Freetown - Discovering Sierra Leone

Travelling to Freetown

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Freetown, 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 Freetown 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 Freetown, 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 Freetown for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Freetown

Freetown is the capital and largest city in Sierra Leone, located on the Atlantic coast in the Western Area Peninsula. It has a population of approximately one million people and is the cultural, economic, and political center of Sierra Leone. The city is known for its vibrant markets, historic landmarks like the Cotton Tree and the National Museum, and its scenic beaches such as Lumley Beach and Number Two Beach. The weather in Freetown is typically warm and humid with the rainy season from May to November. It is a popular destination for adventurers, history buffs, and beach lovers.

What to visit in Freetown

Sure, here are some tourist attractions in Freetown, Sierra Leone: 1. Cotton Tree: A historic, giant cotton tree located in the heart of Freetown. It is believed that the tree holds spiritual significance for Sierra Leoneans.
2. National Museum: Located in the center of the city, the National Museum displays a wide range of historical and cultural artefacts.
3. Lumley Beach: A beautiful beach located in the west end of Freetown. It's a perfect place to relax and enjoy the ocean view.
4. Sierra Leone Peace Museum: This museum showcases the history of Sierra Leone's brutal civil war and the process of national reconciliation.
5. Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary: Located on the outskirts of Freetown, this sanctuary provides a natural habitat for chimpanzees rescued from the illegal bushmeat trade.
6. Cape Sierra Lighthouse: Standing at a height of 106 ft, this lighthouse was built during colonial times and still functions today.
7. Bunce Island: A historic site located on an island off the coast of Freetown. It served as a major transatlantic slave trading site during the 18th century.
8. Fourah Bay College: Established in 1827, Fourah Bay College is the oldest university in West Africa.
9. Aberdeen Creek: A picturesque area where the creek meets the ocean. It's a popular spot for fishing and swimming.
10. Sierra Leone National Railway Museum: This museum exhibits the history of Sierra Leone's railway system, which played a crucial role in the country's colonial past.
I hope this information helps you plan your trip to Freetown, 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 Freetown.

When to go on holiday to Freetown

The best time to go on holiday to Freetown, Sierra Leone is between November and April, which is the dry season. During this time, you can enjoy the beach and other outdoor activities with less chance of rainfall. The temperature during this period ranges from 26-32°C. However, it's worth noting that this is also the peak tourist season, so you may find that accommodation and flights are more expensive than during the rainy season from May to October.

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

How to get to Freetown

There are several ways to get to Freetown, Sierra Leone: 1. By air: The easiest way to get to Freetown is by flying into Lungi International Airport (FNA), which is located on the opposite side of the river from Freetown. From the airport, you can take a ferry or water taxi across to Freetown.
2. By land: You can also get to Freetown by crossing the land border from neighboring Guinea or Liberia. However, this can be a difficult and time-consuming journey, as the roads are often in poor condition.
3. By sea: Freetown is a popular port of call for cruise ships, and you can also arrange to travel by cargo ship from neighboring countries or as far as Europe, through agencies in the area.
Regardless of which way you choose, make sure to research entry requirements, travel advisories, and safety precautions prior to your trip. It may also be worth hiring a trusted guide or tour company to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Freetown, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Freetown

Here are some typical foods of Freetown, Sierra Leone, along with a brief description of each: 1. Cassava Leaf Stew: This is a popular dish made with cassava leaves, onions, palm oil, and meat or fish. It is typically served with rice.
2. Jollof Rice: This is a West African staple dish made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and spices. It can be served with meat, chicken, or fish.
3. Okra Soup: This is a soup made with okra, palm oil, meat or fish, and other vegetables. It is typically served with rice or fufu (a starchy, dough-like side).
4. Pepper Soup: This is a spicy soup made with meat or fish, onions, garlic, and a variety of peppers. It is often eaten as a cure for colds and other ailments.
5. Bitterleaf Stew: This is a soup made with bitterleaf and other vegetables, and sometimes meat or fish. It is known for its strong, bitter flavor.
6. Rice Bread: This is a type of bread made from rice flour and coconut milk. It is often served with peanut butter or soup.
7. Peanut Stew: This is a stew made with groundnuts (peanuts), onions, tomatoes, and meat or fish. It can be served with rice or fufu.
8. Fried Plantains: Plantains are a type of banana that are often fried and served as a side dish or snack in Sierra Leone. They can be sweet or savory, depending on how they are prepared.
You can find general info about typical foods in Sierra Leone here.

