TOURS & EXCURSIONS
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BUNCE ISLAND
Our tour to Bunce Island and Tasso Island offers a unique opportunity to explore two historically significant locations in Sierra Leone. Bunce Island is renowned for its historical significance as a former slave trading post during the transatlantic slave trade. The island features several ruins, including remnants of slave quarters, warehouses, and other structures that tell the story of this dark chapter in history. Guided tours on Bunce Island provide detailed narratives about its past, including discussions on the impact of slavery on Sierra Leone and beyond. Visitors can expect to engage with knowledgeable guides who will share stories and facts that highlight both the historical context and cultural significance of the site. Have and insight into one of the most heinous eras in human history ranging from 1670 to 1808. Departing from Ferry Junction, this excursion enlighten guests of the Journey of thousands of Africans across the Atlantic Ocean as slaves to work particularly in plantations of Georgia and South Carolina. The Excursion typically includes a tour of Bunce Island and transfer to one of the best eco tourism sites in mama Salone; Tasso Island, making it an enriching experience for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers. Upon arrival at Bunce Island, guests will embark on a walking tour led by our knowledgeable guides. This will lead guests to significant sites such as: The old fort wall, Slave quarters, Ruins of ancillary buildings, Grave sites and remains of cannons. This tour will be guided by a historian that will ensure a detailed knowledge of the space is guaranteed. INCLUSIVE: Boat Transfer Lunch Tour Guide Complimentary Water EXCLUSIVE: Transportation to Ferry Junction Insurance Tips Extra meal PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes Preferably white top Sunglasses Camera Jollity
$85
DUBLIN, BANANA ISLANDS
Join us on an exciting full-day adventure to the stunning Banana Islands, located off the shore of Yawri Bay in Sierra Leone. The Banana Islands archipelago consists of three islands: Dublin (the largest and most visited), Ricketts, and Mes-Meheux. Dublin and Ricketts are linked by a stone causeway, allowing it easy to move from one island to the other; nevertheless, Mes-Meheux is deserted, privately owned, and may only be visited as part of an organized expedition. Dublin and Ricketts were founded by previously enslaved Africans returning from the Americas, and many of the current people are their descendants. Dublin has about 600 inhabitants, and Ricketts has 200; as you wander around the islands, you'll see wooden clapboard houses, some vividly painted, deep in the jungle and surrounded by mango and papaya trees. Dublin also has two modest churches and a few businesses, but the islands lack automobiles, roads, and power. Mes-Meheux was established as an ecotourism/adventure tourism destination, and it is even more unspoiled, with extensive areas of virgin forests and some wild beaches. We will pick up guests at a designated location in the morning hours and transported by private air-conditioned bus to Kent Village. This journey allows you to see various sites along the way. Upon arrival at Kent, we will board a boat for a scenic 40-minute ride to Dublin Island, one of the three islands that make up the Banana Islands. INCLUSIVE: Transportation Boat Transfer Lunch Tour Guide Complimentary Water EXCLUSIVE: Travel Insurance, Tips , Extra meal. PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunglasses, Camera Binocular, Jollity.
