Tourism in Sierra Leone

Explore notable sights and destinations in this country

Africa / Western Africa

Tourist attractions

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Region: Freetown Peninsula outskirts

Nature

Forest sanctuary protecting orphaned chimpanzees. Has an eco-lodge and popular day tours.

River No. 2 Beach

Region: Southwest Freetown Peninsula

Nature

Scenic beach with white sand and emerald sea. Filming location for the movie 'Blood Diamond'.

Banana Islands

Region: Off the peninsula coast

Cultural heritage

Famous diving spot with ruins of British colonial forts and pristine coral reefs.

Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Region: Moa River island

Nature

Tropical rainforest where 11 primate species can be observed. Camping facilities available.

Bunce Island Slave Fort Ruins

Region: Sierra Leone River estuary

Cultural heritage

18th-century slave trade site ruins. Registered on the UNESCO World Heritage tentative list.

Freetown Cotton Tree

Region: Central Freetown

Cultural heritage

Giant ancient tree where freed slaves are said to have offered prayers. Symbol of the city.

Outamba-Kilimi National Park

Region: Northwest

Nature

Savanna and wetlands where elephants and hippos live. Popular birdwatching spot.

Gola Rainforest National Park

Region: Southeast near border

Nature

Primary forest inhabited by endangered pygmy hippos and Diana's turacos.

Lakka Beach

Region: Near Freetown

Nature

Easily accessible weekend beach for locals. Well-stocked seafood stalls.

Mount Bintumani Trail

Region: Northeast

Nature

Hiking route to the country's highest peak at 1,948m. Guided trekking of about 3 days is mainstream.

York Village

Region: South coast of Freetown Peninsula

Cultural heritage

Tranquil fishing village with colonial-era stone buildings.

Suggested itineraries

3-Day Capital and Peninsula Beach Tour

Duration (days): 3

Highlights: Cotton Tree, Tacugama Sanctuary, River No. 2 Beach

Short trip combining Freetown city historical tours, wild chimpanzee observation, and relaxation on white-sand beaches.

6-Day Rainforest and Slavery History Exploration

Duration (days): 6

Highlights: Tiwai Island, Bunce Island, Gola Rainforest National Park

Ecotour to observe rare animals in southeastern reserves and visit slave trade ruins remaining at the estuary.

10-Day Safari and Peak Summit

Duration (days): 10

Highlights: Outamba-Kilimi, Makeni, Mount Bintumani

Enjoy safaris in northern national parks and challenge the summit of Mount Bintumani near the Guinea border.

Travel tips

  • During the rainy season (May to October), roads flood easily, so arrange four-wheel drive vehicles.
  • Yellow fever vaccination certificate presentation is mandatory upon entry.
  • Mobile communication becomes unstable outside major roads, so prepare SIM cards from multiple providers.
  • Avoid nighttime travel, and even in urban areas, arrange reliable taxi drivers.
  • Carry cash mainly in small denominations, and price negotiation is common in markets.
  • Park entry permits may not be issued without an official guide accompanying you.
  • Use bottled water for drinking and avoid beverages with ice.
  • Online visa application before arrival is recommended.
  • Tipping culture is weak, but giving 5-10% for services is appreciated.
  • During dry season, masks are useful for Harmattan dust protection.

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