Bonthe - Discovering Sierra Leone

Travelling to Bonthe

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Bonthe, a pretty good destination in Sierra Leone (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Bonthe and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Bonthe, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Sierra Leone, here's everything to know about Bonthe for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Bonthe

Bonthe is a small coastal town located on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone. It is the capital of Bonthe District and has a population of around 5,000 people. The town was established in the 19th century as a center for the slave trade, and later became a hub for the transportation of palm oil and other goods. Today, Bonthe is known for its serene and picturesque beach, which attracts tourists from all over the world. The town also has a colorful history, and visitors can learn about its past by exploring local museums and historical sites. The people of Bonthe are friendly and welcoming, and the town has a vibrant and unique culture that offers an authentic West African experience.

What to visit in Bonthe

Bonthe is a small island located in the southern province of Sierra Leone. Here are some of the popular tourist attractions in Bonthe: 1. Bonthe Island Beach: The beautiful Bonthe Island Beach is a popular tourist spot in Bonthe. It offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy the pristine beauty of the Atlantic Ocean in a serene and calm environment. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and surfing.
2. Bonthe Historical Town: Bonthe has a rich historical past, and the town is home to some historical landmarks. Visitors can explore the old colonial buildings and houses of the town, which showcase the architecture of the 18th and 19th centuries.
3. Turtle Islands: The Turtle Islands are a group of small and uninhabited islands located offshore Bonthe. They offer a great opportunity for visitors to explore the rich marine life of the Atlantic Ocean. Visitors can enjoy fishing, scuba diving, and snorkelling, as well as watching loggerhead turtles that nest on the islands.
4. Bonthe Market: The Bonthe market is a bustling hub of activity and a great place to explore the local culture and traditions. Visitors can purchase local crafts and souvenirs, as well as fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables.
5. Sierra Leone River: The Sierra Leone River is a major river that flows through Bonthe. Visitors can take a boat ride along the river and enjoy the scenic beauty of the surrounding mangrove swamps and landscape.
Overall, Bonthe is a great travel destination for those interested in exploring the natural beauty and rich culture of Sierra Leone.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Sierra Leone, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Bonthe.

When to go on holiday to Bonthe

The best time to visit Bonthe, Sierra Leone is during the dry season, which runs from November to April. During this time, you can expect pleasant weather with average temperatures of around 25°C (77°F). The rainy season, from May to October, can bring heavy downpours and flooding, making travel more difficult. Additionally, some tourist services may be limited during the rainy season. However, if you are interested in birdwatching or seeing the lush vegetation of the region, visiting during the rainy season can be a great experience.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Bonthe

To get to Bonthe, Sierra Leone, you can take a flight to Lungi International Airport in Freetown, Sierra Leone's capital. From there, you can take a ferry from Freetown to Bonthe or hire a private boat or taxi. The ferry ride takes about 5-6 hours and is operated by the Sierra Leone Road Transport Corporation. It's important to note that the frequency of the ferry service varies, so it's a good idea to check ahead of time for schedules and availability. Additionally, if you prefer to travel by road, you can take a taxi or rental car from Freetown to the town of Mattru Jong, and from there, take a boat to Bonthe.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Bonthe, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Bonthe

Bonthe is a small island in Sierra Leone, West Africa. Their cuisine is primarily based on seafood and rice. Here are some typical foods of Bonthe with a short description for each of them: 1. Cassava Leaves Stew - A popular dish made with cassava leaves and meat or fish, seasoned with spices. It is often served with rice or fufu.
2. Akara - Deep-fried black-eyed bean cakes that are popular street food in Bonthe and other parts of West Africa.
3. Jollof Rice - A staple dish in West African cuisine, jollof rice is a flavorful one-pot rice dish made with tomatoes, onions, and spices.
4. Fried Plantains - A popular side dish in Bonthe, fried plantains are sweet and savory and often served as a snack or accompaniment to other dishes.
5. Okra Soup - Made with okra, fish or meat, and spices, this soup is often served with rice or fufu and is a popular dish in Bonthe and other parts of West Africa.
6. Egusi Soup - Made with ground melon seeds, vegetables, and spices, egusi soup is a popular soup in West African cuisine.
7. Pepper Soup - A spicy soup made with goat or fish, seasoned with ginger and other spices. It is often served as a remedy for colds and flu.
8. Groundnut Soup - Made with peanut butter, vegetables, and spices, this soup is a popular dish in Sierra Leone and other parts of West Africa.
9. Bitter Leaf Soup - A soup made with the leaves of the bitter leaf plant, mixed with meat or fish and spices. It is often served with rice or fufu.
10. Pounded Yam - A starchy dish made by pounding yam until it becomes a smooth dough. It is often served as an accompaniment to soup or stew in Bonthe and other parts of West Africa.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sierra Leone here.

