In commemoration of our Independence Anniversary on 27th and 28th April, we were delighted to welcome over 350 excited expedition passengers aboard two luxury cruise liners, SH Diana and Silver Wind, in Freetown. These magnificent vessels docked at Elizabeth Quay and off the Aberdeen Coast, respectively, earning Sierra Leone a prominent place on the global tourism map.
This visit marked a celebration of Sierra Leone’s continuing resurgence after the COVID-19 pandemic, reaffirming our position as one of the hidden eco-cultural travel destinations in the region. The welcome committee consisted of a host of dedicated individuals, including our full team, senior representatives from the National Tourist Board (NTB), journalists, and none other than the Minister of Tourism and Cultural Affairs, Madam Nabeela Tunis, who personally greeted the guests with genuine warmth and hospitality. Among the notable attendees was Wodemaya, one of Africa’s most renowned content creators, whose passionate storytelling has transformed global perceptions of the continent. His presence stirred excitement among both tourists and locals, enhancing the international profile of this remarkable event.
The visitors were left in awe of Sierra Leone’s natural beauty, as well as the strong sense of pride and community that defines us. The SH Diana and Silver Wind, both committed to sustainable travel, included Sierra Leone in their West African itineraries due to our pristine coastline, rich cultural heritage, and fledgling ecotourism sector.
During these two days of activities, the guests were divided into three groups, each led by our expert tour guides. One group visited the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary, where they had the opportunity to interact with chimpanzees and learn about wildlife conservation and forest protection. Additionally, they participated in a birdwatching excursion through the forest. Another set embarked on a fascinating walking tour of Freetown’s historic landmarks, starting at the National Railway Museum and Old Fourah Bay College, before visiting the iconic Cotton Tree, the Peace and Cultural Museum, the National Museum, the Cathedral Church, and the vibrant Big Market, where many tourists purchased locally made souvenirs. While another group journeyed to Bunce Island, an important historical site connected to the transatlantic slave trade, to gain insight into a dark chapter in Sierra Leone’s history.
The highlight of this extraordinary visit was the amputee football match. After the SH Diana expedition departed on 27th April, the Silver Wind visitors enjoyed a friendly football match at ‘The Place,’ Tokeh Beach, specifically arranged at their request. Our dynamic tour guide, Abdulai Sankoh, provided lively commentary throughout the 40-minute match between the Sierra Stars and Leone Stars teams, while both tourists and locals cheered them on. This match was an opportunity to give the amputee community the attention and respect they truly deserve, recognising their resilience in the face of adversity. At the end of the game, the players expressed heartfelt appreciation for being honoured and included in this special event.
Through collaboration and collective effort in changing the narrative of the tourism sector in Sierra Leone, we demonstrated that we are not just a tour operating company but also dedicated caretakers of Sierra Leone’s natural and cultural assets.
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Bimbola Carrol is the founder and CEO of Visit Sierra Leone (VSL TRAVEL), a prominent destination management company in Sierra Leone. He has played a key role in promoting Sierra Leone as an up-and-coming tourist spot and fostering sustainable tourism, contributing to the country’s economy, culture, and environment. His expertise in tourism, IT, marketing, and e-commerce enables him to provide valuable services to clients. In his free time, he enjoys squash, hiking, writing and profiling innovative businesses in Sierra Leone.
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