There is a small $0.50 USD fee to access River Number 2 Beach. In this space weve spoken at length about Sierra Leone, its beauty and what makes it unique. Sierra Leone is located in between Senegal and Liberia where you find world class waves. During your stay, dont forget to take a COVID test if youre unsure about the language or dont speak any Spanish. After all, this precious gem is something that played a big part in the countrys history. The best time to visit Siera Leone is from November to February when the weather is nice and the temperature is warm. The museum is located in a railway workshop, where the locos and carriages were miraculously spared from the destruction caused by the civil war, thanks to the efforts of the late Mohamed Bangura, the last general manager of the national workshops, and the support of railway enthusiast Colonel Steve Davies. The summit of this mountain provides a breathtaking view of the city. Visitors should plan a trip to the lake and the surrounding area to gain a better understanding of its unique culture. They sit in the extreme north of Sierra Leone, unfolding close to the border with the Republic of Guinea in a mosaic of savannah and woodland, groves of goomar teaks and hills that poke just above the canopies. To get to Dublin Island, you will need to make your way (best by car) to Kent Village, which is about one hour drive from Freetown, and then hire a boat (about 30 to 45 minutes, depending on the sea conditions). Admission is just $1 USD and includes a guided walk through the exhibits, providing a good, concise retelling of the history of the country and its most important figures and how they contributed to the creation of modern Sierra Leone. Donations are welcome. Get to know more about this hidden gem deep within the confines of West Africa. Fourah Bay College is actually quite far from the main historical landmarks in town, but is definitely worth the effort of getting there consider hopping on a taxi or mototaxi to make your commute faster. During the eighteenth century, this island was a major site for the slave trade. A nation of abundant wildlife, Sierra Leone was one of the top destinations for tourists back in the day, until political instability took it off tourists list for quite some time. 9 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Sierra Leone Updated June 30, 2023 Share Tweet Email Attractions Map . The local people are known for their hospitality and handicrafts. The efforts are going well, too. A post shared by Bradt Travel Guides (@bradtguides) on Jan 30, 2020 at 9:58am PST. Lumley Beach Road, Freetown P.O. You can even stay the night at nearby resorts to make the most out of your trip. On the way, youll pass a grassy track with a small cemetery. So when you make a purchase we sometimes make a small commission, at no extra cost to you. At low tide, the island features beautiful sandbars. Bo This is the second-largest city in Sierra Leone by the landscape, located in the southern part of the country. Other than that, youre all good. It is dotted with picturesque palm trees that line the waters edge. Sierra Leone - Traveler view | Travelers' Health | CDC Visitors can explore the impressive collection of masks, sculptures, paintings, and more. Add to that a truly rustic set of locals and ramshackle bamboo-built villages, bobbing fishing skiffs and campsites right on the shore, and its easy to see why the Turtle isles deserve a visit. The park is home to a variety of threatened animals and plant species, including Western Chimpanzees and Black-and-White Colobus Monkeys. The area is also home to many historical sites and is a popular spot for picnicking. Do I need a visa to get to Sierra Leone? Makeni Located in the North, Makeni is Bombali provinces largest city and is overall the 4th largest in the country. Gola is divided into three forest blocks, the South being the lowest and the Central being the highest and ruggedest. Soon, hundreds of people like you had joined them in this calling, helping to build a Children's Home for orphans, establish schools and feeding . Youll find a lot of wildlife on Tiwai Island. There are also events and scholarly lectures held at the museum. award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert From the sparkling. Gola is home to over 600 species of butterflies, 43 amphibians, and 13 reptile species. The original Portuguese name, Serra Lyoa ("Lion Mountains"), referred to the range of hills that surrounds the harbour. You can view a match here or even train there for yourself. This scenic lake, also known as Lake Confon, is located in the mountainous northeast of Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone has topped the list of fastest-growing tourism countries in the world