Is Sierra Leone Safe for Travelers in 2025? An Honest Safety Guide

Introduction: My Journey Through Sierra Leone

The first time I stepped off the plane at Freetown International Airport (FNA) in 2018, I was gripped with anxiety. Friends and family had questioned my decision to visit Sierra Leone, citing outdated perceptions of civil war and Ebola. Seven visits later, I’ve developed a deep affection for this resilient West African nation and its extraordinarily welcoming people. During my most recent three-month stay in early 2024, I traveled solo through regions that many still mistakenly consider “no-go zones.” The Sierra Leone I’ve come to know stands in stark contrast to its troubled reputation—yet legitimate safety concerns remain that every traveler should understand. This guide reflects my unfiltered experiences navigating Sierra Leone’s safety landscape, including the mistakes that taught me valuable lessons along the way.

Sierra Leone Safety Overview in 2025

Sierra Leone has made remarkable strides in safety and stability since its civil war ended in 2002. In 2025, the country continues to strengthen its security infrastructure, particularly in tourist areas. However, as with many developing nations, certain precautions remain essential.

The first thing to understand is that Sierra Leone’s safety situation varies significantly by region. Freetown and major tourist destinations like the Western Peninsula beaches have robust security measures in place. Rural areas, while generally safe from violent crime, present different challenges like limited infrastructure and healthcare access.

Current Safety Status (Updated March 2025)

Travel Tip: I always recommend registering with your country’s embassy upon arrival. It takes just minutes online and provides an extra safety net during your stay.

Safety Aspect	Rating (1-5)	Notes
Violent Crime	4	Generally low, particularly against tourists
Petty Theft	2.5	Common in crowded areas, particularly in Freetown
Road Safety	2	Poor road conditions, hazardous driving practices
Health Risks	2.5	Malaria prevalent, limited medical facilities
Natural Disasters	3.5	Flooding during rainy season (May-October)
Political Stability	3.5	Generally stable with occasional demonstrations

In February 2024, Sierra Leone implemented a new tourist police unit in Freetown and major beach areas, significantly improving visitor security. These officers speak English and are specifically trained to assist travelers—a welcome development I personally noticed on my last visit.

Major Safety Concerns for Travelers

Crime Situation

Violent crime targeting tourists is relatively rare in Sierra Leone, but petty theft does occur. During my second visit, I made the mistake of walking through Freetown’s busy East End markets with my phone visible, and it was quickly snatched. Since then, I’ve kept valuables hidden and haven’t experienced any issues.

Areas with higher crime rates include:

Parts of eastern Freetown, particularly at night
Crowded markets like Dove Cot and King Jimmy
Aberdeen Junction after dark
Some areas of Bo and Kenema city centers

When exploring markets, I now use a money belt under my clothing and keep only small amounts of cash in my pockets. The local expression “tengeh lɛ” (be careful) is advice I’ve taken to heart.

Health and Medical Concerns

Health risks probably represent the most significant safety concern in Sierra Leone:

Malaria: Present year-round and potentially dangerous. I take prophylaxis medication and never skip using mosquito repellent.
Water safety: Tap water isn’t safe to drink. I use bottled water even for brushing teeth.
Limited medical facilities: Quality healthcare is scarce. For anything serious, evacuation may be necessary.
Tropical diseases: Beyond malaria, risks include typhoid, hepatitis, and yellow fever.

During my 2022 visit, I contracted typhoid despite being careful with food and water. The nearest adequate hospital was hours away, and treatment options were limited. Since then, I always carry a comprehensive medical kit and maintain emergency evacuation insurance.

Money-Saving Health Tip: Rather than buying expensive bottled water daily, I bring a high-quality water purifier (like LifeStraw) that’s paid for itself many times over while reducing plastic waste.

Road and Transportation Safety

Sierra Leone’s roads range from challenging to downright dangerous. Outside major highways, most roads are unpaved, poorly maintained, and become nearly impassable during the rainy season. Even in Freetown, traffic can be chaotic with minimal adherence to rules.

My worst experience came when I hired a cheap motorcycle taxi (okada) in Bo. The driver took unnecessary risks, and we narrowly avoided a serious accident. Now I only use recommended drivers from established services like Easy Ride SL, even though they cost more.

