If you’re heading to Sierra Leone, one place you have to visit is the Banana Islands. There are three islands, but it’s the biggest that gives the group its namesake. Sierra Leone’s Banana Island is easily accessed from the mainland by boat.
It’s a wonderful, peaceful place to visit. We spent one night there, but we could have spent much longer relaxing in the hammocks, taking refreshing dips in the ocean, and enjoying the water sports activities offered at our guesthouse.
One night on Banana Island wasn’t enough!
In this guide, I’ll explain exactly how to get to Banana Island, Sierra Leone, where to stay, Banana Island activities on offer, and how much you should budget.
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Short on time? How to get to Banana Island in Sierra Leone at a glance
- Travel from Freetown to Kent Beach
- Boat transfer from Kent Beach to Banana Island
- Stay at Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse
- Enjoy snorkelling, kayaking, beach, and wildlife tours.
- The cost for 2 peps/ 2 nights is EST. 4,100 Le.
*I stayed on the Banana Islands on a sponsored trip with Banana Island Sierra Leone at Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse; however, all opinions are my own.
How to get to Banana Island Sierra Leone
First, you’ll need to get to Kent Beach. This is where the boats leave to take passengers to the Banana Islands.
To get to Kent Beach, you can arrange transport through Banana Islands Sierra Leone, or if you want to arrange transport yourself, you can jump in a tuk-tuk for about 400 from Freetown. The journey takes about one hour, and it’s relatively comfortable. We travelled in a tuk-tuk around Sierra Leone; it can comfortably fit three people and has space for small luggage.
You can also use a taxi car. This journey will cost a little more, but it will fit four people. However, I like travelling in the tuk-tuk as it’s more traditional and a slight novelty, plus the breeze is great!
⭐ Pro tip >> If you want to travel by tuk-tuk, contact our driver, Alhaji (+232 7420253). He is a good guy who will get you around Freetown without any issues and make sure you’re safe. When you contact him, just refer to me (Abigail Dalton).
In Sierra Leone (Salone, as it’s often referred to by locals), the tuk-tuk is called a kay kay. Depending on where you travel, it’s also known as a rickshaw. But it’s all the same vehicle.
Another thing to keep in mind is the police checks/roadblocks. You will pass a few on your way to Kent Beach, and you might get stopped. If you use our driver, he can usually get you moving without any problems; however, sometimes you might have to give a small thing (tip) so they allow you to pass through. How much depends on the officer, but it’s usually no more than 20 leones per vehicle. 50 leones is the max.
⭐ Pro tip >> Since money and expenses in Sierra Leone can be a contentious subject, I’ve written a guide to advise and help you plan the budgeting side of your trip.
How to get from Kent Beach to the Banana Islands
There are two ways to do this. You can either organise the boat through Banana Island, Sierra Leone, which is more straightforward and how I recommend you do it, or you can make the trip yourself using the local fishing boats.
We chose the second option, but unless you’re okay with negotiating, it can get a little hairy. We did it this way for two reasons: ultimately, it’s my preference to spread the money around a bit more, and we wanted to experience the fishing boats.
However, Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse has its own boat and will take you between Kent Beach and the islands, which is much easier.
The price is the same with either option. You’ll need to budget 350 leones per group for a one-way trip, with a maximum of four people. (There’s also a 10 leones pp charge to enter Kent Beach.) Keep in mind that the guesthouse boat transfer ends at 3:30 p.m.
The local fishing canoes are an experience.
If you choose to go over on a fishing boat, it is pretty rugged—basically a wooden canoe. Ours was filling with water, and the young lad was constantly bailing the water out, but it’s the local way to travel, and it’s quite fun!
Negotiations are key to a successful trip. We agreed on a price the day before as we made a quick stop in Kent on our return from visiting a friend; you won’t need to do this. However, by the morning, the price had changed, and there was a slight kerfuffle before our original price returned. Ultimately, it was the threat of calling Greg (our contact on the Banana Islands) to send their boat for the same price.
This change in price is common in Sierra Leone; however, stand by your guns; otherwise, you’ll find your visit a very expensive trip!
⭐ Pro tip >> Only ever pay at the end of the service, whether it’s a boat or tuk-tuk ride. And don’t pay for something you haven’t yet done. For example, the boys we arranged the fishing boat with wanted us to pay upfront for both journeys: going and coming. When we said we’d pay for our return trip the next day, they put the price up. This is when we almost called the guesthouse to send their boat.
Anyway, it’s all part of the experience, and I enjoy bartering, so it’s all quite fun for me. Having lots of patience is important, and I never get annoyed, either; it’s just how things are in Sierra Leone.
Read next>> Find out why I love this country so much and the top 10 reasons for visiting.
Where To Stay On Sierra Leone’s Banana Islands
I recommend staying at Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse as this is where we stayed, and it was great; however, there are a couple more accommodations on the island.
Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse offers basic accommodation but a great atmosphere. It’s busy on the weekends, but you’ll likely have the place more or less to yourself during the week.
The guesthouse uses solar power and has its own water well, which, according to the stories, was quite an achievement since the bedrock is pure basalt and extremely hard to dig through.
