Things to Do in Sierraleone

About Sierraleone

Where the lush emerald peaks of the Freetown Peninsula meet some of West Africa's most pristine coastline, Sierra Leone unfolds as a land of raw natural beauty and profound resilience. This nation, still discovering its voice on the global travel stage, offers an authenticity increasingly rare in our connected world—a place where dense rainforests harbor endangered chimpanzees, remote islands remain untouched by mass tourism, and the warmth of local hospitality creates connections that transcend mere sightseeing. Sierra Leone isn't just undiscovered; it's a revelation waiting to redefine what you thought you knew about West African travel.

Travel Tips

• Currency and Cash: Always carry sufficient Leone cash, especially when traveling outside Freetown, as ATMs are scarce in rural areas and many establishments don't accept cards; US dollars are widely accepted for larger transactions but bring small denominations ($1, $5, $10).

• Transport: Use registered taxi services or arrange transport through your hotel rather than hailing random vehicles, and for inter-city travel, book okada (motorcycle taxi) rides only for short distances as poda podas (minibuses) are safer for longer journeys.

• Health Precautions: Take anti-malarial medication seriously as malaria is endemic throughout the country, and only drink bottled or purified water since tap water is not safe for consumption even in Freetown.

• Cultural Etiquette: Greet people respectfully with your right hand only (the left is considered unclean), and always ask permission before photographing people, especially in villages where it may be considered offensive or require a small fee.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Sierra Leone is during the dry season from November to April, when temperatures range from 25-32°C (77-90°F) with low humidity and minimal rainfall, making it ideal for exploring Freetown's beaches, hiking in the Outamba-Kilimi National Park, or visiting the Bunce Island slave fort. December through February offers the most comfortable conditions with cooler evenings and is perfect for witnessing traditional celebrations like Christmas and New Year festivities that blend local and Western customs, though accommodation prices peak during this period. March and April bring increasing heat and humidity (often exceeding 35°C/95°F) but fewer tourists and lower prices, plus you can attend the vibrant Freetown Music Festival typically held in April. The rainy season from May to October brings torrential downpours, flooding in Freetown, difficult road conditions especially in rural areas, and oppressive humidity exceeding 85%, though budget travelers benefit from drastically reduced hotel rates (sometimes 40-50% off) and the lush, verdant landscapes are spectacular—just avoid July through September when rainfall peaks at 500-600mm monthly and can severely disrupt travel plans. If you're interested in sea turtle nesting, visit between May and September despite the rains, as this is when endangered species like leatherbacks come ashore along the peninsula beaches.