For longer journeys between cities, I recommend:

Using established companies like Sierra Leone Road Transport Corporation buses
Hiring private drivers through your accommodation
Avoiding night travel completely
Being prepared for military/police checkpoints (keep passport accessible)

Region-by-Region Safety Assessment

Freetown and the Western Area

Freetown feels like two different cities. The western areas (Aberdeen, Lumley, Hill Station) are relatively safe with increased police presence and better infrastructure. Eastern Freetown requires more caution, particularly after dark.

The beaches of the Western Peninsula, such as River No. 2 and Tokeh Beach, are generally safe during daylight hours. I’ve spent countless afternoons at these beaches without incident, but I always leave before sunset and use transportation arranged by my accommodation.

Provincial Areas: Bo, Kenema, and Makeni

The provincial cities are generally welcoming to visitors but have fewer tourist facilities. Bo and Kenema have decent hotel options with security. Makeni has developed significantly since I first visited in 2018, with improved roads and accommodations.

In these areas, it’s wise to:

Arrange accommodation in advance
Avoid displaying wealth or expensive electronics
Use local guides when exploring (they’re affordable and enhance your experience)
Be prepared for limited ATM access and internet connectivity

Rural Areas and National Parks

Rural Sierra Leone offers authentic cultural experiences but requires thoughtful preparation. Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary and Outamba-Kilimi National Park are incredible destinations that showcase Sierra Leone’s biodiversity, but their remote locations mean self-sufficiency is essential.

My visit to Tiwai Island in 2023 revealed both its beauty and challenges—limited communication, basic accommodations, and considerable distance from medical facilities. The experience was unforgettable but underscored the importance of preparation.

Special Safety Considerations

Women Traveling in Sierra Leone

Female friends who’ve visited Sierra Leone at my recommendation report generally respectful treatment, though street harassment occasionally occurs in urban areas. Sierra Leonean culture tends to be conservative, particularly outside Freetown.

Women travelers should consider:

Dressing modestly, especially outside beach areas
Being firm but polite when declining unwanted attention
Using established transportation rather than walking alone at night
Connecting with local women’s networks through accommodations or tourism offices

LGBTQ+ Travelers

This is an area requiring significant caution. Same-sex relations remain criminalized in Sierra Leone, though the laws are rarely enforced against visitors. LGBTQ+ travelers typically won’t face issues if they’re discreet about their relationships in public.

The term “kusheh” (hello/how are you) opens many doors in Sierra Leone, but cultural sensitivity is essential regarding LGBTQ+ issues. Public displays of affection are generally uncommon even for heterosexual couples.

Post-Pandemic Adjustments

Sierra Leone’s COVID-19 measures have largely been lifted by 2025, but the pandemic left lasting economic impacts. Increased economic hardship has led to more persistent hustling in tourist areas, particularly around Lumley Beach and Aberdeen in Freetown.

The pandemic prompted improvements in the healthcare system, with better infectious disease protocols now in place, though facilities remain limited compared to Western standards.

Financial Safety and Money-Saving Tips

Currency and Payment Issues

Sierra Leone uses the Leone (SLL), which underwent redenomination in 2022 (removing three zeros from the old Leone). Cash remains king in most of the country, with limited credit card acceptance even in upscale establishments.

Insider Money Tip #1: Exchange rates at the airport are notoriously poor. I change just enough for immediate needs (taxi, first night) and then use forex bureaus in central Freetown for better rates—particularly those near Siaka Stevens Street.

ATMs are mainly limited to Freetown, Bo, and Kenema. Many frequently run out of cash, especially on weekends. I always bring a backup emergency fund in USD or EUR cash, well-hidden in my luggage.

Price Negotiations and Avoiding Scams

The “foreigner price” is a reality throughout Sierra Leone. My first time at Freetown’s Big Market, I paid triple what something was worth before learning the art of negotiation.

Insider Money Tip #2: When negotiating, use the phrase “A no get plenty money” (I don’t have much money) good-naturedly, followed by offering roughly 40% of the initial asking price. This usually leads to a fair middle ground and often earns respect for your cultural awareness.

Common financial scams to avoid include:

Unofficial “guides” who demand payment after following you
Money changers offering suspiciously good rates (often using counterfeit notes)
Overcharging for boat trips to Banana Island and other attractions
“Special fees” at checkpoints (always ask for official receipts)

Insider Money Tip #3: For longer stays, I connect with local university students seeking English practice. They gain language experience, and I get authentic cultural insights and companionship that prevents me from being targeted as an isolated tourist. The Sierra Leone Tourism Facebook group is a great place to make these connections.

