Sierra Leone is significantly safer than its reputation suggests and safer than many other West African destinations. The civil war ended in 2002 — over two decades ago. For a standard tourist or business visitor taking sensible precautions, the risk level is low. We live and work here. We would not say this if it were not true.
Overall safety rating
| Risk category | Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Political violence / terrorism | Low | Stable democracy since 2002. No recent incidents. |
| Street crime (Freetown) | Medium | Petty theft, bag snatching in busy areas. Use common sense. |
| Violent crime against tourists | Low | Rare. Tourists are not specifically targeted. |
| Road safety | Medium | Road conditions variable. Drive carefully, especially at night. |
| Health risks | Medium | Malaria endemic — take prophylaxis. Yellow fever required. |
| Scams / overcharging | Medium | Common in tourist areas. Negotiate prices in advance. |
Freetown: practical safety
Freetown is a busy, lively city. The majority of issues visitors face involve opportunistic petty theft rather than violent crime. Key practical rules:
- Keep your phone in your pocket or bag — not in your hand on busy streets
- Do not display expensive cameras, jewellery or watches in markets
- Use taxis recommended by your hotel rather than flagging random vehicles
- Aberdeen Beach and Lumley Beach areas are generally safe in daylight
- Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas after dark
- Keep copies of your passport and important documents separately from the originals
Lungi: even calmer
Lungi, where Lungi International Airport is located, is quieter and lower-risk than Freetown. The town around the airport has a settled, functional character. Hariom Yogi Guest House has operated here since 2025 without any security incidents to report. Guests arrive from international flights at all hours without issue.
Landing late and travelling directly to Freetown at night is not dangerous but adds unnecessary stress. Stay at Yogi Guest House, which is 2 minutes from the terminal, and cross to Freetown fresh in the morning when all transfer options are running.
Health precautions
- Malaria prophylaxisSierra Leone is a high-malaria country. Start antimalarial medication before travel (Malarone, Doxycycline or Lariam — consult your doctor). Use DEET repellent and sleep under a mosquito net.
- Yellow fever vaccinationMandatory for entry. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before departure. Carry your International Certificate of Vaccination (yellow card).
- Water and food safetyDrink bottled or filtered water only. Well-established restaurants are generally safe. Street food is fine from busy stalls with high turnover — avoid anything that looks like it has been sitting out.
- Travel insurance with medical evacuationMedical facilities in Sierra Leone are limited. Ensure your travel insurance includes medical evacuation coverage to get you to a better-equipped facility in Ghana, Senegal or Europe if needed.
- Hepatitis A and TyphoidRecommended vaccinations before travel. Your GP or travel clinic can advise.
Emergency contacts in Sierra Leone
| Service | Number |
|---|---|
| Police emergency | 999 |
| Fire service | 019 |
| Ambulance (Freetown) | 112 |
| Hariom Yogi Guest House (Lungi) | +232 72 120 659 |
The bottom line
Sierra Leone is a welcoming, friendly country. The vast majority of visitors — business travellers, NGO workers, diaspora returnees and tourists — have trouble-free visits. Apply the same common sense you would in any developing country city and you will be fine. We would not raise our families and run our businesses here if it were not a safe place to live.
WhatsApp us directly at +232 72 120 659. We live and work in Lungi and are happy to give honest, current assessments of any specific area or situation you are concerned about.