Davud Akhundzada in Western Area: 11 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Freetown

Must-try foods in Freetown

• Cassava Leaves (Plassas)
  Cassava Leaves (Plassas)Considered the national dish, these finely ground cassava leaves are slow-cooked with palm oil, peanut paste (groundnut), and a variety of meats or fish. It is rich, savory, and almost always served over a generous portion of white rice.
• Groundnut Stew (Maafe)
  Groundnut Stew (Maafe)A thick, creamy, and nutty stew made from roasted peanuts ground into a paste. It is typically simmered with chicken, beef, or fish, along with garden eggs (African eggplant) and okra, providing a comforting and deeply flavorful staple of Freetown's diet.
• Crain-Crain
  Crain-CrainA slippery, savory stew made from jute leaves (known locally as Crain-Crain). It has a similar texture to okra and is usually cooked with palm oil, dried fish, and fermented locust beans (ogiri) for a distinct umami punch.
• Potato Greens
  Potato GreensSweet potato leaves are chopped and sautéed with palm oil, onions, and chili peppers. Unlike the heavier cassava leaves, potato greens have a lighter, more delicate flavor profile and are a popular alternative for a daily rice-based meal.
• Sierra Leonean Jollof Rice
  Sierra Leonean Jollof RiceFreetown's take on this West African classic is often distinguished by its use of parboiled rice and a slightly more tomato-forward, spicy base. It is frequently served at celebrations alongside fried plantain and a side of salad or coleslaw.
• Fry Fish and Boli
  Fry Fish and BoliA quintessential Freetown street food. Freshly caught fish from the Atlantic is seasoned and deep-fried until crispy, then served with 'Boli' (roasted or fried plantain) and a fiery pepper sauce. It is the ultimate seaside snack at places like Lumley Beach.

Trip guide

• About Freetown
  About FreetownFreetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, was established in 1792 on the Sierra Leone Peninsula. The city’s historical layout includes the Cotton Tree, a botanical landmark located in the central business district near the Law Courts and the National Museum. This museum houses ethnographic artifacts, including traditional masks and archaeological finds from the region.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Freetown is during the dry season from November to April, when sunny skies and manageable humidity make it ideal for beaches and outdoor exploration. While temperatures remain consistently warm year-round, the heavy monsoon rains from June to September can cause significant travel disruptions and limited access to rural areas. Peak tourist season coincides with the December holidays and the cooler Harmattan winds in January.
• Getting around
  Getting around Freetown

  • Airport Transfer (Water Taxi & Ferry) From Lungi International Airport, the most efficient way to reach Freetown is via water taxi (approx. 30 mins) or the public ferry (approx. 60 mins) across the Sierra Leone River. These services drop passengers at.
  • Local Taxis and Kekes Shared taxis and 'Kekes' (motorized tricycles) are the primary mode of local transport. They operate on set routes for fixed prices.
  • Poda-Podas (Minibuses) Poda-podas are affordable, shared minibuses that connect major hubs across Freetown. While often crowded.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always use your right hand when greeting others, giving or receiving items, and eating, as the left hand is traditionally considered impolite.
  • Utilize 'kekes' (tricycles) for affordable short-distance travel within the city, but ensure you agree on the fare before starting your journey.
  • When dining, it is customary to wash your hands before the meal and wait for the eldest person at the table to begin eating first.
• Ministry of Tourism and Cultural Affairs↗
  Ministry of Tourism and Cultural AffairsThe official government portal for tourism in Sierra Leone, providing information on Freetown's heritage sites, beaches, and cultural attractions.