🐾 Traveling to Togo with Pets
Pet-Friendly Togo
Togo offers a welcoming environment for pets in its coastal and rural areas, though facilities are more limited than in Europe. Beaches in Lomé and eco-lodges in the north accommodate well-behaved animals, making Togo an adventurous pet-friendly destination in West Africa.
Entry Requirements & Documentation
Health Certificate
Dogs, cats, and other pets need a veterinary health certificate issued within 10 days of travel, confirming good health and no contagious diseases.
Certificate must include details on vaccinations and treatments; endorsed by official authorities in the country of origin.
Rabies Vaccination
Mandatory rabies vaccination required, administered at least 30 days before entry and valid for the duration of stay.
Proof of vaccination must be included in all documentation; boosters may be needed if expired.
Microchip Requirements
Pets must have an ISO-compliant microchip for identification, implanted before rabies vaccination.
Chip number should match all certificates; bring a scanner if possible for verification at entry points.
Non-EU/Non-WAEMU Countries
Pets from outside West Africa need additional import permit from Togo's Ministry of Agriculture and rabies titer test.
A 30-day quarantine may apply; contact Togolese embassy or consulate for pre-approval and specific requirements.
Restricted Breeds
No nationwide breed bans, but aggressive breeds may face restrictions at entry or in urban areas like Lomé.
Large or fighting breeds might require muzzles and leashes; check with local authorities upon arrival.
Other Pets
Birds, reptiles, and exotic animals require special CITES permits if applicable, plus health certificates.
Common pets like hamsters or guinea pigs need basic health checks; consult veterinary services for details.
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Book Pet-Friendly Hotels
Find hotels that welcome pets across Togo on Booking.com. Filter by "Pets allowed" to see properties with pet-friendly policies, fees, and amenities like outdoor spaces.
Accommodation Types
- Pet-Friendly Hotels (Lomé): Beachfront hotels like Hotel 2 Février welcome pets for 5,000-10,000 XOF/night, with gardens and proximity to shores. Local chains often accommodate with notice.
- Eco-Lodges & Guesthouses (Plateau Region): Northern lodges in Koutammakou area allow pets at no extra fee, offering space for walks and cultural immersion.
- Vacation Rentals & Apartments: Platforms like Airbnb list pet-friendly homes in Lomé and Kara, providing flexibility for families and pets in private settings.
- Rural Guesthouses: Community stays in villages like Togoville welcome pets alongside local animals, ideal for authentic experiences with children.
- Campsites & Beach Huts: Coastal camps near Aného are pet-friendly, with beach access and basic facilities for adventurous pet owners.
- Luxury Options: Upscale resorts like Sarakawa Congress Hotel in Lomé offer pet services including walking areas and basic amenities for a fee.
Pet-Friendly Activities & Destinations
National Parks & Reserves
Fazao-Malfakassa National Park allows leashed pets on guided trails, offering wildlife viewing in savanna settings.
Keep pets controlled near animals; entry fees around 2,000 XOF per person, pets free with owner.
Beaches & Coastline
Lomé's beaches like Plage de Lomé welcome dogs for walks and swims in designated areas.
Avoid crowded sections; local rules may require leashes during peak hours.
Cities & Markets
Grand Marché in Lomé permits leashed pets; outdoor areas in Kara and Sokodé are navigable with dogs.
Respect vendor spaces; pets should stay calm in bustling environments.
Pet-Friendly Eateries
Street-side cafés and beach bars in Lomé often allow pets at outdoor tables with water bowls provided.
Ask permission; traditional spots may have informal pet policies.
Village Tours
Cultural walks in Koutammakou (UNESCO site) welcome leashed pets for family explorations of adobe architecture.
Guided tours cost 10,000-15,000 XOF; avoid indoor sacred sites with pets.
Boat Trips
Lake Togo boat excursions from Togoville allow small pets in carriers; fees 5,000 XOF per person.
Check operator policies; life jackets recommended for safety.
Pet Transport & Logistics
- Buses (SOTOCO & Private Lines): Small pets travel free in carriers; larger dogs may need space in luggage area for 1,000-2,000 XOF. Leash required in stations.
- Taxis & Shared Cabs (Urban): Lomé taxis allow pets with driver approval; fares 500-1,000 XOF per trip. Use moto-taxis cautiously for small pets.
- Taxis: Negotiate with drivers for pet transport; most accept with a small surcharge. Apps like local ride-hailing are emerging in cities.
