Turtle Islands, Sierra Leone Travel Guide

Discover the Turtle Islands in Sierra Leone: A secluded paradise with crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and rich marine life. Perfect for eco-tourism enthusiasts.

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Turtle Islands

The Turtle Islands, located off the coast of Sierra Leone, are a group of eight idyllic islands known for their untouched beauty and serene environment. These islands are perfect for travelers seeking a secluded getaway, far from the hustle and bustle of city life. The crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and lush greenery offer a picturesque landscape that is both relaxing and rejuvenating. Visitors to the Turtle Islands can enjoy a range of activities, from snorkeling and fishing to exploring the local culture. The waters surrounding the islands are teeming with marine life, making it a haven for snorkeling enthusiasts. Fishing is also a popular activity, with local fishermen often willing to share their traditional techniques with visitors. For those interested in cultural experiences, the islands are home to small fishing communities that welcome visitors with warm hospitality. One of the most unique aspects of the Turtle Islands is their commitment to eco-tourism. The local communities work hard to preserve their natural environment and promote sustainable tourism practices. This dedication ensures that the islands remain a pristine paradise for future generations to enjoy. Whether you're looking for adventure or relaxation, the Turtle Islands offer an unforgettable experience that captures the essence of Sierra Leone's natural beauty.

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Bring cash as there are no ATMs or card facilities on the islands.
Pack eco-friendly sunscreen to protect the marine life.
Respect local customs and traditions when visiting the fishing communities.
Arrange transportation in advance, as getting to the islands can be tricky.
Carry basic medical supplies, as healthcare facilities are limited.

Explore Turtle Islands: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

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

Best attractions in Turtle Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Sherbro Island

Explore the pristine beaches, rich culture, and stunning landscapes of Sherbro Island, a hidden gem in Sierra Leone that promises unforgettable adventures.

3.6

Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary

Experience the natural beauty and rich biodiversity of Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary in Sierra Leone, a perfect destination for adventure and family fun.

4.2

Nyangei

Explore the untouched beauty of Nyangei Island, a serene escape in Sierra Leone boasting stunning beaches and vibrant wildlife experiences.

5.0

Gefechtsstützpunkt und Kanonen bei Old Wharf

Explore the historical significance and breathtaking views of Gefechtsstützpunkt und Kanonen on the beautiful Banana Islands in Sierra Leone.

Best landmarks in Turtle Islands

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River No 2 Beach

Experience the serene beauty and vibrant culture of River No 2 Beach in Sierra Leone, a perfect tropical getaway for relaxation and adventure.

4.5

Cotton Tree

Discover Cotton Tree, a historic landmark in Freetown, Sierra Leone, symbolizing the resilience and rich culture of the Sierra Leonean people.

4.1

Visit Sierra Leone (VSL Travel)

Explore Sierra Leone's stunning landscapes, vibrant culture, and historical treasures with VSL Travel, your ultimate tour operator for unforgettable adventures.

4.6

Lakka Beach

Discover the serene beauty of Lakka Beach in Sierra Leone, where golden sands meet azure waters for an unforgettable coastal escape.

4.2

Best restaurants in Turtle Islands

Top-rated picks

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Mamba Point Hotel Restaurant Lagoonda

Discover exquisite dining with breathtaking ocean views at Mamba Point Hotel Restaurant Lagoonda in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

4.4

Gigibontà Ice Cream and Pizzeria

Discover delightful Italian ice cream and authentic pizzas at Gigibontà near Lumley Beach in Freetown - a must-visit for every traveler.

4.4

Crown Bakery

Discover authentic Sierra Leonean flavors at Crown Bakery, where fresh ingredients meet traditional recipes in a warm, inviting atmosphere.

4.4

Crown Xpress

Discover the culinary delights at Crown Xpress in Freetown, where local flavors meet international cuisine in a welcoming atmosphere.

4.2

Best bars in Turtle Islands

Top-rated picks

Best Bars

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Mamba Point Hotel Restaurant Lagoonda

Experience the rich flavors of Sierra Leone at Mamba Point Hotel Restaurant Lagoonda, where exquisite dining meets stunning ocean views.

