The U.S. Department of State annually reviews and reissues travel advisories for every country. The information is provided to help travelers assess the risks of international travel and know what steps to take to ensure their safety while traveling.
The travel advisory for Sierra Leone, reissued today, remains at Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution. This is the same warning level that has been in place since the inception of the current travel advisory system.
All travelers are encouraged to exercise sensible precautions while traveling abroad to ensure their safety. Text of the advisory follows.
For further information, contact Public Affairs Officer Robert Revere RevereRB@state.gov.
Sierra Leone — Travel Advisory – Level 2: Exercise Increased Caution
Exercise increased caution in Sierra Leone due to crime.
Violent crime, such as armed robberies and assaults, is common. Local police lack the resources, capacity, and training to respond effectively to serious criminal incidents.
The U.S. government is unable to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens outside Freetown at night, as U.S. government employees are prohibited from traveling outside the capital after dark.
Read the Safety and Security section on the country information page.
If you decide to travel to Sierra Leone:
- Do not physically resist any robbery attempt.
- Do not display signs of wealth, such as expensive watches or jewelry.
- Use caution when walking or driving at night.
- Review local laws and conditions before traveling.
- Always carry a copy of your U.S. passport and visa (if applicable). Keep original documents in a secure location.
- Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
- Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter.
- Review the Crime and Safety Report for Sierra Leone.
- Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist.