$65
TIWAI ISLAND
Embarking on a tour to Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary offers an immersive experience in one of 'mama salone's' most biodiverse regions. The sanctuary is located within the tropical rainforest and is surrounded by the serene Moa River, providing a unique opportunity to explore both wildlife and local culture. Tiwai Island is home to some of the region's most diversified primate populations, including chimps and the uncommon Diana Monkey. Visitors can see these animals in their natural environment, which provides a unique opportunity to examine their social habits and relationships. In addition, the sanctuary is home to over 135 bird species and about 800 butterfly species, making it a naturalist's dream. The pygmy hippo is one of its elusive inhabitants, adding to the excitement of each visit. This unique species is primarily nocturnal and can be sighted during night trips, boosting the adventure for those fortunate enough to view it. DAY 1 Depart from Freetown around 8 AM. The journey involves a drive to Bo for an early lunch. After lunch in Bo, we continue the trip towards Kambama village. The journey takes approximately 3 hours. Upon arrival at Kambama, board a boat for a short ride (about 5 minutes) to Tiwai Island. After settling into your accommodation on the island, enjoy a late afternoon or evening boat trip along the Moa River. This excursion provides opportunities to observe wildlife such as monkeys, birds (approximately 135 species), and possibly even the elusive pygmy hippo. Dinner will be served by camp staff followed by an optional night walk. DAY 2 We will Start with an early morning forest walk guided by a local expert. This trek allows you to track various wildlife species including 11 different types of primates and numerous butterflies (around 800 species). After exploring the forest, we may have time for additional activities such as story telling or attending a cultural show based on the interests of the guests. Post-lunch, depart from Tiwai Island back to Kambama village where we can explore local culture and heritage sites that include traditional sacrifice locations and ceremonial sites. In the evening, we will return to camp for dinner and rest. Another night walk can be arranged if desired. DAY 3 On our final morning, guests will relax at camp or take another stroll into the forest for birdwatching or monkey spotting with binoculars. After breakfast and packing up, depart Tiwai Island via boat back to Kambama. From there, travel back to Freetown with an option for lunch in Bo along the way. INCLUSIVE: Transportation, Boat Transfer, Lunch, Tour Guide, Complimentary Water, Accommodation EXCLUSIVE: Travel Insurance, Tips, Extra meal. PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunglasses, Camera Binocular, Jollity, mosquito repellent.
$350
GOLA RAINFOREST NATIONAL PARK
The Gola Rainforest National Park (GRNP) is a stunning natural reserve located in Sierra Leone, covering nearly 700 square kilometers. It is located around 40 kilometers east of Kenema and was formally opened in 2010. It represents the largest remnant of the Upper Guinean Rainforest and is recognized as a global biodiversity hotspot. The park is home to over 300 bird species and a variety of mammals, including the pygmy hippo, chimpanzees, and forest elephants. This rich biodiversity makes it an ideal destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers. DAY 1 We will begin our journey by departing from Freetown at 7 AM. The drive takes us through scenic landscapes towards Kenema. We will stop for lunch at the Pastoral Center in Kenema. This break allows guests to refresh before continuing their journey. After lunch, we will proceed to Lalehun, arriving around 3:30 PM. Here, we will will check into the Lalehun Lodge, which serves as our base for exploring the rainforest. After settling in, we will take a leisurely stroll into the surrounding forest or relax at the lodge. In the evening, we will enjoy a cultural experience with a traditional Devil Dance performed by local Gola people followed by dinner at the lodge. Day 2 Early Morning Birdwatching (Option 1): For avid birdwatchers, we will have to rise early to enter the forest at dawn. This is an excellent time to observe endemic bird species such as the White-necked Picathartes and Rufous Fishing Owl. We will then return to the lodge after birdwatching for breakfast and some rest. Afternoon Activity (Option 1): Depart around 2 PM for a guided hike to observe a large colony of White-necked Picathartes (approximately 16 km round-trip). This trek includes observation time and is expected to take about five hours. Alternative Afternoon Activity (Option 2): Alternatively, we can choose a different route that leads us to African Buffalo fields while learning about local medicinal plants and visiting ancient gravesites of Gola chiefs (approximately 12 km round-trip). We will Return to the lodge for dinner after our afternoon activities. Day 3 Morning Activities: Depending on our preference, either rest at the lodge or embark on another early morning excursion into the forest for more birdwatching opportunities. After breakfast, depart Lalehun by 9 AM. On our way back to Freetown, stop for lunch in Bo before continuing our journey. INCLUSIVE: Transportation, Lunch, Tour Guide, Complimentary Water and Accommodation EXCLUSIVE: Travel Insurance, Tips and Extra meal PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunglasses, Camera, Binocular, Jollity, mosquito repellent.
