World Country Guide

Travel - International

Note
Travel to areas of Sierra Leone bordering Liberia is strongly advised against. British nationals remain potential targets for disaffected groups. Sensible precautions should be taken and a high level of vigilance in public places maintained. However, the threat from terrorism is low.

Air
Sierra Leone’s national airline is Sierra National Airlines (LJ). Other airlines serving Sierra Leone include Air Guinea Expressand Ghana Airways . Owing to political instability, some flights from Europe and the USA are still suspended or disrupted. SN Brussel operates. The situation is likely to improve. Check with the relevant airlines, the Embassy or High Commission for up-to-date information.

Approximate flight times
From Freetown to London is 10 hours 30 minutes (including transit in Accra).

International airports
Freetown (FNA) (Lungi) is 13km (8 miles) north of the city (travel time – 45 minutes). There is a catamaran/ferry link as well as taxi and bus services to the city. A helicopter service is also available (travel time – six minutes). Airport facilities include a post office, bar, shops and currency exchange.

Departure tax
US$20 (payable in hard currency by all except nationals of Sierra Leone). Transit passengers and children under two years of age are exempt.

Sea
The principal port is Freetown which has services to Guinea Republic and Liberia.

Rail
There are no passenger services at present.

Road
There are routes from Guinea Republic and Liberia, but access depends on the prevailing political situation. Contact the Embassy or High Commission for up-to-date information.