Things To Do
in Makeni
Makeni sits in Sierra Leone's Northern Province, serving as the region's largest city and commercial hub. It is surrounded by green farmland, rolling hills, and river valleys that frame daily life with a rural pace. The town is known for its bustling markets, friendly people, and a growing scene of eateries and guesthouses.
Visitors should expect a warm welcome and a window into everyday Sierra Leonean life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely breakfast at a local café, experiencing the rich flavors of Sierra Leonean cuisine. Afterward, visit the vibrant local market to immerse yourself in the culture and grab some fresh produce and handmade crafts. This bustling environment offers an excellent opportunity to interact with the friendly locals.
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of the historical sites around Makeni, including the famous St. John the Baptist Cathedral and the old colonial buildings. Capture beautiful photographs of the architecture and landscapes while learning about the town’s history from your guide. Enjoy lunch at a nearby restaurant that offers traditional dishes.
Wrap up your day with a stroll through the town center as the sun sets, where you can enjoy the lively atmosphere and local street food. Find a cozy spot to have dinner, sampling more local specialties and perhaps some music to add to the ambiance. End your evening with a relaxing walk back to your accommodation under the stars.
Begin your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a scenic drive to Lake Damballa, renowned for its stunning views and tranquil atmosphere. Arrive at the lake and spend your morning enjoying various water activities, such as kayaking or fishing. Take time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding the lake and its importance to the local ecosystem.
After a morning of adventure, indulge in a picnic lunch by the lakeside with local delicacies packed for you. Spend your afternoon hiking along the scenic trails nearby to discover hidden viewpoints and diverse wildlife. Keep your camera ready to capture the breathtaking landscapes and the rich biodiversity that thrives around the lake.
As night falls, return to Makeni and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant while sharing stories from your day's adventures. Embrace the warm hospitality of the locals as you converse over traditional dishes. After dinner, consider participating in a community cultural event or simply enjoying the laid-back evening atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $3-7 |
| 🏨One-night stay in mid-range hotel | $25-60 |
| 🚖Local transport (short ride) | $1-3 |
| ☕Coffee/tea at a cafe | $0.60-2 |
| 🧥Basic clothing or rain gear | $5-25 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and strong community feel
- Affordable to travel and stay in Makeni
- Limited nightlife and tourist infrastructure
- Occasional travel delays due to road conditions
- "Hello" - Hi/Hello
- "How are you?" - How are you?
- "Thank you" - Thank you
- "Please" - Please
- "Where is the bathroom?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Goodbye" - Goodbye
Places to Visit in Makeni
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic central landmarks with vibrant street life and architecture.
Panoramic views over the Bombali district and surrounding countryside.
Early morning or sunset photography of local fishermen along the river.
Food in Makeni
Makeni Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A rich peanut-based stew typically served with rice or cassava.
Must-Try!
Spiced rice cooked with tomatoes and peppers, often served with fried plantains or meat.
A savory green leaf sauce cooked with palm oil, fish or meat, and served with rice.
Local fish fried until crisp, paired with a tangy, spicy pepper sauce and rice or cassava.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Bustling hub for fresh produce, fish, meat, spices, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Vendors serving fried plantains, fish skewers, bean pies, and other local snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders first; use polite language and a handshake with eye contact.
Modest clothing is appreciated, especially in religious sites; shoulders and knees should be covered.
Bargaining is common; use the right hand for giving/receiving; maintain a calm, friendly demeanor.
Safety
Tipping in Makeni
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants and taxis, a small tip (5-10%) is common for good service.
Cash is widely used; mobile money (MTN MoMo) is common in towns, with some places accepting cards or bank transfers where available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Pleasant days, cooler mornings, and lower humidity; harmattan dust can reduce visibility occasionally.
Lush landscapes with frequent rains, higher humidity, and occasional flooding in low-lying areas; plan for afternoon showers.
Makeni at Night
Hiking in Makeni
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Rural trails and elevated viewpoints suitable for day hikes and photography.
Airports
How to reach Makeni by plane.
Main international gateway to Sierra Leone; typically a 2.5–4 hour road trip from Makeni depending on road conditions.
Domestic airport serving the southeastern region with limited flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic groups in Northern Sierra Leone; Krio is widely spoken as a lingua franca; English is common in education and business.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal matches are common across town.
Played in some communities and schools; occasional friendly matches and events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Makeni.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options largely consist of vegetable stews, bean dishes, and rice with cassava; inform cooks about avoiding meat-based broths.