Sierra Leone - Traveller information

Local laws and conventions: Visitors should ensure they respect local customs at all times – and particularly during Ramadan and when visiting religious sites.
All drug-related offences carry severe penalties, including steep fines and prison sentences. All precious stones need an export licence and the smuggling of stones is a grave offence.

It is advisable to carry some form of identification at all times. Visitors should always ask permission before taking pictures of local people or their property.

Generally, there are few social restrictions, though sensitivity is suggested in the rural areas, where the more traditional societies, with ruling chiefs, are still preserved.

Handshaking is the normal form of greeting. Casual wear is suitable everywhere and men are rarely expected to wear suits and ties.

Business meetings can be formal, and usually begin with an exchange of cards and introductory speeches. In Freetown, English is the most common language for business, though Krio and tribal languages are more prevalent in the countryside, where translators are available. Appointments and punctuality are expected, and September to June are the best months to visit on business. Office hours are Mon–Fri 0800–1200 and 1400–1630.

Immigration and customs: Passports must be valid for six months and visas are required by all except those from the member countries of the Economic Community of West African States. Business visitors should ensure they have an introductory letter and invitation from the local business outlining the purpose of the visit and providing contact details. There is an airport departure tax for all foreign visitors.

A vaccination certificate for yellow fever is required by those arriving from an infected area.

Narcotics and firearms without a licence from the Commissioner of Police in Freetown are prohibited.

Travel within the country: Traffic drives on the right and visitors will need an international driving permit. Cars can be hired through local companies and hotels. Visitors should carry their licence with them at all times. The main highways have tarred surfaces.

It is recommended that onward and return flights are confirmed 72 hours in advance.

The national airline, Sierra National Airline LJ, does not operate internal flights; instead, private airlines can be chartered to fly to other towns and cities and even to neighbouring countries. The Sierra Leone Road Transport Corporation operates local and long distance bus services that are fast, cheap and connect all the major centres. Ferries connect all coastal ports.

There is a limited bus service in Freetown. Many people use minibuses (poda-poda), which operate within the city and surrounding towns, and charge a fixed rate. Taxis are available, but should only be used if they display a valid Tourist Board sticker on the windscreen.

Travel health: It is essential that visitors have comprehensive health insurance that includes medical repatriation.

Visitors will need protection against malaria as well as insect repellent and suitable clothing to discourage mosquito bites. There are infrequent outbreaks of cholera, which can be exacerbated during water shortages, and Lassa fever can be contracted in Kenema and in the east of the country. Vaccination against rabies and yellow fever is recommended, but all current vaccination requirements should be checked well in advance of travel.

Water should be boiled or bought in sealed bottles. Only powdered or tinned milk should be used.

Money: Credit cards are not accepted in Sierra Leone and all foreign exchange (preferably in US dollars or pounds sterling) must be through the banks and official exchange offices. However, visitors should be aware that exchange opportunities are limited. Banking hours are Mon–Thur 0800–1330 and Fri 0800–1400.
There were 40,023 tourist arrivals in 2005.