VISITOR INFO

MONEY

Official Currency:    Leone=100 cents
Current Exchange Rate

American Express is widely accepted and other credit cards are accepted on a limited basis. Travellers cheques are best taken in Pounds Sterling or US Dollars, other currencies incur high exchange rates. It is recommended that you also have cash with you.


BANKING & BUSINESS HOURS

Banking:     Monday to Thursday : 0800-1300   Friday: 0800-1400
Shops:      Monday to Saturday: 0800-1200 and 1400-1700


LOCAL TIME

Sierra Leone has the same time as GMT

TRANSPORT & GETTING AROUND

Air:
There is currently no domestic airline. Private airlines can be chartered.


Public Transport:
Sierra Leone Road Transport Corp. provides a reliable and efficient bus services from Freetown to all the major towns and the prices are fairly cheap. Bush taxis and minibuses also run on relatively short trips between towns.


Self Drive / Hire Cars:

The main roads connecting major towns are sealed, but lesser used routes are in poor condition rendering them often impassable during the rains. Driving is on the right hand side and an International Driving Licence is required. There a very few car hie companies in the country.

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS

Electrical Power

Electric Power is 230V running at 50Hz. The Plug types used are :
Round pins with ground
Rectangular blade plug

TRAVEL INSURANCE

If you need medical care whilst in Sierrra Leone, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company. In these circumstances you will have to pay in full after your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative.

To be compensated you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts.

It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country.