What you need to know before you leave...

Passports, Visas and other documents required when traveling to Sierra Leone

All persons entering Sierra Leone must have a valid passport or travel document. Citizens of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) do not require a visa to enter the country. Visas are issued at Sierra Leone's overseas missions.

Visit Sierra Leone - Visa Service

In some cases travelers reside in countries where there is no Sierra Leone diplomatic representation or may require commute to such an office. In other cases, they may be unwilling to put their passport in the post or simply do not have time to go to the Embassy or High Commission.

In these cases VSL can facilitate a Visa from Sierra Leone which can be emailed to you. To find out more please see the visa applications page.

Credit card use in Sierra Leone

Sierra Leone Customs Regulations

Exports: Residents

Local: Up to SLL50,000
Foreign: Up to the amount imported and declared

Import Allowances

a. 200 Cigarettes or 225gr of tobacco
b. 1.136 lit of wine or 1.136 lit of spirit
c. 1.136 lit of perfume

The following items are Prohibited and must not be imported into Sierra Leone:

Firearms and explosives, obscene literature, prescribed drugs.

The following items cannot be exported from Sierra Leone

Firearms and explosives, live animals, gold and historical artefacts cannot be exported.

Health Requirements

A vaccination certificate for yellow fever is required if arriving from or via an infected area. It is advisable to take anti-malaria tablets and consult your doctor or travel agent at least six weeks before travel, on what other precautions should be taken when traveling to tropical regions.

Health Facilities

There are several hospitals and clinics operated by the Government and the private sector which provide both therapeutic and private health care.

The main hospitals in Freetown are

Connaught Hospital - is currently in the process of refurbishment by the Sierra Leone Government.

The Choitram Foundation Hospital - Is situated in the quiet and hilly area called Hill Station. It is currently mainly used by the United Nations Troops in Sierra Leone and has very good medical facilities.

There are other private hospitals and clinics which also offer medial care such as Vinnell, Lacs, Brookfields Community.

If you travel up country the Government Hospitals, Health Centres and private clinics can provide similar services.

Travel Insurance

It is advisable for visitors to take a comprehensive travel insurance covering injury, illness, death, delayed lost or damaged baggage and personal belongings.

Local people and Customs

Sierra Leone reflects the diverse nature of the region with people from different tribal backgrounds. These differences can be seen in the traditional music and performances of local cultural groups. Come listen to the drums of the Temne or watch the dances of the Mende. See the fire-eaters or watch the “Mask Devils” dance.

The people of Sierra Leone welcome visitors and are proud to show off their country. There are few social restrictions though sensitivity is suggested in the more rural areas. English is widely spoken in Freetown though krio and tribal languages are more prevalent in the countryside. Translators are available.

Greetings are important in Sierra Leone. Business meetings usually begin with a formal exchange of cards and introductory speeches. Social gatherings are less formal.

NB: Always ask permission before taking pictures of nationals. In most cases they will be happy to comply especially if you send them a copy of the picture! The government discourages begging of any kind.

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