according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). It is also an important carbon sink, helping to mitigate the effects of climate change. The wind speeds are not dangerous but are considered moderate. It is also an important habitat for the critically endangered Tai toad. Supporters of the onetime coups and counter-coups are now re-integrated back into society; hardly anyone even mentions the troubles of the 90s. Surfing in Sierra Leone - Nomad Surfers | Nomad Surfers They usually serve this with spaghetti, eggs, and bread. After youve had your fill of this other street food, why not try kill driver? If youre looking for an adventure, head to Sierra Leone today! Wondering where to go this holiday? Youll see what we mean as you move between the powdery sands of Lakka Beach and Lumley, into the party strip of Aberdeen district, and out to the industrial sprawl of the suburbs. This beautiful bay has some great photo opportunities, and the views from the vantage point are incredible. The National Railway Museum in Sierra Leone is a great place to learn about the history of railway transport in the country. It is a protected wildlife sanctuary with lush rainforests and a great concentration of endemic species. Overall, Siera Leone is a wonderful place to visit. The museum also features the Truth and Reconciliation Commission exhibition, which tells the story of war, peace, and healing. Its a sleepy and rustic place, with just a smattering of small towns like Bonthe and pint-sized San, mainly inhabited by the indigenous Sherbro people contented, bucolic and curiously westernized fishing types. You can also visit the Cotton Tree, which is a 500-year-old tree that is located just two minutes away from the Cathedral. The museum is supported by Friends of Sierra Leone National Railway Museum in the UK, which helps maintain the museum. This reserve is the last remaining Upper Guinean forest in Sierra Leone, and it has great potential to protect Sierra Leones biodiversity. Right on the Atlantic Ocean, it goes without saying that Freetown is home to many gorgeous beaches. 208. Be ready to get stuffed on delicious hummus and pita bread; baba ganouj; falafel; shawarma and much more. ); and for the effects of an Ebola epidemic between 2014 and 2016. Visitors can also see the Memorial Garden, which is a place of reflection for victims and a symbolic reparation for the victims of the war. Bureh beach tops the list if you are looking for water activities like surfing. Since its founding, it has grown to 23 member organizations in 13 African countries. Our travel recommendations are based on our personal experiences and research, written by locals and travel experts with deep familiarity with the destination. The Kangari Hills Forest Reserve is located in Sierra Leones northwestern part and borders Liberia and Guinea to the northeast. Since then, the museum has been collecting and preserving historical objects and artifacts from the Sierra Leone region. In the early twentieth century, they converted to Christianity. 52 Places for Travelers to Visit in 2022 - The New York Times The shores are often busy and crowded, so if you want to visit, you might have to go during the weekdays. Sierra Leone | Culture, History, & People | Britannica The Tacugama Chimpanzee sanctuary is located in Sierra Leone and is home to 111 chimpanzees. Explore a land without limits, open for discovery intrepid, uplifting and earnest. Get to know the young Sierra Leone generation over a cup of this drinkjust be careful not to overdose yourself with caffeine! All rights reserved. From October to March, the weather is generally dry with many hot, sunny days. Tokeh Beach Heritage Sites Bunce Island National Parks Outamba Kilimi National Park Read more Read more Read more Read more Leisure in Sierra Leone You wondering what to do during your spare time in Sierra Leone? In Sierra Leone, you can visit Tacugama Chimpanzee sanctuary to see rescued baby chimpanzees. Pop into St. Georges Cathedral. Although admission to the museum is free, you are encouraged to donate to support its upkeep. Macau Samoa Tuvalu Below are the visa fees for ease of reference: ECOWAS nationals - Visa-free Non-Ecowas AU nationals - USD 25.00 All other countries - USD 80.00 Citizens of ECOWAS states and all other countries with which Sierra Leone has visa-free agreements will continue to enjoy visa-free access. Away from the coast and deep in the middle of the Eastern Province, the countrys third-largest city can be found cascading down the ridges of the Kambui Hills to meet the winding courses of the Moa River. A single-entry visa is valid for 3 months upon the issue and will allow you to stay in the country for 30 days. Literally in front of the Cotton Tree, the Sierra Leone Peace and Cultural Monument