Solar power allows you to charge electronics, have light 24/7, cold beers and drinks, and power the bedroom fans (for the fanned rooms). The well provides clean, fresh water for washing and cooking. It’s also possible to drink, although I’m not sure it’s offered as drinking water. You’ll be given bottled water for sure.
As for the communal area, it’s a large open space with dining tables, a bar, hammocks, and seating areas that are ideal for long siestas and evening gatherings. It’s all directly on the beach; you couldn’t get closer if you tried, which means there’s usually a refreshing sea breeze to cool you down in the evenings.
All in all, if you’re happy with simple accommodation and want to stay a few nights on one of the best islands in Sierra Leone, Dalton’s Guesthouse is going to be perfect.
Directions to Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse.
If you’ve come over on the local boat, you’ll find it sometimes drops you at King Wharf, which is about a 5-minute walk through the village of Dublin and along jungle paths. If you catch the guesthouse’s “official” boat, it will drop you directly out the front of the guesthouse.
It’s really simple to get to the guesthouse, and if you get confused, just ask someone, as there are always plenty of people around. Otherwise, once you depart the canoe, walk straight up into the jungle past the abandoned building and along a small dirt track.
You will soon arrive at Dublin playing grounds, community centre, and medical centre. To the right, there’s a huge sign for Abbot St. Follow it along the trail.
Next, you’ll pass the village water well, dug in 1813. It provides water to the village throughout the year. Keep on walking straight until you reach a large junction/crosspath, and take a right. From here, you’ll be at the guest house in no time.
The walk through the village is a nice experience, but you could get the captain to drop you directly at Dalton’s Guesthouse. We were picked up from there. They prefer to drop you at King Wharf to save a little money on petrol.
Activities With Banana Island Excursions at Dalton’s Guesthouse
“The aim of Banana Island Excursions is to capture the interest of travellers who want to explore the island through experience-based activities”.
When I asked Greg about what makes Dalton’s Guesthouse worth visiting over the other activity-based companies in Sierra Leone or accommodations on the island, he explained that it is one of the only places in not only Sierra Leone but West Africa to offer such a diverse range of activities.
And it’s true, you’ll be amazed at what you can do; there are tons of things to do.
Water Based Activities.
It is an island, after all, so you’d expect water activities, but the range here is huge. There’s so much to do that you’ll need a few days to feel like you’ve made full use of the facilities; we could have easily stayed longer.
The main activities with Banana Island Excursions include snorkelling and scuba diving, kayaking, SUP boarding, sport fishing and tubing.
During the months of August through October, the Banana Islands are in a prime location to witness the migration of the whales and their newly born calves north along the Sierra Leone coast.
For divers, there’s also a small reef and a 1747 shipwreck complete with canons and its own ecosystem to visit. If you don’t have your dive certificate, you can try Discover Scuba with a certified guide.
PRICE GUIDE
Here’s some more information on water sports activities offered by Banana Island Excursions. (Keep in mind that prices are subject to change, so check with them before booking travel.)
- Scenic boat ride 600 Le.
- Snorkeling 1,000 Le. per group of 2, then 500 per person.
- Scuba diving for beginners (Padi DSD program) 3,000 Le.
- Scuba dive for certified diver 1000 Le.
- Watersports (ringos, banana, kneeboard, combi ski, monoski, wakeboard, windsurfing) 1,000 Le. per ride
- SUP, kayak 500 Le.
- Sport-fishing: 1,000 per group of 2, then 500 per person
- Whale watching trips (when in season) 2,000 Le. per group
Adrenaline watersports level 1 and 2 don’t require skill. For example, tubbing, kayaking, snorkelling, SUP boarding and knee boarding. Level 3 + and activities such as wakeboarding, mono skiing, combi skiing and windsurfing require experience.
All activities come with a trained guide to ensure your safety. In the 17 years the company has been operational, there have been no accidents.
Land Based Activities
As for the land activities, there are a number of interesting options. I went on the historical tour, which lasted about an hour and followed jungle trails to significant points of interest.
Since the Banana Islands were used as a base for holding slaves, the majority of this activity is focused on the buildings, defence and remaining sites which were used during this period.
Other activities include guided forest walks, wildlife tours, and bird watching. A rare species of owl lives in the Banana Islands, as do bats, other small mammals, and reptiles, such as the West African monitor lizard.
PRICE GUIDE
Here’s some more information on the land-based activities offered by Banana Island Excursions. (Keep in mind prices are subject to change, so check with them before booking travel
- Guided forest walk 180 Le.
- Historical tour 100 Le. per group
Island Adventures
The final activity offered by Banana Island Excursions is a visit to the Turtle Islands. These idyllic tropical islands are off the Sierra Leonean coast.
On a previous trip to Sierra Leone we visited one of the Turtle Islands and spent the night on the beach under the stars, it was a once in a lifetime experience. We visited the village, made friends with the locals and explored the mangroves, beaches and shoreline.
You can have a similar experience with Banana Island Excursions. The tour provides one—to three-night excursions, a guide, meals, tents, water, and activities.
Visiting the Turtle Islands was one of my favourite things to do in Sierra Leone, and I definitely recommend it if you get the opportunity.