4.4

Gigibontà Ice Cream and Pizzeria

Experience the best of Italian cuisine and artisanal ice cream at Gigibontà, a vibrant eatery by Lumley Beach in Freetown, Sierra Leone.

4.4

Roy Hotel & Restaurant

Discover the vibrant flavors of Freetown at Roy Hotel & Restaurant, where delicious cuisine meets stunning beach views for an unforgettable dining experience.

3.7

Olba Restaurant

Experience the essence of Mediterranean dining at Olba Restaurant in Freetown, where every meal is a delicious escape.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Turtle Islands

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Mamz Beach Bar

Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Mamz Beach Bar, a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment along the stunning Freetown coastline.

4.3

DeVillage Beach Bar & Restaurant

Experience the taste of Freetown at DeVillage Beach Bar & Restaurant – where delicious grilled cuisine meets stunning ocean views.

4.8

Ransim Night club

Experience the vibrant energy of Freetown at Ransim Night Club, where music, dance, and culture converge for an unforgettable nightlife experience.

5.0

2020 Night Club

Discover the vibrant nightlife of Freetown at 2020 Night Club, where music, dance, and culture unite for an unforgettable experience.

5.0

Best shops in Turtle Islands

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Best Shops

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Freetown Mall

Discover local flavors and everyday essentials at Freetown Mall, a vibrant supermarket experience in the heart of Sierra Leone.

3.8

SaloneBuy

Explore SaloneBuy, Freetown's innovative e-commerce destination for unique products, advertising solutions, and dynamic business opportunities.

4.3

vip Fashion store

Explore Freetown's VIP Fashion Store for unique styles and local craftsmanship, where fashion meets culture in an exquisite boutique experience.

5.0

Bonthe Fresh Market

Explore the Bonthe Fresh Market – a vibrant showcase of Sierra Leone's local produce, culture, and community spirit.

3.3

Explore Turtle Islands on the Map

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

Turtle Islands Essentials

The Turtle Islands are located off the coast of Sierra Leone. The closest major city is Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone. From Freetown, you can take a boat or ferry to the Turtle Islands. Regular boat services are available from the Government Wharf in Freetown, and the journey typically takes around 4 to 6 hours, depending on the weather and sea conditions. Private boat charters are also available for a more personalized experience.
Once on the Turtle Islands, transportation options are limited. The islands are small and can be easily navigated on foot. For inter-island travel, local fishermen often provide boat services. It is advisable to arrange transportation in advance through your accommodation or a local guide. There are no cars or public transport systems on the islands, so walking and boating are the primary modes of transportation.
The official currency in Sierra Leone is the Leone (SLL). The Turtle Islands have very limited banking facilities, and credit cards are generally not accepted. It is essential to carry sufficient cash for your entire stay. Currency exchange can be done in Freetown before you depart for the islands. Make sure to carry small denominations, as it can be challenging to get change for large bills.
The Turtle Islands are generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is always prudent to take standard safety precautions. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure. Be cautious when swimming, as there are no lifeguards, and currents can be strong. It is also advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical evacuation, as healthcare facilities on the islands are limited.
In case of an emergency, contact your accommodation provider or a local guide immediately. There are limited medical facilities on the Turtle Islands, so it is crucial to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies and evacuation. For serious medical issues, you may need to be transported back to Freetown. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 999, but response times may vary due to the remote location.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in villages. Lightweight, breathable clothing is advisable due to the tropical climate. Avoid wearing overly revealing attire. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. The majority of the inhabitants are Muslim, so be considerate in your behavior and dress. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful when using local boats. Punctuality is often flexible. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a handshake. It is polite to ask about someone's well-being. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and seafood. Always wash your hands before eating. Don't waste food, as resources can be limited.
To experience the Turtle Islands like a local, engage with the community and participate in daily activities such as fishing and cooking. Visit the local markets to buy fresh seafood and handmade crafts. Take time to learn about the traditional ways of life and the history of the islands from the elders. Respect the environment by not littering and supporting eco-friendly practices.

