Complete Lungi Airport Guide 2026 Arrivals Transport and Tips

Everything about Lungi International Airport FNA. Arrivals process, visa on arrival, transport to Freetown by ferry or water taxi, money, SIM cards and accommodation.

Lungi Airport: The Essential Context

Lungi International Airport (IATA: FNA) is Sierra Leone's only international airport. Its location on the north bank of the Sierra Leone River estuary — separated from Freetown by several kilometres of water — means every arrival must make a water crossing to reach the capital. Planning this crossing is the most important logistics decision of any Sierra Leone trip.

Arrivals Process Step by Step

1. Deplane: Walk to the compact arrivals building
2. Immigration: Visa on arrival queue — have USD 80 cash, yellow card, return ticket, hotel confirmation ready. 15-45 minutes.
3. Baggage claim: Collect luggage. Tip porters NLe 10–20 if used.
4. Customs: Standard checks. Declare professional equipment if applicable.
5. Exit to Lungi: You are now in Lungi town.

Getting to Freetown

Government Ferry: USD 2-5. Journey 45-90 min. Runs approx 6am-6pm. Cancellations possible.

Water Taxi (speedboat): USD 20-50. Journey 20-30 min. More reliable. Daylight hours.

Helicopter: USD 80-150+. Journey 10 min. Premium, book ahead.

Late Night Arrivals

Ferries and water taxis do not run after approximately 6-7pm. If your flight arrives late, stay overnight in Lungi and cross to Freetown fresh in the morning. Hariom Yogi Guest House is the established choice for this scenario — used regularly by hundreds of NGO workers and business travellers.

Money and SIM at Lungi

No reliable ATMs in Lungi. Bring USD cash sufficient for 24-48 hours. SIM cards (Africell and Orange) available from vendors near the airport exit. Africell recommended for data quality.