Bonthe, Sierra Leone Travel Guide

Discover Bonthe in Sierra Leone: A tranquil island city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty, perfect for a serene and memorable getaway.

Bonthe is a serene and picturesque city located on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone. Known for its rich history and tranquil environment, Bonthe offers a unique blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty. Once a bustling trading port during the colonial era, the city is now a peaceful retreat that invites visitors to explore its charming streets and scenic landscapes. Strolling through Bonthe, you will encounter well-preserved colonial buildings and friendly locals who are always eager to share stories about their vibrant past. The city is a haven for history enthusiasts, with several landmarks that offer a glimpse into its storied legacy. The old Church of St. Joseph is a must-visit, boasting stunning architecture and a poignant history. Nature lovers will find Bonthe equally enchanting. The island is surrounded by pristine beaches and lush mangroves, perfect for leisurely walks and bird watching. The nearby Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary is a short boat ride away and offers an unforgettable experience of Sierra Leone's diverse wildlife. Whether you are exploring the city's historical sites or relaxing by the beach, Bonthe promises a memorable and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bonthe.

Visit the local markets early in the morning to experience the freshest produce and vibrant local culture.
Bring cash as ATMs are scarce on the island and many establishments do not accept cards.
Hire a local guide to explore the historical sites and learn more about the city’s colonial past.
Pack insect repellent to protect yourself from mosquitoes, especially if you plan to visit the mangroves.
Try the local seafood, which is fresh and delicious, often caught daily by local fishermen.

Explore Bonthe: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Bonthe

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Gola Forest Reserve

Explore the breathtaking Gola Forest Reserve, a national treasure in Sierra Leone, rich in biodiversity and natural beauty.

4.4

Tropical Island Adventure

Experience the beauty and adventure of Tropical Island Adventure in the Banana Islands, where nature and tranquility await every traveler.

5.0

Sikiş dükkanı

Experience the vibrant local culture and craftsmanship at Sikiş Dükkanı on Bannana Island, a must-visit tourist attraction.

Best landmarks in Bonthe

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Town Tower

Explore the Town Tower in Bonthe, a historical landmark that showcases the rich heritage and architectural beauty of this coastal gem.

5.0

Bonthe Clock Tower

Discover the Bonthe Clock Tower, a historical landmark that embodies the charm and rich heritage of Bonthe, Sierra Leone.

Best restaurants in Bonthe

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Mamba Point Hotel Restaurant Lagoonda

Experience exceptional dining at Mamba Point Hotel Restaurant Lagoonda in Freetown, where local flavors meet stunning views.

4.4

Gigibontà Ice Cream and Pizzeria

Indulge in unique ice cream flavors and authentic Italian pizza at Gigibontà Ice Cream and Pizzeria near Lumley Beach, Freetown.

4.4

Roy Hotel & Restaurant

Experience authentic Sierra Leonean flavors at Roy Hotel & Restaurant while enjoying stunning ocean views in Freetown.

3.7

Sierra Palms Resort

Experience luxury at Sierra Palms Resort in Freetown—where stunning beachfront views meet exquisite dining and top-notch amenities.

4.0

Best bars in Bonthe

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Ruri's Restaurant

Experience the heart of Sierra Leonean cuisine at Ruri's Restaurant in Bo, where every meal tells a story.

4.1

Vicanda Parlour Restaurant

Explore the rich flavors of Sierra Leone at Vicanda Parlour Restaurant, a culinary haven in Bo offering authentic local dishes and warm hospitality.

5.0

DeVillage Beach Bar & Restaurant

Experience the best of Sierra Leonean coastal cuisine at DeVillage Beach Bar & Restaurant, where fresh flavors meet breathtaking ocean views.

4.8

Bonthe Fresh Market

Experience the heart of Sierra Leone at Bonthe Fresh Market, where fresh produce and local culture intertwine in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.3

Best nightclubs in Bonthe

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The Warehouse

Experience the vibrant nightlife of Freetown at The Warehouse, a premier night club and bar offering live music and a lively atmosphere.

3.8

Mamz Beach Bar

Experience the tropical bliss of Mamz Beach Bar in Freetown, where refreshing drinks meet stunning ocean views in a vibrant atmosphere.

4.3

DeCode Lounge

Discover the heart of Freetown's nightlife at DeCode Lounge, a vibrant night club on Lumley Beach offering music, dance, and unforgettable experiences.

4.4

Royal Empire

Immerse yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Freetown at Royal Empire, where music, dancing, and unforgettable memories await.

3.1

Best shops in Bonthe

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Bo Mini Market

Experience local culture and flavors at Bo Mini Market, a vibrant grocery store in the heart of Bo, Sierra Leone.

4.7

Bellah section

Explore the Bellah Section in Matru for unique home goods and authentic Sierra Leonean craftsmanship, perfect for enriching your living space.

5.0

Walters Plaza

Explore Walters Plaza, Bo's premier shopping mall, where local culture meets modern retail in a vibrant atmosphere.

5.0

Bonthe Fresh Market

Discover the heart of Bonthe through its Fresh Market, a vibrant hub of local produce, culture, and community spirit.

3.3

Explore Bonthe on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Bonthe, mapped for you.

