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HomeRoad TripsAfricaWest AfricaSierra LeoneSierra Leone
West Africa Coast

Sierra Leone Road Trip

Lungi - Kasobo - Kamakwie - Bendugu - Kenema - Potorou - Taiama - Tombo - Freetown

Expect on your itinerary

Landscape Landscape
Wildlife Wildlife
Beach Beach
Urban life Urban life
Culture Culture
Historical sites Historical sites
Comfort Comfort
Road conditions Road conditions
Sierra Leone Road Trip ACTIVATE MAP Stages9 km1,261 h/stage3.6

Best months to drive

I II III IV V VI
VII VIII IX X XI XII

Road Trip Costs

How much does it cost to go on a Sierra Leone Road Trip in Sierra Leone?

Economy
Low budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,296EUR drive & more 175EUR sleep & more 649EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,040EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 2,336EUR
Standard
Mid budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 1,782EUR drive & more 225EUR sleep & more 1,012EUR eat & more 324EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,561EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,343EUR
Premium
High budget options by car rental, accommodation and catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 3,564EUR drive & more 313EUR sleep & more 1,540EUR eat & more 432EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 2,285EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 5,849EUR
Camper
On the road in RV, overnight at camp grounds with self-catering. In- and Out-bound travel expenses are not included.
rent & more 2,025EUR drive & more 338EUR sleep & more 495EUR eat & more 216EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) 1,049EUR Total (est. for 2 prs.) incl. rented car 3,074EUR
Car rental Book hotel Flights
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Sierra Leone Road Trip Itinerary

The Sierra Leone Road Trip is an exciting journey through the heart of Sierra Leone. Starting in the coastal city of Lungi and ending in the same city, this trip is perfect for those looking to explore the country in a short time. The route takes you through the towns of Kasobo, Kamakwie, Bendugu, Kenema, Potorou, and Tombo, and covers a distance of 1241km. It is recommended to complete the trip in 9 days in order to fully experience the beauty of Sierra Leone. The best time of year to take this road trip is from December to April, when the weather is at its best. Along the route, you will experience the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of Sierra Leone. However, it is important to be aware that the road conditions are generally poor. The Sierra Leone Road Trip is suitable for all drivers and can be managed on a moderate budget. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable adventure!
number of days 9 number of days
route length 1,261 km route length
budget fair budget
good for survivalist good for
traffic direction on the right traffic direction
accident level extreme accident level

START Lungi

Distance 1,261 km Driving time 32.2 h Pace: slow 289.9 kWh Airports FNA
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Lungi is the perfect starting point for the Sierra Leone Road Trip. From here, you can explore the country and its many attractions. Located in the northern part of the country, Lungi offers visitors a variety of experiences, from cultural attractions to outdoor activities. Among the most interesting sights in town are the historic Lunsar Slave Market and the nearby Lunsar Fort. Both sites offer an insight into the country’s history and the struggles of the past. For outdoor activities, the nearby beaches and rivers are ideal for swimming, fishing, and sightseeing. If you are traveling by air, Lungi International Airport (FNA) is the closest international airport. The airport offers a variety of car rental services, making it easy to get around the country. The Sierra Leone Road Trip is sure to be an unforgettable experience. With Lungi as your starting point, you can explore the country and its many attractions. From historic sites to outdoor activities, Lungi has something for everyone.

1 Lungi - Kasobo

Distance 164 km Driving time 5.2 h Pace: slow 37.8 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road accommodation options
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Get ready for an amazing road trip from Lungi to Kasobo! This 164 km drive will take you less than 5 hours, so you can take your time and explore the best of what these two places have to offer. In Lungi, make sure to visit the beautiful beaches, the lush rainforest and the historical sites. Then, you can continue your journey to Kasobo and explore the breathtaking views and the majestic mountains. Don't forget to visit the local market, where you can buy fresh produce and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please check the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your road trip and have a great time!

2 Kasobo - Kamakwie

Distance 63 km Driving time 2.9 h Pace: slow 14.6 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape 4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road camping sites
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Start your road trip in Kasobo, Sierra Leone and embark on a 48km journey to Kamakwie. Along the way, you will pass through the Otoumba Kilimi National Park, a stunningly beautiful place to explore. Take in the picturesque landscapes and enjoy the tranquility of the park. You can also catch a glimpse of the local wildlife, including monkeys and antelopes. The drive should take no more than two hours, so take your time and enjoy the scenery. The journey continues to Kamakwie, where you can explore the local culture and history. Visit the local markets and sample the delicious local cuisine. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, take a hike up the nearby hills to enjoy stunning views and breathtaking sunsets. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the “Itinerary” of this stage. So, pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

