Freetown, Sierra Leone: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

Empty Lighthouse is a reader-supported site. This article may contain affiliate links to Amazon and other sites. We earn a commission on purchases made through these links.

Ready to pack for Freetown, Sierra Leone? If you're planning to go to Freetown, this article contains some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Freetown, Sierra Leone

Based on the climate and weather in Freetown, Sierra Leone, the best time to go is January. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Freetown, Sierra Leone

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Freetown, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Freetown, Sierra Leone by month

January

If you go to Freetown in January, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to get the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

February

If you are traveling to Freetown in February, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to get the right type. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

March

If you go to Freetown in March, you will notice that it very dry with almost no rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you pick the right type. The majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

April

April in Freetown can be sweltering. Temperatures average in the low 80s F (high 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains once in a while.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to pick the right type. A lot of adapters currently available are simply plug changers and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

May

If you go to Freetown in May, you will notice that it is consistently hot. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect yourself with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to find the correct kind. A lot of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

June

If you are traveling to Freetown in June, you will notice that it is hot. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Ensure that you find the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

July

If you go to Freetown in July, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Expect it to rain most days. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If going to a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For added protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Make sure to pick the correct type. A lot of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

August

August for Freetown is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures average in the 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains nearly every day this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, get some added protection with a portable door lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Check that you choose the correct type. The majority of adapters available online are simply plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

September

September is hot. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For additional protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Take care to pick the right kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

October

October for Freetown is extremely warm. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains most days.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Room protection door lock

    If staying a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. Be sure to find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters that you can buy are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

November

If you go to Freetown in November, you will notice that it is constantly hot. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For some more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you get the necessary type. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most countries.

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

December

Traveling to Freetown in December, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 70s F (mid 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Sierra Leone has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Luggage protection

    Theft can be a problem, so lock your luggage. We recommend this lock.

  • Room protection door lock

    If you stay in a hostel or AirBNB, protect your room with a portable door lock.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Freetown may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit more peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types D and G. It's important that you choose the right kind. Most adapters currently being sold are simply plug changers and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most countries.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you see the National Rail museum, wear museum-appropriate clothing and take:

Freetown has excellent beaches. If you plan go to the beach, take:

What to do in Freetown, Sierra Leone

Freetown, the capital city of Sierra Leone, is home to numerous, diverse, and intriguing tourist attractions that will fascinate tourists. The city's rich history, culture, and natural beauty make it an ideal destination for visitors who are eager to explore Africa's exciting, exotic side. Tourists can wander through charming streets, view historical landmarks, or unwind on picturesque beaches. Here are the top tourist attractions in Freetown, Sierra Leone:

1. The Cotton Tree

The city's most iconic landmark is undoubtedly the Cotton Tree. Located in the city center, this large, majestic tree is the symbol of Freetown's history and heritage. According to legend, the tree was the meeting place for the city's first settlers, who took refuge under its branches during a storm. The Cotton Tree is an essential attraction and a must-visit for tourists.

2. National Museum

The National Museum is home to a wealth of historical artifacts that showcase Sierra Leone's traditions, customs, and culture. Visitors may take a guided tour of the museum, which contains seven galleries displaying an array of exhibits including the Krio Gallery, which showcases Sierra Leone's language and culture, and the Big Market Gallery, which displays local handicrafts.

3. Sierra Leone Peace Museum

The Sierra Leone Peace Museum explores the country's violent history and wartime experiences. It depicts the events that caused the country's civil war and the efforts undertaken to restore peace. The museum's centerpiece is the "Wall of Names" installation, which depicts names of the war's victims lost in the war's different phases and its aftermath.

4. Freetown Peninsula

The Freetown Peninsula is a picturesque stretch of coastline with several idyllic beaches such as Lumley Beach and Tokeh Beach. Visitors can relax on the beaches, swim in the ocean, or indulge in water sports like surfing and snorkeling. Sierra Leone's fantastic seafood is also abundant in the area.

5. Bunce Island

Located ten miles from the shore of Freetown, Bunce Island served as a significant entry point for slaves to Jamaica, the United States, and other parts of the world. Visitors of all ages can explore the island's history and enjoy the striking and serene views. Thus, it provides insightful lessons into African slavery's untold history.

In conclusion, Freetown, Sierra Leone, is a city with numerous tourist attractions, each more fascinating than the last. Its rich cultural heritage and natural surroundings make it a fantastic destination for tourists eager to explore this part of Africa. Whether visitors are looking for natural landscapes or cultural landmarks, Freetown has something to offer everyone. So, visitors can enjoy a memorable and enjoyable trip to Sierra Leone.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

Check out our guides for these other locations: Gwynedd, Wales, United Kingdom, Falmouth, Jamaica, Moses Point, Alaska, United States of America, Rameswaram, India, Isola dei Gabbiani, Italy, Tetebatu, Indonesia, South Korea, South Korea, Northern Vietnam, Vietnam, Hindeloopen, Netherlands, Uruguaiana, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, and Alphen aan den Rijn, Netherlands.