When to go
The best time to go to Sierra Leone is in the dry season, which runs from October to May. January and February tend to be the hottest months. Birders will find December or January most rewarding. Travel is possible in June and late September although there will be heavy down pours and rural roads can become very muddy.
Getting there
Brussells Airlines operates regular flights from London Heathrow via Brussells to Freetown. (Daytime flights on the outbound journey; overnight flights on the inbound journey).
Time Zone
GMT +0 hours
Visas (April 2019 update)
A single entry visa for British citizens currently costs US$100 including the service fee and must be obtained in advance of travel. The easiest way to obtain a visa is through Visit Sierra Leone - here is the link for the application form:
https://www.visitsierraleone.org/services/visas-and-entry-requirements/visa-application-form/
On receipt of payment and the completed application form, you will be emailed a receipt and scan of the visa. Present these on arrival in Lungi Airport, where your passport will be stamped.
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.