3 Kamakwie - Bendugu

Distance 281 km Driving time 9.8 h Pace: slow 64.5 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road attractive landscape
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Are you ready for an amazing road trip stage from Kamakwie to Bendugu? This 281 km journey takes less than 9 hours and is a part of a larger tour. You will be able to explore the stunning scenery, experience the vibrant culture, and discover the hidden gems of Sierra Leone. Start your journey in Kamakwie, where you can visit the beautiful Lake Sonfon. Here, you can take part in a variety of outdoor activities, such as fishing, boating, and swimming. Then, make your way to the nearby town of Lunsar, where you can explore the local markets and enjoy the local cuisine. Continue your journey to the town of Makeni, where you can visit the Makeni Museum and learn about the history of the region. You can also visit the nearby Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, where you can observe a variety of wildlife and take part in a range of activities, such as birdwatching and canoeing. Finally, end your journey in Bendugu, where you can explore the local markets and take part in a range of cultural activities. Here, you can visit the nearby villages of Kailahun and Kambia, where you can explore the local culture and learn about the history of the region. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable road trip experience!

4 Bendugu - Kenema

Distance 229 km Driving time 5.3 h Pace: modest 59.6 kWh View map Itinerary
4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road
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Embark on an unforgettable journey from Bendugu to Kenema! This 229 km journey through the Loma Mountains is sure to be an adventure. The drive takes fewer than 8 hours, so you can take your time to explore the most interesting places. First, you'll pass through the Loma Mountains, where you can take in the stunning views of the countryside. Then, you'll arrive in Kenema, where you can explore the local market, visit the nearby waterfall, and even take a boat ride on the river. This is just one of the stages of a larger tour, and more information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, get ready for an unforgettable road trip!

5 Kenema - Potorou

Distance 137 km Driving time 1.9 h Pace: fast 41.2 kWh View map Itinerary
attractive landscape 4WD recommended stretches of gravel road dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road sections of narrow road camping sites
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Welcome to the Kenema-Tiwai Island-Potorou road trip! This 137km route will take you less than two hours to drive, but you'll be able to experience some of the most beautiful landscapes Sierra Leone has to offer. Start your journey in Kenema, where you can explore the local markets and learn more about the culture of the region. Then, take a short drive to Tiwai Island, where you can find a unique wildlife sanctuary. Here, you can explore the rainforest and its diverse wildlife, as well as learn about the local culture. Continue your journey to Potorou, where you can find some of the best beaches in the region. Take a stroll along the shore and marvel at the stunning views of the ocean. You can also explore the local villages and learn more about the culture and history of the area. Throughout your journey, be sure to take time to admire the picturesque landscapes and take in the beauty of Sierra Leone. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, check out the Itinerary of this stage. Enjoy your trip!

6 Potorou - Taiama

Distance 122 km Driving time 1.7 h Pace: fast 36.6 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road attractive landscape
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Are you ready to take on an amazing road trip from Potorou, Sierra Leone to Taiama? This 122 km journey will take you less than two hours of driving, so you can use the extra time to enjoy the amazing sights along the way. Your first stop should be the Kambama Mosque in Potorou. This impressive building is a great example of traditional Islamic architecture and a great place to learn more about the local culture. After that, make sure to visit the beautiful beaches in the area, where you can take a dip in the cool waters or just relax and take in the stunning views. Your next stop should be the Mabang Bridge. This bridge is a key part of the region’s transportation network, and it is a great place to take some photos and learn more about the history of the area. Your final stop should be the town of Taiama. Here you can explore the local market and sample some of the delicious local cuisine. No matter what your interests are, this road trip from Potorou to Taiama will have something for everyone. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, make sure to check out the "Itinerary" of this stage.

7 Taiama - Tombo

Distance 172 km Driving time 2.5 h Pace: fast 51.5 kWh View map Itinerary
dining venues scenic road camping sites
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Embark on a road-trip adventure from Taiama to Tombo, a journey of 172 km that will take you less than 3 hours. Start off your journey at Taiama, a small coastal town located in the Western Area Rural district of Sierra Leone. Here, you can explore the small fishing village and soak up the sun on the beach. As you travel from Taiama to Tombo, you will pass through the vibrant city of Freetown. Here, you can visit the markets, explore the colonial architecture, and take in the sights and sounds of the city. The journey continues to Tombo, a fishing village located on the Atlantic Ocean. Here, you can take a boat tour and explore the nearby islands, or take a stroll along the beach and watch the sunset over the ocean. Make sure to take in the sights and sounds of this beautiful region as you make your way from Taiama to Tombo. More information regarding attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route is available in the "Itinerary" of this stage. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags and embark on this unforgettable journey!

