Sierra Leone Travel Safety

Road safety

Land travel outside Freetown should only be undertaken in a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Other than the main roads (Freetown to Makeni or to Bo), roads are in poor condition and rarely paved outside Freetown. Moreover, their condition deteriorates significantly during the rainy season. ravel after dark is particularly dangerous and is not recommended. There are no operating traffic lights, and most roads are unlit. Poor driving habits, overloaded vehicles, pedestrians and roaming animals pose a hazard. Difficulties may be encountered at roadblocks and checkpoints, including requests for payments. Renting a car and driving yourself is not recommended, as overland travel can be hazardous.

Border areas

Be particularly vigilant in border areas. There is a high level of trans-border military, militia and criminal activity in the border area with Guinea. The area bordering Liberia has been highly unstable in the past.

Women's safety

Take extra precautions in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs in the Lumley Beach and Aberdeen areas of Freetown. Based on the crime situation of the Sierra Leone, women should be vigilant all the time and aware of the surroundings. Avoid dark or non-tourist areas at night. Instead try to be around larger crowds, whether they are fellow tourists or local citizens. Females should be cautious while dealing with strangers and acquaintances. Women may be subject to unpleasant male attention and verbal abuse. Avoid flash of money or valuables in public. Exercise a high degree of caution during travel.

Fraud

There have been commercial and Internet fraud attempts through email originating from Sierra Leone.

Crime

Pickpocketing and purse snatching frequently occur in the main cities. Armed robberies, carjackings and residential burglaries have been reported in expatriate and foreign officials' homes. Burglars reportedly do not hesitate to use violence. Difficult economic conditions are contributing to an increase in crime throughout the country. There is a heightened risk of serious crime after dark. Avoid walking alone, particularly after nightfall, don't display any signs of affluence in public and don't leave your valuables or bags unattended.

Culture

You should respect religious and social traditions to avoid offending local sensitivities. Common sense and discretion should be exercised in dress and behaviour.

LGBT

LGBT travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to Sierra Leone because laws of Sierra Leone prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Illegal or restricted activities

Taking photographs of airports, government installations, official buildings and bridges is prohibited, and laws are strictly enforced. These areas may not be clearly marked or defined. If in doubt, do not take pictures.

Driving

An International Driving Permit is required.