Things To Do
in Bonthe
Bonthe is a tranquil island town perched on Sherbro Island in southern Sierra Leone, known for its riverine charm and friendly communities. The town blends coastal scenery with modest colonial-era influences and a lively fishing culture. Access is primarily by boat from the mainland or short flights to Moyamba or Freetown, giving visitors an intimate, less-touristy experience.
With warm seas, mangrove waterways, and welcoming locals, Bonthe offers authentic SE African coastal life away from the beaten path.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Bonthe and settle into your accommodation, surrounded by the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and lush landscapes. Take some time to relax and acclimate to the local environment while enjoying a leisurely breakfast. Visit the local market to experience the vibrant culture and pick up some fresh, local fruits.
Explore the rich history of Bonthe by visiting key landmarks such as the old colonial buildings and the remainders of the old wharf. Join a guided tour to learn about the significance of Bonthe in Sierra Leone's history, delving into the stories of the past that shaped the region. Enjoy lunch at a local eatery, savoring traditional Sierra Leonean dishes.
End your first day with a peaceful sunset stroll along the beach, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere. Dine at a beachfront restaurant where you can indulge in fresh seafood. As night falls, immerse yourself in the local nightlife, enjoying traditional music and dance.
Start your day with birdwatching in the mangroves around Bonthe, an ideal site for observing numerous tropical bird species. Capture breathtaking photographs of the communities of birds found in this biodiverse area while enjoying the early morning tranquility. Following this, enjoy a hearty breakfast at your accommodation, prepared with fresh local ingredients.
Continue your exploration by visiting the local fishing community to learn about traditional fishing methods and even join in on a catching experience. Engage and interact with local fishermen, understanding their daily routines and challenges. Enjoy a steaming lunch featuring the day's catch, giving you a taste of truly local flavors.
Spend the evening visiting the local handicraft market, where you can support artisans and perhaps pick up unique souvenirs. As dusk sets in, find a cozy spot at a local café to unwind, watching the village come alive. Savor a comforting cup of palm wine or ginger tea while reflecting on your day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $2-5 |
| 🫖Tea or coffee at a café | $0.50-1.50 |
| 🚗Local transportation (short ride) | $0.50-2 |
| 🍚Rice and sides at a modest restaurant | $3-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel room per night | $20-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close-knit coastal culture and welcoming communities
- Fresh seafood and scenic waterfronts
- Relatively uncrowded and authentic travel experiences
- Lower travel costs compared to major tourist hubs
- Limited infrastructure and fewer amenities
- Remote location can mean longer travel times
- Occasional power and water reliability issues
- Fewer international dining options and guided tours
- "Helo" - Hello
- "Pliis" - Please
- "Tenki" - Thank you
- "Dis be how much?" - How much is this?
- "Weh na maket?" - Where is the market?
- "Mi no sabi" - I don’t understand
Places to Visit in Bonthe
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden-hour light over the river and boat activity, with silhouettes of palm trees and fishing boats creating tranquil compositions.
Narrow waterways with reflections, birds, and reed beds perfect for close-up wildlife and landscape photography.
Colorful nets, wooden boats, and daily life in motion provide dynamic street and action shots.
Shaded alleys, colonial-era touches, and living scenes offer atmospheric, candid portraits.
Food in Bonthe
Bonthe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A vibrant one-pot rice dish cooked with tomatoes, peppers, and locally caught fish for a flavorful coastal version.
Must-Try!
A leafy stew simmered with palm oil and sometimes fish or meat, served over white rice or fufu.
Creamy peanut-based soup enriched with palm oil, spices, and often chicken or fish, served with rice.
A simple, satisfying combo of crunchy plantains and freshly fried fish, a staple beachside meal.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Daily market stalls offering fresh seafood, fruits, vegetables, and prepared snacks; great for observing local food culture and sampling quick bites.
Informal stalls along the waterfront selling grilled fish, fried plantains, and palm-oil snacks with sea breeze and sails in the background.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet people warmly with a smile; handshakes are common. Be polite when requesting help or directions and respect local privacy in markets and residential areas.
Light, respectful clothing is appropriate; shoulders and knees should be covered in more formal settings or when visiting religious sites.
Safety
Tipping in Bonthe
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping for service is appreciated but not always expected. Round up bills in restaurants and offer small tips to guides or boat operators if you’re satisfied with service.
Cash in small denominations is commonly preferred; some places may accept mobile money or bank transfers, especially in larger towns. Carry enough cash for rural areas and smaller vendors.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warm, sunny days with cooler nights; lower humidity and excellent beach conditions. Pleasant for outdoor exploration, but evenings can be breezy by the water.
Frequent tropical showers and higher humidity; lush scenery and blooming landscapes, but some boat trips may be delayed by rain and sea conditions.
Transition periods with variable rain and heat; often quieter crowds, good for flexible itineraries and photography.
Bonthe at Night
Hiking in Bonthe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Flat, scenic paths along the coast and through mangrove stands, suitable for easy hikes and birdwatching.
Gentle hikes to nearby beaches and traditional villages, offering opportunities for photography and cultural exchange.
Airports
How to reach Bonthe by plane.
Main international gateway to Sierra Leone; travelers typically transfer to Freetown by road or domestic flight before heading to Bonthe.
Smaller airstrip serving domestic flights; used for access to central/southern Sierra Leone with onward road/boat connections to Bonthe.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous community of Sherbro Island with distinct language and cultural practices centered on coastal living and fishing.
Diverse residents including Krio-speaking people who have contributed to regional culture and trade networks.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across the country; local matches and informal games are common in towns and villages.
Traditional fishing is both a livelihood and pastime; small boats and nets are frequently seen along the coast.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bonthe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarians can rely on vegetable stews, cassava leaves without meat, rice dishes, and bean-based sides. Request vegetable-only versions of local dishes and confirm no fish stock or meat broths in soups.