Cheap Flights To Freetown

The capital city of the Western African state of Sierra Leone, Freetown is an upwardly mobile city on the move. Founded in the 1700s as a place of refuge for freed slaves from America and the Caribbean, its heritage is reflected in its unique architecture, which is a blend of African and Creole styles, and in the Krio language spoken as a lingua franca by the locals.

In this tradition of tolerance, it's also one of the most liberal cities in West Africa, with Christians and Muslims living peacefully side by side. The city's a real melting pot with all the cultural vibrancy and vitality that this typically brings; this is reflected in the array of festivals and events it holds such as the international film and music festivals. Blessed with a tropical climate, its coastal location means it's never as swelteringly hot as cities that are more inland, and there's plenty of wonderful scenery to explore.

Things To Do

Freetown is a city with a fascinating past, which is reflected in the depth and breadth of museums to visit and buildings to tour. Alternatively, you can clear your head with a stroll on one of the beaches.

• A City Full of Stories

Sierra Leone's a has a turbulent history, and the national story is told eloquently in the Sierra Leone National Museum and the Peace Museum, both of which are worth a visit. Reflecting the city's religious tolerance, both cathedrals and mosques are open to the public and are wonderful places to reflect and contemplate away from the city's bustle.

• Getting Out There

The city is blessed with its coastal location and seemingly impossibly beautiful beaches. River Number Two Beach, with its gorgeous sands, is a must visit. More remote charms are to be found in the wild and windswept Aberdeen district. Going inland, the Chimpanzee sanctuary at Tacugama is a wonderful retreat away from the hurly burly of the workaday world, where you can get up close to these wonderful, intelligent creatures.

• Look Around

It's a city which rewards getting up close and personal. The crime rate is low, English is widely spoken -- it's a great place to just get out there and explore. Check out the fascinating mix of buildings and rub shoulders with the locals.

Calendar Of Events

Sierra Leoneans don't need an excuse to party, and at any time of the year, there's something interesting happening in Freetown.

• Sierra Leone International film festival. This fascinating film festival features up-and-coming film-makers from across the globe. with plenty of screenings and discussions, it's a cineaste's delight.

• Balanta Music Festival. This music festival, featuring a mix of local and international musicians spanning a wide range of styles, is held every March.

• Lantern Festival. For a true taste of the local flavour, this spectacular festival celebrating local culture is held around independence day every April.