Events & Attractions
Freetown and the surrounding Western Area Peninsula offer a vibrant mix of history, wildlife, and stunning Atlantic coastline. Depending on what you are looking for, here are the top places to go.
Leicester peak View
Head up into the mountains behind the city for sweeping, panoramic views of Freetown and the Atlantic coastline.
Cormorant Garamond is a classic 40 minutes outside of Freetown, Sierra Leone, Tacugama is set high in the hills of the Western Area Forest Reserve. The 100-acre sanctuary is 10 minutes past the historic mountain village of Regent. To come and see the chimpanzees at Tacugama, please reserve a place on one of our guided tours. There are two daily tours available: at 10:30am and 4:00pm, every day of the year.
Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary
Mambo Water Fall
Cormorant Garamond is a classic font with a modern twist. It's easy to read on screens of every shape and size, and perfect for long blocks of text.
Cotton Tree
The Cotton Tree is one of Freetown’s most iconic landmarks. This majestic tree stands as a symbol of peace and freedom, and it has a rich history that dates back to the city’s founding. It’s a favored spot for tourists and locals alike, offering a moment of reflection amidst the city bustle.
According to local legend, this tree was planted by freed slaves in the 18th century. It is believed to symbolize liberation and unity.
Big Markit
Is the oldest and largest artisan marketplace in Sierra Leone, located on Wallace Johnson Street in the heart of Freetown. Originally dating back to the 18th century, it functions today as a vibrant cultural hub and a living museum of Sierra Leonean craftsmanship, making it the premier destination for locals and tourists seeking authentic, 100% made-in-Sierra Leone products.
The National Railway Museum
The National Railway Museum is a remarkable cultural institution located in the Cline Town neighborhood of Freetown, Sierra Leone. It preserves the rich history of the Sierra Leone Government Railway, which operated a 2-foot-6-inch narrow-gauge network across the country from 1897 until its complete closure in 1974. Against all odds, this unique collection of British-built rolling stock survived decades of neglect, vandalism, and a brutal civil war hidden away inside a derelict railway workshop
The National Museum
The National Museum is an excellent place to learn more about Sierra Leone’s history and culture long before its tragic slave trade and colonial past on guided tours. The museum houses artworks, rare artefacts, traditional clothing and even fascinating, traditional full-body masks as well as nomoli, +500-year-old stone sculptures thought to be revered as mini gods.
Banana Island
Banana Island invites adventure lovers to explore its beautiful hiking trails. Known for its stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity, this tranquil island is a perfect escape from city life. Accessible only by boat, it provides a sense of seclusion and peace.
River No 2 Beach
Is widely considered one of the most breathtaking stretches of coastline in West Africa, located just 25 kilometers south of Freetown along the Western Area Peninsula. It is celebrated for its striking blindingly white sand, turquoise waters, and the dramatic river estuary that forms a calm, shallow lagoon perfect for swimming. Managed entirely by a local community development association, the beach offers a perfect blend of natural beauty and local charm, featuring beachside restaurants serving fresh-caught grilled seafood, a vibrant craft market, and options for scenic boat rides up the river into the lush mangroves.