Things To Do
in Bonthe
Bonthe is a historic town located on Sherbro Island in Sierra Leone. It is known for its beautiful beaches and mangrove swamps, which attract visitors looking to relax and enjoy nature. The town has a rich history as a trading post for British colonists and has several historic buildings that showcase its past.
Bonthe is a peaceful and picturesque destination, offering a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- "Ow na wan" - I am fine
- "A de come" - I am coming
- "Tenk yu" - Thank you
- "Waya ee de?" - How are you?
- "Noh worry" - Don't worry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $40
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk on the beach, enjoying the sunrise over the Atlantic Ocean. Visit local markets to experience the island's culture and pick up fresh fruits.
Take a boat tour around the island, observing its beautiful mangroves and wildlife. Enjoy a lunch of local cuisine at a beachfront restaurant.
Relax on the beach as the sun sets, with the sound of waves in the background. Dine at a local eatery, savoring the fresh catch of the day.
Hike through the lush vegetation of Bonthe in the early hours, immersing yourself in the serene environment. Spot various bird species and unique flora.
Have a picnic lunch in a scenic spot within the forest. Afterwards, visit local community projects to learn about eco-tourism initiatives.
Return to your hangout spot to unwind from the day's activities. Enjoy a casual dinner while engaging with locals and sharing stories.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and history.
- Beautiful natural landscapes and beaches.
- Friendly and welcoming local communities.
- Increased eco-tourism potential.
- Home to unique wildlife and biodiversity.
- Limited infrastructure and access to services.
- Economically underdeveloped areas.
- Challenges related to healthcare and education.
- Potential vulnerability to climate change.
- Relative remoteness can hinder travel and logistics.
Best Activities in Bonthe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Play beach volleyball at the beautiful beaches of Bonthe, ideal for sports enthusiasts and social gatherings.
Explore the rich biodiversity of Bonthe's wetlands and coastal areas with bird watching tours, home to various exotic bird species.
Join local fishermen for a traditional fishing expedition in the surrounding waters, experiencing the local culture and practices.
Visit the small islands around Bonthe by boat, each offering unique landscapes and opportunities for exploration.
Enjoy kayaking or canoeing on the calm waters, providing a serene way to experience Bonthe's natural beauty.
Trek through the scenic trails of the Bonthe region, discovering lush vegetation and wildlife along the way.
Set up a campsite on one of the islands or near the beaches for a night of stargazing and enjoying the natural environment.
Engage with local communities through guided tours, learning about the cultural heritage and traditions of Bonthe.
Places to Visit in Bonthe
Visit one of these nice places.
A beautiful island known for its lush forests and diverse wildlife. The views of the river and the surrounding nature provide excellent photography opportunities.
The pristine beaches offer stunning sunset views and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for capturing the beauty of Bonthe.
Explore the colonial architecture and historic buildings. The ambiance here is rich for photography, especially with the backdrop of the sea.
The scenic river offers a variety of angles for photography, particularly with the boats and local fishing activities adding character to your shots.
Climb Bonthe Hill for panoramic views of the surrounding area. This lookout point is ideal for capturing skyline shots of Bonthe and the ocean.
Food in Bonthe
Bonthe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A savory stew made with cassava leaves, often cooked with fish, meat, or both. Served with rice, this dish is a staple in Bonthe and can be found in numerous local eateries, such as Mama's Kitchen and Poda Poda Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Freshly caught fish marinated in local spices and grilled to perfection, served with attieke, a fluffy fermented cassava side dish. This dish is a must-try at beachside grills like Sea Breeze Restaurant and Bar.
Plasas is a delicious stew made with groundnut (peanut) butter, spinach, and meat, often accompanied by rice or foofoo. For an authentic taste, visit the bustling street vendors along the Bonthe waterfront.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The Bonthe Waterfront Market offers a vibrant array of fresh seafood, colorful fruits, and aromatic spices. It's an excellent place to sample local street food such as grilled fish, fried plantains, and cassava snacks.
Stroll along the lively street food stalls in Bonthe to savor an assortment of flavorful offerings. From savory meat skewers to sweet tropical treats, the street food scene is a delightful reflection of Sierra Leone's culinary prowess.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Bonthe, it is important to greet people properly. A simple handshake, smile, or a nod is customary, and addressing people with their titles or family names shows respect.
