Lomé's legendary Grand Marché is one of West Africa's great bazaars — entirely run by women traders, the famous 'Nana Benz,' who built textile empires from a single bolt of wax-print cloth. A private guided city tour weaves the market with Lomé's Independence Monument, Cathedral, and National Museum into an immersive half-day.
What to expect
Your guide meets you dockside and walks you into the teeming colour of the Grand Marché, where four floors of Dutch wax prints, spices, and jewellery are presided over by formidably successful women traders. Your guide introduces you by name to one of the senior Nana Benz traders, whose story — built from scratch, spanning generations — is riveting. The tour continues to the soaring Independence Monument, the graceful French-colonial Lomé Cathedral (one of West Africa's most beautiful), and the National Museum, where royal thrones and ceremonial regalia fill cool, quiet galleries. The pace is entirely yours.
Good to know
Half-day — approximately 3–4 hours, ideal for ships with a shorter port window. The market is liveliest before noon; a morning start is strongly recommended. Light, breathable clothing and comfortable walking shoes are essential — the market floors are uneven. Bring small cash for purchases; card facilities are limited inside the market.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Lome — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.