Lome in March

March weather, activities, events & insider tips

March Weather in Lome

33°C (92°F) High Temp

26°C (78°F) Low Temp

66 mm (2.6 inches) Rainfall

70% Humidity

Is March Right for You?

Advantages

Dry season shoulder period with comfortable 26-33°C (78-92°F) temperatures perfect for walking the city without extreme heat
Lower tourist volumes compared to peak season mean shorter lines at Niamey and better negotiation power with motorcycle taxi drivers
Harmattan winds from the Sahara create clearer skies for photography and reduce the typical coastal haze by 40%
Festival season begins with traditional Ewe celebrations and palm wine harvest festivals throughout southern Togo

Considerations

Afternoon thunderstorms on 10 days create muddy conditions in unpaved areas of Bè and Nyékonakpoè neighborhoods
Hotel prices increase 15-20% as European winter visitors arrive before Easter season
Beach conditions at Togo Plage become choppy with stronger Atlantic currents making swimming less ideal

Best Activities in March

Grand Marché and Artisan Workshop Tours

March's moderate humidity makes exploring the sprawling Niamey bearable for hours-long visits. Local artisan workshops operate at full capacity preparing for Easter season demand. The Harmattan winds keep dust levels lower than typical dry season months.

Booking Tip: Join guided cultural tours through local operators for 15,000-25,000 CFA per person. Book 5-7 days ahead through licensed guides who provide proper market etiquette briefings. See current cultural tour options in the booking section below.

Coastal Motorcycle Taxi Adventures

Perfect weather for zemi (motorcycle taxi) tours along the coastal road from Togo to Aneho. March's reduced rainfall means better road conditions and spectacular sunset views without rain interference. Less crowded than peak season.

Booking Tip: Arrange half-day coastal tours for 8,000-12,000 CFA including driver and fuel. Book through hotel contacts or established moto-taxi cooperatives. Always verify insurance coverage and helmet provision.

Voodoo Heritage Village Visits

March timing aligns with traditional ceremony season in surrounding villages like Togo. Clearer weather conditions make the 32 km (20 mile) journey to Lake Togo more comfortable, and cultural activities peak before the rainy season agricultural cycle begins.

Booking Tip: Full-day cultural excursions typically cost 35,000-50,000 CFA for small groups. Book through certified cultural guides who understand ceremonial protocols. Allow 8-10 hours for proper village visits.

Kpalimé Mountain Day Trips

March offers optimal conditions for the 120 km (75 mile) journey to Togo's coffee plantations and waterfalls. Cooler mountain temperatures around 24°C (75°F) and reduced rainfall make hiking trails accessible while avoiding peak season crowds.

Booking Tip: Day trips range 40,000-65,000 CFA including transport and guide. Depart early (6 AM) to maximize time in mountains. Book through operators with reliable 4WD vehicles for mountain roads.

Traditional Music and Dance Experiences

March marks the beginning of festival season with authentic Ewe and Mecca cultural performances. Evening temperatures around 26°C (78°F) make outdoor performances comfortable. Local drumming schools operate regular workshops for visitors.

Booking Tip: Evening cultural shows cost 8,000-15,000 CFA. Workshop sessions range 20,000-30,000 CFA for 2-3 hours. Book through cultural centers or see current performance options in booking section below.

Lomé Beach and Fishing Village Tours

While swimming conditions are rougher, March is perfect for experiencing traditional fishing village life at Bè Beach. Early morning fish market activities (5-8 AM) showcase daily life, and moderate temperatures make walking the 5 km (3.1 mile) coastline enjoyable.

Booking Tip: Guided fishing village tours cost 12,000-20,000 CFA for half-day experiences. Start at dawn for authentic market activities. Book with guides familiar with local fishing community protocols.

March Events & Festivals

Early to Mid March

Ewe New Year Celebrations

Traditional Ewe communities celebrate their cultural new year with drumming, dancing, and ancestral ceremonies. Witness authentic cultural practices rarely seen by tourists, with celebrations varying by village and family traditions.

Throughout March

Palm Wine Festival Season

March marks peak palm wine harvest season with village festivals throughout southern Togo. Experience traditional palm wine tapping demonstrations, tastings, and associated cultural ceremonies in rural communities.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight rain jacket or compact umbrella - March's 10 rainy days bring sudden 30-45 minute downpours

SPF 50+ sunscreen and wide-brimmed hat - UV index reaches 8 with Harmattan winds reducing natural shade

Breathable cotton or linen clothing - 70% humidity makes synthetic fabrics uncomfortable for extended wear

Closed-toe shoes for market visits - Niamey floors can be muddy after rain and have uneven surfaces

Light sweater for early mornings - temperatures drop to 26°C (78°F) before sunrise, feeling cool in humid conditions

Mosquito repellent with DEET - standing water from rain showers increases mosquito activity in evenings

Quick-dry pants - essential for motorcycle taxi rides and sudden weather changes

Waterproof phone case - protect electronics during unexpected afternoon storms

Cash in small CFA denominations - ATMs can be unreliable during rainy periods, and small vendors need exact change

Electrolyte supplements - higher activity levels in humid conditions require additional hydration support

Insider Knowledge

Local restaurants serve palm wine fresh daily in March - try it at traditional drinking spots in Bè neighborhood where it's tapped that morning

Negotiate taxi fares before 10 AM when drivers are more flexible, after noon prices increase due to heat and demand

Visit Niamey on weekday mornings (Tuesday-Thursday, 7-10 AM) for best prices and authentic local shopping experience without weekend crowds

Bring small gifts like soap or school supplies when visiting villages - cultural exchanges are expected and appreciated, never arrive empty-handed

Avoid These Mistakes

Wearing sandals to markets - muddy conditions and crowded spaces make closed shoes essential for comfort and safety

Planning beach swimming as main activity - March brings rougher Atlantic conditions better suited for cultural experiences than water activities

Booking accommodation last-minute - March hotel prices increase 15-20% as European visitors arrive, book 3-4 weeks ahead for better rates