Top Things to Do in Freetown

About the City

Ah, Freetown, the bustling capital of Sierra Leone, nestled by the Atlantic Ocean with its palm-lined shores. This city is a vibrant potpourri of colors and cacophonies, a place where markets brim with kaleidoscopic wares and the scent of spicy street food hangs in the bustling air. Envision the cotton candy skies at sunset as the backdrop of the historic Cotton Tree, an emblem of freedom standing tall at the heart of the city. Good-natured locals add to the charm, always ready with stories as rich as the local cassava leaf stew. Dig your toes into the powder-fine sand at River No. 2 Beach, arguably one of the most picturesque spots on the coast. Ah, but Freetown is not without its quirks; expect to weave through energetic throngs and tackle the occasional challenge of erratic electricity. Traffic here performs a symphony of honks, a dance of daring maneuvers; it's organized chaos at its finest. And let's not gloss over the rainy season – think of it as nature's dramatic spectacle, turning the streets into impromptu rivers just daring you to test your hopscotch skills over puddles. Freetown, in all its imperfect glory, is a city that doesn't just get under your skin – it waltzes right into your heart and settles in for a long, jubilant stay.

Things to Do in Freetown

Munch on Akara

Food & Drink

Time to get munchin' on some Akara! These crispy little bean cakes will have you bobbin' your head with joy while the flavors do a samba on your taste buds. Made from mashed beans, spices, and onions,...

Paraglide Over the Peninsula

Outdoors

Ever dreamt of flying? Well, strap in and catch thermals like a boss while you glide over the stunning Freetown Peninsula. Get that heart thumping and those eyes wide open – you're about to get a bird...

Beach Horseback Riding Escapade

The Unexpected

Ever fantisized about galloping along a sun-kissed beach, sea breeze in your hair, without a care in the world? Well, in Freetown, you can live that dream. Saddle up, amigo, and become one with the ho...

Retro Roller Skating Jam

The Unexpected

Slip on those skates and get rollin' at the rink! Hit up Freetown's local roller rink for a blast from the past, started skating under the disco lights if they have 'em. Bonus points if you can land a...

Discover Freetown's Hidden Street Art

The Unexpected

How 'bout playing detective and uncovering Freetown's urban masterpieces? There's an underground art scene here that's just bursting with talent. Keep your eyes peeled for electric murals tucked away ...

Beach Bonfire Storytelling Night

The Unexpected

Ready for a cozy evening spun with tales under the stars? Gather around a crackling bonfire on one of Freetown's beaches, where you'll get to swap stories, share laughs, and soak up the chill vibes wi...

Embark on a Fishing Expedition at Tombo

Outdoors

Channel your inner angler and embark on a fish-finding mission at Tombo! Whether you're an old pro or new to the cast-and-wait game, you'll have a reel-y good time. Pull up a boat, grab that fishing p...

Take a Boat Ride to Banana Islands

Outdoors

Wanna feel the ocean breeze in your hair and witness island magic? Hop on a boat and set sail to the Banana Islands! You'll slide through the water like a dolphin off to a dinner date. Discover histor...

Beach Volleyball Showdown

Outdoors

Sun, sand, and a whole lot of spiking! Team up with friends or join a local crew for some high-energy beach volleyball. Show off your jumps, dives and serves, all while making a splash in the social s...

Mountain Bike the Hills

Outdoors

Ready to kick up some dust and conquer the trails? Grab a mountain bike and go wild on the rugged tracks of Freetown's rolling hills. It's one part workout, one part adventure, and totally brag-worthy...

Go Gaga for Gari Fortor

Food & Drink

Gari Fortor's like the BFF you never knew you needed - grated cassava fermented into your new snack-time fave. It's often mixed with sugar, water, or oil, forming a base for an out-of-this-world lunch...

Go Market Hopping at Big Market

Sights

Want to shop till you drop, Sierra Leone style? Head on over to Big Market, where the hustle is real, and the finds are fabulous. Buzz through colorful stalls, try your haggling skills, and maybe snag...

Explore the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary

Sights

Swing by the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary and get ready to have your heart strings tugged by our closest cousins, the chimpanzees. This sanctuary isn't just about cuteness overload; it's a haven for ...

Relax at the Tranquil John Obey Beach

Sights

Leave your footprints on the golden sands of John Obey Beach, where the waves whisper chill vibes only. Lay back and let the sun kiss your skin, savor a cool drink, and watch fishermen bring in the da...

Witness the Living History at King's Yard Gate

Sights

Travel back in time as you stand before the King's Yard Gate, where freed slaves touched land to start anew. With each look at the historic entrance, you'll feel a gust of heritage that's chillin' yet...

Admire the Architecture at St. George's Cathedral

Sights

Get your history hustle on at St. George's Cathedral! Marvel at stained glass that's as colorful as a local market and architecture that tells stories stone by stone. It's free to enter but the experi...

Feast on Jollof Rice

Food & Drink

Dive into the heart of West African cuisine with a plate of Jollof Rice! It's a party in your mouth with spicy, tomatoey goodness and tender pieces of meat or fish mixed with perfectly seasoned rice. ...

Chomp on Benna Chinchinga

Food & Drink

Unleash your inner foodie warrior on Benna Chinchinga - skewers of marinated meat grilled to smoky perfection over an open flame, ready to hustle for your hunger. This street food sensation will have ...

Dig into the Delights of Groundnut Stew

Food & Drink

Suit up for a culinary adventure with Groundnut Stew, a protein-packed pot of pleasure that boasts a rich blend of peanuts, tasty morsels of meat or fish, and a spice lineup that will knock your socks...

Krio Language Challenge

The Unexpected

Krio is the lingua franca of Sierra Leone, and getting the hang of it is a challenge worth accepting. Imagine walking up to a market vendor and spittin' some Krio that gets you a smile and some street...