Things to Do in Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Sierra Leone

Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary is a pristine 12-square-kilometer island sanctuary located in the Moa River in southern Sierra Leone. This remarkable conservation area is home to eleven species of primates, making it one of the most important primate research and conservation sites in West Africa. The island's dense tropical rainforest provides habitat for rare species including the endangered Diana monkey, red colobus monkey, and various species of chimpanzees, along with over 135 bird species and numerous other wildlife. Established as a community-managed wildlife sanctuary, Tiwai Island offers visitors an authentic eco-tourism experience with opportunities for guided forest walks, canopy observation, bird watching, and cultural interactions with local communities. The sanctuary operates under a sustainable tourism model that directly benefits local villages while protecting this critical biodiversity hotspot. Visitors stay in basic eco-lodges and participate in research activities, making it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts, researchers, and those seeking an off-the-beaten-path wildlife adventure in one of West Africa's most biodiverse locations.

Top Things to Do in Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Primate Tracking and Wildlife Observation

Embark on guided forest walks to observe eleven different primate species including Diana monkeys, red colobus monkeys, and chimpanzees in their natural habitat. Early morning and late afternoon tracking sessions offer the best opportunities to witness these endangered species feeding, socializing, and moving through the forest canopy.

Booking Tip: Book through the Tiwai Island Environmental Programme office in Bo or Freetown, with costs around $50-80 per day including accommodation and meals. Best viewing is during dry season (November-April) when animals are more active and trails are accessible.

Canopy Walkway and Observation Platform

Experience the forest from above on elevated walkways and observation platforms that provide unique perspectives of the rainforest ecosystem. These elevated positions offer excellent opportunities for bird watching and observing arboreal primates without disturbing their natural behavior.

Booking Tip: Included in sanctuary day passes, best visited early morning (6-8 AM) when wildlife is most active. Bring binoculars and camera with telephoto lens, and wear neutral colored clothing to avoid startling animals.

Bird Watching and Ornithological Research

Discover over 135 bird species including hornbills, kingfishers, and various endemic West African species. Join researchers in bird ringing activities and contribute to ongoing ornithological studies while learning about avian conservation efforts in the region.

Booking Tip: Coordinate with researchers 2-3 weeks in advance for specialized birding experiences, costs $30-50 per day. Peak birding season is December-March when migratory species are present alongside residents.

Community Cultural Exchange

Engage with local Mende communities who manage the sanctuary, learning about traditional conservation practices, local customs, and sustainable living. Participate in village activities, traditional cooking, and storytelling sessions that highlight the relationship between local culture and wildlife conservation.

Booking Tip: Arrange through sanctuary management with 24-48 hours notice, small donations ($10-20) appreciated for community projects. Most cultural activities occur in the evening, allowing for full day wildlife activities.

River Canoeing and Aquatic Wildlife Observation

Explore the Moa River surrounding the island by traditional canoe, observing hippos, crocodiles, and various water birds while learning about the aquatic ecosystem. These peaceful river journeys provide different perspectives of the island and opportunities to spot wildlife coming to drink at the water's edge.

Booking Tip: Best during dry season when water levels are lower and wildlife more concentrated near water sources. Include in accommodation packages for $20-30 extra, always accompanied by experienced local guides for safety.

Getting There

Reaching Tiwai Island requires a journey to the town of Potoru, approximately 30 kilometers from Bo, Sierra Leone's second-largest city. From Freetown, take a bus or shared taxi to Bo (3-4 hours), then arrange transport to Potoru village (1 hour). The final leg involves a 20-minute canoe crossing of the Moa River to reach the island. Most visitors coordinate transportation through the Tiwai Island Environmental Programme office in Bo, which can arrange complete transport packages including the river crossing. The journey requires some planning as public transport to Potoru is limited, making pre-arranged transport advisable.

Getting Around

Movement around Tiwai Island is entirely on foot via a network of forest trails and elevated walkways. The island's compact size makes all areas accessible within a few hours' walk, with well-maintained paths leading to various observation points, research stations, and accommodation areas. Local guides accompany all movement around the island both for safety and wildlife spotting purposes. River transport around the island's perimeter is available by canoe for aquatic wildlife observation and alternative perspectives of the forest. All transportation on and around the island is included in accommodation packages and coordinated by sanctuary staff.

Where to Stay

Tiwai Island Research Station Dormitories

Eco-Lodge Basic Cabins

Community Guesthouse in Potoru Village

Bo Town Hotels (day trip base)

Camping Areas on Island

Researcher Accommodation Blocks

Food & Dining

Dining on Tiwai Island consists primarily of communal meals prepared by local cooks using fresh ingredients from surrounding communities and the island's small gardens. Meals typically feature traditional Sierra Leonean dishes including rice with various sauces, fresh fish from the river, tropical fruits, and locally grown vegetables. The sanctuary operates a simple but nutritious meal plan included in accommodation costs, with vegetarian options available upon request. Visitors should inform staff of dietary restrictions in advance. Basic supplies and snacks can be purchased in Potoru village before crossing to the island, and Bo town offers more diverse dining options for those extending their stay on the mainland.

When to Visit

The optimal time to visit Tiwai Island is during the dry season from November through April, when wildlife is most active and forest trails are easily navigable. This period offers the best primate viewing opportunities as animals spend more time foraging and are less likely to shelter from rain. The dry season also provides better river conditions for canoeing and clearer skies for bird watching and photography. While the wet season (May-October) brings lush vegetation and fewer visitors, heavy rains can make trails muddy and difficult, and some activities may be restricted. However, the wet season does offer unique opportunities to observe different animal behaviors and enjoy the forest's peak greenery.

Insider Tips

Bring a good headlamp and extra batteries as there's limited electricity on the island, and early morning wildlife tracking often begins before dawn

Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing in neutral colors and waterproof bags for equipment, as humidity is high year-round and sudden rain showers are common

Contribute to ongoing research by participating in data collection activities - researchers welcome volunteer assistance with wildlife monitoring and this enhances the overall experience while supporting conservation efforts

Things to Do in Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary