SIERRA LEONE
DISCOVER AND EXPERIENCE SIERRA LEONE’S BEACHES AND ISLANDS
Explore Sierra Leone
Banana Island is drifting on the Atlantic Ocean. It is made of three small Islands, one of which is uninhabited. Banana Island is known for its historic importance for Sierra Leone’s heritage. This Island was one of the Atlantic posts used for the transshipment of slaves to the Americas. Evidence abound linking the Island to the Slave Trade are visible on the Island. The Island continues to attract both local and internationals for various reasons. If you are interested in Sierra Leone’s slave trade history, then, you have a place to visit. Looking for water sport activities such as scuba diving, snorkeling, game fishing, whale sightseeing, then, you have a place to go. From Kent beach, it takes just 40 minutes on a boat to get across, and from Freetown, up to 1,5 hours boat ride could get you there. There is a small group of Islanders living there. Besides, there are two tourist hosting establishments on the Island.
Another inland Island, few kilometers away from the capital, and where you could be easily transported within an hour or so with the rising tide from the ocean, which meanders its way through the Rokel River. This Island has come to be representative of the commercialization of Africans during the slave trade. Though left with the crumbling walls of the enormous slave fortress, rusted cannons and inaccessible dungeons built to house the slaves; these structures will give you a sense of the immense depravation the Africans were subjected to by the British slavers. Bunce Island history is entrenched in Sierra Leone’s national identity and heritage as it stands to be an attraction for both locals and internationals. Between 1750-1800, Bunce Island was one of the most important slave posts in West Africa. Most specifically renowned for was for skilled and strong Africans who mastered rice cultivation. It was very common to see European ships that sailed around in search for these set of Africans. Already in the 17 century, the Roya African Company had established on the Island. Today, the Island is a famous tourist destination.
Perhaps, this is the only major chimpanzee sanctuary in West Africa. Up in the hills of Freetown and deep in the tropical rain forest lie this magnificent safe-haven for extinction-threatened species. The sanctuary is both part of Sierra Leone’s forest conservation work and the rescue of endangered animal species. Most of the chimps in this sanctuary had either been used for house chores or are abandoned by their owners who used them as pets. In this sanctuary, they are being taken care of by a team of experienced veterinarians and conservationists. The animals are prepared for release later in to the wild.
This inland lake lies in the distant north of Sierra Leone in the mountainous area, surrounded by a vast wet land, savanna, and forest. The area covers over 5000 hectors of land. In the savanna grassland, mammals like buffalos roam about, and many others. The area is a rich flora and fauna and host over 115 bird species, making it a perfect ground for bird lovers. It is believed by the locals that the lake is a magical place, and the environment therefore is of immense value to the locals.
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FIND YOUR TRIP AND EXPLORE SIERRA LEONE
Tiwai Island Wild Life Sanctuary
In the south of Sierra Leone is a protected wild life reserve. This Island has been temporarily placed on UNESCO World Heritage sites since 2012. The island and its environment are well protected by the locals who are very active in the conservation of its flora and fauna. Undiscovered Destination described this place as “a unique rain forest island, where camping allows you to relax and enjoy nature and its wild life”. The Island holds some of the rarest animals on the planet. It is rich in biodiversity and it is home to 11 species of endangered apes. The Island is also the playground for the elusive pigmy hippo, and 135 bird species. Researchers and other tourists are often seen on this Island.
Village Cultural Experience
The best way to experience Sierra Leone is to take a culture trip to the village where you will meet the ordinary people. Every ethnic group in Sierra Leone has its cultural activities, which are very different from each other. From dance, food, art, ceremonies and rituals, you will entertained.
Outumbay Animal Park
This animal park in northern is home to different animal species. It is possible to set up camp in the park, and the people in the surrounding are very hospitable to visitors. You can find 9 primates together with elephants, hippopotamus and other mammals Savanna buffalo.
Bintumani Mountain
Are you an adventurer and eager to climb West Africa’s highest peak? This mountain rises to 1945 meters above sea level. This makes it livable for birds and other animals. Chimpanzees, antelopes, forest buffalo.
Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP)
This is the biggest national park in the tropical evergreen rain forest in eastern Sierra Leone. This protected area stretches over 71 thousand hecters and falls partly in Kenema, Kailahun and Pujenhun districts. The forest is home to a rich diversity of animals, and it is an ideal place for eco-tourism.