PRICE GUIDE
Here’s some more information on the Turtle Island trip offered by Banana Island Excursions. (Keep in mind prices are subject to change, so check with them before booking travel)
- Turtle Islands excursion 1-3 days 20,000 Le. per group
Budgeting For Your Trip To Banana Island In Sierra Leone
Your budget will depend on the number of days and activities you do. However, Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse is a budget-friendly accommodation, and the Banana Islands Sierra Leone offers reasonable prices, so your visit will be much cheaper than you think!
For a two-night trip including three activities, you should budget around 4,100 leones (under $200!).
Let’s take a closer look at the breakdown:
- Transport to Kent Beach 400 leones
- Boat transfer 700 leones x group (4)
- Accommodation per night for 2 standard rooms – includes 2 meals – 1,300 leones
- Historic tour 100 leones x 1 person
- Snorkeling 1,000 leones x 2 people
- Scenic boat trip 600 leones x 1 group (4)
*At the time of writing, the exchange rate is around 24 leones per USA $.
⭐ Pro tip >> For tipping guides and staff, I recommend 20 to 40 leones. For any other small things, 5 to 10 Le. is appreciated. That said, tipping is at your discretion; however, it is customary to tip small amounts in Sierra Leone if anyone helps you in any way. If you prefer not to tip, don’t accept help from anyone, for example, carrying your bags.
What To Pack For Your Trip
When we were there, the Banana Islands were pleasant, temperature-wise. Since Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse is directly on the waterfront, there was a lovely breeze, and even the room was cool.
You’re not going to need much clothing; I stayed in my swimming costume and dress for most of the trip. During the historical tour, I wore shorts, a shirt, and hiking boots, which I always wear.
I’ve put some essentials together for you:
- Sunscreen | Make sure you protect your skin.
- Water Bottle | We always leave the hotel with our water bottle; it is our favourite.
- Hiking Boots | I have these boots, and they are the most comfy for all-day walking.
- Rain Jacket | If you’re visiting during the rainy season, have a waterproof jacket.
- Power Pack | Pretty essential if you ask me! You’ll need one for the whole trip.
Essential Sierra Leone Travel Resources
I’ve created a packing list to help make life easier for you and relieve the stress of packing. This useful resource is perfect for any trip to Sierra Leone.
The ultimate Sierra Leone packing list
This is a FREE PDF download.
Below are some of our most popular articles:
- Arriving in Sierra Leone can be a shock, so it’s best to go prepared. Here’s all you need to know about Lungi Airport.
- Aside from the Banana Islands, theTacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary is also a great attraction.
- If you’re planning on visiting Tacugama, I recommend staying in their eco-lodges. This article explains the best way to reach the sanctuary.
⭐ Pro tip >> If you’re going to be using your phone, don’t forget about overseas data roaming. You’ll get charged for using your data. Try Airalo’s eSIMs and download a digital data pack. It’s quick and easy; great if you’re in a hurry.
Final Thoughts | How To Get To Banana Island Sierra Leone
Let me finish this guide with some final words about our visit to the Banana Islands in Sierra Leone. By now, I think it’s quite obvious that we had a lovely time at Dalton’s Banana Guesthouse.
We were the only ones there during our weekday visit, which meant it was very peaceful and relaxing; however, the guesthouse is only small, so I doubt the site ever feels crowded.
The weekends tend to attract more people, so if you’re after a little more atmosphere, this is the time to go. For us, mid-week was great.
The historical tour I went on was interesting, and my guide was great, but keep in mind that the sites have been left abandoned with no immediate action to maintain them. You’ll find this quite common in Sierra Leone.
Nevertheless, I recommend visiting the Banana Islands for a few nights. If anything, they’re the perfect place for a relaxing getaway.
FAQs | Visiting The Banana Islands in Sierra Leone?
How many days do you need?
I recommend at least two nights on the Banana Islands. However, there are enough activities to keep you busy for over a week. If you’re happy to just relax by the beach, there’s no reason you couldn’t stay longer.
How long is the journey to the Banana Islands?
If you’re travelling from Freetown to Kent Beach, you’ll need to set aside about an hour. The boat transfer takes about 20 to 30 minutes. There is usually a wait time at Kent Beach, so I’d add another 30 minutes to stay safe. In total, it should take about 2 hours to get to the Banana Islands from Freetown, Sierra Leone.
What are the other accommodations on the island?
At the time of writing, there are two other accommodations on the island: Baffa and Banana Island Guesthouse. You’ll find that places often open and close after a short while. Dalton’s Guesthouse is the oldest remaining and has been there for over 17 years.
Can I camp on the island?
It is not possible to wild camp on the island. However, Dalton’s Guesthouse does have tents available for rent and areas to pitch tents.
How safe are the Banana Islands in Sierra Leone?
The Banana Islands are an isolated group of three islands off the mainland of Sierra Leone. From our experience, they are very safe in terms of violent crime; however, Sierra Leone is notorious for pickpocketing and theft. I recommend keeping valuable belongings with you at all times and never leaving bags unattended.
That said, the Banana Islands is a small community, and it’s unlikely you will have any issues.
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