$350
LUNSAR/ROKEL WATERFALL
Journey to a mining town located two hours northeast of Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. Despite its ordinary appearance, Lunsar is home to a vibrant cycling community that hosts one of West Africa’s largest grassroots cycling events, known as the Tour de Lunsar. This race has gained recognition for its unique atmosphere and the passionate involvement of local cyclists and supporters. A motocycle will take us pass some interesting villages to the last village where we will hike to the famous Rokel Waterfall. upon arrival at the waterfall, guests can opt to swim or just relax and enjoy the whispers of the waterfall. Upon returning to Lunsar, we will have lunch and engage in a pottery session before we depart for Freetown. INCLUSIVE: Transportation, Lunch, Guide and Complimentary Water EXCLUSIVE: Travel Insurance, Tips, Extra meal/drink. PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunglasses, Camera, Jollity, Swimming gear.
$80
OUTAMBA KILIMI NATIONAL PARK
Outamba-Kilimi National Park is Sierra Leone’s first national park, located in the northern region, approximately 296 km from Freetown. The park spans two main areas: Outamba and Kilimi, covering a total of 110,900 hectares. It features a diverse landscape that includes savanna woodlands, grasslands, and gallery forests. This unique environment supports a rich variety of wildlife, including several endangered species. Traveling to OKNP involves a scenic drive from Freetown to Kamakwie, which takes about 6.5 hours. The journey includes crossing the Little Scarcies River via a floating pontoon ferry that adds an adventurous element to the trip. Guests can take a canoe excursion down the Kabba River to see birds, monkeys hanging from trees along the riverbed, and hippo pods. There are also camping facilities for visitors who choose to stay overnight. DAY 1 The tour starts early in the morning at 7:30 AM. We will travel approximately 6.5 hours by 4X4 vehicle to reach Kamakwei. A lunch break is scheduled at the Growth Centre in Kamakwie. Upon arrival at OKNP, guests will embark on a canoe ride along the Kabba River. This excursion lasts about 2.5 hours and provides opportunities to observe hippos in their natural habitat as well as listen to the diverse birdlife and primate calls. Overnight stay is arranged in traditional huts or tents within the park. Day 2 We will hike up Karangia Hill (a guided round-trip taking about 2-2.5 hours). This hike is best done at dawn for optimal wildlife viewing and breathtaking sunrise views over the park’s landscape. After returning from the hike, guests can rest at camp during the late morning/afternoon. Another canoe trip is scheduled for later in the day, allowing visitors more chances to see hippos and enjoy the serene environment. Dinner will be served back at camp after a day filled with exploration. Day 3 On the final morning, guests can participate in an early bird-watching excursion before packing up. We will leave OKNP by 10 AM for our return journey back to Freetown. INCLUSIVE: Transportation, Boat Transfer, Lunch, Tour Guide, Complimentary Water and Accommodation EXCLUSIVE: Travel Insurance, Tips, Extra and meal PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunglasses, Camera, Binocular, Jollity, mosquito repellent.
