No, the water supply in Togo is not considered safe for drinking by health authorities.
Togo’s limited treatment facilities and poor sanitation make it difficult to ensure safe tap water, especially in rural areas where infrastructure is minimal or nonexistent.
Quick Overview
Tap Water Concern: Our Advice Tap Water Drinkable? ❌ No, use bottled water Common Risks: Bacteria, parasites, viruses Brush Teeth? ❌ No, use bottled water Wash Fruits/Vegetables? ❌ No, use filtered or bottled water Use Ice in Drinks? ❌ No, avoid unless purified Safe to Shower? ✅ Yes Filter Bottle Needed? ✅ Strongly recommended
Information compiled from CDC, WHO, and official water providers across Togo.
Worried About Tap Water? Consider Using a Filter Bottle
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Health Risks for Travelers
Locals might drink the tap water every day without a second thought, but for travelers, it’s a different story. Your body isn’t used to the bacteria or water treatment systems, which can lead to a not-so-fun experience.
What you could be dealing with:
- E. coli and other bacteria causing traveler’s diarrhea
- Parasites like Giardia from untreated or poorly filtered water
- Hepatitis A or norovirus picked up in areas with poor sanitation
- Even heavy metals if the pipes are outdated or the source is unregulated
Problem spots include:
- Remote villages and rural zones
- Places where floods disrupt the water supply
- Older hotels or buildings using rooftop tanks or old plumbing
Bottom line: clean-looking water isn’t always clean. When you’re abroad, it’s smart to stay alert to water quality and protect yourself from getting sick.
If you experience persistent symptoms while traveling in Togo, consult a local doctor or pharmacist. In many tourist areas, English-speaking care is available.
More About Tap Water in Togo
Access to clean water in Togo is uneven. Urban areas have more structured distribution, but aging infrastructure, high connection costs, and leaks are common. Rapid urbanization adds pressure to existing systems, creating unequal access across neighborhoods. In rural regions, communities often rely on shallow wells and boreholes, which are frequently unfiltered and unsafe—especially in the savanna zones.
FAQs About Tap Water in Togo
Is it safe to brush your teeth with tap water?
Many travelers use bottled water for brushing, just to eliminate any chance of contamination.
Can I use tap water to wash my face?
Unless your skin is extra sensitive, rinsing your face with tap water in Togo is unlikely to cause harm.
Is it safe to use ice in drinks?
In areas where tap water isn’t safe, it’s smart to avoid ice unless it’s clearly made from filtered or bottled water.
Can I shower safely with tap water?
Just keep your mouth closed and you’ll be fine showering with local tap water.
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Can I wash fruits and vegetables with tap water?
Washing fruits and vegetables with tap water isn’t ideal—use clean, treated water instead.
Is bottled water expensive in Togo?
You can typically find bottled water at local shops or hotels without spending much.
Togo is a compact West African nation often visited in combination with Ghana, Benin, or Burkina Faso. Tap water availability and treatment can vary across borders.