Plizio Visual Lab

Old Lighthouse of Lomé

Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
—°10
Old Lighthouse of Lomé (Togo)

Weather…

The Old Lighthouse of Lomé (Phare de Lomé) is a significant relic from the German colonial era in Togo. Built in 1904, it served as a crucial navigation aid for ships approaching the coast of what was then the protectorate of Togoland. The structure is distinguished by its characteristic red and white horizontal stripes and stands at a height of approximately 38 meters. During the period when Lomé was being developed into the region's primary commercial hub, the lighthouse was indispensable for maritime traffic safety. Despite the modern development of the nearby deep-water port, the tower remains an iconic symbol of the city's maritime history. It represents the era of German administration between 1884 and 1914, characterized by significant infrastructure projects. Today, the lighthouse is a protected historical monument, although access to the top is often restricted for safety reasons. The building is an integral part of Lomé's cityscape and bears witness to the early industrial development of West Africa.

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Avg °C282828282826252525262728
Rain mm153386118171181111571321404016

📋 Practical info

🚪
Visiting
The old lighthouse in Lomé is a historic structure on the beach that can be viewed from outside; climbing is not allowed. It stands near the city center.
🕒
Typical hours
As an outdoor monument, it is accessible at any time, but best during daylight. The area may have local vendors selling souvenirs.
📷
Photography
Photography is allowed; the lighthouse and the beach create a nice backdrop. Be mindful of people around you.
⏱️
Time needed
A visit takes about 15 to 30 minutes to walk around and take photos. The beach invites a longer stay.
Combine with
Combine the visit with the Lomé Grand Marché and the National Museum of Togo. The beachfront boulevard is also nice for a stroll.
🧭
Getting there
The lighthouse is located on the beach in central Lomé, easily reachable by taxi or on foot from the city center. It is easily walkable.
💡
Insider tip
Visit the lighthouse on a weekday when the beach is less crowded. Pair the visit with a walk along the palm-lined boulevard.

Geography

Coordinates
6.12550, 1.21120

Facts

  • The lighthouse was completed in 1904 during the German colonial period.
  • The structure reaches a total height of approximately 38 meters.
  • It is located in close proximity to the modern Port of Lomé.
  • Its characteristic color scheme consists of red and white horizontal stripes.
  • Lomé served as the capital of German Togoland from 1897 to 1914.
  • The lighthouse was built to ensure the safety of shipping in the Gulf of Guinea.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):

© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService

Sights in the town Old Lighthouse of Lomé (10)

Place FAO

A square in Lomé, named after the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

Institut Français du Togo

French cultural institute in Lomé offering language courses, a library, and events.

Centre Atebai🏛 museum

A museum in Lomé hosting cultural and artistic exhibitions.

Monument de l'Indépendance

A monument in Lomé commemorating Togo's independence.

Palais des congrès de Lomé

A modern congress center in Lomé for conferences, trade fairs, and cultural events.

Galerie Coin du Terroir🏛 museum

A gallery in Lomé exhibiting and selling local art and handicrafts.

Togo National Museum🏛 museum

The national museum of Togo in the Maritime region, displaying historical and cultural exhibits.

Place des Martyrs

A memorial square in Lomé, honoring victims of political events.

Moulin

A windmill in Lomé, a historic industrial structure.

Mouilin

A windmill in Lomé, similar to other historical mills in the area.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Can you climb the Alter Leuchtturm von Lomé?
The lighthouse is generally closed to the public, but serves as a great photo opportunity from the outside.
When is the best time to visit the lighthouse?
The best time is just before sunset when the light is well-suited for impressive shots.
Do you need a ticket to visit the area?
No, as it is a historical structure in a public space, access is free.
How long does a visit to the lighthouse take?
A visit takes about 15 to 20 minutes as you can only view the lighthouse from the outside.
Is the lighthouse location accessible?
Yes, the area around the lighthouse is level and easily accessible to everyone.
Old Lighthouse of Lomé: where is it located?
Old Lighthouse of Lomé is located in Togo.
Old Lighthouse of Lomé: what is there to see?
Highlights include Place FAO, Institut Français du Togo, Centre Atebai.
Old Lighthouse of Lomé: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Aug, Dec.
Old Lighthouse of Lomé: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Lighthouse of Lomé (Phare de Lomé) is a significant relic from the German colonial era in Togo.
View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →
Africa
Explore with Plizio Discover more places in Africa
More places in Togo →

Nearby cities

History & landmarks

More places