Togo Travel Health Guide for US Travelers
A physician-reviewed health and safety guide for Americans traveling to the Togolese Republic
As of March 2026, the U.S. Department of State advises Americans to Exercise Increased Caution in Togo due to crime and civil unrest. The northern border regions near Burkina Faso carry elevated risk due to terrorism. Always check the latest advisory at travel.state.gov before departing.
Before You Travel to Togo
Togo is a narrow West African nation known for its palm-lined beaches, hilltop villages, and vibrant markets. Healthcare infrastructure is limited, and tropical diseases are prevalent. Plan to see a travel medicine physician at least 6-8 weeks before departure to allow time for vaccinations. Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry.
Visit a Travel Clinic
See a travel medicine physician 6-8 weeks before travel. Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry. Multiple additional vaccines are recommended.
Travel Insurance
Purchase comprehensive travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage. Healthcare in Togo is limited. Serious conditions may require evacuation to Ghana or Europe.
Water & Food Safety
Tap water is not safe to drink. Use only sealed bottled or treated water. Avoid raw foods, uncooked vegetables, and street food that is not freshly prepared and served hot.
Cash & Payments
West African CFA franc (XOF) is the currency. Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels. Hospitals require cash payment upfront. Carry sufficient cash at all times.
Yellow Fever in Togo
Malaria in Togo
Recommended antimalarials: Atovaquone/Proguanil (Malarone), Doxycycline, or Mefloquine. Combine with mosquito bite prevention measures.
Recommended Vaccines for Togo
Pre-exposure vaccine recommended. Post-exposure treatment may be unavailable outside Lome.
Togo is in the African meningitis belt. Outbreaks occur during dry season (December-June).
Healthcare in Togo
US Embassy Lome
4332 Blvd Gnassingbe Eyadema, Lome
Phone: +228 2261-5470
tg.usembassy.gov
Emergency Numbers
Police: 117 | Fire: 118 | Ambulance: 8200
US State Dept 24/7: +1-888-407-4747 (from US) | +1-202-501-4444 (from abroad)
Pre-Departure Checklist
- See a travel medicine physician 6-8 weeks before departure
- Get Yellow Fever vaccine — mandatory for entry
- Obtain antimalarial medication — high risk nationwide
- Get recommended vaccines: Hep A, Typhoid, Hep B, Rabies, Meningococcal
- Update routine vaccines: MMR, Tdap, Polio booster, Flu, COVID-19
- Purchase travel insurance with medical evacuation coverage
- Enroll in STEP at step.state.gov
- Pack DEET repellent, mosquito net, sunscreen, ORS, and all medications
- Carry sufficient cash — credit cards rarely accepted
- Drink only bottled or treated water
- Save: Police 117 | US Embassy +228 2261-5470