first opened in 2013, on the grounds of the Special Court of Sierra Leone (SCSL). Just one of 40 individual citadels that were raised by the Europeans along the shoreline of the region during the heyday of the slave trade, the spot is known to have been one of the primary points where British vessels laden with captured people departed for the colonies of South Carolina and Georgia across the Atlantic. Generally, Sierra Leone is a pretty safe place for travelers to visit. It can be anything from fried plantains, fried chicken, fries, or even Akara (fried bean cake). Wondrous Drifter is a cutting-edge, Web 3.0 travel startup that aspires to change the world. John Small remembers watching foreign surfers unload their boards from their vehicles. The Special Court has been responsible for a number of convictions and has been a major part of the countrys transition toward peace and democracy. Freetown - Wikipedia Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel Freetown. All contributors are instructed to follow internationally recognised copyright and intellectual property guidelines. If youre traveling alone, dont be afraid to ask locals for directions. It comes as no surprise that one of the must-sees in Freetown is St. Georges Cathedral. You'll find primates such as chimpanzees, colobus monkeys and sooty, A short hop from Tiwai Island, the Gola Rainforest National Park is home to an abundance of creatures great and small, from rare, intricately patterned, St John's Maroon Church is a squat white building with big windows built around 1820. Located in the North, Makeni is Bombali provinces largest city and is overall the 4th largest in the country. Today, visitors can come and see the preserved castile, and learn all about this sobering episode of Sierra Leones past. If your travel plans in Sierra Leone include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip. You can even visit the house where prisoners were once housed. You can do a downtown walk around and see the gate, the cotton tree as well as either the national museum or the Sierra. In fact, it was recently featured in the New York Times list of post-pandemic travel destinations. Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic . If youre planning a visit to Sierra Leone, you might want to visit the Freetown National Stadium. How long is the tourist visa application process? Consult your doctor as far as possible in advance of your move to find out more. At present, Freetown is Sierra Leones major economic, political, cultural, financial and educational center. The stadium, also known as Siaka Stevens National Stadium, is located in the capital city. Bo Town is connected with the capital by a long, paved road, and journeys here from the city on the coast take around four hours from start to finish. Sussex, Hamilton, Lakka and Levuma are all good places to go for a walk or to grab some fresh fish or seafood lunch in a local restaurant, but if you fancy a more serviced place, head to Tokeh or River Number 2. Required fields are marked *. Its home to beautiful mountain gorillas and chimpanzees. Western Africa | Countries, History, Map, Population, & Facts This includes all text and images that they use within their own work. Several airlines are operating in the country regularly. 7 Essential Travel Safety Tips Coronavirus (COVID-19) and travel: The situation around the world is changing dramatically. The lake itself is surrounded by lush hills, with the vegetation around it mainly consisting of open grassland and savanna. Sierra Leone is a wonderful place to visit. Nowadays, they are a favorite destination for a day or even a weekend trip out of Freetown. This railway museum was opened in 2005. Locals and tourists alike love going there around sunset to appreciate uninterrupted vistas of the city. A two minutes walk from the Cathedral, is the famous 500 year old cotton tree in the country. There are simple restaurants that blend into the natural surroundings and serve good Sierra Leonean cuisine. Another important part of the museum is the Special Court Museum, which is located in an old security building. Once slavery was abolished by the British Parliament in 1808, many buildings on the island were completely abandoned. This beach is also connected to a mangrove forest since theres a river in the area that flows into the sea. Suggest edits to improve what we show. The stones were set in 1818. This mountain stands at 1,945 meters above sea level. Bureh Beach (Bure Town) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go - Tripadvisor Why Do Flights Get Cancelled and What To Do? 15 Best Places to Visit in Sierra Leone - The Crazy Tourist Freetown, Sierra Leone 2023: Best Places to Visit - Tripadvisor Previously the third-largest city in the