Bonthe Essentials

Bonthe is located on Sherbro Island, off the coast of southern Sierra Leone. The nearest international airport is Lungi International Airport in Freetown. From Freetown, you can take a taxi to the pier and then a boat to Bonthe. The boat ride typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Alternatively, you can take a domestic flight to Sherbro Island, which offers a shorter travel time.
Bonthe is a small town, and most of its attractions are within walking distance. For longer trips around the island, local taxis and motorbikes are available. Boats are the primary means of transportation between Bonthe and the mainland. It is advisable to arrange transportation in advance, especially for boat trips.
The official currency in Sierra Leone is the Leone (SLL). Credit cards are not widely accepted in Bonthe, so it is essential to carry sufficient cash. There are no ATMs on the island, so make sure to withdraw enough cash in Freetown before traveling. Some larger establishments might accept foreign currency, but it is best to have Leones for local transactions.
Bonthe is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. There is a local police station and medical facilities in Bonthe. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies on the island where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting local communities. Avoid wearing overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always ask for permission before taking photos of religious sites or ceremonies. Public Transport: Do be respectful and greet the driver or boat captain. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a smile. It is polite to inquire about someone's health or family as part of the greeting. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Bonthe like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Sierra Leonean goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the old colonial buildings and learning about Bonthe's historical significance. For a unique experience, join a fishing trip with local fishermen and enjoy the serene waters around Sherbro Island.

When is the best time to visit Bonthe?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Bonthe

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Bonthe. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloNyaama
  [nyaa-ma]
- GoodbyeLekwe
  [lek-weh]
- YesEh
  [eh]
- NoNya
  [nyah]
- Please/You're welcomeKushe
  [koo-sheh]
- Thank youTenki
  [ten-kee]
- Excuse me/SorryPardon
  [par-don]
- How are you?Oyee?
  [oyee]
- Fine. And you?Kabba. O tii?
  [ka-bah, oh tee]
- Do you speak English?Yu sabi tok English?
  [yoo sah-bee tock English]
- I don't understandMi no sabi
  [mee no sah-bee]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseMi go leh fo look di menu, abeg
  [mee go lay fo look dee menu, ah-beg]
- I don't eat meatMi no dey eat mɛt
  [mee no dey eat met]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [Cheers!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseMi go pay, abeg
  [mee go pay, ah-beg]
- Help!Ndɔlɔ!
  [n-doh-loh]
- Go away!Gɔ wɔy!
  [goh woh-y]
- Call the Police!Kɔl Polis!
  [kohl poh-lees]
- Call a doctor!Kɔl dokita!
  [kohl doh-kee-tah]
- I'm lostMi don los
  [mee don los]
- I'm illMi sik
  [mee seek]
- I'd like to buy...Mi go buy...
  [mee go buy...]
- I'm just lookingMi dey look small
  [mee dey look small]
- How much is it?E dey how much?
  [eh dey how much]
- That's too expensiveDis wan too cost
  [dees wan too cost]
- Can you lower the price?Yu fit bring di price down?
  [yoo fit bring dee price down]
- What time is it?E don di time?
  [eh don dee time]
- It's one o'clockNa wán don
  [na wah-n don]
- Half past (10)Na di haf pas tɛn
  [na dee haf pahs ten]
- MorningMɔnin
  [moh-nin]
- AfternoonAftanun
  [ahf-tah-noon]
- EveningIvinin
  [ee-vee-neen]
- YesterdayDɛn
  [dehn]
- TodayNɔ
  [noh]
- TomorrowTɔmɔ
  [toh-moh]
- 1Wán
  [wah-n]
- 2Tú
  [too]
- 3Tri
  [tree]
- 4Fɔ
  [foh]
- 5Faif
  [fayf]
- 6Siks
  [siks]
- 7Sɛvn
  [sev-en]
- 8Eit
  [ayt]
- 9Nain
  [nine]
- 10Tɛn
  [ten]
- Where's a/the...?Ɛ dey wia...?
  [eh dey wee-ah]
- What's the address?Ɛ dey di adres?
  [eh dey dee ah-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu fit sho mi (ɔn di map)?
  [yoo fit show mee (on dee map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Ɛ go kam di nɛkst (bus)?
  [eh go kam dee next (bus)]
- A ticket (to ....)Wan tikɛt (fɔ ....)
  [wahn ticket (foh)]

History of Bonthe

Bonthe, situated on Sherbro Island, was established as a settlement in the early 19th century. Its strategic location made it an important hub for trade and commerce during the colonial era. The settlement attracted traders from various parts of West Africa and Europe, fostering a unique cultural blend that persists to this day.
In the mid-19th century, Bonthe became a significant port under British colonial rule. The British established administrative and trading posts in the town, which facilitated the export of goods such as palm oil, rubber, and timber. The colonial architecture, including old warehouses and administrative buildings, still stand as a testament to this period.
Bonthe played a crucial role in the abolition of the transatlantic slave trade. The British used the area as a base for anti-slavery patrols, intercepting slave ships and freeing the captives. The remnants of these activities, including old barracks and patrol stations, are part of Bonthe's historical landscape.
Bonthe is rich in cultural heritage, with influences from the Mende and Sherbro people who are the primary ethnic groups in the area. The town is known for its vibrant festivals such as the Sherbro Boat Regatta, which showcases traditional boat racing and cultural performances. These events highlight the community's deep connection to their maritime heritage.
The latter half of the 20th century saw a decline in Bonthe's economic fortunes due to shifting trade routes and the impact of Sierra Leone's civil war. Despite these challenges, the people of Bonthe have shown remarkable resilience. Efforts to revive the local economy through tourism and sustainable fishing practices are currently underway, aiming to preserve the town's rich history while fostering development.
Bonthe is home to several historical landmarks that offer a glimpse into its storied past. Key sites include the old colonial courthouse, St. Michael's Church, and the Bonthe Municipal Market. These landmarks provide valuable insights into the architectural styles and community life during different historical periods.
The waters around Bonthe are part of the Sherbro River estuary, which is rich in marine biodiversity. Efforts to protect and conserve this unique ecosystem are an integral part of the town's contemporary history. Conservation initiatives aim to balance ecological preservation with the needs of local fishing communities.