Introduction
Want to leave Ghana for a quick adventure without breaking the bank or flying? A day trip from Accra to Lomé, Togo, offers a rich cultural experience, unique food, a different currency (CFA), and French-speaking vibes—all within a few hours of travel. Whether you’re a local, an expat, or a tourist, this guide by Accra Street Journal shows you how to make your journey simple, safe, and enjoyable.
Why Visit Lomé from Accra?
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Only 3-4 hours away by road
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Explore a French-speaking country in one day
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Visit beautiful beaches, markets, and try Togolese dishes
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Affordable transport and living cost
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Border crossing is relatively simple for ECOWAS nationals
Required Documents
Before setting off, make sure you have:
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Valid Passport
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ECOWAS Travel Certificate or Ghana National ID (Ghana Card) (works for Ghanaians at the border)
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Yellow Fever Vaccination Card (compulsory at border)
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COVID-19 Vaccination Card (optional but can be requested)
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Togo Visa: Not required for ECOWAS citizens (including Ghanaians)
Route: Accra to Lomé
1. Accra to Aflao (Ghana-Togo border)
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Distance: Approx. 190 km
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Estimated Time: 3 – 4 hours
By Public Transport:
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Go to Tudu Station or Aflao Station near Circle or Tema Station
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Board a STC, VIP, or Ford bus to Aflao
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Fare: ₵70 – ₵100
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Buses leave as early as 4:00 AM
By Private Car:
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Drive via Tema – Sogakope – Aflao road
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Good roads, but watch for checkpoints
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Fuel Cost: Approx. ₵300 – ₵350 round trip
2. Border Crossing at Aflao
At Aflao:
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Present your passport/ID, yellow fever card
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No visa needed if you’re ECOWAS citizen
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You’ll walk across the border to Lomé
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Money changers available (1,000 CFA ≈ 15 GHS approx.)
Top Things To Do in Lomé (for a day)
| Activity | Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Lomé Grand Marché (Central Market) | City center | Ideal for local fabrics and food |
| Beach Relaxation | Lomé Beach | Free access, clean, scenic |
| Togolese Food Tasting | “Ablodé” restaurants | Try Fufu with goat, grilled fish, Pâte (Akume) |
| Monument de l’Indépendance | Downtown Lomé | Great photo ops |
| Lomé Cathedral | City Center | Historical landmark |
| Buy CFA Mobile Credit/Data | TogoCel kiosks | Helpful if you’ll stay connected |
Currency
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Togo uses the CFA Franc (XOF).
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Bring Ghana Cedis or USD to convert at the border.
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Exchange rate: ~1,000 CFA = GHS 15 (always ask before changing)
Recommended Day Trip Itinerary (Sample)
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 5:00 AM | Depart from Accra |
| 9:00 AM | Arrive at Aflao and cross into Lomé |
| 9:30 AM | Breakfast at a local Lomé café |
| 10:30 AM | Visit Central Market |
| 12:00 PM | Lunch at local Togolese restaurant |
| 1:00 PM | Visit the beach or cathedral |
| 3:30 PM | Start heading back to the border |
| 4:30 PM | Cross back into Ghana |
| 5:00 PM | Catch bus/car back to Accra |
| 9:00 PM | Back in Accra |
Contacts & Tips
| Service | Contact/Location | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| STC Ghana | +233 302 682960 | Book buses ahead |
| VIP Bus Station | Circle Accra | Affordable and reliable |
| Ghana Immigration | Aflao Border | Always ask for the official desk |
| Yellow Fever Vaccination | 37 Military or Kotoka Airport | Get 10-year certificate for ₵100-₵150 |
| Mobile Roaming | MTN, Vodafone | Roaming charges may apply in Togo |
Budget Breakdown (Estimated)
| Item | Cost |
|---|---|
| Transport (round trip) | ₵150 – ₵250 |
| Food | ₵50 – ₵100 |
| Shopping | ₵50 – ₵200 |
| Currency exchange buffer | ₵100 |
| Total | ₵350 – ₵650 |
FAQs
❓ Do I need a visa as a Ghanaian?
No, Ghana is part of ECOWAS. You can enter Togo visa-free.
❓ Can I use Ghana Card instead of passport?
Yes, but it’s safer to carry your passport + Ghana Card.

❓ Is the border safe?
Yes, but be firm with touts. Use official immigration desks only.
❓ What language is spoken in Togo?
French is the official language, but some people speak Ewe or basic English in Lomé.
❓ Is one day enough?
For a quick adventure, yes. But to explore deeply, consider a weekend stay.
Conclusion From Accra Street Journal
Whether you’re looking for a short escape, cultural immersion, or shopping spree, a day trip to Lomé from Accra by Accra Street Journal offers it all. With the right documents, transport and timing, you can step into another country and be back in Ghana before bedtime.
Source: Accra Street Journal
Last Updated on August 5, 2025 by Samuel Kwame Boadu
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Samuel Kwame Boadu is a Ghanaian media entrepreneur and storyteller with a passion for amplifying urban voices and uncovering everyday truths. He is the Editor-in-Chief and Founder of Accra Street Journal, a dynamic digital platform dedicated to capturing the pulse of Ghana’s capital—its people, culture, challenges, business, sports and innovations.