country, Kenema is now considered as the second-largest city in terms of its population. Sierra Leone is an up and coming tourist destination. Have an interesting conversation over Ataya, 7. Its always interesting to try the local cuisine when traveling somewhere. However, as much as were impressed by how far their people have gone, we must also never forget to learn about their past to appreciate them more in the present. You can also head inland, and seek out the vine-clambered ruins of old colonial depots and slave processing centers. Sierra Leone has topped the list of fastest-growing tourism countries in the world according to the United Nations World Tourism Organisation (UNWTO). However, the mangroves are being cut down for firewood and for building homes. Its also home to 252 species of birds. This is Sierra Leones capital and is a major port city in the country. Located in the Western Area, the 564-meter-high Leicester Peak offers breathtaking views of Freetown and the Sierra Leone River estuary. | Privacy Policy | Disclaimer | Site Map. This is the highest peak in Freetown, at around 500 meters above sea level. Beyond their beautiful beaches, the dense tropical forests and tiny Krio settlements complete the rustic island retreat that is the Banana Islands. Right on the Atlantic Ocean, it goes without saying that Freetown is home to many gorgeous. Try Sierra Leone. Sierra Leone is very safe for tourists and its easy to find taxis here. Source: Sulaiman Bayoh. The Sierra Leone Peace Museum commemorates the countrys war and focuses on the reconciliation process. But where to go? In 1725, however, the Muslim Fula waged a war of domination and forced local people to migrate. ); safer than you'd expect; and where the locals are very friendly and welcoming. The country is divided into five administrative regions, which are subdivided into 16 districts. However, there are some lively (thanks largely to the student crowds of the Njala University) spots to settle for a drink and a bite to eat, along with some great natural attractions on the edge of the city not least of all the Kangari Hills Forest Reserve to the north. The sanctuary regularly organizes events and fundraisers, and offers lodging in bungalows for people who would like to appreciate being completely surrounded by nature while still at a stones throw from the capital. guidance. The island was once a major slave trading post for the British. living at the sanctuary at the moment, divided in various enclosures based on their age, and separated in enlarged families to recreate the social structure they follow in nature. Typically, slaveholding sites were located on islands near a major river. Tasso Island is located in the Sierra Leone River Estuary. Youll also enjoy the fresh air and slight wind, as well as trails that date back to the colonial era. It is a must-see spot for all sports fans! Of course, theres good ol roasted corn which they usually season with a little bit of salt before roasting over a fire. In fact, that cocktail of beautiful natural draws has made this one arguably the most popular weekend getaway from the big city, and there are now some good guesthouses in hotels in the fishing settlements of Dublin and Ricketts as a result. You can even go canoeing, partying, drinking, or just relax as you watch its crystalline waters glimmer under the hot sun. Local people are known for being very warm and hospitable, and they love welcoming visitors to their country. The archived materials will also be put into archival-quality packaging. Youll probably love to visit as the waters in this area are calm and pleasantly warm. Deep in the recesses of Tagrin Bay, just a short ferry ride from the jetties of the capital at Freetown, the rock that is Bunce Island offers a glimpse into the darker days of West African history. Visitors are welcome to stay overnight, or even for more than one night, and the Gladi-Gladi sails to the island daily. Finally, Siera Leone is safe to visit. Goats and Soda Sunday On The Beach With Sierra Leonean Soccer Players For families living in crowded informal settlements like Dworzak in the Sierra Leonean capital, getting enough clean water. The area around Freetown is home to many of Sierra Leones beautiful beaches, and the mountain is a fantastic place to experience the countrys breathtaking landscape. It contains numerous relics and rare artifacts of historical and cultural significance, including some dating back to the early 1800s. The sanctuary is one of the largest in West Africa and is part of a network of chimpanzee rescue facilities. The beach is a popular destination during weekends but retains its wild beauty during the week. Best Things To Do in Sierra Leone. [Ultimate] Travel Guide, Tips As Sierra Leones last remaining