There are certainly some great places to visit in Sierra Leone before you die it’s a shame that’s it’s often looked over when holidayers plan their African getaways. This sliver of a country on Africa’s West coast is a relatively undiscovered place with incredible attractions, mostly natural, and a few cities to indulge in. Visit a few of the islands, some provide exceptional opportunities to see, and catch the magnificent array of marine creatures that lurk below your toes or boats, or Bunce Island for a serious dose of reality during the tough times of slavery.
LEONARDO VITI/Shutterstock.com
Should you need a city to relish in, Sierra Leone’s capital can help you with that, but there’s an up and coming better choice in its second largest city. A glimpse at real tribes? Infatuation with the gorgeous scenery? Wildlife beyond your average forest? Yes, yes, and yes. You can find all of that here and more.
Despite your worries, the places listed here are safe to visit. There’s always the need to check updated information about travel restrictions and advice before departing to any country in the world, so just be sure to do current research before jetting off. This is truly a great place to travel if you are adventurous and wanting to explore places that other tend to not even know exist. There are many great places to visit in Sierra Leonebefore you die, so what does it really offer its wanderers? Check it out…
8. Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
A wonderful day trip to get out of the city, this lush forested area is teeming with chimpanzees that swing from tree to tree. You can take a look at the more rural surrounding villages of Charlotte or Regent if you don’t want to go back to the city.
Abeselom Zerit/Shutterstock.com
7. Outamba-kilimi National Park
More chimpanzees? Sure! Add in some adorable pygmy hippos and gracefully tromping elephants with a scenery that’s nothing short of spectacular, and you have yourself a wonderful day at this incredible game reserve.
Ian Duffield/Shutterstock.com
6. Bunce Island
A bit of a depressing place to visit, but for those who want a deeper understanding about some of the history, this should be a must-stop. This is one of the first areas of West Africa to be the exit for thousands of slaves. The slave trade history and its impact can be learned about here.
5. Banana Island
Ah, finally, an island to pick you back up. Not too far from shore, this beautiful cluster of islands has excellent opportunities to plunge to the bottom of the sea and go diving, or stay on shore and go fishing.
Brendan van Son/Shutterstock.com
4. Tiwai Island
Here is the nature junkies oasis. This incredible inland island, the country’s largest, is located on the Moa River that flows from Guinea and plays host to wildlife and flora, some of which are rare or endangered. The flora here is lush and some is even used for herbal medicine. The elusive and endangered Diana Monkey can be found here, and the endemic pygmy hippo will hopefully catch your eye.
Alan Jeffery/Shutterstock.com
3. Rogbonko
Here is a cultural hub for you to check out to get know the people a bit better. You can visit and learn about the local tribe, Temne, and experience their ways and lifestyle. There’s a cultural exchange project in the area if you want to really immerse yourself and get all of the knowledge about the people that call this place home.
2. Loma Mountains
Here’s a path less toured that’s well worth your adventurous energy. Mount Bintumani is the highest peak in West Africa and is a part of the Loma mountain range. Towering 1,830 meters, you will need to work for a chance to get the views from up here. Steep cliffs with gorges slicing through them and rope bridges connecting your path will all have to be conquered to reach these mountains. Make sure to not rush so you can catch a glimpse at a chimp swinging above your head.
And, the best place to visit in Sierra Leone before you die is: Bo
This spot is becoming a much bigger deal than the capital, Freeport. It’s rising in wealth, business, and opportunities making it the second largest city. The nation is fast changing after the tragic civil war and it has been putting the past in the past. Business are popping up, mom and pop restaurants are sprouting, diamond deals, and bargain shopping at the Big Market are all hopping places to visit. On the outskirts of this city, you can can sip some palm wine, poyo, indulge in treats made of coconut, and visit the country’s longest river, Sewa, and experience the village life around it.
Malachy666/Shutterstock.com
We love all of these places to visit in Sierra Leone before you die, which sparks your interest more?
