Capital: Lomé
Population: 7.798 million
Official language: French
Time zone: Greenwich Mean Time
Emergency #: 101
Vaccinations required: Yes
Risk of malaria: Yes
Togo is known for its diverse natural landscapes and adventure travel. Tourists can hike and explore waterfalls at Mount Agou, the coffee and cocoa plantations of the Plateaux Region, and Aneho, a popular lagoon beach.
The standards for patient care and medical services in Togo may differ from your home country. Togo has a small public healthcare system, however, the system lacks funding and resources. Healthcare is extremely limited and basic, and the quality of care generally does not meet international standards. Healthcare facilities usually lack medical supplies. They may also lack adequately trained healthcare personnel and in some cases, running water and electricity. Private healthcare options in Togo are also extremely limited.
In the event of a medical emergency, contact your travel health insurance company immediately. Hospitals and private practitioners in Togo typically require upfront payment, regardless if you have travel health insurance. Evacuation – possibly to Western Europe – will be required for medical emergencies. Ensure that you have accessible funds to cover upfront fees and adequate travel health insurance. Coverage for medical evacuation is a high priority. Before you depart, check with your insurer about the extent of their coverage in Togo.
Access to pharmacies is limited, and many medications may be in short supply. Counterfeit medications are also common. Travellers should pack a sufficient supply of essential medication for the duration of their trip.
If you are travelling with medication, check with Togo’s embassy, consulate, or Ministry of Health for details on medication allowances and restrictions. Note that these sources may provide incomplete or out-of-date information.
Road conditions and quality vary by region. Major roads and roads in urban areas may be paved, but rural roads are unpaved and poorly maintained. In the rainy season, paved roads may become very slippery and unpaved roads may become impassable. Driving at night is not recommended. Checkpoints with armed guards are common and may be poorly marked. Seat belts must be worn by drivers and passengers of vehicles at all times. Helmets must be worn by motorcycle drivers and passengers at all times.