Freetown, the Islands and a taste of the Countryside

Drive from Lungi to Kabala, departing 8AM. Lunch at Choices in Kabala (or similar). In the afternoon, we climb Gbawuria Hill for fantastic views across Kabala Town and the Wara Wara Mountains beyond (5.5km, approx. 1 hr 30 mins total walking time, low-medium difficulty). In the evening, relax and witness tradition in full flow as Kabala welcomes you with a traditional dance performance accompanied by Medo’s balange and African drums band. Check in to Dakunaia Hotel

Arise early and travel to nearby Senekedugu (10 min drive), with the option of touring local farms and get involved with seeding/harvesting of crops or climbing Len Konke Mountain (foothills reached by 15-20 min off-road Okada journey, then 3 km, approx. 1 hr 45 mins total walking time in very steep ascent/descent, high difficulty) with astounding 360 degree panoramic views – great also for bird-watching. In the afternoon, join a workshop in gara tie-dying, led by local expert, and make your very own tie-dye cloth using traditional methods and inks. Abu will also take you to the ‘Norwegian Camp’ to visit Sarah Kamara and Dugeah Marah, inspirational survivors of civil war violence, to show you the art of weaving country cloth. In the evening we relax in Kabala’s local bars. Spend another night at Dakunaia Hotel.

Today we will pick you up for the trip to Robgbonko Village Retreat which will take around 4 hours. Rogbonko Mathaka (meaning "The Place in The Forest"), is located 30 mins from Magburaka Junction. With no electricity, running water, telephones and little contact from the outside world, you will be entertained by a cultural welcome, meet the villagers and witness their culture and their daily lives. The basket woven at Rogbonko is closely similar to the sweetgrass basket woven by the Gullah/Geeche and this skill is widely believed to have been retained by enslaved Africans from West Africa but especially Sierra Leone. Depart early evening for your trip back to Makeni Makeni is a medium sized town in the Bombali district in central Sierra Leone that is mainly inhabited by the Temne tribe. Many students live in the city as they attend the University of Makeni. The annual international Sierra Leone Marathon (by Street Child) also kicks off in Makeni. Explore the communities around Makeni - while there are not many activities in Makeni you could go second-hand shopping or hike to the Kunshu river. Overnight in Wusum Hotel or Similar

This morning, we head to Kent Village on the Freetown peninsula to catch a boat to Banana Island, for a chance to explore this scenic paradise. Three islands make up the Banana Islands: Dublin and Ricketts are linked by a stone causeway. The third Mes-Meheux is uninhabited. We will be going to Dublin, with its backyard gardens, big breadfruit trees and rare and delightful butterflies. You will be welcomed by the sleepy but friendly community and go on a tour of this quiet paradise. These pristine islands are a wonderful place to experience laid-back Sierra Leone and there will be various optional activities available for everyone, including hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, fishing and or a scenic boat trip around the island. This is an opportunity to have an insightful land tour of the island and set aside some time to explore on our own around this virtually unknown area of West Africa. Lunch will consist of locally-caught fresh fish, prawns and lobsters (all subject to availability). Check in at Bafa Resort Bafa Resort is known for its peaceful and laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The natural setting provides a serene backdrop for relaxation. The resort’s location on Banana Island offers breathtaking views of the ocean and lush greenery. The tranquil environment is perfect for unwinding and connecting with nature. Staying at Bafa Resort provides a glimpse into the local culture and traditions of the island’s inhabitants. Guests can interact with locals and learn about their way of life. Overnight at Bafa Resort or similar.

Spend an entire day exploring the enchanting Banana Islands. You can embark on a two-hour hike to Ricketts for breathtaking views, go fishing with local fishermen for an authentic experience, or dive into the clear waters for some snorkeling. If you prefer a more laid-back day, simply relax on the beach and enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Accommodation: Stay at Bafa Resort or a similar establishment, offering comfort and convenience for your island adventure.

