Home » TOGO TRAVEL NEWS » Togo is Surging the tourism industry with new Visa free travel Policy for 17 countries, Including South Africa,Morocco & Nigeria
Tuesday, July 16, 2024
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Togo, a small yet diverse country in Western Africa, boasts a rich history and vibrant culture. Its capital, Lomé, located in the southwest, is the largest city and serves as the country’s primary port. Historically, the area that is now Togo served as an intermediate zone between the powerful states of Asante and Dahomey. The various ethnic groups within Togo lived largely in isolation until 1884 when the region became part of the Togoland German protectorate.
In 1914, during World War I, British and French forces occupied Togoland. Subsequently, in 1922, the League of Nations mandated that eastern Togoland be administered by France and the western part by Britain. After World War II, the territories were placed under United Nations trusteeship. In 1956, British Togoland was incorporated into the Gold Coast (now Ghana), and French Togoland became an autonomous republic within the French Union. Togo gained full independence in 1960. Today, Togo’s economy is largely based on agriculture, with significant contributions from its extensive phosphate reserves.
Geography and Climate
Togo enjoys a tropical climate, with distinct rainy seasons in the south from mid-April to June and from mid-September to October. The coastal region, receiving about 35 inches (890 mm) of rainfall annually, is the driest part of the country. In contrast, the area around Palimé, situated about 65 miles (100 km) inland, is the wettest, with approximately 70 inches (1,800 mm) of rainfall per year. The northern part of Togo experiences a single rainy season from June to September, with an average precipitation of about 45 inches (1,150 mm).
Cultural Heritage
Togo is home to about 30 ethnic groups, reflecting a rich tapestry of cultural diversity. The northern region is inhabited by Gur-speaking peoples such as the Gurma, Tamberma, and Kabre, among others. In the southwest, the indigenous Kwa peoples include the Kposo, Adele, and Ahlo. The Ewe, who migrated from Nigeria between the 14th and 16th centuries, form the major ethnic group in the country. Other notable groups include the Yoruba and various groups from present-day Ghana and Côte d’Ivoire, such as the Mina and Dagomba.
The country’s non-African population, primarily French, resides mainly in Lomé. African-Brazilians also play a significant role in Togo’s economic and political landscape.
Tourism
Togo offers a plethora of scenic attractions, from cultural sites like the UNESCO World Heritage Koutammakou to natural wonders such as waterfalls, national parks, and picturesque landscapes. The Atakora mountain range, crossing the country from southwest to northeast, features plateaus that rise over 900 meters above sea level.
In 2020, Togo attracted over 480,000 tourists, generating about CFA 19 billion. The country’s biodiversity, ranging from sandy beaches to Sahelian borders, makes it a captivating destination.
Economic Outlook
Togo’s travel and tourism market is set to grow significantly in the coming years. By 2024, the market revenue is projected to reach USD 34.94 million, with an annual growth rate of 5.51%, expected to result in a market volume of USD 43.30 million by 2028. The package holidays segment is the largest, with a projected market volume of USD 15.07 million in 2024. By 2028, the number of users in this market is expected to reach 231.80k, with an average revenue per user of USD 106.10.
Transportation and Airports
Togo’s principal international gateway is the Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport in Lomé, named after a former president. This airport serves as a hub for regional and international travel, hosting airlines such as ASKY Airlines, Air France, and Brussels Airlines. In the first half of 2023, passenger traffic at this airport was 632,083.
Other notable airports include Niamtougou International Airport in Kara and Sansanné-Mango Airport in Savanes. While facilities at these airports are more basic compared to Lomé, they play crucial roles in connecting various regions within Togo, facilitating the movement of people and goods.
Top Airlines
ASKY Airlines, based in Lomé, provides extensive intra-African connectivity and links Africa to the rest of the world. Established in 2010, it operates a fleet of Airbus and Bombardier aircraft, servicing destinations across West and Central Africa.
Elite Air, another Togolese airline, focuses on enhancing regional connectivity, offering both passenger and cargo services primarily out of Lomé-Tokoin Airport. Although Air Togo ceased operations in 2000, it played a significant role in Togo’s aviation history.
Top Hotels and Resorts
Togo offers several luxurious accommodations, such as the Hotel 2 Février Lomé, an iconic landmark and the tallest building in Togo. Sarakawa Hotel, known for its beachfront location and lush greenery, offers a tranquil retreat with a variety of leisure activities. ONOMO Hotel Lomé provides a modern, eco-friendly option near the city center, while Hôtel Sancta Maria offers a blend of modern amenities and local charm right on Lomé’s bustling beachfront.
Cultural Events
Togo’s cultural vibrancy is reflected in its numerous festivals and events, including the Agbogbo-Za festival in Notsé, celebrating the exodus of the Ewe people, and the harvest festival Ayiza in Tsevié. Other notable events include Evala in Kara and Gbagba-Za in Agou, each showcasing the country’s rich traditions and community spirit.
Countries that can visit Togo without Visa:- Benin, Ghana, Mali, Romania, Guinea-Bissau, Burkina Faso, Guinea, Morocco, Senegal, Cape Verde, Côte d’Ivoire, Niger, Sierra Leone, Gambia, Liberia, Nigeria, South Africa.
Tourist Attractions
Prominent tourist spots in Togo include:
Koutammakou, the Land of the Batammariba: Known for its unique mud tower-houses, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into the Batammariba people’s way of life.Togo National Museum in Lomé: Located near Independence Square, this museum presents a comprehensive narrative of Togo’s cultural heritage through its ethnographic, cultural, and artistic exhibits.Mount Agou: The highest point in Togo, offering scenic views and a journey through coffee and cocoa plantations.Aného: An old colonial town with historical buildings, beautiful beaches, and vibrant cultural festivals.
Togo is a country with rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty. From its tropical climate and diverse ethnic groups to its scenic landscapes and bustling capital, Togo offers a unique experience for travelers and a promising future for economic growth. With its vibrant cultural heritage and expanding tourism sector, Togo continues to be a captivating destination in West Africa.
Tags: Cape Verde, Guinea, Lomé-Tokoin Airport, morocco, nigeria, romania, Senegal, South Africa, Togo, Tourism news, Travel News, Visa free travel, Visa News
Source link : https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/togo-is-surging-the-tourism-industry-with-new-visa-free-travel-policy-for-17-countries-including-morocco-senegal-nigeria/
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Publish date : 2024-07-16 09:46:11
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