Nestled on the West Coast of Africa, Sierra Leone, often referred to as the “Lion Mountain,” is an emerging destination with so much to offer from beautiful beaches, wildlife, rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, delicious food and welcoming people.
While the country has had its share of challenges in the past, it is evolving and becoming a vibrant and enticing location and this was my first time visiting this gorgeous destination and actually, my first time in West Africa as a whole too!
Sierra Leone
Here’s my guide to Sweet Salone!
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How to get to Sierra Leone
Contents
Airlines such as Kenya Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Turkish Airlines and Brussels Airlines fly indirect from London to Freetown.
At present there are no direct flights from the UK and I advise you to keep an eye on the transfer time between connections. If it is less than 2 hours I urge that you take a good amount of clothes and essentials in your carry on luggage to tide you by in case the baggage is delayed.
How to get from Lungi Airport to Freetown?
Travelling by road is possible but it can take over 3 hours!
The vast majority of people take either the ferry or water taxi’s across the mouth of the Sierra Leone river. The local ferry takes around an hour and costs $1-2, but our personal recommendation is to take a water taxi, and in particular, through the company Sea Coach Express.
As you exit Lungi Airport Arrivals, in the car park you will see several water taxi sales offices and people in branded vests selling tickets. Ask for Sea Coach Express and you will quickly be taken to their ticket window.
Once you have bought your ticket you will be placed onto a minibus that, when full, will depart from the airport for their ferry port.
Do you need a visa for Sierra Leone?
British Passport holders need a visa for Sierra Leone so be sure to apply in advance. You can check for more details here.
Here’s the website: https://www.evisa.sl/#/home
Vaccine information
Sierra Leone has a high risk of yellow fever transmission, and proof of vaccination is mandatory for all travellers over nine months of age. I recommend carrying the yellow fever book with you when entering the county.
Best time to visit Sierra Leone
The best time to visit Sierra Leone is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, the weather is generally sunny and pleasant, with lower humidity levels and less rainfall.
However, it is worth noting that Sierra Leone’s weather can be unpredictable, and occasional rain showers can occur even during the dry season.
The wet season in Sierra Leone runs from May to October, with the heaviest rainfall typically occurring between July and August.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Sierra Leone depends on your personal preferences and travel plans. If you’re looking to enjoy outdoor activities and soak up the sun, then the dry season may be the best time to visit. If you’re interested in experiencing the country’s lush landscapes and culture, then the wet season may offer a unique and rewarding experience.
Safety
Sierra Leone has made significant progress in terms of stability and security in recent years, and the country is generally considered safe for tourists. However, like any destination, there are still some risks and precautions to be aware of.
Petty crime, such as theft and pickpocketing, can occur in tourist areas, so it is important to take common sense precautions such as keeping valuables out of sight, avoiding isolated or poorly lit areas at night, and using reputable transportation services.
It is also important to be respectful of local customs and traditions, and to dress modestly, particularly in religious sites or when visiting rural areas.
Purchase an E-Sim
I highly recommend getting an E-Sim in advance of travelling to Sierra Leone as the data on UK roaming is expensive and unreliable in some areas.
I used Airalo and was really happy with it!
Cash
Changing cash in Sierra Leone
I would recommend changing dollars to Leons whilst in Sierra Leone so that you can pay for goods and services as well as tip.
ATMs are scarce and also credit cards are not so widely accepted.
Changing cash with people is normal. Just check the rate beforehand.
Must do things when visiting Sierra Leone
Freetown:
The capital city and the cultural and economic hub of Sierra Leone and a good base for your trip!
The fallen cotton tree
- Visit the now fallen Cotton Tree, a historic symbol of Freetown.
- Relax on River Number 2 Beach, which was the setting of the Bounty Advert in the 70’s
- Explore the bustling markets like the Big Market
Big Market, Freetown
- Delve into Sierra Leone’s history at the National Museum
- Learn about the Civil War at the Peace Museum. I found this very moving and upsetting at times but a must visit
- Visit the Peace and Cultural Monument – a great little outdoor museum which covers every important topic relevant to Sierra Leone’s history
- Visit the Railway Museum
Railway Museum, Sierra Leone
- Book a cooking class with Susan Senesai, who is bringing a twist to traditional Sierra Leonian food with her experience in working in some world class kitchens in the UK
Western Area Peninsula:
Tacugama Chimp Sanctuary
- Visit the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary to see rescued chimpanzees. This was my absolute favourite thing to do and you can even stay the night in an eco-lodge here.
- Enjoy the pristine beaches of Tokeh and Bureh,
- Relax on River Number 2 Beach, which was the setting of the Bounty Advert in the 70’s
- Take a boat trip to Banana Islands for snorkelling and diving opportunities or to have lunch at Bafa Resort as the food is incredible there.
Ceviche at Bafa Resort, Sierra Leone
The ceviche is a must order
- Take a boat trip to the historic Bunce Island, a former slave trading post, and Tasso Island. You learn so much about the slave trade history here and get to see first hand the awful conditions humans endured here at the hands of others
Bunce Island
We had Peter from Tourism is Life, Sierra Leone, as our guide and I highly highly recommend booking a tour with him!
Book it here https://tourismislife.com/
I was hosted on a press trip but all views and opinions remain my own.
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