Is Bonthe an expensive destination for tourists?

Bonthe in Sierra Leone can be considered as a moderately expensive destination for tourists, depending on your travel style and preferences. Accommodation options in Bonthe tend to be limited and relatively expensive, with only a few high-end lodges and guesthouses available on the island. However, you may find some affordable homestays and budget guesthouses on the mainland of Sierra Leone.
Food and drink prices in Bonthe are also relatively high compared to other locations in Sierra Leone, as most products and supplies need to be imported. You may also have to pay extra for transport costs to reach Bonthe Island, as there is no direct road access.
Overall, Bonthe can be a bit more expensive than other parts of Sierra Leone, but it also offers unique and charming experiences that make it worth considering if you have the budget.

Where to find accomodation in Bonthe

In Bonthe, the best areas to find accommodation would be the Bonthe Island area and the mainland areas near the ferry terminal or the airport. Bonthe Island is the main area where most of the attractions are located and offers lodging options ranging from budget to mid-range. The mainland areas also have a few lodging options and are more suitable for travelers who are looking for a quieter and more secluded stay. It is important to note that accommodation options in Bonthe are limited, so it is best to book in advance.
You can check hotel prices at Bonthe here:
Booking.com

Is Bonthe a safe destination for tourists?

Although Bonthe, Sierra Leone is not a popular tourist destination, it is generally considered safe for visitors. The government of Sierra Leone has taken measures to improve safety and security, and many tourists who have visited Bonthe report having positive experiences. However, like any location, it is important to exercise caution and maintain awareness of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night. It's always a good idea to consult official travel advisories and speak with locals or tour guides for more specific safety advice.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Sierra Leone here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Bonthe.

What type of travelers will enjoy Bonthe the most?

Bonthe, Sierra Leone is an excellent travel destination for those looking to experience the local culture and natural beauty of the region. It offers a laid-back, relaxed atmosphere that is perfect for nature lovers, eco-tourists, and those interested in exploring the local communities.
Bonthe is an ideal destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The area is safe and welcoming to all, and there are plenty of activities and opportunities for exploration that will appeal to a wide range of ages and interests. It is particularly well-suited to travelers who enjoy water sports, such as kayaking, fishing, swimming, snorkeling, and diving, as the coastal waters are warm and crystal clear.
Additionally, Bonthe is also an excellent destination for those interested in history, culture, and traditional African art. Visitors can explore the local architecture, visit the ruins of colonial-era buildings, and try out traditional basket-weaving or drumming lessons.
Overall, Bonthe is a beautiful and unique destination that offers something for everyone, regardless of their age, budget, or interests.

How to get around Bonthe

In Bonthe, there are no motorized vehicles on the island except for ambulances and some utility vehicles. The main mode of transportation is by foot or using a bicycle or motorcycle. Boat taxis are also available for travel between villages and the mainland.

What to see around Bonthe

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Bonthe: 1. Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary - This is a beautiful island in the middle of the Moa River with lots of wildlife including primates, river otters, and a variety of birds.
2. Turtle Islands - A group of remote islands located off the coast of Bonthe. These islands have beautiful beaches and great snorkeling spots.
3. Sulima Beach - Located about an hour from Bonthe, Sulima Beach is a long, sandy beach that’s perfect for swimming and relaxing.
4. Kabala Forest Reserve- A beautiful forest with hiking trails, a canopy walk, and lots of wildlife.
5. Sherbro Island - A large island off the coast of Bonthe with beautiful beaches and great fishing.
6. Bumbuna Falls - A stunning waterfall located in Northern Sierra Leone, about 7 hours drive away from Bonthe. 7. Bunce Island - A historic slave trade castle located on an island near the town of York in Sierra Leone. 8. Loma Mountains National Park - Located in Northern Sierra Leone, it is one of the last remaining places in West Africa to see endangered Western Chimpanzees. I hope this helps! Let me know if you need more information.
For every travel information about Sierra Leone you can click here.

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