Akodessewa Fetish Market Travel Guide: Top Sights in Togo, Tours &

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Akodessewa Fetish Market- Travel Tips What to See, How to Plan & Tours: Historical & Cultural; Togo; 5 Reviews

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Suggested Duration: 2 hours

The Akodessawa Fetish Market in Lomé's Akodessawa district is recognized as the world's largest voodoo market, specializing in ritual objects for vodún practices. Its stalls display an array of items including animal skulls, preserved reptiles, and other organic materials used in traditional religious ceremonies. The market reflects Togo's vodún traditions, which trace back to West African spiritual practices that influenced belief systems across the African diaspora. Merchandise at this market serves specific ritual purposes within these religious contexts, with each item's significance determined by its intended ceremonial use.

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Reviews of Fetish Market

Steve Rainville

3
Reviewed: 2025-01-28

It's one of the strangest places I've ever been to anywhere in the world. I'm not sure how to describe the experience without sounding inappropriate or even giving scary comments without being flagged. There are hundreds upon hundreds of animal skulls, including many domesticated animals. It's not for the faint of heart, and the smell is pretty nasty. We also did the voodoo priest, that was another unique and strange experience. Unless you are VERY open minded, don't go there.
John Kennedy

2
Reviewed: 2025-01-20

A tourist trap with an unforgettable smell. Several identifiable endangered species like an African grey parrot. Clearly fraudulent leopard fur/heads with spots painted on. They will tell you everything does of natural causes... but given the amount of dog and cat heads, and lack of stay animals in the local area... I'm not sure. They will charge you extra to take pictures, probably to hedge the risk of shady activity being identified online. Don't get tricked into paying the voodoo priest for a consultation, and make sure you haggle over any decorative items you choose to purchase. I'm still unclear on how peddling endangered species is legal.
Drea Dawson

5
Reviewed: 2025-01-15

Interesting learning experience. Items are a bit expensive, so make sure you hear the prices clearly and if it's thousands versus especially 2 digital before committing. Tbey were very nice though and gave me good deals on statues etc.
Solim Shopping

3
Reviewed: 2024-12-31

The Fetish Market offers an insight into African medicine and voodoo traditions, making it a unique and educational experience. However, DO NOT buy any items within the market. The small statues and masks are not handmade by the sellers, and prices are marked up to five times more than what you’ll find in other local markets. Be aware: it’s a TOURIST TRAP when it comes to shopping. Enjoy the cultural experience, but save your money for more authentic purchases elsewhere.
Chris Evans

4
Reviewed: 2024-10-23

Great experience, blessing from a witch doctor and the opportunity to purchase items. Feels a little touristy but interesting non the less