All the cool stuff to do when you’re on the coast in Togo.
I recently traveled into the tiny but utterly charming country of Togo, based out of Lomé and exploring the nearby coast. For a slow-travelling, craft-loving wanderer like me, it was full of surprises. I’m sharing exactly what I did, the spots that stole my heart, and the one real warning I want you to know before you go.
1. Dive into Lomé’s Market Energy
My first stop was Lomé and the main market (yes, the one that feels full of colour, haggling and local hustle). It was a feast for the senses — textiles, crafts, fresh produce, street scenes. For someone who loves arts & crafts, this was pure inspiration. You’ll find the usual tourist-souvenirs but also genuine local items. I spent time wandering, chatting with vendors, soaking in the rhythm.
Tip: Take your time, keep it casual, breathe in the atmosphere. It’s not about ticking off a “must-see” quickly but enjoying the vibe.
2. Easy Day Trips — Coast, Beach, and Local Life
From Lomé I popped out to the coast for some slower pace. The roads weren’t hectic, the horizon was wide. If you’re not up for serious hiking or full-on wilderness, this kind of day-trip works great. I found beach-fringe cafés, local food, fishermen winding down — just a nice change of gear from the city buzz.
Tip for you: As someone who travels light and minimalist, this kind of spot is perfect — bring a good book, enjoy a slower pace, and let the ocean breeze reset your travel rhythm.
3. The Warning You Shouldn’t Ignore
Here’s the honest part: Togo is fantastic — but it also has quirks and things to watch.
If you visit Togo, you need to know that the date of your visa starts on the day they issue it and not the day you enter the country – and over-staying incurs hefty fines that they’re very strict about. What’s worse is that I was waiting for my visa and their system wouldn’t let me register. By the time I was able to register, I’d lost several days of travel time I thought I had. Be sure to check your visa very carefully and know exactly when you have to be out of the country by.
4. Why I’m Glad I Went
Because — and this is the heart of it — Togo quietly delivered: craft shops I could browse without the tourist rush, local people who paused for a smile, seaside moments that felt un-overblown, and a sense of discovery. As someone who still loves slow motion adventures (yes, even at 55 and carrying minimal gear) this felt refreshing.
If you’re like me — less about big fitness hikes, more about meaning, connection, quiet inspiration — Togo fits beautifully.
Final Thoughts
Togo may not be on every traveller’s radar yet — and that’s part of its charm. It won’t knock your socks off with luxury resorts or mega-adventure trekking (unless you seek those) — but it will charm you quietly. If you’re up for discovering something a little different, open-hearted, grounded and unhurried — then go ahead and explore Togo.
Thanks for reading, thanks for watching the video. If you do visit Togo, drop me a note: I’d love to hear what your favourite moment was.
See you in the next adventure!
Add comment