Travel Summary

• Sierra Leone’s national elections are due on 17 November 2012.  There may be an increase in localised political tensions in the period running up to these. You should exercise caution around large gatherings of people, and avoid all political demonstrations anywhere in the country.  See Safety and Security - Political Situation.
  
  
• A protest planned by local mining company employees in Tonkolili District for 16-18 April escalated on the night of Tuesday 17 April, during which one Sierra Leone national was shot and killed by local police.  We understand that Western companies in Tonkolili have temporarily suspended movements to and from their compounds.  We are not aware of any British nationals sustaining injuries during the violence. 
  
   
• Transport infrastructure is poor. None of the options for transferring between the international airport at Lungi and Freetown is risk-free. You should study the transfer options carefully before travelling, especially if you plan to arrive at night. Foreign and Commonwealth Office staff operate a policy of informed choice using the transport options available.  See Safety and Security - Local Travel (Getting to Freetown from the airport).
  
  
• Strong currents are common at beaches in Sierra Leone and there is no lifeguard or emergency service.  In February 2011 two British nationals drowned in separate incidences at beaches along the Freetown peninsula. Swimmers should take great care.
  
  
• Petty crime is common and violent crime is increasing, particularly around public holidays. You should exercise caution when travelling in Freetown, particularly in the Eastern area of the city and in the central commercial district, and in the Lumley Beach and Aberdeen areas.  You should take precautions and maintain a high level of vigilance in public places. The local police presence and response is limited. See Safety and Security - Crime.
  
  
• Travel outside the Western Area can be difficult, as roads and infrastructure are poor.  See Safety and Security -Local Travel.
  
  
• There is a low threat from global terrorism. But you should be aware of the global risk of indiscriminate terrorist attacks which could be in public areas, including those frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers. See Safety and Security - Terrorism.
  
  
• 22 British nationals required consular assistance in Sierra Leone in the period 01 April 2010 - 31 March 2011.  See General - Consular Assistance Statistics.
  
  
• There are few health facilities in Sierra Leone and medical care is poor. You should take out comprehensive travel and medical insurance before travelling, including for medical evacuation. Most health care providers will expect payment before treatment. See General - Insurance and Travel Insurance.