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Country Information > West Africa > Togo Travel
Advice Country Description Togo is a small West African nation with a developing economy. French is the official language. Tourism facilities are limited, especially outside Lome, the capital city. Entry Requirements A passport and visa are required. Travelers should obtain visas prior to arrival because only visas of limited validity are available at the airport and some border posts. Travelers applying for visa extensions have experienced significant delays. Travelers should obtain the latest information and details from the nearest Togolese embassy or consulate. Areas of Instability Togo has experienced periodic violence, strikes, and political tensions since 1990. These periods of unrest often lead to a clampdown by security forces, particularly in Lome. In addition, the government may open or close its border with Ghana from time to time. Motorists should be prepared to stop at numerous police checkpoints in Lome and upcountry. Travellers should avoid political rallies and street demonstrations and maintain security awareness at all times. Crime Information Pickpocketing and theft are common, especially along the beach and in the market areas of Lome. There has been an increase in reports of armed violent car thefts. Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations poses dangers of financial loss and physical harm. Persons contemplating business deals in Togo with individuals promoting investment in Nigeria, especially the Central Bank of Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, are strongly urged to check with their national Department of Commerce before providing any information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Togo. The loss or theft abroad of a passport should be reported immediately to local police and to your nearest national embassy or consulate. Medical Facilities Medical facilities in Togo are limited. There is no emergency medical care. However, some medicines are available through local pharmacies. Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services. Medical Insurance Please check with your own insurance company to confirm whether your policy applies overseas, including provision for medical evacuation. Please ascertain whether payment will be made to the overseas hospital or doctor or whether you will be reimbursed later for expenses that you incur. Some insurance policies also include coverage for psychiatric treatment and for disposition of remains in the event of death. Traffic Safety & Road Conditions The information below concerning Togo is provided for general reference only, and may not be totally accurate in a particular location or circumstance. Safety of Public Transportation: Poor Rural roads are generally paved; however, conditions are poor and dangerous with pedestrians and livestock often on the roadways. Overland travel off the main network of roads generally requires a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Poorly marked armed checkpoints, often manned by undisciplined soldiers, exist throughout the country. Nighttime travel on unfamiliar roads is dangerous. Banditry, ranging from extortion by security forces to armed robbery, has been reported on all major inter-city highways, including the Lome-Cotonou coastal highway. Power Shortages In early 1998, Lome experienced acute power outages lasting at times more than 24 hours. Although Togo is taking measures to increase its energy-generating capacity, power outages are occasionally experienced in tourist facilities, especially upcountry. Credit Cards Only certain credit cards are accepted in Togo. Travelers planning to use them should know which cards are accepted before they commit to any transaction. Criminal Penalties While in a foreign country travellers are subject to that country's laws and regulations, which sometimes differ significantly from those in their home country. Penalties for breaking the law can be more severe for similar offenses. Persons violating Togolese law, even unknowingly, may be expelled, arrested or imprisoned. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs in Togo are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and heavy fines. |
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