But a slave to Britain…
Well, no more slavery. That’s it. The country Sierra Leone is a gem of its own.
With its rich culture, specialized dance forms, songs, and history, you will be amazed to read about the facts of Sierra Leone. 🦄
Although it is not in the news as much, you can have some real dopamine release while going through these below-stated facts.🍇
Amazing Sierra Leone Facts
The taste of freedom is very pleasant: Sierra Leone’s independence!
“High we exalt thee, the realm of the free;
Great is the love we have for thee;
Firmly united ever we stand,
Singing thy praise, O native land.”
This national anthem of Sierra Leone was adopted in 1961 when it became free from Britain. 🎂
However, the previous national anthem of enslaved Sierra Leone was “God Save The Queen”! Some really queen-centric thinking!
Sierra Leone: A name was given by the Portuguese
Pedro de Sintra…a Portuguese navigator, traveled the West African coast in 1462!
As usual, he was awe-struck by the captivating scenery here.
He had to call the country “Serra Leoa,” which means Lion Mountains, after spotting some lovely mountains while on the boat.
The name has remained ever since and finally became “Sierra Leone.”🏝
Interesting, isn’t it?
“Tropically” Awesome: Sierra Leone!
The coastal areas of Sierra Leone have hot, humid weather … .obviously, it is a tropical climate.
There is a temperate climate in the inland regions, though!
If you are already making plans for this vacation, keep in mind that the rainy season typically lasts from May to October.
From November through April, there are dry seasons. As it is usually warm and humid here, dress comfortably for the summer! (And some ‘beachy’ vibes!!)
Dribble…because you are in Sierra Leone!
The national pastime in Sierra Leone is football!
Just like in many other nations in Africa, football is all that you need…for a good time! Among the many sports in the nation are basketball, cricket, scuba diving, and fishing.
So, do you want to become a Leone star? (the male football team members)… ⚽️
Not only is it the national sport…but also played in the locality for a better future in the football industry!
Hike up to the highs!
This peak in Sierra Leone can be ideal for you if you enjoy hiking.
Mount Bintumani, also referred to as “Loma Mansa,” is the tallest point in both Sierra Leone and the Linda Mountains Area!!
It is elevated to a height of 1945 meters above sea level! Can you imagine?
Experienced hikers frequently stop here because getting to the summit can be difficult…so be prepared!
But at the summit, the gorgeous scenery makes the effort worthwhile!! Hikers! Hype up!
Chimpanzee sanctuary: A must-visit of Sierra Leone!
The country of Sierra Leone also has a notable chimpanzee population!
One of the biggest chimpanzee sanctuaries in West Africa is the Tacugama Chimpanzee Sanctuary in Sierra Leone…. established in 1995.
The sanctuary was founded by Bala Amarasekaran…to care for and rescue abused, orphaned, and abandoned chimpanzees. His love for these creatures was quite astonishing!
Beach-Beach…Take me with you!
Are you also a beach lover? Mountain? Well, you can get both in Sierra Leone.
Well, talking about the beaches…two of the most well-liked surfing locations in the nation are John Outlaw Beach and Bureh Beach!
These aren’t the only beaches in Sierra Leone; Huntington, Vermont, Lakka, and Tokeh are also well-liked spots to relax and take in stunning ocean views.🏖
It is renowned for its beautiful panoramas towards the Atlantic Ocean and beautiful sand beaches… what a beautiful view!
Freetown isn’t free!
“Nothing is free,” you need to have heard someone say! This is true…
Lieutenant John Clarkson founded Freetown in 1792…place for slaves. Now you see why Freetown, Sierra Leone’s capital, is actually Freetown.
The “Province of Freedom” was then present-day Freetown. Former slaves might land there to settle down, start over, or go back to their homeland.
Peace for your eyes!
The lush green view of this country will mesmerize you in multiple ways!
Starting from the lowland rainforests, marine life, terrain, and Flat coastal regions… all add up to the beauty of Sierra Leone.🏝
Not to forget the main part… the mountain forest!! The dark green mountains standing high … will definitely catch your soul!
Not so big in dimension, but huge in history!
Well, if you measure the land area… it will be almost 77,740 kilometers square. Interestingly, if you start measuring with history, you will be shocked to see the length!
The main point of attraction in Sierra Leone is the coastline… with some cool beaches!
The beauty of this country is beyond description…(you will be at a loss for ‘describing words’ here).
A pool of languages- You won’t be bored here!
Sierra Leone was established as a British colony… so the English language is justified. English is only one of the numerous languages that are spoken in the nation, though. Krio is the official language of the area!
In addition, many distinct languages, including Mende, Temne, and Limba, are spoken in Sierra Leone.
You will be thinking… What is the source of so many languages? Well, the ethnic groups of this country have several native languages.🏘
Let’s sail to Turtle Island!
Turtle Island is the most famous of Sierra Leone’s many stunning islands… made up of eight islands!
These eight tiny islands in the Atlantic Ocean are reachable by sailboat from Sherbro Island.
They were given that name in honor of the green turtles that once nested nearby! How cool the scenery would have been then?
Even though the number of turtles living on the island has decreased since then, you may still enjoy a variety of sea and bird species as you take in the scenery.
Comrades mark the date: Sierra Leone’s independence!
We have discussed the national anthem above… but when to sing it?
Well, in 1991, it declared independence from the British within a one-state party system
It automatically joined the Commonwealth of Nations. The national holiday falls on April 27!
However, the first year after the nation’s independence was rife with unrest on all fronts: political, economic, and otherwise.
A proud Islamic country: Sierra Leone
Although the majority is Islamic here, but, it is more correct to term it as an Islam-centric country!
You should be aware of the various religions practiced in Sierra Leone.
Muslims make up more than 78% of the population of the nation.
One intriguing cultural feature about Sierra Leone is that Sierra Leone celebrates almost every religious festivity!
It is safe to state that Sierra Leone is a Muslim-majority nation. The festivals of Islam and Christianity are observed simultaneously, though.
A 200-year-old Kapok tree!
Well, you are thinking, what is a Kapok tree? Let me clear your doubts.
It is basically a cotton tree.
This tree is a landmark for this nation…not only that, you will be amazed to know it is 200 years old!
Not just a simple tree, this kopek tree is a well-known religious and sentimental tree for the natives. 🌳
It is said that people used to pray under this tree during their Thanksgiving season!
A tree that witnessed a million prayers.
Wooshay! Leones!!
Well, this is the way you will be greeting the people of Sierra Leone.
In the language of Kanuri tribes, the ‘wooshay’ would mean “Hello.”
In Sierra Leone, you will not be greeted with various languages…but in various ways, also.
The tribes like Mende, Kanuri, etc., are very old tribes staying there!
Summing up
How this country is a tiny yet accommodating nation!
Starting from naming the city to its way of independence…. Its vast nature and mineral resources! 🏵
Wasn’t it a real thrill to know the facts about this beautiful place?? Do let us know if you liked them!!
I’m a former teacher (and mother of Two Childs) with a background in child development. Here to help you with play-based learning activities for kids. ( Check my Next startup Cledemy.Com)
