Banana Island

Sierra Leone, Africa

Banana Island, a serene paradise off the coast of Sierra Leone, is renowned for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture. The island boasts perfect spots for snorkeling and diving amidst colorful coral reefs, while hikes reveal breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean. Rich in history, Banana Island offers visitors a glimpse into local traditions with captivating ceremonies. The warmth of the locals and the laid-back vibe make it an ideal retreat for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.

Quick facts

Target stay

3-5 days

Type

Island

Vibe

Relaxing

Airport

Hastings

Known for

Beach

Hiking

Leisure

Wildlife

Best time to visit
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

8 Best Things to Do in Banana Island

1

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax on the beach

Experience pristine beaches with white sand and clear waters.

No booking required
2

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Snorkeling and diving

Explore vibrant marine life in coral reefs.

Booking required
3

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Visit the historic slave ruins

Learn about the island's poignant history of slavery.

No booking required
4

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Hiking to the viewpoint

Hike for stunning panoramic views of the island.

No booking required
5

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Kayaking around the island

Paddle through stunning waters and explore hidden coves.

No booking required
6

Est. 3 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Fishing with locals

Learn traditional fishing techniques with local fishermen.

Booking required
7

Est. 2 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Cultural village tour

Experience local culture by visiting nearby villages.

Booking required
8

Est. 1.5 hrs

Year round

Family-friendly

Relax at a beach bar

Enjoy local drinks and snacks with ocean views.

No booking required

Need to know, before you go

Country info

Tipping

No data

Tapwater

Not safe to drink

Safety

1 2 3 4 5

Medium

LGBTQ+ safety score

-10 (#143 globally)

Cost

Cheap

Currency

Leone

Majority religion

Muslim

Language

English

(80%+ speak English)

Best dishes to try

Cassava Leaves

VE

Leafy vegetable dish with spices. (National dish)

Groundnut Stew

VE

Peanut-based stew with vegetables.

Jollof Rice

Spiced rice dish with vegetables or meat.

Fry Fry

VE

Fried dough balls, often served as snacks.

Foofoo

VE

Starchy dough made from cassava or yams.

Phrases to learn

English

English

Hello

Hello

(Hel-loh)

Yes/No

Yes / No

(Yes / No)

Thank you

Thank you

(Thang-k yoo)

Excuse me

Excuse me

(Ex-kyoos mee)

How much?

How much?

(How much)