When is the best time to visit Turtle Islands?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Turtle Islands

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 Turtle Islands. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloSannu
  [sa-nu]
- GoodbyeDeh wahala
  [deh wa-ha-la]
- YesEh
  [eh]
- NoAa
  [aa]
- Please/You're welcomeAbeg
  [a-beg]
- Thank youTenki
  [ten-ki]
- Excuse me/SorrySori
  [so-ri]
- How are you?How di bodi?
  [how di bo-di]
- Fine. And you?I dey kam
  [i dey kam]
- Do you speak English?Yu sabi tok English?
  [yu sa-bi tok in-glish]
- I don't understandAh nor sabi
  [ah nor sa-bi]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseAh go lek see di menu, abeg
  [ah go lek see di me-nu, a-beg]
- I don't eat meatAh nor dey eat meat
  [ah nor dey eat meat]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [cheers]
- I would like to pay, pleaseAh go lek pay, abeg
  [ah go lek pay, a-beg]
- Help!Ehlp!
  [ehlp]
- Go away!Nor kam ya!
  [nor kam ya]
- Call the Police!Kol polis!
  [kol po-lis]
- Call a doctor!Kol doktor!
  [kol dok-tor]
- I'm lostAh loss
  [ah loss]
- I'm illAh sick
  [ah sick]
- I'd like to buy...Ah go lek buy...
  [ah go lek buy]
- I'm just lookingAh jus di luk
  [ah jus di luk]
- How much is it?How moch e cost?
  [how moch e cost]
- That's too expensiveE too cost
  [e too cost]
- Can you lower the price?Yu fit redi di cost?
  [yu fit re-di di cost]
- What time is it?Na wich time?
  [na wich time]
- It's one o'clockNa one o'clock
  [na one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half past (10)
  [half past (10)]
- MorningMorning
  [morning]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [afternoon]
- EveningEvening
  [evening]
- YesterdayYestade
  [yes-ta-de]
- TodayToday
  [today]
- TomorrowTomoro
  [to-mo-ro]
- 11
  [1]
- 22
  [2]
- 33
  [3]
- 44
  [4]
- 55
  [5]
- 66
  [6]
- 77
  [7]
- 88
  [8]
- 99
  [9]
- 1010
  [10]
- Where's a/the...?Wey...dey?
  [wey...dey]
- What's the address?Wetin be di address?
  [we-tin be di ad-dress]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Yu fit show mi (pan di map)?
  [yu fit show mi (pan di map)]
- When's the next (bus)?Wen di nex wan dey kam?
  [wen di nex wan dey kam]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [a ticket (to ....)]

History of Turtle Islands

Long before European explorers set foot on the Turtle Islands, the area was inhabited by indigenous tribes, primarily the Sherbro people. These tribes relied on the rich marine resources and fertile lands for sustenance, practicing fishing, farming, and trading with neighboring communities.
In the 15th century, Portuguese navigators were among the first Europeans to explore the West African coastline, including the Turtle Islands. The Portuguese influence can still be seen in some of the region’s architecture and cultural practices. They named the area 'Ilhas das Tartarugas', meaning Turtle Islands, due to the abundance of sea turtles.
During the 17th and 18th centuries, the Turtle Islands played a significant role in the transatlantic slave trade. European traders established temporary forts and trading posts on the islands, where enslaved Africans were held before being shipped to the Americas. The islands' strategic location made them a crucial point in this dark chapter of history.
In the 19th century, Sierra Leone, including the Turtle Islands, came under British colonial rule. The British influence brought changes in governance, education, and infrastructure. The islands served as a base for British anti-slavery patrols, which sought to intercept illegal slave ships.
The Turtle Islands are steeped in local legends and folklore, many of which have been passed down through generations. Stories of mythical sea creatures, ancient spirits, and legendary heroes are an integral part of the islands' cultural heritage, offering a glimpse into the rich oral traditions of the Sherbro people.
Today, the Turtle Islands are a serene and relatively untouched destination, known for their pristine beaches, vibrant marine life, and traditional Sherbro villages. The islands are a testament to the resilience of their inhabitants, who have preserved their unique culture and way of life despite the many historical changes.