swathe of Upper Guinean Tropical Rainforest, the Gola Reserve commands the attention of nature lovers and conservationists the world over. Sierra Leone - Wikitravel The average salary after taxes in Sierra Leone is $1548, which is enough to cover living expenses for 2.1 months. Before the slaves arrived, there were other tribes living in the area, including the Sherbro. What is the best time to visit Sierra Leone? Documents show that the tree has been growing in the same location since 1787. It was here, on a mission trip in 1995, that COTN Founders Chris and Debbie Clark felt called to care for the needs of children orphaned by war and disease. What currency is used in Sierra Leone? Study Chinese in China: A Sierra Leonean's life-changing journey Theres also fry which, as the name implies, is anything fried being sold off on the streets. Take a walk along with the stalls and find yourself amazed by woven baskets, colorful textiles, accessories, and other clothing articles just to name a few. Locals consider Lake Sonfon sacred and hold ceremonies and religious rites there. If youre a fan of the great outdoors, you may want to visit Sierra Leones Mamunta Mayosso Wildlife sanctuary. There is an incredible collection of history here, and the National Museum is a great place to learn more about the countrys civil war. About 78% of the population in Sierra Leone is currently Muslim, and 20% Christian, and the country is known for its religious tolerance and inclusion. Now that the battles it fought have long been over, its time for people to slowly get acquainted with Sierra Leones untouched beauty once again. Some of the locomotives and coaches have been buried in the works to protect them from cutters. It also has stunning beaches, which are perfect for relaxing after exploring the rainforest. Its also the 13th-highest mountain in the entire country. You get the bigger swells here from March to October. Every seductive moment spent in her warm embrace gives you a deep appreciation for life lived to its fullest, as your generous hosts, the Salone locals, feed your fun-loving spirit with their zest to share their story of resilience, rich history and path to liberty. If you are planning a Sierra Leone vacation, dont miss visiting Bureh Beach. Part of the mission is to educate the local community to respect the environment and to care and respect wildlife. Its relatively cheap compared with other countries in its region. However, its always wise to keep an eye out for your things and even more for yourself when youre not in a familiar area. Hello Sierra Leone ?? The best time to visit Siera Leone is from November to February when the weather is nice and the temperature is warm. Bring your camera or sketchbook as youll be surrounded by awe-inspiring scenery everywhere you go! You can also visit the Foriwater cave, which was used by white slave traders and colonial masters. Look out for The Kangari Hills Forest Reserve is a non-hunting forest reserve. This museum explores the role of the Special Court in Sierra Leones civil war, which lasted from 1999 to 2002. Twelve countries across different regions in Africa are set to receive 18 million doses of the first-ever malaria vaccine over the next two years. A stone monument commemorating the first centenary of York village. Another important feature of the park is its biodiversity. In addition to the sanctuarys tourism program, the island is also home to a community conservation program that includes ecological research and forestry management. Proclaimed a national monument in 1955, the building stopped being used in 1990 and caught fire in 1999, during the civil war. The beaches are beautiful and there are several great restaurants here. Average winds are 8.7 knots, which is about 10 MPH or 16.1 KPH. It was here that former slaves who had gained freedom from the British prayed for peace and prosperity. Sussex, Hamilton, Lakka and Levuma are all good places to go for a walk or to grab some fresh fish or seafood lunch in a local restaurant, but if you fancy a more serviced place, head to Tokeh or River Number 2. Sweet sands rise from the soft waters of the Atlantic, with the backdrop dressed in sun-stained hues, rainforest green and the red, red roads of the north. Its pristine beaches, lush jungles, and majestic mountains create a breathtaking backdrop for your vacation. And there is an all-new clock tower in the works, lots of infrastructure investment in play, and easy access to the greater region of Bombali the home of the aforementioned Outamba Kilimi National Park! We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. Its mission is to protect primates, forests, and communities. Visitors should dress appropriately for the climate and the activities they plan to participate in.