Modest clothing is preferred in Bonthe, especially in more traditional settings. It is advisable to dress conservatively and avoid wearing revealing or overly casual attire to show respect for local customs.
Participating in community activities and respecting local traditions is essential. Showing interest in and supporting local events, ceremonies, and gatherings demonstrates respect for the culture and fosters good relations.
Safety
Tipping in Bonthe
Ensure a smooth experience
In Bonthe, Sierra Leone, tipping is not a customary practice and is often not expected in most service industries. However, in tourist areas or within specific sectors like hospitality, small tips may be appreciated as a gesture of gratitude for good service.
Payment methods in Bonthe primarily involve cash transactions, as many locals may not have access to banking facilities. Businesses often rely on the Sierra Leonean leone for transactions. Mobile money platforms are increasingly popular for payments, providing a safer and more convenient alternative to cash. Nevertheless, in some informal markets, barter trades are still practiced.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
This is considered the best time to visit Bonthe, as the weather is generally sunny and less humid. You can expect pleasant temperatures ideal for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring local culture. This season is less prone to rainfall, making it easier to travel around the area.
During this season, Bonthe experiences heavy rainfall and high humidity, particularly from May to September. Travel may become challenging due to muddy conditions and flooded areas. However, the lush greenery and vibrant landscapes can offer unique photo opportunities and a chance to experience the rich biodiversity.
This period sees the arrival of dry and dusty northeastern trade winds, which can occasionally lower humidity and temperatures in Bonthe. Visitors can expect clearer skies and a unique atmospheric phenomenon. It’s a good time for outdoor activities, but travelers should be prepared for dry air and visibility issues due to dust.
Bonthe at Night
Hiking in Bonthe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A serene location with various trails along the beach and through lush vegetation, offering beautiful views of the ocean.
This area provides opportunities for hiking along the river and exploring the mangroves, with diverse wildlife and scenic landscapes.
A short boat ride from Bonthe, Tiwai Island offers hiking trails through the rainforests where you can encounter various species of monkeys and other wildlife.
Located a bit further from Bonthe, these mountains provide more challenging hikes with rewarding panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
A historical site with hiking opportunities featuring remnants of the slave trade history, as well as beautiful coastal views.
Aiports
How to reach Bonthe by plane.
The main international airport serving Freetown, the capital of Sierra Leone, located approximately 85 kilometers from Bonthe.
Located in Lungi, this airport is the main gateway for international flights to Sierra Leone and is also around 100 kilometers from Bonthe.
Located about 300 kilometers from Bonthe, it serves the capital of Liberia and is one of the larger airports in the region.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The Mende people are one of the largest ethnic groups in Sierra Leone, primarily residing in the southern and eastern regions, including Bonthe.
The Temne are another significant ethnic group in Sierra Leone, predominantly found in the northern regions but also present in Bonthe.
The Fullah people are known for their agricultural and trading skills, and they have a presence in various parts of Sierra Leone, including Bonthe.
The Kono ethnic group is primarily associated with diamond mining and is found in the eastern regions of Sierra Leone, with some representation in Bonthe.
The Kissi people reside mainly in the southeastern regions of Sierra Leone, and their influence extends to Bonthe as well.
Various smaller ethnic groups and communities coexist in Bonthe, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in Bonthe, with many local teams and enthusiastic support from the community.
Cricket is also popular among the youth in Bonthe, with informal matches often played in open spaces.
Track and field events are pursued, especially in schools, with local competitions held occasionally.
Basketball has a growing popularity in urban areas, with several courts available for play.
Volleyball is played in some communities, particularly along the beaches, enjoying participation from both men and women.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bonthe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Sierra Leonean cuisine traditionally features meat and seafood, many restaurants in Bonthe are accommodating to vegetarian and vegan preferences. Look for establishments offering dishes prepared with locally-sourced vegetables, beans, and fruits.
Individuals with gluten sensitivities can find suitable alternatives in Bonthe, with several restaurants and cafes offering gluten-free selections such as cassava-based dishes, fresh seafood, and fruits that are naturally gluten-free.