$350
KABALA
Travel to the coutryside and experience the land of powerful mixtures. Quiet and chilly, the northern town of Kabala is arguably best known for its New Year's celebrations, which attract inhabitants from miles around to ring in the new year from the massive Gbawuria Hill that towers over the town. surrounding Senekedugu hamlet is a must-stop for visitors to obtain a glimpse on how a local farming hamlet is run, and eager hikers can access the surrounding WaraWara Mountains and Mount Bintumani from this town. DAY 1 We will journey by driving from Freetown to Kabala, departing at 8 AM. The drive offers scenic views of the countryside, setting the tone for our adventure. Upon arrival, we will enjoy lunch at a local restaurant in Kabala. After lunch, we will have touch base walk in the township before we have a quick nap to set for the night life. We will conclude Day 1 with a traditional dance performance at a local venue. Experience the vibrant music and dance that reflect the cultural heritage of Kabala. DAY 2 We will start our day early with a hike to Gbawuria Hill. This trek is approximately 5.5 km long and takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes, offering low to medium difficulty levels. The hill provides fantastic views over Kabala Town and the surrounding Wara Wara Mountains. After descending from Gbawuria Hill, we will travel to nearby Senekedugu (a short 10-minute drive). Here, we can have options for activities such as visiting local farms where we can participate in seeding or harvesting crops or climbing Len Konke Mountain. The climb is steep (approximately 3 km) and takes around 1 hour and 45 minutes, making it suitable for those seeking a high-difficulty challenge with rewarding panoramic views. We will return to Kabala for dinner at one of its local bars or restaurants where we can enjoy traditional dishes while mingling with locals. DAY 3 On our final day, we will engage in a workshop focused on traditional crafts such as gara tie-dying led by local artisans. This hands-on experience allows us to create our own unique piece using traditional methods. Before leaving Kabala, we will join a crash course in African drumming with a local musician named Medo. Learn about the significance of drumming in local culture while also getting an opportunity to make your own balange drum. Departure: After these enriching experiences, we will depart from Kabala for our return trip to Freetown. INCLUSIVE: Transportation, Breakfast, Lunch, Tour Guide, Complimentary Water and Accommodation EXCLUSIVE: Travel Insurance, Tips, Extra meal PLEASE BRING ALONG: Comfortable walking shoes, Sunglasses, Camera, Binocular, Jollity, and mosquito repellent.
$295
HISTORICAL FREETOWN
The area was first inhabited in 1787 by 400 formerly enslaved black people transported from London, England, by the Committee for the Relief of the Black Poor, which was founded by Jonah Hanway and British abolitionist Granville Sharp. These black people included African Americans, Afro-Caribbeans, Africans, Southeast Asians, and black people born in the United Kingdom. They founded the 'Province of Freedom' and the city of Granville Town on territory obtained from local Koya Temne subchief King Tom and regent Naimbana. The British understood that the acquisition meant their new immigrants would own the property "forever." Disputes immediately erupted. King Jimmy, King Tom's successor, burned down the village in 1789. In 1791, Alexander Falconbridge was despatched to Sierra Leone to collect the surviving Black Poor settlers, and they re-established Granville Town near Fourah Bay, which is now known as Cline Town. These 1787 settlers did not properly create Freetown, despite the fact that the town's bicentennial was celebrated in 1987; Freetown was formally formed in 1792. Freetown settlement and the Colony of Sierra Leone (1792–1808) In 1791, Thomas Peters, an African American who had served in the Black Pioneers, traveled to England to report on the problems of the black people in Nova Scotia. Some of these African Americans were former slaves who had fled to British forces after being emancipated and resettled by the Crown following the American Revolution. Land grants and help in establishing settlements have been irregular and sluggish. During his visit, Peters met with directors of the Sierra Leone Company and learnt about plans for a new town in Sierra Leone. Despite the demise of the 1787 colony, the directors were eager to attract settlers to Sierra Leone. Lieutenant John Clarkson, RN, an abolitionist, was despatched to Nova Scotia, British North America, to register immigrants for transport to Sierra Leone for a new settlement. Tired of the severe weather and racial prejudice in Nova Scotia, more than 1,100 former American slaves chose to relocate to Sierra Leone. They arrived in St. George Bay between February 26 and March 9, 1792, aboard 15 ships. Sixty-four settlers perished on the way to Sierra Leone, and Lieutenant Clarkson became ill on the journey. Clarkson and some of the Nova Scotian 