With her vast array of extraordinary beaches flanked by exotic trees, wonderful wildlife and sparkling waters, visiting Sierra Leone was once a prime tourist location, attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors every year.
The country’s halo has been dimmed by a long and bloody civil war which shattered her innocence and diminished her status as a tourist hub. While it’s taken the country some time to heal herself and repair her reputation, her charms remain, and her people are still as friendly and welcoming as ever.
Now may be the best time to rediscover Sierra Leone. In case you’re thinking of veering off the beaten track and experiencing the charms of Sierra Leone, here are a few things that can help make your trip smoother.
Security in visiting sierra leone
Perhaps against the expectations of most people, Sierra Leone is one of the most peaceful countries in Africa. Violent crime is practically nonexistent in the country, even in Freetown, the country’s capital. What you’re likely to experience are petty crimes such as pickpocketing and bag-snatching, but these can be prevented by being vigilant and being careful with one’s belongings.
However, traffic poses its own unique risk in the country. Public transport vehicles are all invariably in bad shape, yet the drivers seem oblivious to this, with the way they speed, in spite of the bad roads. Walking along these roads at night is fairly risky business, as the majority of vehicles do not have lights.
Health
Medical facilities in the country are below standard. So it’s best to take precautionary measures against diseases such as malaria, yellow-fever, and other water-borne diseases that are very common in Sierra Leone. Pack anti-malaria drugs along with you, along with insect repellents and a mosquito net.
You should also get vaccinated against yellow fever and rabies. The risk of Lassa fever is also present, while HIV is prevalent. Avoid certain parts of the country, and do not indulge in unprotected sex.
Avoid drinking tap water in the country, drink only bottled water instead. Take special care when consuming roadside food also.
Visa Requirements visiting sierra leone
Sierra Leone is a member of the ECOWAS. So visitors from countries who are member states of ECOWAS do not need a visa in order to enter the country. Every other person will need a visa, which can be obtained at the country’s overseas missions and within the country. The visas are easy to obtain and refusals are pretty rare.
Keep in mind that you’ll be required to present proof of vaccination against Yellow Fever before a visa will be granted, and you’ll also be required to present it at the airport when you arrive in the country. A valid passport is also necessary.
People and Culture
Sierra Leoneans are genuinely warm and friendly people. They only need to be acquainted with you to start treating you like a member of the family. Greeting is of particular importance to the people. And they place a lot of importance on enquiring about the health and wellbeing of family members. They love handshakes too.
While the country is not regarded as a Muslim country, she does have a healthy Muslim population. The country is not conservative, but people in the country appreciate modest dressing.