Freetown Peninsula - Banana Island to The Place (Tokeh) via Bureh Beach After breakfast, depart Banana Island for Tokeh via a stop at Bureh Beach where you can to talk to the guys at Bureh Beach surf club before settling down for seafood lunch. At your own time depart for Tokeh Beach via a quick tour of York. Tokeh is a small coastal village settled on the Western Area Peninsula has one of the most beautiful beaches Sierra Leone has to offer. Tokeh beach has a backdrop of lush, green mountains and the old wooden pier that runs into the sea make this place a visual spectacle. You can explore the area or spend your time on the beach or pool area. Check in to The Place, Tokeh The Place Resort in Tokeh is a notable destination for those looking to enjoy the beauty of Sierra Leone's coastline in comfort. The resort offers various lodging options, including well-appointed rooms and chalets with views of the beach or lush surroundings. The accommodations are designed to provide a relaxing and enjoyable stay. The resort features amenities such as a swimming pool, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and bar services. There are often recreational activities available, including beach sports and organized tours. Overall, The Place Resort is well-regarded for its beautiful beachfront location and comfortable amenities, making it a popular choice for travelers seeking a coastal retreat in Sierra Leone.

York is a distinctly Krio village with a rich history though the village also comprises of various other tribes. Prior to the arrival of the liberated slaves, the Sherbro were settled in the area and the village as called Momimi. York village is over 200 years old, predominantly Christian with old churches and beautiful layout and fauna. York is also the rural district headquarters for the region. The layout of the town and architecture of the houses are reminiscent of those in the deep south of the United States, a testament to the early settlers and re-captives who were starting a new life in the 19th century. Check into The Place. Depart after breakfast for a tour of York with your guide. You can continue exploring the peninsula area or return to your resort for some downtime on the beach.

Today, embark on an enriching historical tour of Freetown, beginning with a vibrant exploration of the city's dynamic atmosphere. With a car and knowledgeable guide at your disposal, delve into Freetown's fascinating past by visiting its most iconic sites: Railway Museum: Discover the history of Sierra Leone's railway system, showcasing vintage locomotives and carriages. St. George's Cathedral: Admire the architectural beauty and historical significance of this grand cathedral. National Museum: Gain insights into Sierra Leone's rich cultural heritage through an extensive collection of artifacts and exhibits. Peace Monument: Reflect on the nation's journey towards peace at this symbolic landmark. Maroon Church: Explore the historic church built by the Jamaican Maroons who settled in Freetown in the 19th century. Cotton Tree: Learn about the incredible history of this iconic tree, which was sadly destroyed by a devastating storm recently. The Gateway to the Old King's Yard: Learn about the poignant history of this site, once a refuge for liberated African slaves. Fort Thornton: Visit the location of the Presidential State House and delve into its historical significance as a colonial fort. Arrive at Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary After the City Tour and lunch (not included unless otherwise stated), you will head for Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary where you will spend the night. You will see the amazing work being done by Bala and his team. Chimpanzees are often cruelly or ignorantly kept as pets, or sometimes hunted for their meat. Today however, more than 100 primates find haven at Tacugama, swinging from branches, hooting with happiness, throwing things at passers-by with the petulance of children, nuzzling each other with tenderness of mothers attending to newborns, and picking bugs out of each other furs with the attention of Madonna’s manicurist, even the least animal-friendly of visitors gets sucked into the magic within the moments. Apart from the Sanctuary there are other attraction sites available in this area to occupy your time among which is the viewing of over 100 bird species that have been identified in and around the Tacugama Forest Reserve. Overnight at one of the elegant thatch huts know as the Lodge amid the green forest canopy and calls of the chimps all around.

This morning we go to Bunce Island with a private speedboat, viewing the city from the coast as you go by. Bunce Island was the largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast of West Africa. Founded around 1670, it exported tens of thousands of African captives to North America and the West Indies until the British Parliament finally closed it down in 1808. Bunce Island is left to decay, and although this raises questions of preservation, it does have a certain charm. It is authentic, raw - a painful history that is burying itself under layers of greenery. After spending a couple of hours exploring the substantial ruins on the island, including the factory house, fortification, slave prison, watchtowers, dormitories, storerooms, and power magazine you will be transferred to Tasso Island where you could have lunch before being transferred to Freetown. Check in to Radisson Blu Mammy Yoko Hotel.