Togo is a compact, easy-to-navigate West African destination with one of the continent's most extraordinary markets — the Marché des Féticheurs (voodoo fetish market) in Lomé. E-visa online in 48 hours (USD 50). YF mandatory. Ethiopian Airlines from Nairobi via Addis. French-speaking country with a welcoming Atlantic coast.
Key Warnings
Yellow fever certificate is MANDATORY — both at airline check-in and Togolese immigration. No exceptions.
Lomé's Grand Marché is safe for tourists during daytime but carry minimal valuables and be alert in the surrounding streets. Petty crime targets distracted visitors.
Malaria is endemic in Togo — take prophylaxis and use DEET repellent. The rainy season (April–July, September–November) increases mosquito risk.
Insider Tips
The Marché des Féticheurs (Voodoo Fetish Market) in Lomé is unlike anything else in Africa — dried animals, skulls, herbs, and potions used in Voodoo rituals, sold openly in a large market. Deeply fascinating. Ask your hotel for a guide to provide context.
Kpalimé (110km north of Lomé) is Togo's most scenic inland city — surrounded by waterfalls (Cascade de Kpalimé, Yikpa), butterfly gardens, and artisan workshops making batik fabric. Great day trip or overnight from Lomé.
The Tamberma Valley (Koutammakou, UNESCO) in northern Togo features remarkable fortified tata somba houses — two-story earthen structures with flat roofs used as sleeping areas and defensive walls. One of West Africa's most unique architectural landscapes.
Step-by-Step Guide
Get your yellow fever vaccination
Visit a Kenya Ministry of Health-approved centre (KEMRI, Kenyatta National Hospital). Certificate must be at least 10 days old.
Apply online at evisa.gouv.tg
Complete the e-visa application, upload passport scan and YF certificate, pay USD 50 by card. Approval emailed within 48–72 hours.
Print approval and fly to Lomé
Lomé-Tokoin International Airport (LFW) is Togo's main gateway. Connect via Lagos (Arik Air, 1 hour), via Abidjan, or via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines from Nairobi, ~8 hours total). Ethiopian Airlines is the best connection from NBO.
Explore Togo
Lomé (Grand Marché Fétiche/voodoo market — one of the most striking markets in West Africa, beachside Lomé Corniche, independence monument), Kpalimé (waterfalls, artisan workshops), Atakpamé, and Tamberma Valley (UNESCO fortified villages in the north).
Required Documents
Valid Kenyan passport (6+ months validity — scan for upload)
⚠️ Yellow Fever Certificate required. Yellow fever certificate is MANDATORY for entry to Togo. Togo is endemic and requires the certificate from all travellers including those from Kenya (which has risk zones). Certificate must be at least 10 days old. Obtain from a Kenya Ministry of Health-approved centre. Entry refused without it.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Kenyans need a visa for Togo?
Yes — Kenyans need a Togo e-visa (available online at evisa.gouv.tg). Cost: USD 50 (~KES 6,850). Approved in 48–72 hours. Yellow fever certificate MANDATORY. Stay up to 30 days. Connect via Addis Ababa (Ethiopian Airlines).
What is the voodoo fetish market in Lomé?
The Marché des Féticheurs in Lomé is one of West Africa's most extraordinary markets — selling dried animal parts, skulls, herbs, and potions used in traditional Voodoo religious practices. It's completely open and accessible to visitors with a local guide. Located in the Akodessewa neighbourhood of Lomé. Unique and fascinating experience not found anywhere else.