4 Tourist Spots in Freetown, the Capital of Sierra Leone, a Country on the West Coast of Africa

Have you heard of the Republic of Sierra Leone, a country located in the western part of West Africa? It was once a British colony but is now an independent nation and a member of the Commonwealth. Due to a civil war that lasted more than 10 years, many buildings were destroyed and infrastructure and sanitation are not fully developed, which has led to it being known as the country with the shortest life expectancy in the world.

Sierra Leone is a minor destination for travelers in Asia, but Freetown, the capital, has well-maintained facilities for tourists so you can travel with peace of mind. In addition, Freetown is rapidly growing and is known as one of the world’s top diamond mining nations. Here, we introduce 4 carefully selected recommended tourist spots in Freetown!

1. Cotton Tree

While strolling downtown Freetown, you will suddenly come across a large tree that appears with a bang – this is the Cotton Tree. Tourists visiting Freetown are often amazed at the suddenly appearing large tree with its wide-spreading branches.

Since the Cotton Tree is very conspicuous even from afar, it has become a symbol of Freetown. It is surprisingly an old tree said to have taken root in Freetown since 1792. Freetown was established when freed slaves from English-speaking countries such as Jamaica and the United States, liberated during the British slave emancipation movement at the end of the 18th century, migrated here. The Cotton Tree has witnessed the changing cityscape of Freetown for almost 200 years. It naturally endears itself to visitors.

2. Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is one of Africa’s leading chimpanzee sanctuaries, and because you can see the chimpanzees up close, it is a popular tourist spot in Freetown.

Surrounded by trees like a jungle and set in a naturally rich landscape, the sanctuary also offers accommodation with eco-friendly thatched-roof lodges to enhance the African atmosphere. Unlike in Freetown, both the restrooms and lodges here are exceptionally clean! When visiting Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, it is recommended not to go just for a day trip but to stay for a few days. You can enjoy various activities such as hiking and yoga!

There is also a spot where you can enjoy a barbecue, so your appetite will be fully satisfied. Being enveloped by nature and able to relax in an atmosphere different from the hustle and bustle of downtown Freetown, this is the perfect spot for a change of pace.

3. John Obey Beach

Among the several beaches near Freetown, John Obey Beach is said to be particularly beautiful. Surrounded by forests and located in a place with abundant nature, it is a hidden gem tourist spot with clear, beautiful sea water and very few tourists!

Enclosed by trees, it has an atmosphere that is like paradise, distinctly different from the hustle and bustle of Freetown, and perfectly suited for a vacation mood. Since it is a nature-rich spot, you can also enjoy hiking!

There are also nearby restaurants offering delicious barbecue and fresh seafood. In addition, there are hotels around, which are rare in the Freetown area, featuring clean showers with running water and spotless toilets, as well as proper mosquito nets, so you can enjoy your visit comfortably without worrying about insect bites!

4. National Railway Museum of Sierra Leone

One of the museums you should visit when in Freetown is the National Railway Museum of Sierra Leone. Exhibiting the railways that once ran in Sierra Leone, you can learn about the history of transportation in the country. With its colorful and charming display of trains, it is an attraction that can be enjoyed by both train enthusiasts and those who are not.

There are exhibits of engine models and explanations of how trains operate, which are very educational. In addition, there are tour guides to show visitors around, further deepening your knowledge. The guides are known to be very friendly and well-regarded.

Not only do they explain about the railways, but they also carefully share the history of Freetown. Once you get to know Freetown deeply, you will love the city even more!

This compact museum is a tourist spot where both adults and children can enjoy, making it perfect for a family outing!

◎ Summary

How was it? We introduced 4 recommended tourist spots in Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. For travelers from Asia, Freetown may be a somewhat minor city as a travel destination, but the people are warm and the city is extremely comfortable! Why not take your time and explore Freetown in depth?

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4 Tourist Spots in Freetown, the Capital of Sierra Leone, a Country on the West Coast of Africa