Things To Do
in Lomé
Lomé, the capital of Togo, sits along the Gulf of Guinea with a lively port and a colonial-era charm. The city blends bustling markets, seaside promenades, and a generous dash of West African culture. It has a warm, humid climate most of the year, making outdoor exploration appealing almost anytime.
Visitors should expect friendly locals, vibrant music, and a coastline that invites sunset strolls and fresh seafood.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Lomé and settle into your accommodation. Take some time to unpack and get accustomed to your new surroundings. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling Togolese specialties such as akpan and fresh fruit.
Explore the vibrant central market, Grand Marché, where you can soak in the lively atmosphere and shop for handicrafts and souvenirs. Engage with local vendors and taste street food delicacies. This is a great opportunity to practice some local phrases and immerse yourself in the culture.
Dine at a waterfront restaurant while watching the sunset over the Atlantic Ocean. Savor fresh grilled fish accompanied by local sides. After dinner, take a stroll along the beach, enjoying the sounds of the waves.
Visit the Togo National Museum to learn about the country's rich history and diverse cultures. Marvel at traditional artifacts, including masks and textiles. Engage with knowledgeable staff to enhance your understanding of Togolese customs.
Head to the art district of Lomé to explore local galleries showcasing contemporary African art. Meet with artists and discuss their work while appreciating the talent on display. Take a moment to sketch or photograph your favorite pieces.
Experience a traditional Togolese dance performance in a local cultural center. Engage with dancers and learn about the stories behind the movements. Enjoy a casual dinner at a nearby eatery, trying local dishes like fufu and palm nut soup.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $15-30 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride (city center) | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 📶Monthly mobile data plan | $10-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and vibrant street life
- Accessible coastal scenery and excellent seafood
- Heat and humidity can be intense for some travelers
- Limited English-speaking accessibility outside tourist zones
- "Bonjour" - Hello
- "Merci" - Thank you
- "S'il vous plaît" - Please
- "Où est le marché?" - Where is the market?
- "Je ne comprends pas" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Lomé
Visit one of these nice places.
A riot of colors, textures, and daily life perfect for street photography and candid moments with vendors and shoppers.
Architectural focal point with a colonial-era silhouette; suitable for exterior shots and quiet interior scenes.
Iconic coastal vistas, palm trees, and sunset hues with the sea as a dramatic backdrop.
Sea-facing vantage points ideal for golden hour photography and sea spray textures.
Food in Lomé
Lomé Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A starchy dough (often from yam or cassava) served with a rich soup or peanut/palm-nut sauce; commonly found in markets and local eateries.
Must-Try!
Freshly grilled coastal fish served with attiéké (fermented cassava couscous) or fried plantains, a coastal staple pairings.
A common everyday dish of seasoned meat or fish in a savory sauce, served over white rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The city’s main market where you can sample grilled fish, fresh fruit, palm wine, and inexpensive street bites while shopping for crafts.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Acknowledge people with a warm greeting in French or local languages (Ewe or Kabye); a handshake or light kiss on the cheek may be appropriate in some contexts.
Safety
Tipping in Lomé
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected; round up bills in restaurants, leave small tips for waitstaff and guides (roughly 5–10% or more for good service).
Cash is widely used (XOF, the West African CFA franc). Credit/debit cards are increasingly accepted in hotels and larger restaurants; some markets and smaller shops are cash-only.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm and mostly dry days; good for outdoor photography and coastal strolls, but expect dusty air and bright sun.
Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity; bring a compact umbrella, waterproof gear, and quick-dry clothing; trails can be slippery.
Dustier air and cooler mornings; visibility can be hazy, but skies are often clear later in the day.
Lomé at Night
Hiking in Lomé
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular day trip for hikers offering forested trails, panoramic views, and a cooler climate at higher elevations.
Scenic trails leading to waterfalls and lush scenery in the southern highlands, suitable for partial-day hikes with a guide.
Offers longer treks into Togolese savanna and forest ecosystems; best with a guide for safety and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Lomé by plane.
The main international gateway to Lomé; connects to several African and European destinations. Taxis and shuttle services are available for transfers to the city center.
A regional hub about a few hours away by air or a longer road trip; serves as a common alternative gateway for international connections if needed.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Ewe people form a large portion of the population, with other groups including Mina and Kabye; French is the official language, with Ewe and other local languages widely spoken.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches, clubs, and recreational play are widespread in urban and rural areas.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Lomé.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian travelers can find bean stews, vegetarian rice dishes, and plantain-based meals; ask for sauces made with palm oil and stock-free broths, and seek fresh fruit and vegetable sides at markets.