Caves of Maproug

The Caves of Maproug are a significant cultural and historical monument in the Savanes region of northern Togo. Similar to the neighboring Caves of Nano, they served for centuries as a secure retreat for the local population to protect themselves from devastating slave raids and regional conflicts. The caves are skillfully integrated into the steep sandstone cliffs, providing natural protection that was further enhanced by human craftsmanship. Within the spacious cavities, one finds impressive circular mud structures used for storing millet and other essential foodstuffs. These granaries bear witness to the forward-thinking planning and the ability of communities to remain self-sufficient under extreme conditions. The location of the caves allowed sentinels to spot approaching enemies from a great distance. Maproug is today not only a site for archaeologists studying prehistoric tools and pottery shards but also an important place of pilgrimage for those wishing to honor the ancestors who survived here. The preservation of this site is crucial for understanding the defensive strategies of West African peoples.

Nearby cities

Bombouaka

Bombouaka is known for its humanitarian facilities and educational centers that serve the entire northern region.

Dapaong

Dapaong is located in the far north of Togo near the Burkina Faso border, surrounded by dry savanna landscapes.

Sansanné-Mango

Sansanné-Mango sits on the banks of the Oti River and is a major trading center in northern Togo.

Cinkassé

Cinkassé is a vibrant border town in the far northwest, linking Togo with Burkina Faso.

Mandouri

Mandouri is located in the east of the Savanes Region near the border with Benin.

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Tandjouaré

Tandjouaré is the capital of its prefecture and an important administrative center in the north.

Biankouri

Biankouri is located in the far north of Togo, near the borders with Ghana and Burkina Faso.

Bogou

Bogou is situated in a dramatic landscape of table mountains and caves in northern Togo.

Barkoissi

Barkoissi is located in the Savanes Region and is known for its significant regional livestock market.

More places

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Caves of Nano

Carved into the cliffs of Dapaong, these caves served local peoples for centuries as a refuge during ethnic conflicts.

Fosse aux Lions

A nature reserve in the far north of Togo, originally established for the protection of lions.

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Savanes Region Cattle Pastures

The vast grasslands in northern Togo provide ideal conditions for cattle ranching, which is the main source of income for many families.

Oti Basin

A vast basin landscape in northern Togo, through which the Oti River flows, dominated by savannas.

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Galangashie Fauna Reserve

Located in the dry north, this reserve is an important sanctuary for gazelles and various rodent species of the savanna.

German Fort

The ruins of the German fort in Sansanné-Mango commemorate the colonial power's military presence in the north of the country.

Oti Elephant Reserve

This reserve in northern Togo is one of the last places in the country where you can see free-roaming elephant herds in their natural env…

Mandouri Wildlife Corridor

This corridor allows animals such as elephants to migrate between protected areas in Togo, Benin, and Burkina Faso.