Freetown
Sierra Leone
- Safety rating
- 5/10
- Best time to visit
- The dry season from November to April is ideal, avoiding the very heavy summer monsoon rains.
- Population
- 1.3M
Overview
Sierra Leone's hilly capital tumbles down lush green slopes to a vast natural harbor and some of West Africa's most stunning beaches. Founded as a home for freed slaves, it carries a unique Krio heritage symbolized by its ancient Cotton Tree.
Top attractions
Relax on Lumley and River No. 2 beaches, see the historic Cotton Tree, the National Museum and the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary in the hills.
Getting around
Shared taxis, poda-poda minibuses and motorbike (okada) taxis serve the hilly city; traffic can be slow.