Is Freetown an expensive destination for tourists?

Freetown, Sierra Leone can be considered expensive for tourists when compared to other countries in the region. While prices for accommodation and meals may be lower than in Western countries, they may still be relatively high for travelers on a budget. However, there are also many budget-friendly options available, including hostels and street food vendors. It ultimately depends on the traveler's specific budget and spending preferences.

Where to find accomodation in Freetown

When visiting Freetown, Sierra Leone there are several areas that you may consider for accommodation. Some of the best areas to find accommodation include Lumley, Aberdeen, and Hill Station. These areas are located near the popular beaches, have good dining options and offer a variety of accommodations ranging from budget-friendly guesthouses to high-end hotels. For those seeking a more local experience, you may also consider staying in the Central Business District or the east-end part of town, both of which offer easy access to local markets and cultural experiences. However, these areas may have less options when it comes to internationally recognized hotels. Ultimately, the best area to stay in will depend on your budget, preferences, and travel itinerary.
You can check hotel prices at Freetown here:
Booking.com

Is Freetown a safe destination for tourists?

Freetown is considered relatively safe for tourists, although it is always important to take precautions when traveling to any unfamiliar destination. Like any city, it is best to exercise common sense and take basic safety measures, such as not carrying valuables around in plain sight, avoiding isolated or unsafe areas at night, and keeping a close eye on your surroundings. Additionally, tourists should research and be aware of any current safety concerns or advisories in the area before traveling. It is recommended to always contact local authorities or tourist offices for the most up-to-date information on safety in the area.
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 Freetown.

What type of travelers will enjoy Freetown the most?

Freetown, Sierra Leone has something to offer for everyone, but it depends on what each person or group is looking for. For example: - Couples who are interested in history, architecture, and local culture may enjoy visiting the National Museum of Sierra Leone and the historic St. George's Cathedral. They might also enjoy taking a boat trip to Banana Island or relaxing on Lumley Beach.
- Young people looking for fun and adventure may enjoy hiking in the nearby hills, trying local street food and nightlife, and checking out bars and clubs like The Attic or Sky Bar.
- Families might enjoy visiting the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary or the Tacugama Eco Lodge, as well as the beautiful beaches and child-friendly attractions like the Zoo and the National Park.
Overall, Freetown is a diverse and fascinating city that offers something for travelers of all types and ages.

How to get around Freetown

In Freetown, there are different modes of transportation available, including taxis, minibuses, and motorbikes. Taxis are the most common and convenient form of transportation, and they can usually be found on major streets and at taxi stands. Minibuses, also known as poda-podas, are shared taxis that follow set routes and are less expensive than taxis. However, they can be overcrowded and less comfortable. Motorbikes, locally known as okadas, are another form of transportation commonly used, particularly for short journeys. However, they can be risky, and safety precautions such as wearing a helmet are necessary. It is advisable to negotiate a fare before using any of these modes of transportation.

What to see around Freetown

Sure, here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Freetown: 1. Tokeh Beach: A beautiful and quiet beach located about 23 miles south of Freetown.
2. River Number Two Beach: This lovely beach is located about 20 miles south of Freetown and is known for its clear waters and stunning scenery.
3. Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary: This sanctuary is located about 20 miles east of Freetown and is home to over 80 chimpanzees. It's a great opportunity to observe these magnificent animals up close.
4. Banana Island: Located about 18 miles southwest of Freetown, this small and peaceful island is a great option for relaxing and getting away from the hustle and bustle of Freetown.
5. Bunce Island: This historical site is located on an island about 30 miles from Freetown and was once a center for the transatlantic slave trade. A visit to this island will provide valuable insight into Sierra Leone's dark history. I hope this helps!
For every travel information about Sierra Leone you can click here.

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