Sierra Leone

Thoroughly updated by a resident journalist, this fourth edition remains the only English-language guide dedicated to Sierra Leone.

One of Africa's last 'hidden gems', Sierra Leone lives up to its nickname of 'Sweet Salone'. With coastal mountains, secluded beaches, and a genuine warmth from locals who are delighted to welcome visitors, this West African destination offers remarkable natural beauty and rich culture unspoiled by mass tourism. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, Sierra Leone delivers—it's one of the region's best beach destinations and trekking zones, home to Mount Bintumani (the highest peak in West Africa) and one of just three countries where the elusive pygmy hippo can be found.

From the music festival Ma Dengn and sanctuaries for rescued chimpanzees to UNESCO heritage sites like Bunce Island and tours of traditional Krio homes, there's far more to explore than you might expect. Trek through rainforest-covered mountains, search ecotourist sites for pygmy hippos, track rare cave-dwelling picathartes birds in Gola Forest's transboundary peace park, or simply unwind on sun-blessed islands. The country has enjoyed a heartening recovery since emerging from civil war and the Ebola outbreak, with considerable recent investment in tourism bringing new operators, hotels, and improved roads—all reflected in this updated edition.

Although Sierra Leone's complex history still shapes daily life, the country is proudly reclaiming its place on the tourism map for discerning, adventurous, beach-loving, jungle-exploring, and mountain-scaling travellers, volunteers, and international workers. Offering significantly more coverage than any other guide, this is the ideal companion to this up-and-coming African destination.