Practical Safety Tips and Precautions

Essential Preparations Before Travel

Vaccinations: Yellow fever (required), typhoid, hepatitis A/B, meningitis, rabies
Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage
Medications: Full course of malaria prophylaxis plus backup treatments
Documentation: Multiple photocopies of passport, visa, and insurance
Contacts: Embassy information, local emergency numbers, hotel details

Daily Safety Habits

My years of Sierra Leone travel have taught me these essential safety practices:

Maintain a low profile regarding valuables and wealth
Use reputable transportation arranged through accommodations
Stay hydrated but only consume treated/bottled water
Apply mosquito repellent religiously, especially at dawn and dusk
Share itinerary details with your accommodation and trusted contacts

Emergency Resources

Emergency services in Sierra Leone are limited. The most reliable emergency contacts are:

Service	Contact	Notes
Police Emergency	999 or 019	Response times vary significantly
Tourist Police (Freetown)	+232 76 223344	English-speaking officers
Choithram Memorial Hospital	+232 76 611100	Best private hospital in Freetown
US Embassy	+232 99 105000	24-hour emergency line for US citizens
UK High Commission	+232 76 541983	Emergency assistance for British nationals

Conclusion: Is Sierra Leone Right For You?

Sierra Leone is not for every traveler. If you require high-end infrastructure, seamless transportation, and Western medical standards, it may challenge your comfort level. However, if you appreciate authentic cultural experiences, stunning untouched beaches, and warm hospitality—while accepting a certain level of risk and inconvenience—you’ll find it immensely rewarding.

The smell of fresh fish grilling on Lumley Beach at sunset, the sound of children practicing English phrases as you pass through villages, the taste of perfectly spiced cassava leaf stew—these sensory experiences create connections that outweigh the challenges for the right traveler.

Your 5-Step Action Plan for Safe Travel to Sierra Leone

Prepare thoroughly: Complete all medical preparations at least 6 weeks before departure, including vaccinations and malaria prophylaxis.
Connect in advance: Join online Sierra Leone travel groups to find recent firsthand experiences and potential local contacts.
Book strategically: Reserve accommodation with strong security and transportation assistance, especially for your first visit.
Start in familiar territory: Spend your first days in Freetown’s western areas before venturing to more remote regions.
Build relationships: The greatest safety asset in Sierra Leone is connections with locals who can provide guidance and assistance.

Sierra Leone offers incredible rewards for travelers willing to step outside their comfort zone. With appropriate preparation and realistic expectations, the safety risks can be managed effectively, allowing you to experience a country whose tourism potential far outshines its challenging reputation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sierra Leone still dangerous because of the civil war?

No. Sierra Leone’s civil war ended in 2002, and the country has maintained peace for over two decades. While economic challenges remain, the conflict-related dangers are long past. Most Sierra Leoneans are eager to move beyond this chapter of their history.

Do I need to worry about Ebola in Sierra Leone?

Sierra Leone has been Ebola-free since 2016. The 2014-2015 outbreak prompted significant improvements in disease surveillance and response capabilities. The country now has better systems to monitor and contain infectious diseases.

What are the most dangerous areas to avoid in Sierra Leone?

Eastern Freetown areas like Kissy and Wellington have higher crime rates, especially after dark. Border regions with Guinea and Liberia have occasional security incidents but are rarely visited by tourists. Most security concerns are crime-related rather than involving violence.

Is it safe to swim at Sierra Leone’s beaches?

Many beaches are suitable for swimming, but strong currents exist at some locations. River No. 2 Beach and Tokeh are generally safer for swimming. Always ask locals about current conditions and never swim alone. Avoid swimming after heavy rainfall when water quality may be compromised.

How safe is Sierra Leone for solo female travelers?

Solo female travelers can visit Sierra Leone safely with proper precautions. Harassment typically doesn’t go beyond verbal comments, but women should dress modestly outside beach areas and maintain awareness in public spaces. Connecting with local women’s networks provides valuable support and cultural insights.

What happens if I get seriously ill in Sierra Leone?

Medical facilities are limited throughout the country. For serious conditions, medical evacuation to Europe or neighboring countries with better healthcare may be necessary. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is essential for all visitors.

Is Sierra Leone safe during elections or political events?

Elections and political demonstrations occasionally lead to localized unrest. The 2023 elections saw some protests in Freetown, but tourist areas remained largely unaffected. It’s advisable to avoid political gatherings and monitor local news during sensitive periods.