Photo: Erik Cleves Kristensen, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons

West Africa · Country guide

Sierra Leone

Palm-lined beaches, chimpanzees and rainforest islands, still largely undiscovered.

Flag of Sierra Leone
Capital
Freetown
Region
West Africa
Languages
English; Krio widely spoken
Currency
Sierra Leonean leone
Best time to visit
Nov to Apr

Sierra Leone has some of West Africa’s most beautiful beaches within an hour of Freetown. Tiwai Island has primates and pygmy hippos, and Tacugama rescues chimpanzees.

Did you know? Freetown was founded in 1792 as a settlement for formerly enslaved people.

Known for

  • Beaches of the Freetown Peninsula
  • Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
  • Tiwai Island
  • Banana Islands

Did you know?

Freetown was founded in 1792 as a settlement for formerly enslaved people.

Before you go

  • Visas: rules depend on your passport and change often. Check Sierra Leone’s official immigration website and see our visa guide.
  • Health: see a travel clinic about vaccines and malaria. Read our health guide.
  • Safety: read your government’s current travel advice for Sierra Leone.

Plan your trip

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Frequently asked questions

What is the capital of Sierra Leone?

Freetown.

What currency does Sierra Leone use?

Sierra Leonean leone.

What languages are spoken in Sierra Leone?

English; Krio widely spoken.

When is the best time to visit Sierra Leone?

Nov to Apr.

Have you been to Sierra Leone?

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