Security travel advice for Togo

How safe is Togo?

Threat level: Medium

The current travel advice for Togo is to be aware and stay vigilant during visits to the country. There is a general threat of terrorism, attacks could occur without warning and may target western tourists. The country also has a high rate of serious crime, therefore it is important to take basic security precautions during travel in Togo.

It is highly recommended not to travel near the border with Burkina Faso.

Recent Security Risk Events
Togo is currently experiencing some political instability with protests frequently occurring and sometimes turning violent. Lomé is most at risk of political demonstrations. When travelling to Lomé and other densely populated areas of the country, you should avoid large gatherings when possible.

Security Risks
Violent crime is common in many areas of Togo. Lomé beaches and markets areas experience high rates of theft and assaults. Attacks can happen during daylight as well as at night, and tourists are often targeted as they present as vulnerable targets. It is advised not to travel alone anywhere in Togo and stick to the city limits if possible.

There is also an increasing rate of car hijackings, occasionally involving armed perpetrators. You should avoid travelling into rural areas and seek police advice before travel.

TOGO INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS

Togo gained its independence from France in 1960, but the two countries still share a friendly diplomatic relationship with each other. Togo pursues an active foreign policy and has membership in many international organizations such as the African Union.

TRAVELLING AROUND TOGO

Road conditions in the country are generally very poor with little or no lighting. This makes it extremely dangerous to drive at night time and accidents more prevalent. The driving standards of other road users is not high and drivers are often erratic with little regard for others on the road.

The licence policy is very relaxed with many driving vehicles as they please. You should bear this in mind when travelling and be aware of others on the road. You can drive in Togo with most foreign driving licences.

Be aware of the threat of banditry and hijackings in rural areas of Togo. Driving at night is highly advised against.

Commercial Travel Risk Services

GENERAL INFORMATION

Capital : Lomé
Official languages: French
Religion: Christianity and Islam
Currency: Colloquially Franc

Visa requirements
All nationalities will need a visa to enter Togo. A seven day visa can be issued upon arrival in the country. You can apply for a visa before travel to avoid any complications further down the line and to speed up entry time.

Immunisations
It is advised that visitors to Togo are up-to-date with primary boosters such as MMR. It is essential that you get vaccinated against Yellow Fever as there is risk of the disease throughout the country. It is an entry requirement that you present a certificate proving your immunisation and should be completed at least 10 days prior to departure.

It is further recommended that most travellers get Tetanus, Typhoid and Hepatitis A vaccinations. Check with your local health professional before you travel if you are unsure.

Other health risks
The medical facilities in the country are very limited and those available are poor standard. Any treatment beyond basic injuries and illnesses will require medical evacuation. Purchase adequate travel and health insurance that will cover you for all medical costs.

There was an AIDs epidemic in the country in 2013, any sexual contact in the country with someone you are not familiar with is highly advised against.

Malaria is of high risk during the rainy season. You should take all precautions in avoiding mosquito bites including wearing appropriate clothing and using mosquito nets whilst sleeping. Anti-malarial medication is advised for some areas, check with your medical practitioner for more information.

Personal hygiene must be paramount, the local water supply avoided at all costs and bottled water inspected prior to consumption.

CONSULAR INFORMATION FOR TOGO

U.S. Embassy Lomé
B.P. 852
Lomé
Togo
Telephone: +228 2261 5470
Email: lomewebmaster@state.gov

Togo does not have a British Embassy or High Commission. All Consular work is carried out via Accra, Sudan.
British High Commission Accra
off Sharia Al Baladia
Julius Nyerere Link
PO Box 296
Accra
Ghana
Telephone: +233 302 213 250
Email: High.Commission.Accra@fco.gov.uk