8 Tombo - Freetown

Distance 56 km Driving time 1.6 h Pace: slow 12.8 kWh View map Itinerary
interesting  historic site accommodation options dining venues scenic road stretches of winding road junction of road trips camping sites
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Embark on an exciting road trip from Tombo to Freetown, Sierra Leone. Along this 50 km journey, you'll have the opportunity to explore the rich culture and history of the region. Start your journey in Tombo, a coastal town known for its bustling fish market. Then, you'll drive through Bureh, a small village located by the sea. During your drive, take time to admire the breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. As you reach Freetown, you'll be able to explore the city's rich colonial history. Visit the National Museum and the Cotton Tree, a symbol of freedom for the people of Sierra Leone. Make sure to also check out the beautiful beaches and the lively nightlife. The drive from Tombo to Freetown should take less than two hours, so you'll have plenty of time to explore each location. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

9 Freetown - Lungi

Distance 36 km Driving time 1.4 h Pace: slow 8.4 kWh View map Itinerary
ferry crossing dining venues scenic road junction of road trips interesting  historic site accommodation options
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Welcome, road-trippers! Get ready for a fun and exciting journey from Freetown to Lungi, Sierra Leone. This 36km stretch of road will take you less than two hours to complete, and the scenery you'll see along the way is breathtaking. Start your journey at the Cotton Tree in Freetown, a symbol of freedom for the former slaves of Sierra Leone. Then, take a short drive to the National Railway Museum, where you can learn about the country's rich railway history. If you're in the mood for a bite to eat, you can find some delicious local cuisine at the markets in Aberdeen and Kissy. Continue your trip to the Lungi International Airport and take in the stunning views of the city's skyline. After a quick stop at the airport, you can head to the nearby beaches for some relaxation and fun. Spend some time at the Lumley Beach, where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll along the shore. If you're looking for some adventure, head to the Lakka Beach and try your hand at some water sports. At the end of your journey, you'll arrive in Lungi. Here, you can explore the city's many attractions, such as the Sierra Leone National Museum and the National Stadium. For more information about attractions, accommodation options, recommended restaurants, and campsites along the route, please refer to the "Itinerary" of this stage. Enjoy your road trip!

  Lungi

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The final destination of the Sierra Leone Road Trip is the small town of Lungi. Located in the Port Loko district of northern Sierra Leone, Lungi is known for its lush vegetation and beautiful beaches. Lungi is a great place to explore, with plenty of opportunities to enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Nature lovers can take a hike in the nearby forest, or explore the stunning beaches. For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are plenty of local restaurants and bars to enjoy. The town of Lungi is also home to some amazing historical sites, such as the old fort, the former British colonial government house, and the old British cemetery. A visit to these sites will provide a great insight into the history and culture of Sierra Leone. For those traveling by car, the Sierra Leone Road Trip ends in Lungi. From here, visitors can take a ferry across the river to Freetown, the capital city of Sierra Leone. For those flying into Sierra Leone, the closest international airport is Freetown Lungi International Airport (IATA: FNA). So, if you’re looking for a great way to end your Sierra Leone Road Trip, Lungi is the perfect destination. With its stunning beaches and lush forests, Lungi is the ideal place to relax and enjoy the beauty of Sierra Leone.

Sierra Leone Road Trip at a glance

Before you set off

The Sierra Leone Road Trip is an adventure that takes you through the heart of this West African nation, beginning and ending in the town of Lungi. This round Trip covers approximately 1241 kilometers and is designed to be completed over a period of 9 days, offering an immersive experience into the rich tapestry of Sierra Leone’s landscapes, cultures, and communities.

Key Destinations and Top Sights:

The journey includes stops in several towns, such as Kasobo, Kamakwie, Bendugu, Kenema, Potorou, and Tombo, each offering unique insights into the country's heritage. Highlights include the lush rainforests near Kenema, the bustling local markets, and the tranquil beaches along the coast. Travelers will also have the opportunity to witness Sierra Leone's diverse wildlife and may even spot the rare pygmy hippo.

Best Time to Go:

The most favorable time to embark on this Road Trip is from December to April, which corresponds to the dry season in Sierra Leone. This period provides the best weather conditions, with less rainfall and easier accessibility to various attractions.

Potential Risks:

Roadtrippers should be aware that they may encounter challenging driving conditions due to poorly maintained Roads. It is advisable to be prepared for uneven terrain and occasional disruptions, which are more common during the rainy season.

Facts for Roadtrippers:

  • The Sierra Leone Road Trip is suitable for a range of driving abilities and can be undertaken on a moderate budget.
  • Sierra Leone drives on the right-hand side of the Road, and while English is the official language, Krio is widely spoken and understood.
  • The country is renowned for its diamonds, and the Road Trip may include areas known for diamond mining.

A good choice for:

For those with a zest for discovery and a willingness to dive into the authentic West African experience, the Sierra Leone Road Trip is a must-do. It offers a unique chance to explore the natural beauty, cultural richness, and friendly communities of Sierra Leone within a relatively short timeframe. With thorough preparation and a spirit of adventure, this Road Trip is set to be an unforgettable venture into the heart of one of Africa's hidden gems.

Facts for safer driving in Sierra Leone

drink drive limit drink drive limit 0
max speed urban max speed urban 55 km/h
max speed rural max speed rural 120 km/h
max speed highway max speed highway 130 km/h
headlights at daytime headlights at daytime on
fire extinguisher fire extinguisher no
tolls tolls no
seat belts seat belts yes

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