Sierra Leone
Travel tips for Sierra Leone: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.
Cash and cards
Cash is essential. Sierra Leone is almost entirely cash-based, with cards only reliably accepted at major hotels and a few supermarkets in Freetown; travelers highly recommend bringing crisp US dollars to exchange since ATMs are unreliable and have low limits.
Try the food
- Cassava Leaves (Plassas): A hearty, thick stew made from finely pounded cassava leaves, palm oil, and meat or fish, traditionally served over a large portion of rice.
- Groundnut Soup (Granat Sup): A rich, savory peanut-based broth simmered with chicken, beef, or fish and a blend of local spices.
- Acheke: Fermented, grated cassava pulp served alongside fried fish, sliced onions, and a tangy mustard and chili sauce.
Essentials
- Voltage
- 230V, 50Hz
- Driving
- Right side
- SIM tip
- Purchase an Africell or Orange SIM card at Lungi International Airport upon arrival for the most reliable nationwide data coverage.
Etiquette
Always use your right hand for greeting, eating, and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.