Togo

Exercise increased caution in Togo due to risk of crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and health.

 in Togo due to risk of crime, terrorism, unrest, kidnapping, and health. Some areas have increased risk. Read the entire Travel Advisory. 

• The U.S. government has limited ability to offer emergency or routine services to U.S. citizens outside of Lome due to the safety risks.
• U.S. government employees working in Togo need special authorization to travel to these areas due to safety risks:
  • North of Dapaong
  • Highways N24 and N28
  • Kpendjal and Kpendjal-Ouest district
• U.S. government employees working in Togo are not allowed to stay overnight in areas north of Mango due to safety risks.

Crime

Violent crime may occur anywhere in Togo. This includes carjacking, robbery, and home invasion. 

• Local police often lack resources to respond to serious crimes.
• Violent attacks are more common in the northern region of Togo.
• Crime occurs more frequently in urban areas, near the beach, and in crowded markets. Stay aware of your surroundings.
• Police checkpoints may be present throughout the country. Though it is not as common, you may find unofficial checkpoints in some locations.  

Terrorism

There is risk of terrorist violence, including terrorist attacks and other activity in Togo. Visit the U.S. Department of State's Country Reports on Terrorism to learn more.

Terrorists may target:

• Large public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Popular hotels, clubs, and restaurants
• Places of worship
• Schools
• Parks
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation (subways, buses, trains, and commercial flights)
• Embassies and consulates
• Local police and armed forces

Health

Health facilities are available in major cities. However, routine and emergency care may be limited or unavailable. 

• Healthcare in rural areas in Togo is very limited.
• Medical care may not meet U.S. standards of care.
• Hospitals and doctors require payment up front prior to service or admission.
• Medication and medical supplies may be unavailable in many healthcare facilities.
• Locally available medications may be unsafe. Pharmacies are not well regulated. 

Unrest

Avoid demonstrations, protests, political rallies, and large crowds. These events may become violent. 

• Demonstrators and security forces may clash suddenly. 
• Police may use tear gas or other force to stop protests that block traffic in city centers and along National Route 1. They have also arrested protesters.
• Security forces have used force to break up crowds and have shut down internet and cell service.

Kidnapping

• Criminal and terrorist groups have kidnapped foreigners in Togo. Armed groups may use extortion and kidnapping for ransom to finance criminal operations.

Do Not Travel to:

• Northern border region near Burkina Faso due to risk of terrorism and kidnapping.
• Areas north of Kande due to risk of terrorism.