About Lungi International Airport
Lungi International Airport (IATA: FNA) is Sierra Leone's only international airport. Critically, it is NOT in Freetown city — it sits on the Lungi Peninsula, separated from Freetown by the Sierra Leone River estuary. This is the single most important thing to understand before arriving.
To reach Freetown city after landing, you must cross the river. This adds significant time and complexity to your journey — especially at night. Many experienced travellers, NGO workers and field teams choose to stay on the Lungi side and cross in daylight.
✈️ Key FactThe airport is NOT in Freetown. It is on the Lungi Peninsula. The ferry/helicopter crossing takes 20–90 additional minutes after clearing immigration.
What to Expect on Arrival — Step by Step
1
Landing & Health Screening
Temperature check and yellow fever certificate inspection happens immediately on arrival — before immigration. Have your yellow fever card easily accessible in your hand luggage.
2
Arrival Card
Complete the Sierra Leone arrival card — given on the plane or available at the terminal. Fill in your accommodation address. If staying at Yogi Guest House: Opposite Lungi International Airport, Lungi, Sierra Leone.
3
Visa on Arrival (most nationalities)
Pay USD 80 cash at the visa desk. Show your onward/return ticket and hotel confirmation. On a full wide-body flight, queues can be long. Budget 30–60 minutes just for this stage. Full visa guide →
4
Baggage Claim
Baggage handling is slow — allow 30+ minutes after clearing immigration. Porters are available outside the carousel area. Agree a price before accepting help (NL 5,000–15,000 is typical).
5
Exit Arrivals
Exit the arrivals hall. You will face taxi touts and money changers — be firm but polite. If staying at Yogi Guest House, look directly opposite the terminal: it is the building facing you. Two-minute walk.
Getting from Lungi to Freetown
| Transport | Duration | Cost (approx) | Hours Available | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public Ferry | 45–90 min | NL 5,000–15,000 | 6am–9pm (approx) | Budget travellers, daytime |
| SeaCoach / Hovercraft | 20–30 min | USD 20–40 | Limited schedule | Faster crossing, better timing |
| Helicopter (Seacoach Air) | 8–12 min | USD 100–150 | Daytime only | Speed, NGO teams, VIP |
| Private water taxi | 30–60 min | USD 30–80+ | Negotiable | Late night (risky — verify operator) |
| Stay in Lungi (Yogi) | 2 min walk | $30–$65/night | 24/7 | Late arrivals, early departures — RECOMMENDED |
⚠️ Night Ferry WarningThe public ferry does not run reliably after 9–10pm. Private water taxis at night carry real safety risk. If your flight arrives after 7pm, strongly consider staying at Yogi Guest House and crossing in daylight. This is the advice given by most NGO safety coordinators operating in Sierra Leone.
Lungi Airport Departures
- Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights
- Security is thorough — remove laptops, liquids, and anything from your pockets in advance
- The departure terminal has a small café and duty-free shop — limited options
- If staying at Yogi Guest House, you can sleep until 1–2 hours before your flight and walk across
- For early morning flights (before 8am), staying in Lungi the night before is strongly recommended
✅ Pro Tip — Early Morning FlightsThe most common complaint from Sierra Leone travellers is missing an early flight because the ferry wasn't running or was dangerously full. Staying at Yogi Guest House, directly opposite the terminal, eliminates this risk entirely. Wake up, walk across, check in.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there WiFi at Lungi Airport?
Limited and unreliable. Purchase a local SIM from Africell or Orange in the arrivals area for data. Yogi Guest House has Starlink WiFi available for guests.
Can I change money at Lungi Airport?
There are informal forex bureaus and money changers in the arrivals area. Rates are generally poor. For better rates, use licensed agents in Lungi Town or Freetown — or use our SaloneKart forex service.
Is Lungi Airport safe at night?
The airport itself is safe. The risk is the ferry crossing at night, not the airport. Stay on the Lungi side if arriving late — Yogi Guest House is available 24/7.
Are taxis available at Lungi Airport?
Yes, but negotiate the price before entering any vehicle. Pre-arranged taxis from SaloneKart (via WhatsApp) eliminate this hassle entirely with fixed fares.
Need Help with Your Lungi Arrival?
WhatsApp Globe2Me before you land. We'll advise on current ferry conditions, arrange your hotel booking, and answer any questions about your Sierra Leone arrival.
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