The Best of Sierra Leone

Summary

Sierra Leone is a name that many people are familiar with; however, few are aware of the diverse range of wildlife that can be found in this less visited west African country. With habitat ranging from coastal estuaries to grasslands and lush forests, we can expect to find a superb variety of birds and mammals. Well over 600 species of birds have been recorded here, including all 14 of the Upper Guinea Forest endemics, along with over 200 mammal species, roughly 750 butterflies, over 2,000 higher plant species and around 100 species of reptiles and amphibians combined. Among the more unusual of these are the shy Pygmy Hippopotamus, the prehistoric- looking White-necked Rockfowl (Picathartes), Rufous Fishing Owl, Gola Malimbe, Diana Monkey, Forest Elephant, rare wintering Pallid Harrier, Turati’s Boubou, Africa’s largest butterfly, the African Giant Swallowtail, and other endemic and regionally endemic species.

• Visit less known national parks for a diverse range of species
• Search for Picathartes and regional endemic birds
• Abundant wildlife (over 600 bird species and more than 200 mammal species recorded in Sierra Leone!)
• Primate hot spot, with over 10 species possible
• Stunning beaches along the coast
• Off the beaten track