Best Time To Visit
When to go
The best time to go to Sierra Leone is in the dry season, which runs from November to March. January and February tend to be the hottest months. Birders will find December or January most rewarding.
Getting there
June 2025 update: a new thrice-weekly Air Sierre Leone service between London Gatwick and Freetown was launched on 16 June. It is the only direct flight between the UK and Sierra Leone, with a journey time of just 7 hours. The other alternative is Brussels Airlines which flies via Brussels.
Time Zone
GMT +0 hours
Visas
A single entry visa for British citizens currently costs US$80 and can be obtained on arrival at Lungi Airport.
Additionally, it is now mandatory to submit your information on the link https://travel.gov.sl
Securipas/Securiport fee: the Sierra Leone government recently levied a US$25 ‘Securipass/Securiport’ fee, which must be settled both in advance of travel through www.securipass.sl and again before leaving Sierra Leone. In the event that you require assistance with the Securipass payment before leaving the country, our representatives Visit Sierra Leone can assist you with making the payment while you’re in-country. We must emphasise that you are responsible for ensuring your passport and visa are in order.
Health
Visitors should have a yellow fever certificate and take precautions against malaria. Always consult your doctor at least six weeks before travel and refer to this useful NHS website for details of recommended vaccinations for your destination. Always drink bottled water which is widely available from bars, hotels and guest houses.
Unspoilt Africa
Free from mass-market hotels and minibus tourism, Sierra Leone remains an unspoilt corner of Africa. Those seeking 5-star hotels should definitely look elsewhere, but if you would rather swap tales with your local guides over a barbeque during a light adventure, this is the place to visit. Rainbow Tours is proud to be the first major UK tour operator to have started offering holidays to this beautiful and inspirational destination. We'd love to tell you all about travels in Sierra Leone, so do get in touch if you'd like to find out more.
Helen Kennedy
Travel Specialist
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You'll find expert travel guides, holiday ideas and insider tips now on the Rainbow blog
Why Choose Us?
Passionate travel experts
- We've been leading wildlife travel since our first South Africa tours over 25 years ago
- Our Travel Specialists have lived in their specialist area for years
- We work with local guides to immerse you deeper in our diverse range of experiences
Personal & tailor-made
- You'll speak to your own expert who'll share their first-hand knowledge
- We'll make your itinerary seamless with 24/7 emergency contact available
- Your Travel Specialist will listen to ensure you have the best chance of seeing the wildlife you love
Responsible by nature
- We take care to actively contribute to the conservation of environments we visit
- For select countries, we make a charitable donation on your behalf when you make your booking
- We've partnered with conservation experts and NGOs to curate responsible tours
For the latest travel advice from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office check www.gov.uk/travelaware
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