When researching Sierra Leone online, the same destinations come up time and time again. Our wonderful capital Freetown with its vibrant urban atmosphere, the stunning beaches of the Freetown Peninsula, and places like Tiwai Island and Tacugama, probably the easiest nature escapes from the big city.Guess what, though. Sierra Leone is not only renowned for its beaches and culture, but also for its hidden gems tucked away off the beaten path. If you are the kind of traveler that doesn’t mind a little discomfort ever so often while seeking unique and authentic experiences, here are some amazing off-the-beaten-path destinations to visit in Sierra Leone:
Top Attractions in Sierra Leone off the Beaten Path
1. Outamba-Kilimi National Park
Tucked away in Sierra Leone’s remote northern region, Outamba-Kilimi National Park is a hidden gem for adventurous travelers that really want to be immersed in nature. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants, elusive pygmy hippos, and various species of primates like the chimpanzees, sooty mangabeys and colobus monkeys.
Visitors can explore the park’s lush forests, meandering rivers, and rugged terrain through guided hiking and camping expeditions. You can go on river safaris at sunset or even at night for optimum chances of spotting wildlife, or go hiking to the top of Karangia Hill, a great sunset viewpoint.
2. Turtle Islands
Located off the southern coast of Sierra Leone, the eight Turtle Islands offer a secluded and idyllic escape from the mainland. These remote islands are renowned for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life.Getting there is half the fun, involving either a long journey by boat from the Banana Islands, or a combo of jeep and ferry to Sherbro Island plus a final boat crossing. You’ll be rewarded with a real castaway atmosphere, with no one in sight save for some local villagers. There’s a small beach guesthouse or you can opt for beach camping – it’s one of the best places in Sierra Leone for that!
3. Loma Mountains
The Loma Mountains, located in the northeastern part of Sierra Leone, are a hidden gem for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers.This rugged region is home to diverse ecosystems, including dense forests, rolling hills, mountain peaks and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can embark on challenging hikes, including the one to the summit of Mount Bintumani, the highest peak in Sierra Leone – which may sound diminutive at just 1945 meters, but it’s a real challenge! It’s also possible to explore hidden valleys and villages nestled among the mountains, the perfect opportunity to experience the beauty and tranquility of Sierra Leone’s wilderness, away from the beaten path.
