Group trips to Togo

Find out the entry requirements for Togo, and, if needed, apply for your visa through our partner Sherpa.

Before traveling, always remember to check the government website of your country of origin for updates on the entry requirements for Togo – you wouldn’t want to stay home due to a bureaucratic detail!

• UK residents: review the FCDO Travel Advice.
• US residents: consult the US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Other residents: refer to your government or local consulate's travel advice.

Togo is in the Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) zone, so there is no time difference from the UK during standard time. If it's 12pm in the UK, it will also be 12pm in Togo. However, compared to the USA, if it's 12pm Eastern Standard Time (EST) in the USA, it will be 5pm in Togo. Togo does not observe daylight saving time, so keep this in mind when planning your calls or meetings.

The currency used in Togo is the West African CFA franc (XOF). As of the latest rates:

• 1 GBP is approximately 800 XOF
• 1 USD is around 620 XOF
• 1 EUR is about 655 XOF

You can exchange currency at banks, exchange bureaus, and some hotels in major cities. It's a good idea to compare rates to get the best deal.

Credit cards and debit cards are accepted in some places in Togo, especially in larger cities and tourist areas, but it is not as widespread as in other countries. It is a good idea to carry some cash for smaller markets and rural areas. ATMs are available in major cities, where you can withdraw cash using your card. Make sure to inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues with your card.

Tipping in Togo is not mandatory, but it's appreciated for good service. In restaurants, leaving a tip of around 5 to 10 percent of the bill is a nice gesture. For hotel staff or porters, a small tip is also welcome. Taxis usually don't expect tips, but rounding up the fare is common if you received great service. Always tip in the local currency, the West African CFA franc, for convenience.

In Togo, internet access can be a bit challenging. Wi-Fi is available in major cities like Lomé, mainly in hotels and cafes, but it may not be very fast or reliable. If you need consistent internet access, buying a local SIM card is a good option. We suggest you consider operators like Togocel or Moov Africa for data plans. They offer SIM cards and various data packages. If your phone supports it, you might also look into purchasing an e-SIM data plan, which can be convenient and easy to set up.

In Togo, French is the official language. However, you'll also hear many local languages spoken. Here are some useful French expressions you might hear or use:

• Hello - Bonjour
• Thank you - Merci
• Please - S'il vous plaît
• Yes - Oui
• No - Non

Besides French, Ewe and Kabiyé are widely spoken, so you might encounter diverse linguistic expressions across the country.

In Togo, the plugs used are Type C and Type E. The voltage is 220V, and the frequency is 50Hz. Since these are different from those used in the UK or the USA, we suggest you bring a universal adapter. This will ensure your devices can be charged without any issues. Check your electronics to make sure they support 220V to avoid any damage.

In Togo, the main religion is Christianity, with a significant number of the population also practicing indigenous beliefs. Islam is also present but to a lesser extent. Important religious holidays include Christmas, Easter, and various traditional festivals like Evala, which are celebrated widely. If you're visiting, it's a good idea to be respectful of religious practices and customs during these times.

When packing for Togo, you'll want to be prepared for warm weather and occasional rain. Here's a handy checklist to get you started:

• Clothing:
  • Light cotton shirts and tops
  • Shorts and lightweight trousers
  • A light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings
  • Swimwear
• Shoes:
  • Comfortable walking shoes or sneakers
  • Sandals or flip-flops
  • Water shoes if you plan to visit beaches or rivers
• Accessories and Technology:
  • Sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat
  • A reusable water bottle
  • A power bank for your devices
  • A camera or smartphone for photos
• Toiletries and Medication:
  • Sunscreen and insect repellent
  • Personal hygiene items
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Common travel medications like pain relievers, antihistamines, and anti-diarrheal tablets

This should cover the essentials for a comfortable and enjoyable visit to Togo.

Togo's weather can vary depending on the region:

• Coastal Region: It's generally hot and humid. The best time to visit is from November to February when it's cooler and drier.
• Northern Region: Expect a tropical savanna climate with a distinct dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.

Overall, Togo has a tropical climate, so light clothing is recommended. Keep in mind the rainy season if you're planning outdoor activities.