'captains' were "dispatched on shore to clear or make roadway for their landing" when they arrived in Sierra Leone. The Nova Scotians planned to create Freetown on the site of the first Granville Town, which had been destroyed in 1789 and replaced by rainforest. Its surviving Old Settlers moved to Fourah Bay in 1791. At Freetown, the women remained on the ships while the men cleared the land. Lt. Clarkson instructed the troops to clear the field until they approached a huge cotton tree. After the labor was completed and the ground cleared, all of the Nova Scotians, men and women, disembarked and marched toward the thick forest and the cotton tree, while their preachers (all African Americans) began singing "Awake and Sing of Moses and the Lamb." In March 1792, Nathaniel Gilbert, a European preacher, prayed and preached a sermon under the big Cotton Tree, while Reverend David George of South Carolina preached the first recorded Baptist service in Africa. The Sierra Leone Company Directors directed that the area be consecrated and called "Free Town." This was the first Thanksgiving service. John Clarkson was sworn in as Sierra Leone's first governor. Small huts were constructed before to the rainy season. The Sierra Leone Company surveyors and settlers developed Freetown on an American grid system, with parallel streets and wide highways, the largest of which was Water Street. On August 24, 1792, the Black Poor or Old Settlers of the second Granville Town were incorporated into the new Sierra Leone Colony, but they remained in Granville Town. In 1793, the settlers petitioned the Sierra Leone Company, expressing concern about the treatment they were receiving. The settlers, in particular, objected to receiving cash that could only be redeemed at a company-owned business. They also stated that the governor, Mr. Dawes, ruled in a somewhat totalitarian manner, favoring certain persons over others when governing the community. The writers then claimed that they did not receive the amount of land that Lt. Clarkson had promised them when they left Nova Scotia. The letter expressed concern that the company was not treating them as freemen, but rather as slaves, and urged that Lt. Clarkson return as governor. The French pillaged Freetown in 1794, but the settlers rebuilt it. By 1798, Freetown had between 300 and 400 buildings with architecture similar to that of the United States: stone foundations with wooden superstructures. This Nova Scotian-built style of dwelling will eventually serve as the blueprint for their Creole ancestors' 'bod oses'. In 1800, Nova Scotians rebelled. The colonial authorities exploited the arrival of approximately 550 Jamaican Maroons to quell the revolt. Thirty-four Nova Scotians were deported and put to either the Sherbro or a penal colony in Gore. Some Nova Scotians were finally permitted back into Freetown. After capturing the Nova Scotian rebels, the Maroons were handed their territory. The Maroons eventually established their own district, which became known as Maroon Town.
$85
TACUGAMA WILDLIFE SANTUARY
Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, was founded in 1995 by conservationist Bala Amarasekaran and his wife Sharmila. The sanctuary was established primarily to enforce wildlife laws and to rescue and rehabilitate orphaned chimpanzees. Over the years, it has evolved into a comprehensive conservation organization that not only focuses on chimpanzees but also engages in community outreach, wildlife field research, environmental sustainability, conservation education, and alternative livelihoods programs. The mission of Tacugama is to protect both people and wildlife while promoting environmental sustainability. They aim to raise awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the need for conservation efforts in Sierra Leone. The sanctuary plays a crucial role in educating local communities about wildlife protection and the ecological significance of preserving natural habitats. At Tacugama, various species are cared for, with a primary focus on chimpanzees. The sanctuary provides a safe haven for these animals who have been orphaned or rescued from illegal wildlife trade. The care provided includes proper nutrition, medical attention, and enrichment activities that promote natural behaviors. While volunteers can assist with husbandry tasks such as food preparation and enclosure cleaning, direct contact with the chimpanzees is not permitted to ensure their safety and well-being. The Tacugama Community Outreach Program (TCOP) targets communities living near known chimpanzee populations. It operates in seven districts: Moyamba, Pujehun, Bombali, Tonkolili, Falaba, Koinadugu, and Western Area. TCOP works with over one hundred communities to promote conservation education and sustainable practices that benefit both local residents and wildlife. Tacugama offers various visiting options including guided tours of the sanctuary. As of November 1, 2023, daily tours are available at specific times throughout the day. Visitors are encouraged to book in