The name, Sierra Leone dates back to 1462, when a Portuguese explorer sailed down the coast of West Africa. There seems some dispute whether it was the shape or climatic conditions that influenced Pedro da Cintra to come up with "Sierra Lyoa" meaning Lion Mountains.

Some say the coastal regions looked like "lion’s teeth". Others suggest he thought the thunderstorms over the mountainous peninsula sounded like the roar of a lion.

Map of Sierra Leone
Capital : Freetown
Currency : Leone (LE) - See Exchange Tool for current rates
Official Language : English
Main local languages : Krio, Mende, Temne, Limba
Time : GMT all year round
Religion : Mixed - Islam, Christianity and indigenous beliefs
Main Exports : Diamonds, rutile, fish, bauxite, cocoa, coffee