Twenty years after the end of the Civil War, Sierra Leone is exploring its tourism potential – and for good reason. Golden sand beaches, cultural and historic landmarks and eco-tourism initiatives are transforming the country into an exciting destination full of off-the-beaten-path experiences.
Freetown, the vibey capital, is an ideal starting point with well-established hotels and boutique accommodations, a vibrant food scene, bustling markets and soft sand beaches where sunsets are picture-perfect. Located on the Atlantic coast of West Africa, the city was founded in 1792 by British abolitionists as a settlement for freed slaves. It has since grown into a buzzing urban centre with a diverse population of over one million.
