Africa
Sierra Leone
English-speaking West African country with some of the region's best beaches around Freetown, rainforest and island trips. Infrastructure is thin, costs are high for what you get, and homosexuality remains criminalised.
- US travel advisoryLevel 2Exercise increased cautionDetails
- Visa15 of 198passports can visit visa-freeDetails
- CurrencySLEUS$1 ≈ Le24.65Details
- Price level24%of US prices (World Bank PPP)
- English4/5Widely spoken
- PlugsType D, G230 V, 50 HzDetails
- Emergency999Police 999
- Tap waterNo, drink bottledTap water is unsafe.Details
- LGBTQ+CriminalizedProsecutions are rare, but attitudes are conservative and public displays can provoke hostility.Details
- DrivingOn the rightForeign licences with an IDP are accepted for short stays; roads outside Freetown are rough, and most visitors hire a driver.
Where to go in Sierra Leone
1 place with full guides. Comfortable monthly budget for one person, rent included.
| Place | Safety | Month, comfortable | Best months | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| FreetownCapital city | 3/5 | $1,140–1,830 | Dec–Mar | 46/100 |
When to visit Sierra Leone
November–April is dry and best, with Harmattan dust December–February. The rainy season runs May–October, with the heaviest rain in July–August.
Good to know
Entry
- A visa is required for most visitors; apply for an e-visa online or pay about USD 80 cash on arrival.
- A yellow fever vaccination certificate is mandatory for entry.
- Complete the Sierra Leone Health Travel Portal form online within 72 hours before travel and keep the confirmation code.
- Passport must be valid six months beyond your arrival date.
Laws visitors break by accident
- Same-sex acts are criminal under a colonial-era law
- Photographing government buildings, the airport and security forces is restricted
- Drug offences are prosecuted
Etiquette
- Greet people properly before asking for anything
- Use your right hand to give, receive and eat
- Ask permission before photographing people
- Dress modestly in villages and for mosque visits
Tipping
Not required; 10% in restaurants if no service charge is added, and a few leones for guides and drivers.
Neighbouring countries
Sources
- US State Department travel advisory
- Sierra Leone e-visa portal
- Speedtest Global Index: Sierra Leone
- World Bank open data
Country facts are researched by SoloSquare; advisory levels, crime, health and visa figures come from the sources listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.