Introduction
A sliver of land puncturing the bulge of West Africa, Togo was once the region's gem. A raft of riots and disturbances in the 1990s saw its status slip, but still holidays in Togo are considered viable, with people lured here by the forests, savannah, lagoons, swampy plains and sandy beaches crammed into the small space.
The capital Lomé stands on the Gulf of Benin. It has a pleasant, slightly shabby colonial air although it's still recovering from the struggles. Visit the Grand Marché or explore the fetish market to discover the voodoo charms and ceremonial objects connected with the religion.
The smaller towns of Togoville on Lake Togo and Aneho set on a picturesque lagoon on the coast are popular for voodoo shrines and beaches respectively.
Away from the coast, Kpalimé is the gateway to Klouto, a mountain retreat that offers bush walking and nature tours. The town is also the best way to access the coffee and cocoa plantations, ruined chateau and forests in this area.
In the north, Kara is the base from which to explore the Tamberma Valley, keeping an eye out for the remote clay and straw seventeenth century fortresses here.
Elsewhere, the north has lots of potential for activity and adventure holidays, with plenty of walks and treks possible. There's also wildlife watching at Kéran National Park, which boasts one of the largest elephant populations in West Africa.
