisurely bike ride or stroll along the seafront promenade.
Tours
Uncover the best of Lomé with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Lomé
Visit one of these nice places.
A landmark and popular spot for capturing panoramic views of Lomé
Beautiful sandy beaches offering great photo opportunities, especially at sunset
A place to capture the cultural essence of Lomé and the unique architecture of the museum building
An impressive and modern convention center providing a striking backdrop for photos
Food in Lomé
Lomé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish comprising of flavorful chicken pieces sautéed with vegetables and served in a rich, savory sauce. It can be savored at local eateries like Chez Alice in Lomé.
Must-Try!
A staple Togolese dish made of pounded starchy ingredients such as cassava, plantains, or yams, often served with a variety of aromatic stews. Try authentic Fufu at Maquis Tante Be in Lomé.
A fermented maize pudding that is served with spicy fish or meat sauce. For a genuine taste, head to Adidogomé Market where street food vendors offer delectable Akoumé.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Lomé better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of the largest and liveliest markets in Lomé, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and local street food. Visitors can relish grilled fish, spicy kebabs, and various traditional snacks while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of the market.
A bustling market known for its diverse selection of fresh fruits, vegetables, and authentic Togolese street food. Travelers can indulge in dishes like Aloko (fried plantains) and Grilled Corn prepared by the local vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Use the title 'Monsieur' for men and 'Madame' for women when addressing them.
Respecting elders is important in Togolese culture. Use 'Vous' instead of 'Tu' to show respect when addressing someone older than you.
Take time to understand and respect local customs and traditions, such as asking for permission before taking photos and dressing modestly when visiting religious sites.
Learning a few basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings and thank you, can show respect for the culture and people of Lomé.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Lomé with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Lomé
Ensure a smooth experience
In Lomé, Togo, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants and hotels, a service charge may be included in the bill. If not, a small tip of 5-10% is appreciated.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Lomé, Togo. Credit and debit cards are accepted in some hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller shops and markets. ATMs are available in the city for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Lomé.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city.
Expect heavy rainfall and high humidity. The vegetation is lush, and it's a great time for bird watching and experiencing Togo's natural beauty.
Lomé at Night
Hiking in Lomé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
The highest mountain in Togo, Mont Agou offers scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and lush vegetation.
Known for its beautiful waterfalls and rich biodiversity, Kpalimé provides various hiking trails that lead through dense forests and picturesque views.
Located near Kpalimé, this area features stunning waterfalls accessible via hiking paths through the forest, perfect for nature lovers.
One of Togo's major national parks, it offers numerous hiking routes that allow visitors to explore its rich fauna and flora.
Just a short drive from Lomé, the Akwapim Hills feature a range of hiking opportunities with beautiful panoramic views and pleasant climates.
Aiports
How to reach Lomé by plane.
The main international airport serving Accra, Ghana, approximately 200 km from Lomé, Togo.
The major international airport serving Cotonou, Benin, located about 140 km from Lomé.
An international airport in Abuja, Nigeria, situated approximately 400 km from Lomé.
One of the major international airports in Nigeria, located about 685 km from Lomé.
An airport that serves Fès, Morocco, and is about 2,500 km from Lomé, included for regional context.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in Lomé, known for their rich cultural heritage and traditions.
Another significant ethnic group in Togo, recognized for their agricultural skills and community organization.
An ethnic group primarily found in the coastal regions, particularly in Lomé, known for their fishing and trade activities.
This group is found in parts of Togo and includes various sub-groups with distinct languages and cultural practices.
These include various smaller ethnic communities that contribute to the cultural diversity of Lomé.
This includes immigrants and expatriates from various parts of Africa and beyond who live in Lomé.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Lomé and Togo as a whole, with a strong following and a vibrant local league.
Athletics is widely practiced in Lomé, with various events held throughout the year, including running and field events.
Basketball is gaining popularity in urban areas of Lomé, with local clubs and a growing interest among the youth.
Handball is played in Lomé, particularly among schools and clubs, contributing to the sporting culture of the city.
Traditional wrestling, known as 'lutte', is a significant part of the cultural heritage in Lomé and attracts many spectators.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lomé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Togolese cuisine prominently features meat and fish, many restaurants and local eateries in Lomé offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes. Look for places like La Terrasse or Beach Club Restaurant for diverse plant-based options.
Though traditional Togolese cuisine heavily relies on grains, there are restaurants like Saveurs Des Iles that offer gluten-free alternatives such as grilled fish with fresh vegetable sides or rice-based dishes.