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Lomé–Tokoin Layover Guide (LFW)

What are you looking for in LFW?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW) is an international airport located in Lomé, the capital of Togo. It’s situated about 5 km (3 miles) from downtown Lomé. The airport officially opened in 1950. Lomé is the largest city in Togo and a major cultural and economic hub in West Africa. It’s known for its vibrant markets, beautiful beaches, and rich blend of traditional and colonial architecture, offering visitors a unique and lively atmosphere.

Can you leave Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You can leave Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW) during a layover, as airside transit is available without passing through immigration. However, if you wish to exit the airport and enter Togo, you must obtain a Togo e‑Visa in advance—visa‑on‑arrival is no longer issued (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Grand Marché sprawling vibrant market stalls brimming with local produce, fabrics, crafts, offering immersive cultural experience and lively bargaining atmosphere, ideal for sampling street food, discovering souvenirs, and watching Togolese life unfold (Time required: 1.5–2 hours / Airport to here: ~15 min by taxi or moto-taxi)
• Marché des Féticheurs bustling traditional voodoo market where local healers trade medicinal herbs, talismans, animal parts, and spiritual items; fascinating glimpse into indigenous beliefs, with guides available to navigate its mysterious stalls respectfully (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: ~15 min by taxi)
• Cathédrale du Sacré-Cœur impressive Gothic-inspired cathedral with vivid stained glass, vaulted ceilings, and serene gardens, offering a peaceful retreat, guided tours detailing its history and cultural importance for visitors of all backgrounds, budding photographers (Time required: 45 min / Airport to here: ~20 min by taxi)
• Monument de l’Indépendance iconic 35-meter obelisk commemorates Togo’s independence, situated in landscaped gardens with fountains; informative plaques narrate national history, offering cultural insight, ideal for early morning visits to avoid crowds, photo opportunities (Time required: 30 min / Airport to here: ~15 min by taxi)
• National Museum of Togo houses ethnographic collections, archaeological artifacts, and traditional crafts, showcasing Togo’s diverse cultures; interactive exhibits and guided audio tours enrich understanding of local heritage and artistic expressions, culturally significant building’s architecture (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: ~20 min by taxi)
• Village Artisanal de Lomé cluster of workshops and stalls featuring handcrafted textiles, pottery, wood carvings, and jewelry; artisans demonstrate techniques, allowing visitors to purchase authentic souvenirs directly and learn traditional craftsmanship, live music often (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: ~25 min by taxi)
• Plage de Lomé golden-sand beach lined with palm trees and local eateries, perfect for relaxation, swimming, sunset walks, and occasional live drumming; beach bars serve fresh seafood and tropical drinks, creating laid-back ambiance (Time required: 2 hours / Airport to here: ~30 min by taxi)
• Jardin Botanique de Lomé lush green oasis with tropical plant species, tranquil ponds, and shaded paths; ideal for nature lovers and birdwatchers, offering guided tours and educational signage on local flora conservation efforts, benches (Time required: 1–1.5 hours / Airport to here: ~25 min by taxi)

Things to Do in Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Lomé–Tokoin Airport offers limited lounge options, mainly for business class or premium passengers. The main lounge provides basic amenities such as comfortable seating, snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi. It's a calm space to relax before your flight, though advance booking may be required for some travelers. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
There are no transit hotels inside Lomé Airport, but several hotels like Hotel Sarakawa and Hotel Onomo Lomé are located within a 10-15 minute drive. Many of these offer shuttle services and comfortable accommodations for short layovers or overnight stays near the airport. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Sleeping options inside the terminal are minimal. The airport is small and seating is limited, making it less ideal for overnight stays. While the terminal remains open, travelers seeking to rest overnight often resort to nearby hotels for better comfort and security.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available in the departure area of Lomé Airport, although signal strength may vary. Passengers are advised to confirm availability with airport staff or at check-in. For more reliable internet, consider using a local SIM card or hotel Wi-Fi nearby.

SIM/eSIM Card: Local SIM cards from TogoCell and Moov Africa can be purchased at shops in Lomé or nearby the airport. While the airport has limited retail options, hotel staff or local kiosks can assist with activation. eSIM services are less common, so a physical SIM is recommended. » Find out where and how to buy SIM card/eSIM in our Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW) sim/eSim page.

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Taxis are available outside the terminal and offer a convenient way to reach central Lomé in about 15–20 minutes. Fares are negotiable and should be agreed upon in advance. Taxis are not metered, so confirming the price before departure is important.

Train: There is no passenger train service directly connected to Lomé–Tokoin Airport. Togo's train system is limited and mainly used for cargo transport. Travelers rely on taxis, buses, or car rentals for ground transportation. more info

Bus: Local minibus services operate between the airport and central Lomé, but they can be irregular and crowded. Buses are best suited for budget-conscious travelers with light luggage. For comfort and ease, taxis or hotel shuttles are preferred. more info

Shuttle: Some hotels near Lomé Airport offer free or paid shuttle services. These should be arranged in advance to ensure timely pickup. Shuttle services are generally reliable and provide a more comfortable alternative to public transport or taxis for arriving passengers.

Car rentals: International and local car rental services are available at Lomé Airport. Rental desks may be located inside or just outside the terminal. It’s advisable to book ahead to guarantee availability. Driving in Togo requires an international driver’s permit and awareness of local road conditions. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Lomé–Tokoin Airport has short-term and limited long-term parking facilities. Spaces are located close to the terminal for easy access. Fees are moderate, and payment is typically made in cash. Security is present, but travelers should avoid leaving valuables in unattended vehicles.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

There is no official luggage storage or locker facility at Lomé–Tokoin Airport. Travelers are advised to keep their bags with them or arrange storage through their hotel. It's recommended to pack lightly if expecting a long layover at the airport. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Lomé–Tokoin Airport (LFW) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks