Things To Do
in Sokodé

Sokodé is the second-largest city in Togo, known for its vibrant cultural scenes and rich traditions. Nestled in the central region, it's a hub for the Tem people, who are renowned for their colorful festivals and unique artistic expressions. The city is also surrounded by scenic landscapes and is a gateway to exploring the natural beauty of the Togo Highlands.

Visitors will find a mix of modern amenities and traditional lifestyles, making Sokodé a unique destination.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Sokodé Market, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere and shop for local crafts and produce.

afternoon
:

After lunch, explore the nearby Tem villages to learn about the traditional lifestyles and artistic practices of the local communities.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and then attend a traditional dance performance, showcasing the vibrant culture of the Tem people.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin with a hike in the surrounding hills, enjoying scenic views and the local flora and fauna.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby waterfalls for a refreshing swim and a picnic lunch in a tranquil setting.

evening
:

Wrap up your day with a sunset view from a high vantage point, followed by dinner at a local eatery offering traditional Togolese dishes.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$5
🌮Street food snack$1
🚌Local bus fare$0.50
🏨Budget hotel per night$15
🛍️Souvenir crafts$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experience with local traditions.
  • Beautiful natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Friendly and welcoming local community.
  • Limited healthcare facilities.
  • Basic tourist infrastructure compared to larger cities.
  • Language barrier may exist, as not everyone speaks English.
  • "Bonjour" - Hello
  • "Merci" - Thank you
  • "S'il vous plaît" - Please
  • "Comment ça va?" - How are you?
  • "Au revoir" - Goodbye

Places to Visit in Sokodé

Visit one of these nice places.

Sokodé Market

Capture the vibrant scenes of local life, colorful textiles, and the hustle and bustle of this lively marketplace.

Tem Villages

Photograph the traditional architecture and daily activities of the Tem people, showcasing their rich culture.

Waterfalls

The nearby waterfalls provide stunning backdrops for nature photography, especially at sunset.

Culinary Guide

Food in Sokodé

Sokodé offers a delightful culinary experience, with a range of traditional dishes that reflect the rich culture of the region.

Sokodé Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Fufu

A starchy dish made from cassava or yams, often served with soup or sauce.

Must-Try!

Pâte

Similar to fufu, pâte is a dough-like staple served with various sauces, including groundnut or tomato sauce.

Akpan

A fermented corn dish that is often enjoyed with fish or meat.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Sokodé Central Market

A bustling marketplace where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food vendors offering quick bites.

Street Food Vendors

Throughout the city, you'll find vendors selling grilled meat skewers, fried plantains, and doughnuts.

Climate Guide

Weather

Sokodé has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by a distinct wet and dry season. Temperatures typically range from 20°C to 35°C (68°F to 95°F). The rainy season lasts from April to October, bringing heavy downpours, while the dry season is from November to March, featuring lower humidity and cooler nights. The Harmattan winds from the Sahara can also influence the weather from December to February, leading to dustier conditions.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

Greetings are important; a handshake followed by a friendly inquiry about health is customary.

Dress Code

Dress modestly and respectfully, especially when visiting villages or religious sites.

Respect for Elders

Show respect to elders in the community; it's customary to greet them first.

Safety Guide

Safety

Sokodé is generally safe for tourists, but it’s advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, keep valuables secure, and be aware of your surroundings. Health facilities are limited, so taking necessary precautions and having travel insurance is recommended.

Tipping in Sokodé

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping

Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for service providers; 10% is a common practice.

Payment Methods

Cash is commonly used, and ATMs are available, but it's advisable to carry local currency.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Dry Season (November to March)

Expect warm, dry weather ideal for outdoor activities and cultural events.

Rainy Season (April to October)

This season brings heavy rains, which can hinder travel but also revitalizes the landscape, making it lush and green.

Harmattan (December to February)

Characterized by dry and dusty winds from the Sahara, this period can lead to cooler evenings but also dusty air.

Festival Season

Various cultural festivals occur throughout the year, offering unique opportunities to experience local traditions.

Nightlife Guide

Sokodé at Night

Sokodé's nightlife is relatively low-key compared to larger cities, with a few bars and local spots where traditional music and dance are enjoyed. The atmosphere is generally relaxed, with locals gathering to socialize over drinks and conversation. Occasionally, you may find live music events or dance performances, especially during festivals.

Hiking in Sokodé

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mont Agou

The highest peak in Togo, Mont Agou offers challenging trails with breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Bafilo Hiking Trails

Located about 40 km from Sokodé, these trails provide scenic routes through lush forests and opportunities to spot wildlife.

Airports

How to reach Sokodé by plane.

Niamtougou Airport (Togo)

Located approximately 50 km from Sokodé, this airport serves domestic flights and is the closest airport for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Sokodé is moderately walkable, particularly in the central areas where markets and local attractions are concentrated. Sidewalks may not always be well-maintained, so caution is advised when walking, especially near busy roads. The city layout encourages exploration on foot, but for longer distances, local transport is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Tem People

The Tem are the primary ethnic group in Sokodé, known for their distinct cultural practices, arts, and languages.

Kabyé People

Another significant ethnic group in the region, the Kabyé are recognized for their agricultural skills and vibrant festivals.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football (Soccer)

Football is immensely popular in Sokodé, with local teams competing in regional leagues and many youths participating in informal games.

Track and Field

Athletics is widely practiced, with schools and community organizations promoting running and field events among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Sokodé is relatively light compared to major cities, with most transportation consisting of motorcycles, bicycles, and a few cars. Public transportation is mainly through shared taxis and buses, which are affordable but may be crowded. During peak hours, expect minor delays, but overall, the pace of life is slower than in urban centers.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Sokodé.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian

While options are available, it’s advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly as meat is a staple in many dishes.

Gluten-Free

Many local dishes are naturally gluten-free, but it's essential to check the ingredients in sauces and breads.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare access in Sokodé is limited, with a few clinics and hospitals available. Major medical emergencies may require travel to larger cities like Lomé or Kara. It's advisable to have travel insurance and carry a basic medical kit for minor ailments.

Discover Togo

Read more in our Togo 2025 Travel Guide.

Togo Travel Guide