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Bè Lagoon, Togo - Things to Do in Bè Lagoon

Things to Do in Bè Lagoon

Bè Lagoon, Togo - Complete Travel Guide

Bè Lagoon, located in the Maritime Region of Togo near the capital city of Lomé, is a stunning coastal lagoon that offers visitors a peaceful escape into nature's tranquility. This expansive body of water, separated from the Atlantic Ocean by a narrow strip of land, serves as both an important ecological habitat and a cultural hub for local fishing communities. The lagoon's calm waters reflect the sky like a mirror, creating breathtaking scenery that changes throughout the day from golden sunrise to fiery sunset. The area around Bè Lagoon provides an authentic glimpse into traditional Togolese life, where local fishermen navigate the waters in colorful pirogues and women gather along the shores to process the daily catch. Visitors can experience the harmonious blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage while enjoying activities such as boat rides, bird watching, and exploring nearby villages. The lagoon's proximity to Lomé makes it an ideal day trip destination for those seeking to experience Togo's coastal charm beyond the bustling city atmosphere.

Top Things to Do in Bè Lagoon

Traditional Pirogue Boat Tours

Glide across the serene waters of Bè Lagoon in a traditional wooden pirogue, guided by local fishermen who share their knowledge of the ecosystem and fishing techniques. These peaceful boat rides offer stunning views of the lagoon's diverse birdlife and mangrove vegetation while providing insight into the daily lives of the fishing communities.

Booking Tip: Negotiate directly with local fishermen at the lagoon's edge for authentic experiences, typically costing 5,000-10,000 CFA francs per boat for 1-2 hours. Early morning or late afternoon tours offer the best lighting and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Bird Watching and Wildlife Photography

Bè Lagoon serves as a crucial habitat for numerous bird species, including herons, egrets, kingfishers, and various migratory waterfowl. The diverse ecosystem around the lagoon provides excellent opportunities for wildlife photography and peaceful nature observation.

Booking Tip: Bring binoculars and visit during early morning hours (6-9 AM) for optimal bird activity. Local guides familiar with bird species can be hired for 3,000-5,000 CFA francs and significantly enhance the experience.

Village Cultural Immersion

Explore the traditional fishing villages surrounding Bè Lagoon to witness authentic Togolese coastal life. Observe fish processing techniques, traditional net-making, and interact with friendly locals who are often eager to share stories about their community and customs.

Booking Tip: Visit villages during late afternoon when fishing boats return with their catch. Showing respect for local customs and asking permission before photographing people is essential. Small gifts or purchases from local vendors are appreciated.

Sunset Photography Sessions

The lagoon offers spectacular sunset views as the sun sets over the water, creating dramatic silhouettes of fishing boats and reflecting brilliant colors across the calm surface. The golden hour provides perfect lighting for capturing the essence of this peaceful waterway.

Booking Tip: Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before sunset for setup and to find the best vantage points. The western shore offers optimal positioning, and hiring a boat for sunset viewing costs around 7,000-12,000 CFA francs.

Fresh Seafood Dining Experience

Enjoy incredibly fresh fish and seafood prepared by local cooks using traditional methods and spices. Many small restaurants along the lagoon serve the daily catch grilled over open fires, providing an authentic taste of Togolese coastal cuisine in a scenic waterside setting.

Booking Tip: Look for busy spots where locals eat for the freshest options, typically costing 2,000-4,000 CFA francs per meal. Arrive during lunch hours when the morning catch is being prepared, and don't hesitate to point at what looks good if language is a barrier.

Getting There

Bè Lagoon is easily accessible from Lomé, located approximately 10-15 kilometers east of the city center. The most convenient way to reach the lagoon is by taxi or moto-taxi (zemidjan), which takes about 20-30 minutes depending on traffic and costs around 2,000-3,000 CFA francs. Shared taxis and minibuses also run regularly from central Lomé toward the Bè area, offering a more economical option at about 500-1,000 CFA francs per person. For those staying in Lomé, many hotels can arrange transportation or guided excursions to the lagoon.

Getting Around

Once at Bè Lagoon, the best way to explore is on foot along the shoreline paths and by boat on the water itself. The area is relatively compact, and walking allows visitors to interact with local communities and discover hidden viewpoints. Bicycles can sometimes be rented from local operators for exploring the surrounding villages. For water-based exploration, hiring local fishermen with their pirogues is the primary transportation method, offering both mobility and cultural exchange. The terrain around the lagoon is generally flat and easy to navigate.

Where to Stay

Lomé City Center
Lomé Beach Hotels
Bè Village Guesthouses
Kpalimé Eco-lodges
Aneho Colonial Hotels
Coastal Bungalows

Food & Dining

The dining scene around Bè Lagoon centers on incredibly fresh seafood prepared in traditional Togolese style. Small local restaurants and food stalls along the lagoon serve grilled fish, prawns, and crabs caught daily by local fishermen, often accompanied by attieké (cassava couscous), rice, or fried plantains. Many establishments operate directly on the water's edge, providing scenic dining with views of the lagoon. The food is typically grilled over wood fires and seasoned with local spices, offering an authentic taste of coastal Togolese cuisine. Prices are very reasonable, and the informal atmosphere encourages interaction with locals and other travelers.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Lome

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

La Table Du DG

4.6 /5
(387 reviews) 2

HOTEL RESIDENCE MOKAA & KANCHAN'S KITCHEN

4.5 /5
(201 reviews)
lodging

MAHARAJA

4.5 /5
(169 reviews)

Flav-ours PIZZERIA

4.5 /5
(142 reviews)

Café LOFT by Iconic

4.5 /5
(131 reviews)

Restaurant Robinson

4.5 /5
(130 reviews) 2

When to Visit

The best time to visit Bè Lagoon is during Togo's dry season from November to March, when rainfall is minimal and temperatures are more comfortable for outdoor activities. During this period, the lagoon's waters are clearer, and wildlife viewing is optimal as animals concentrate around water sources. The harmattan winds from December to February bring cooler, less humid conditions ideal for photography and extended outdoor exploration. However, the lagoon can be visited year-round, with the wet season (April to October) offering lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, though occasional heavy rains may limit some activities.

Insider Tips

Visit during the early morning hours when fishermen are most active and the light is perfect for photography, plus temperatures are cooler and more comfortable
Learn a few basic phrases in Ewe, the local language, as it will greatly enhance interactions with villagers and fishermen who appreciate the effort
Bring insect repellent and sun protection as the lagoon environment can have mosquitoes, especially near sunset, and the reflection off the water intensifies sun exposure

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