- Rental Cars: Agencies in Lomé permit pets with deposit (10,000-20,000 XOF); 4x4s ideal for rural roads and pet comfort.
- Flights to Togo: Airlines like ASKY and Air France allow cabin pets under 8kg for 25,000-50,000 XOF. Book early and review carrier rules. Compare flight options on Aviasales to find pet-friendly airlines and routes.
- Pet-Friendly Airlines: ASKY, Air Côte d'Ivoire, and Ethiopian Airlines accept pets in cabin (under 8kg) for 30,000-60,000 XOF each way. Larger pets in cargo with health certificate.
Pet Services & Veterinary Care
Emergency Vet Services
Veterinary clinics in Lomé like Clinique Vétérinaire de Lomé offer 24-hour care; northern areas have basic services.
Travel insurance recommended; consultations cost 5,000-15,000 XOF.
Pharmacies & Pet Supplies
Markets and pharmacies in Lomé stock basic pet food and meds; import specialty items if needed.
Local shops carry vaccines and flea treatments; bring prescriptions for imports.
Grooming & Day Care
Limited grooming in Lomé hotels or home services for 3,000-8,000 XOF per session.
Arrange through guesthouses; rural areas rely on basic care.
Pet-Sitting Services
Informal pet-sitting via local contacts or hotels in Lomé; no major apps, but community recommendations available.
Guesthouses may watch pets during day trips; tip 2,000-5,000 XOF.
Pet Rules & Etiquette
- Leash Laws: Dogs must be leashed in Lomé and urban areas; rural trails allow off-leash if away from livestock and people.
- Muzzle Requirements: Not strictly enforced but recommended for large dogs in markets or transport; carry one for compliance.
- Waste Disposal: Carry and dispose of waste properly; bins are limited, so take bags to designated spots. Fines rare but respect local customs.
- Beach & Water Rules: Pets allowed on less crowded beaches; avoid swimming areas during festivals. Leash near fishermen.
- Restaurant Etiquette: Outdoor seating common; keep pets calm and off tables. Ask before entering indoor spaces.
- National Parks: Leash required in Fazao-Malfakassa; avoid during dry season fire risks (Dec-Mar). Stay on paths to protect wildlife.
👨👩👧👦 Family-Friendly Togo
Togo for Families
Togo delights families with its beaches, vibrant markets, cultural villages, and natural parks. Safe coastal areas and welcoming communities make it ideal for kids to explore African heritage, with affordable activities and relaxed paces.
Top Family Attractions
Plage de Lomé Beach
Vibrant beach with palm trees, swimming, and local vendors for family picnics and play.
Free access; boat rides 2,000-5,000 XOF. Open daily with evening markets.
Fazao-Malfakassa National Park
Wildlife reserve with elephants, monkeys, and guided safaris in northern Togo.
Entry 3,000 XOF adults, 1,500 XOF kids; family jeep tours available for full-day adventures.
Koutammakou Adobe Villages (UNESCO)
Traditional clay houses and cultural tours showcasing Kabye architecture and customs.
Guided visits 10,000 XOF family; kids enjoy village walks and storytelling.
Grand Marché de Lomé
Bustling market with fabrics, crafts, and street food for interactive family shopping.
Free entry; bargaining fun for kids. Best mornings; multilingual guides available.
Togoville Village & Lake Togo
Island village with boat trips, voodoo history, and serene lake views.
Boat fees 5,000 XOF; cultural demos engage children with local legends.
Mono River Eco-Tours
River walks, birdwatching, and nature crafts in southern wetlands.
Family tours 8,000 XOF; suitable for kids 5+ with educational elements.
Book Family Activities
Discover family-friendly tours, attractions, and activities across Togo on Viator. From cultural village visits to beach excursions, find skip-the-line tickets and age-appropriate experiences with flexible cancellation.
Family Accommodations
- Family Hotels (Lomé): Hotels like Onomo Hotel Lomé offer family rooms (2 adults + 2 kids) for 30,000-50,000 XOF/night. Include cribs, pools, and kids' menus.
- Beach Resorts (Coastal): Sarakawa Resort provides family suites with beach access and activities. All-inclusive options for relaxed stays.
- Rural Guesthouses: Village stays in Koutammakou for 15,000-25,000 XOF/night with meals, animal interactions, and cultural immersion.
- Vacation Apartments: Self-catering in Lomé with kitchens for family meals; space for kids to play indoors.
- Budget Guesthouses: Simple family rooms in Kara and Sokodé for 10,000-20,000 XOF/night. Clean with communal areas.
