Which means of transport to use Togo?

From the airport to the city centre Togo

It's easy to get to the city center, as the Gnassingbé Eyadema international airport is just 5 km from Lomé town hall. Just outside the airport, you'll find a cab rank for your transfer. The fare is around 5,000 FCFA. Some hotels also offer a shuttle service between the airport and the hotel.

Arrival by boat Togo

Many cruise ships call at Lomé, the only semi-autonomous port in the sub-region. To name but a few: Regent Seven Seas Cruises,Oceania Insignia, Seabourn Sojourn and Silver Whisper.

Public transport Togo

Cab cars are essentially a means of intercity transport. They can be identified by their yellow number plates. In town, they are becoming rarer and rarer in favor of motorcycle cabs, known as zémidjans, which are faster and cheaper. Cabs can be hired privately or in groups. For private hire, the fare is a flat rate negotiated in advance. When grouped, the cab becomes collective, with a fixed fare per passenger.

The bush cab. The cheapest solution, but also the most adventurous with minibus transport. You have to wait for the taxi-brousse to fill up before you can set off. You'll quickly find yourself squeezed in, even in the front where the driver can seat up to three people. We recommend paying for the extra seats at the front for greater comfort and safety.

Buses are the safest form of public transport if you have long distances to cover. They provide connections to major towns such as Kara and Dapaong, and to neighboring countries. It's possible to take them on the way, if a seat becomes available. There are many bus companies in Lomé, such as CTT Rakieta and Etrab, offering relatively comfortable, air-conditioned buses. Each has its own bus station, and departures are generally well organized. It's advisable to buy your ticket at least 48 hours in advance, as buses fill up quickly. On the day of departure, you should also plan to arrive at the company's bus station an hour beforehand, especially if you have luggage.

Minibuses. All cities are linked by minibuses, which transport both people and goods. It's quite an original experience to take this type of transport. As far as comfort is concerned, you often have to hold on tight, as mothers, children and other passengers are packed in tightly together. For added comfort, you can rent several seats, but this is often unnecessary, as the driver will continue to take on passengers until the bus is completely full. The close quarters encourage contact, and locals are always surprised and amused to see a yovo making the journey in their company. Buses don't leave until they're full, so you'll need to be patient. Stops are frequent and can take some time, as all the goods placed on the roof of the vehicle have to be unloaded. If you break down on the road, another driver will usually take you to your destination at no extra charge. At every roadblock or checkpoint, the bus is mobbed by saleswomen offering bagged water, eggs, bread, kebabs or fruit. Although this type of transport is often rich in experiences and contacts, it remains risky due to overloading, road conditions and, sometimes, the driver's conduct.

With a driver Togo

A chauffeur-driven car is undoubtedly one of the best solutions, as you'll be able to enjoy your trip to the full without worrying about all the little mechanical and other problems. What's more, drivers often also act as guides. Most hotels have their own "tele-taxi", but you can also go to a cab rank and speak directly to a driver. In Lomé, to order a cab or motorcycle, the Gozem app works very well.

By car Togo

It's the best means of transport if you want to visit tourist sites located largely outside urban centers. The car also allows you to get off the main roads and venture out to discover deepest Togo. A 4x4 vehicle is preferable, as off the main roads you'll soon find yourself on dirt tracks. Renting a vehicle is a major item of expenditure, and adds a great deal to the travel budget. City cars generally rent for between 20,000 and 55,000 FCFA per day. A 4x4 costs between 60,000 and 80,000 FCFA per day. These prices do not include mileage, for which you will have to pay extra, or fuel. You must be at least 21 years of age and provide a guarantee. Rental agencies also offer sliding-scale and weekly rates. Some hotels also have vehicles available for hire on special terms. However, driving in Togo requires a certain amount of experience. Apart from the main roads, many of the tracks are dirt, requiring good vehicle control and reflexes. We strongly advise against driving at night, as the roads are not sufficiently lit, making them dangerous. In the event of an accident, don't argue with us, and head for the nearest police station.