Island Paradise: Exploring Sierra Leone's Untouched Coastal Gem

Sierra Leone is home to more than 19 islands along its coast and bay, each offering a unique and picturesque experience. These islands provide a serene escape from the busy atmosphere of Freetown, the capital city, making them an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Mel Butler, a dedicated travel blogger and content creator, describes exploring the islands along the West coast of Africa in Sierra Leone as an unforgettable experience.

What sets these islands apart from many other tourist destinations is their unspoiled nature, as they have remained largely untouched by commercialization and large hotels. Instead, they offer natural beauty and resources, with some still bearing the remnants of the slave trade era.

Among these islands, there are six that stand out as the best when visiting Sierra Leone, according to Mel Butler.

1. Banana Island Sierra Leone:
   
   
   

The Banana Islands consist of three clusters southwest of the Freetown Peninsula in the Western Area of Sierra Leone. Dublin and Ricketts are the main islands, connected by a stone causeway and inhabited by locals, while the third, Mes-Meheux, is a smaller uninhabited island. The best time to visit is from November to April, during the dry season when the ocean is calmer.

Tourists flock to Banana Island for its stunning beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for activities like swimming, snorkeling, and fishing. Visitors can also relax on the beach or embark on hiking adventures. It is a beloved destination for both Sierra Leoneans and international travelers.

2. Tiwai Island:

Tiwai Island is a wildlife sanctuary situated in the southern part of Sierra Leone, nestled in the middle of the Moa River. The island is enveloped by lush rainforest, covering just 12 square kilometers. Only the staff working on eco-projects and researchers reside on the island.

Nature enthusiasts and bird watchers will be delighted by Tiwai Island's diverse wildlife, which includes over 135 bird species and the elusive pygmy hippos. The island is also home to 11 primate species, including chimpanzees and the endangered Diana monkey. For those fascinated by wildlife, a visit to the Tacugama chimpanzee sanctuary in Freetown comes highly recommended.

3. Bunce Island:

Bunce Island holds significant historical value for the Krio people visiting Sierra Leone. This small island, located in the Sierra Leone River, can be reached by a speedboat ride of approximately one hour from Freetown. During the 18th century, the island played a crucial role in the transatlantic slave trade, serving as a major hub for the shipment of enslaved Africans primarily to North America and the Caribbean islands.

The British operated a slave castle on the island, where Africans from various parts of West Africa were enslaved before being transported elsewhere. Although the island was eventually abandoned and left to decay, it has now been recognized as a historical site, with efforts made to preserve it. Today, Bunce Island serves as a popular tourist destination and a solemn reminder of the devastating impact of this dark chapter in human history.

4. Tasso Island: Tasso Island, situated in the Sierra Leone River Estuary near Bunce Island in the Northern Province, is a well-known tourist destination renowned for its Tasso eco-tourism project. Visitors can indulge in delicious fresh seafood at Baobab restaurant while enjoying the beautiful beach scenery.

Various water sports activities, such as canoeing, keep visitors engaged. Additionally, guests can witness traditional masquerade dances and groove to the rhythm of the music. For bird watchers, the island boasts a rich collection of avian species.

Tasso Island also offers accommodation options for those who wish to extend their stay.

5. Turtle Islands Sierra Leone:

The Turtle Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean on the southern coast of Sierra Leone, west of Sherbro Island, form a picturesque group of islands. At low tide, they are surrounded by stunning sandbars and palm trees. The islands are well-known for scuba diving and snorkelling, as they offer numerous coral reefs and shipwrecks to explore. Moreover, they serve as a sanctuary for green sea turtles, which nest on the islands between November and April.

6. Sherbro Island, also known as Bonthe Island, is the largest island in Sierra Leone, situated in the southern part of the country and separated from the mainland by the Sherbro River.

One of its main attractions is the coastal town of Bonthe, a former prosperous trading post that was frequented during the British colonial era for the slave trade. Visitors can witness remnants of its past through decaying colonial-style villas, traditional Krio board houses, and the rusting remains of some wrecked ships.