Sierra Leone
West Africa
Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa, home to 8.8 million people, with an area of 71,740 km². Its capital is Freetown.
- Capital
- Freetown
- Population
- 8.8 million
- Area
- 71,740 km²
- Region
- West Africa
- Density
- 123 / km²
- Status
- Sovereign state
Population: UN World Population Prospects, 2024 revision. Area: CIA World Factbook.
What Sierra Leone is known for
Sierra Leone is best known for Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Bunce Island and Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary.
Sierra Leone is a country located in West Africa, bordered by Guinea to the north and east, Liberia to the southeast, and the Atlantic Ocean to the west and southwest. The country has a rich cultural heritage, with a diverse population made up of many ethnic groups, each with their own languages and traditions.
Sierra Leone at a glance
- Language
- English is the official language, with Krio being widely spoken as a lingua franca. There are also numerous indigenous languages spoken throughout the country
- Currency
- Sierra Leonean leone (SLL)
- Religion
- Islam is the predominant religion in Sierra Leone, followed by Christianity and traditional African religions
- National dish
- Rice and cassava leaves stew is a popular dish in Sierra Leone, along with other West African dishes such as jollof rice and groundnut stew
- Climate
- Sierra Leone has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: a wet season from May to November, and a dry season from December to April
- Main industries
- Agriculture, mining, fishing, and tourism
- GDP
- $3.94 billion (nominal, 2020 estimate)
- Development
- Sierra Leone is considered a developing country with a human development index (HDI) ranking of 184 out of 189 countries (2020)
Things to do in Sierra Leone
Some of the main tourist attractions in Sierra Leone include:
- Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary a sanctuary for orphaned chimpanzees that were rescued from the illegal bushmeat trade.
- Bunce Island a historic site that was once a major center for the transatlantic slave trade.
- Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary a protected area that is home to a variety of endangered species, including the pygmy hippopotamus, chimpanzees, and several species of monkeys.
- Outamba Kilimi National Park: a national park that is home to elephants, hippos, and numerous species of birds.
- Lumley Beach a popular beach located in Freetown, known for its clear waters and beautiful sunsets.
- Fourah Bay College a historic college that was established in 1827 and is now part of the University of Sierra Leone.
- Gola Rainforest National Park a national park that is home to the critically endangered Western chimpanzee, as well as numerous species of birds and other wildlife.
- The Cotton Tree a historic tree located in central Freetown that is said to be over 400 years old and is considered a symbol of Sierra Leone's resilience and survival.
These are just a few examples of the many attractions that Sierra Leone has to offer. The country is also known for its vibrant music and dance traditions, as well as its colorful festivals and celebrations.
Sierra Leone in pictures
Sierra Leone on video
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Sierra Leone compared with its neighbours
How it sits against the other countries of West Africa.
| Country | Population | Area | Capital |
|---|---|---|---|
 Togo | 9.5 million | 56,785 km² | Lomé |
| Sierra Leone | 8.8 million | 71,740 km² | Freetown |
 Liberia | 5.6 million | 111,369 km² | Monrovia |
 Mauritania | 5.1 million | 1,030,700 km² | Nouakchott |
Ranked 101st of 195 countries by population and 117th by area.
Questions about Sierra Leone
What is the capital of Sierra Leone?
The capital of Sierra Leone is Freetown.
How many people live in Sierra Leone?
About 8.8 million people. Ranked 101st of 195 countries by population and 117th by area.
How big is Sierra Leone?
Sierra Leone covers 71,740 km², in West Africa.
What is Sierra Leone known for?
Sierra Leone is best known for Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, Bunce Island and Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary.
What language is spoken in Sierra Leone?
English is the official language, with Krio being widely spoken as a lingua franca. There are also numerous indigenous languages spoken throughout the country.
What currency is used in Sierra Leone?
Sierra Leonean leone (SLL).
Is Sierra Leone a country?
Yes. Sierra Leone is a sovereign state and is counted among the 195 countries this generator draws from.