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Sierra Leone: From Civil War to a Tourism Revival

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Sierra Leone, a West African gem with 300km of pristine beaches between Guinea and Liberia, is re-emerging as a vibrant travel destination after its civil war ended over two decades ago. Despite the shadows of its past, including the 2014 Ebola outbreak, the country is now inviting tourists to experience its untouched rainforests, rich cultural tapestry, and historical depth.

Peter Momoh Bassie, once a child soldier during the war, now guides tourists through Sierra Leone’s scenic marvels for Tourism Is Life. His story, like many others, reflects a nation healing through tourism. The country’s attractions include the white sands of Tokeh Beach and Bureh, the biodiversity of the Gola rainforest, and the heights of Mount Bintumani.

The tourism sector, once dubbed “the forgotten industry,” is seeing a revival with support from World Bank projects aimed at enhancing infrastructure and promoting ecotourism in areas like the habitat of the pygmy hippo. New ventures like Bafa eco-resort on the Banana Islands, started by freediving champion Wissam Stanger Sfeile, exemplify this shift. Bafa not only provides luxury glamping but also supports local communities by sourcing materials and labor locally.

Freetown, the bustling capital, showcases Sierra Leone’s resilience and creativity. Chef Susan Senesie with her Treat Food restaurant offers a taste of local cuisine with a fine-dining twist, while artist Hawa Bangura through The Barray promotes the burgeoning art scene. Fashion designer MaryAnn Kaikai with Madam Wokie brings Sierra Leonean culture to a global audience, training local women in traditional crafts as part of tourism initiatives.

The country’s history with the transatlantic slave trade is palpable on Bunce and Banana Islands, where remnants of that era like forts and mass graves remain. These sites serve not only as memorials but also as educational platforms about resilience against historical injustices.

Sierra Leone’s tourism is getting a modern boost with a new solar-powered airport, visa-on-arrival policies, and the launch of Air Sierra Leone, promising direct flights from Gatwick. These developments signify a hopeful future where tourism can catalyze economic recovery and cultural resurgence.

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