Arrival and Getting into Town

Getting Around the City

• Shared Taxis: The most common yellow taxis in Lomé usually operate on a shared basis. Short trips cost around 200 to 500 West African CFA francs. Confirm the fare and whether it’s shared before getting in.
• Motorbike Taxis (zémidjan): A uniquely Togolese mode of transport, these are the fastest way to weave through streets and alleys. They’re cheap but always wear a helmet and stay alert for safety.
• Ride-Hailing Apps: Local apps like Gozem are available and offer transparent pricing. Ideal for getting around Lomé and other main cities, especially late at night.

Long-Distance and Cross-Border Travel

Lomé and Togo’s coastline serve as key land entry points to West Africa. There are bus or shared car services to Benin, Ghana, and Burkina Faso, but border checkpoint efficiency and vehicle conditions vary. Check your visa and entry/exit requirements before crossing. For multi-country itineraries, consider segmented private car hire and assistance from a travel agency to avoid long border delays.

Intercity Travel

There are intercity buses and minibuses running from Lomé to Kara. Tickets are affordable but schedules and vehicle conditions can be unreliable, and travel times are longer. For cross-region trips, private car hire or vehicles from registered travel agencies are recommended. These are usually charged by the day, including driver and fuel, and allow for flexible stops at attractions. Lomé to Palimé takes about 2–3 hours, Lomé to Kara around 7–8 hours, and Lomé to Aného roughly 1 hour.

Car Rental and Driving

Car rental is possible in Togo, but an international driving permit is required. Road conditions and driving habits differ significantly from what many travelers may be used to. Rural roads become muddy in the rainy season, and there’s often poor lighting at night, making self-drive generally not advisable for foreign tourists. Private car hire with a driver is a safer and more reliable option. If you do drive, avoid night travel and ensure the vehicle has a spare tire and first aid kit. Check brakes and tires before setting off. Alternatively, hotels or travel agencies can arrange self-drive cars with drivers, billed by the day, offering flexibility and peace of mind for independent travelers.

Tips

• Always agree on a fare before getting into a taxi to avoid being overcharged upon arrival.
• For long-distance travel, try to travel during the daytime and be mindful of road conditions and flooding during the rainy season.
• You can buy local SIM cards from Togocom or Moov at the airport or in the city for navigation and contacting guides.
• For intercity private car hire, save the driver’s contact details to make it easier to reconnect for returns or itinerary changes.