Getting Around Lomé: Zémidjans, GoZem, SOTRAL Buses & Bus Terminals
Getting Around Lomé: The Complete Transport Guide
A vibrant and bustling coastal capital, Lomé offers a diverse urban transport network ranging from traditional Zémidjan (motorbike-taxis) to the modern ride-hailing app GoZem, as well as SOTRAL public buses and regional bus terminals.
1. The Zémidjan (Zem / Motorbike-Taxi): King of Lomé Streets
The Zémidjan (often shortened to “Zem”) is the most popular, fastest, and most accessible form of transport in Lomé. Drivers wear a distinctive yellow armband or shirt.
- How to hail a Zem: Wave your hand at the roadside. State your exact destination before getting on.
- Fare negotiation: Always negotiate the fare before sitting on the bike.
- Average estimated fares in Lomé:
- Short ride (1 to 2 km): 200 to 300 CFA
- Medium ride (e.g., Nyékonakpoè towards Tokoin): 400 to 600 CFA
- Long ride (e.g., City Center towards Agoè or Baguida): 800 to 1,500 CFA
- Safety Tip: Always wear a helmet (mandated by Togolese traffic laws) and keep small change in 100, 200, and 500 CFA coins.
2. GoZem Togo: The Leading Ride-Hailing App
Founded in Togo, GoZem is Lomé's premier super-app for transport, offering safety, fixed pricing, and GPS tracking.
- Services available on the GoZem app:
- 🛵 GoZem Moto: Motorbike-taxi with identified driver and helmet provided.
- 🛺 GoZem Tricycle: Ideal option for small groups or passengers with luggage.
- 🚗 GoZem Taxi (Auto): Air-conditioned cars for city rides and airport transfers (LFW).
- Payment Methods: Cash (CFA) or digital wallet (T-Money, Flooz, credit card).
- Major Advantage: No need to bargain; the price is calculated automatically upon booking based on distance.
3. SOTRAL Buses: Affordable Public Transit
The Société des Transports de Lomé (SOTRAL) operates the public bus network serving the Greater Lomé metropolitan area.
- Key Routes & Lines:
- Line 1: Grand Marché Assigamé ↔ University of Lomé Campus.
- Line 3: Autonomous Port of Lomé ↔ Agoè-Assiyéyé.
- Suburban Lines: Routes serving Adidogomé, Baguida, and Davié.
- Fares: From 150 CFA to 300 CFA depending on the route (discounted student fares available with SOTRAL card).
- Service: Spacious buses operating primarily from 06:00 AM to 08:00 PM.
4. Lomé Bus Terminals: Intercity & Cross-Border Travel
To travel to other towns in Togo (Atakpamé, Kpalimé, Sokodé, Kara, Dapaong) or neighboring countries (Benin, Ghana, Burkina Faso):
- 🚌 Agbalépédogan Bus Terminal: Main hub for routes to Northern Togo (Kara, Dapaong) and luxury coach services.
- 🚕 Akodésséwa Bus Terminal (Port Zone): Departures for Aného, Hillacondji, and the Benin border (Cotonou).
- 🚐 Zongo Bus Terminal (Kodjoviakopé): Departure point for the Ghana border (Aflao / Accra).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I travel from Gnassingbé Eyadéma International Airport to central Lomé?
You can book a GoZem Taxi via the app for a transparent fixed fare or take an official airport taxi stationed outside the arrivals terminal.
Is it easy to find a Zémidjan late at night in Lomé?
Yes, Zémidjans operate throughout the night along major avenues (Boulevard du 13 Janvier, Route d'Agoè). For extra safety at night, using the GoZem app is recommended.
What payment methods are accepted on SOTRAL buses?
Payment on SOTRAL buses is made in cash directly to the conductor onboard or via a rechargeable SOTRAL pass card.
Last verified: September 12, 2026
Official sources: GoZem Togo, SOTRAL Official, Ministry of Transport of Togo