View Alerts and Messages Archive. Learn about the U. A valid passport and visa are required for travel to Sierra Leone. Visitors to Sierra Leone are required to show their International Certificates of Vaccination yellow card upon arrival at the airport with a record of vaccination against yellow fever. The U. Find information on dual nationality , prevention of international child abduction and customs regulations on our websites.
Areas outside Freetown lack basic services. Travel outside the capital after dark is not allowed for U. Embassy officials and should be avoided by all travelers.
Emergency response to vehicular and other accidents ranges from slow to nonexistent. Crime: Crime is widespread in Sierra Leone. Petty crime and pick pocketing of wallets, cell phones, and passports are very common, especially on the ferry to and from Lungi International Airport, as well as in bars, restaurants, and nightclubs in the Lumley Beach and Aberdeen areas of Freetown.
Demonstrations occur frequently. They may take place in response to political or economic issues, on politically significant holidays, and during international events. Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in Sierra Leone. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings or profiles, or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.
Common scams include:. Victims of Crime: U. Embassy at 99 Report crimes to the local police at 76 See our webpage on help for U. Domestic Violence: U. Tourism: The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.