- Eco-Lodges: Northern lodges like those near Fazao offer family bungalows with outdoor adventures and nature programs.
Find family-friendly accommodations with connected rooms, cribs, and children's facilities on Booking.com. Filter by "Family rooms" and read reviews from other parents.
Kid-Friendly Activities by Region
Lomé with Kids
Beaches, markets, fetish market visits, and oceanarium for marine life exploration.
Street food tastings and beach games create memorable urban adventures.
Plateau Region with Kids
Koutammakou village tours, waterfall hikes, and traditional dance performances.
Hands-on crafts and storytelling sessions captivate young explorers.
Northern Togo with Kids
Fazao National Park safaris, Kara markets, and pottery workshops.
Wildlife spotting and river picnics offer educational outdoor fun.
Southern Lakes & Rivers
Lake Togo boat rides, Mono River eco-walks, and Aného beach days.
Water activities and fishing experiences suitable for family bonding.
Family Travel Practicalities
Getting Around with Kids
- Buses: Children under 5 travel free; ages 5-12 get 50% off. Shared taxis offer family space for 1,000-3,000 XOF per route.
- City Transport: Lomé taxis and moto-taxis affordable (500 XOF/ride); family day passes not standard but negotiable.
- Car Rentals: Rent with child seats (2,000-5,000 XOF/day); required for under 12. 4x4s best for rural family trips.
- Stroller-Friendly: Coastal paths accessible, but rural areas uneven; carry lightweight strollers for markets and beaches.
Dining with Children
- Kids' Options: Local eateries serve rice, grilled fish, and fufu for 1,000-3,000 XOF. High chairs limited but outdoor seating flexible.
- Family-Friendly Spots: Beach restaurants and markets with casual vibes; try akpan for shared family plates.
- Self-Catering: Markets like Grand Marché for fresh fruits, veggies; stock baby food in Lomé supermarkets.
- Snacks & Treats: Fresh coconuts, plantains, and sweets from vendors keep kids happy on the go.
Childcare & Baby Facilities
- Baby-Changing: Available in major hotels and markets; use clean restrooms or beach facilities.
- Pharmacies: Stock diapers, formula, and meds in Lomé; English/French spoken for advice.
- Babysitting: Hotel-arranged sitters in Lomé for 5,000-10,000 XOF/hour; local nannies via community.
- Medical Care: Clinics in cities; CHU Sylvanus Olympio in Lomé for pediatrics. Vaccinations advised.
♿ Accessibility in Togo
Accessible Travel
Togo is developing accessibility with efforts in urban areas like Lomé. Beach paths and some hotels offer basic wheelchair access, while tourism operators provide guided inclusive experiences.
Transportation Accessibility
- Buses: Limited ramps; shared taxis accommodate folding wheelchairs. Book assistance for longer routes.
- City Transport: Lomé taxis fit wheelchairs; moto-taxis not suitable. Paths vary in smoothness.
- Taxis: Standard vehicles for folding chairs; arrange larger vans for power wheelchairs via hotels.
- Airports: Lomé-Tokoin Airport has basic assistance, ramps, and accessible toilets for arriving families.
Accessible Attractions
- Markets & Beaches: Grand Marché has wide aisles; Lomé beaches offer flat sand access with assistance.
- Cultural Sites: Koutammakou tours adaptable; village paths may need guides for wheelchairs.
- Nature Areas: Lake Togo boats accessible; national parks have some flat trails for mobility aids.
- Accommodations: Hotels indicate accessible rooms on Booking.com; seek ground-floor options and ramps.
Essential Tips for Families & Pet Owners
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December-March) for beaches and parks; avoid wet season (April-October) rains.
Shoulder months (November, April) milder with festivals and fewer crowds.
Budget Tips
Family tours bundle attractions; markets for affordable souvenirs. Daily costs 20,000-40,000 XOF per family.
Self-catering and public transport save; eco-lodges offer value for groups.
Language
French official; Ewe and Kabye local. English in tourist spots; basic phrases help interactions.
Locals patient with families; use translation apps for ease.
Packing Essentials
Light clothes, rain gear, insect repellent, and sun protection for tropical climate.
Pet owners: vaccination records, leash, tick prevention, and familiar food supplies.
Useful Apps
Google Maps for navigation, Xoom for money transfer, and local bus trackers.
Translation apps like Google Translate for French and local languages.
Health & Safety
Togo safe for families; drink bottled water. Vaccinations for yellow fever required.
Emergency: dial 101 for police/medical. Pharmacies widespread in cities.