advance due to high demand. The tours last approximately one hour and provide insights into the sanctuary’s work as well as opportunities to observe chimpanzees in a naturalistic setting For those looking for a more immersive experience, Tacugama also features eco-lodges where guests can stay overnight amidst the rainforest environment. Special events such as yoga retreats and storytelling nights further enhance visitor engagement with nature. Support for Tacugama can come through various means including donations which directly aid in rehabilitating chimpanzees. The sanctuary is involved in broader campaigns like the Chimpanzee National Animal Awareness & Protection Campaign (CNAAPC), aimed at raising awareness about Sierra Leone’s national animal—the chimpanzee—and fostering community involvement in conservation efforts. Comprehensive Rehabilitation Program Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary employs a structured five-stage rehabilitation program designed to prepare rescued chimpanzees for eventual release back into the wild. This process includes initial quarantine, socialization with other chimps, and gradual exposure to semi-wild habitats where they can learn essential survival skills. The sanctuary focuses on enriching the chimps’ environment to mimic their natural habitat, which is crucial for their psychological and physical well-being. Community Engagement and Education The sanctuary actively engages with local communities through outreach programs aimed at educating people about wildlife conservation and the importance of protecting chimpanzees. By hosting school groups and community events, Tacugama fosters a sense of responsibility towards wildlife among residents, promoting coexistence between humans and animals. Research Hub for Conservation Tacugama serves as a research center where scientists from around the world study chimpanzee behavior, ecology, and conservation strategies. This research contributes valuable insights that inform global conservation efforts and enhance understanding of primate welfare. Eco-Tourism Initiatives The sanctuary has developed eco-tourism programs that allow visitors to experience the beauty of Sierra Leone’s rainforest while supporting conservation efforts. Visitors can participate in guided tours, overnight stays in eco-lodges, birdwatching walks, and various special events like yoga retreats or storytelling nights. This not only raises awareness but also generates funds necessary for the sanctuary’s operations. Legal Enforcement Support Tacugama plays a critical role in law enforcement related to wildlife protection in Sierra Leone. The sanctuary collaborates with authorities to rescue orphaned or injured chimpanzees from illegal trade or poaching situations, providing a safe haven for these animals while advocating for stronger wildlife protection laws. Habitat Preservation Efforts In addition to caring for individual chimpanzees, Tacugama is involved in broader habitat preservation initiatives aimed at protecting the natural environments where these animals live. This includes reforestation projects and sustainable land management practices that benefit both wildlife and the environment.
$75
GUMA DAM HIKE
The trail typically begins in a lush forest, where you'll encounter shady trees, vibrant wildflowers, and the soothing sounds of wildlife. As you start your ascent, the path winds through rocky silent terrain, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains. As you gain altitude, keep an eye out for various bird species soaring above and perhaps even spot a few butterflies fluttering by. Upon reaching Guma Dam, you'll be greeted by the shimmering surface of the water, reflecting the sky and surrounding landscape. The dam's structure showcases impressive engineering, merging beautifully with the natural surroundings. Take a moment to relax, enjoy a picnic, or simply absorb the panoramic views. The return journey is just as rewarding, with different perspectives of the stunning sights encountered along the way. Make sure to carry adequate water, wear sturdy footwear, sun glasses, camera and grit before embarking on this scenic hike!
$20
FREETOWN TUK TUK TOURS
Our Tuk Tuk tour of Freetown provides a unique way to explore the city’s landmarks, local markets, and hidden gems while enjoying the open air. Our Tuk Tuk tour will take you past significant historical sites such as the Cotton Tree, which symbolizes freedom and resilience for the people of Sierra Leone. You may also visit the Sierra Leone National Museum to learn about the country’s cultural heritage among other historical landmarks. With stop at the famous big market, visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere filled with vendors selling fresh produce, textiles, and handmade crafts. This offers an opportunity to interact with locals and sample some street food along the way. Interestingly, our Tuk Tuk tour may include scenic drives along our coastlines where you can enjoy breathtaking ocean views and perhaps stop for a swim or relaxation.
$55