IziVisas
🇸🇱Sierra Leone
Africa· Updated 06/03/2026
Information
Capital
Freetown
Population
8,700,000
Currency
Leone (SLE Le)
Languages
English, Krio
Continent
Africa
Calling code
+232
Timezone
Africa/Freetown
Area
71,740 km²
Government
Presidential republic
National day
27 April - Independence Day
Internet domain
.sl
About
Sierra Leone is a West African nation bordered by Guinea and Liberia, with a coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. Rich in natural resources like diamonds and iron ore, it is recovering from civil war and the Ebola outbreak. The country is preparing for its 2026 census to support evidence-based planning.
Safety
Risk level :Moderate to high risk depending on areas, monitor official advisories.
Risk areas
Freetown - Urban crimeBorder areas - InstabilityKono - Illegal mining
Crime(Medium)
- Avoid walking alone at night
- Do not display valuables
Terrorism(Low)
- Follow government alerts
- Avoid gatherings
Transport
- Use official taxis
- Travel during the day
Natural risks(Risks of malaria, seasonal floods)
- Mosquito repellent
- Follow the rainy season
Health(Limited healthcare system, under-equipped hospitals)
- Mandatory vaccines: Yellow fever
- International health insurance
Practical tips
- Register with STEP/SMART Traveler
- Passport copies
- Avoid artisanal mines
Cost of living
Accommodation
Studio city center400
1-bedroom apartment in city center600
1-bedroom apartment in suburb350
3-bedroom apartment in city center1,200
3-bedroom apartment in suburb800
Food
Inexpensive restaurant meal3
Meal for 2 mid-range restaurant15
McDonald's menuN/A
Local beer (0.5L)2
Cappuccino2
Water (1.5L)1
Bread (500g)1
Milk (1L)2
Eggs (12)2
Chicken (1kg)6
Apples (1kg)5
Bananas (1kg)1
Transport
Public transport ticket0.50
Monthly transport subscription20
Taxi ride (start)1
Taxi (1km)0.50
Gasoline (1L)1.50
Leisure
Fitness subscription (monthly)50
Tennis court (1h weekend)10
Cinema5
TheaterN/A
Health
General practitioner consultation10
Dentist consultation20
Antibiotic medications5
Cold medications (6 days)10
Others
High-speed internet (60 Mbps+)30
Mobile plan (calls + 10GB)10
Public services for 85m² apartment50
Jeans (Levis 501 or similar)30
Nike sports shoes60
International primary school (monthly)200
Practical information
Electricity
Voltage220V
Frequency50Hz
Plug typesType C, Type D, Type G
Emergency numbers
Police019
Ambulance019
Fire department019
Practical information
Driving side
Right
Tap water
unsafe
Tipping
10-15% in restaurants