WHAT OUR LOCAL FILM FIXERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FILMING ON LOCATION IN TOGO
Togo is a narrow country in West Africa, sandwiched between Benin and Ghana. It is known for its voodoo markets, traditional villages and national parks.
Togo is a captivating country with a diverse range of landscapes that includes lush forests, pristine beaches, and bustling urban neighbourhoods, as well as quaint rural villages. Togo is home to a rich cultural heritage, the vibrant markets offer an abundance of local handicrafts, textiles, and cuisine.
Film locations can be divided into the following regions, from south to north, including: Maritime, Plateaux, Centrale, Kara, and Savanes.
- Maritime
Lomé is the capital, largest city, and main entry point by air. The Mono river is the country’s longest river. Vogan voodoo market is another film location of interest in the region.
- Plateaux
The town of Kpalime is surrounded by coffee and cocoa plantations, the Togo Mountains offer wild locations with the Nangbeto Dam also located in this part of the country.
- Centrale
Sokodé is the second largest city in Togo. Fazao Malfakassa National Park is known for its African elephant.
- Kara
Koutammakou is a region of the Batammariba people who live in traditional villages built from mud walls and thatched roofs.
- Savanes
This region is dominated by savannah. Nok and Mamproug Cave Dwellings are located in the Tandjouaré Prefecture. Kéran National Park is known for its African elephants, bushbuck and antelopes.
Togo has a humid, tropical climate. November to February is warm with little rainfall, this being the best time to film. March to April is hot and humid. May to October is the rainy season.
The West African CFA franc (XOF) is the official currency, and French is the official language spoken.
Safety & Travel
It is not advisable to travel to certain parts of the northern region, otherwise Togo is a safe country.
COSTS & TAX INCENTIVES
Locations, local talent and support crew are inexpensive, little to no filming infrastructure exists, all key crew and equipment must be brought in from abroad.
There are no tax incentives for foreign commercials or films shooting in Togo.
WHAT OUR LOCAL FILM FIXERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FILM EQUIPMENT CLEARANCE , FILM PERMIT ,VISAS AND WORK PERMITS
General film permits
Issuing of permits takes a maximum of 2 weeks to be issued. Documentation required for permit applications are; letter addressed to the Minister, Ministry of Culture and Tourism; equipment list; passport picture of each crew member; copy of traveling passports B14.
Film equipment clearance into the country
National security and ministry of culture and tourism is the organization responsible for the issuing of permits. Documentation required; letter addressed to Director customs head office; equipment list with serial numbers and prices.
Accreditation for international film crew
International crews need accreditation, the information required is the same as the filming permit.
Visas & Work Permits
Entry is subject to regulations from country of origin. Nationals of all countries can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 7 days, unless they come from one of the visa-exempt countries. It is recommended to apply for entry visas ahead of time.
WHAT OUR LOCAL FILM FIXERS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT FILM EQUIPMENT,TALENT & DRONES
Film equipment
Best to bring in all camera, grip and equipment from abroad.
Talent
Togo comprises of a very small local pool of directors, videographers and stills photographers. Key crew should be brought in from abroad. Togo is home to 40 different ethnic groups. The largest being the Ewe, Kotokoli, Tchamba, Kabyé and the Ouatchis.
Required information / documentation for application of a local Drone
Drones are available locally on request. If bringing a drone into the country, prior permit from the national security is required.