Sierra Leone: visa and entry rules

Sierra Leone's borders: every crossing point

Sierra Leone's land border crossings, listed by the neighbour they lead to:

With Guinea: Gberia Fotombu and Kamakwie in the north.

With Liberia: Jendema - Bo Waterside in the southeast, the main crossing in that direction.

There are only two neighbours, and the overland routes run along dirt roads that are hard going in the rainy season.

Lungi airport sits across the bay from Freetown: you get from it into the city by ferry or speedboat, and the journey takes time, so leave a margin when planning a flight.

By sea it is the port of Freetown, one of the largest natural harbours in the world.

Driving into Sierra Leone

Ask customs directly about the carnet and the temporary import period for Sierra Leone. The rules get revised, and what holds true for the neighbours may not work here.

Insurance has to be local, and it is bought at the border.

An International Driving Permit is required.

Traffic police are active on the highways, and documents are checked often.

Travelling to Sierra Leone with a pet

An international veterinary certificate is required, endorsed by the state veterinary service of the country you are leaving.

The rabies vaccination must be valid on the date of entry.

An import permit is arranged in advance with the veterinary service.

Check the vaccination, microchip and quarantine requirements for bringing an animal into Sierra Leone with your airline before you book.

Overstaying your visa in Sierra Leone

A fine is charged for staying beyond the visa's validity and is paid on departure.

The fine is calculated as you leave, and you will learn the figure at passport control. It cannot be established in advance in Sierra Leone: the rates get revised and reference sources disagree. Allow for cash and for time.

Extensions are arranged in advance, before the permitted period expires.

A serious overstay means detention and deportation at your own expense.