by Luke Williams

Over the past decade cycling tourism has rapidly risen in popularity around the world and west Africa is one of the best hidden gems of the cycling world. Planning a cycling trip anywhere can be a daunting challenge, but thanks to this short guide you’ll soon know all you need to know about planning a cycling trip to Sierra Leone.

Should I visit during race week?

Absolutely! The SiS Tour de Lunsar is the biggest and best annual bike race in Sierra Leone and has been ran since 2016. The event has showcased some of the most iconic locations in Lunsar and beyond over the years, including the legendary Cotton Tree in Freetown and the stunning Port Loko region. In 2023 the race will get underway on the runway of Tengi international airport, something you don’t want to miss out on.

Outside of racing, the SiS Tour de Lunsar is also a celebration of Sierra Leonean culture and attracts fans from near and far to cheer on their cycling heroes from the roadside. At the end of each stage there is always a party atmosphere that has to be seen to be believed. If a true cycling party is what you’re after, then look no further than race week to make the voyage.

If you want to take part in the SiS Tour de Lunsar, registration for the 2023 edition is still open. Sign up by clicking the link https://www.lunsarcycling.com/race-centre-2023.

What’s there to do outside of race week?

We’re glad you asked! Sierra Leone is one of the most beautiful countries in west Africa and has a long history of friendly hospitality to those wanting to share in our wonders. Given our coastal presence, Sierra Leone is home to some of the best beaches found anywhere in the world, many of which remain largely untouched by tourists. One of our favourites is Bureh beach found a short drive away from Freetown. The area is a sandy stretch of coastline that whisks you away into a fantasy land of sun and seafood. Pure relaxation.

For all those animal lovers out there, Sierra Leone is a haven for species of all shapes and sizes. The Tacugama Chimpanzee sanctuary is a firm favourite among visitors to Freetown as it is found less than an hour away from the capital. The sanctuary houses dozens of chimpanzees that have been saved from poachers and predators alike. A tour of the area will only set you back around $15 too!

No visit to our country is complete without a trip to see the famous Cotton Tree in Freetown. This historic tree was planted by freed slaves that came to Sierra Leone in search of a brighter future and can be found in the heart of our nation’s capital. The Cotton Tree represents the everlasting freedom of Sierra Leonean people everywhere. 

Just passing through?

If you’re just riding through Sierra Leone as part of a wider cycling adventure across Africa then there is no better place to visit then Lunsar. Our town is the cycling hub of Sierra Leone and has everything you’ll need to keep moving smoothly including the amazing Lunsar bike shop. It’s also the home of Lunsar Cycling Team and we’d be happy to welcome you to our town anytime of the year. Scottish cyclist Oscar Chamberlain recently stopped by as part of his ride through the continent, check out the piece ‘Riding through Sierra Leone’.

It's not just European visitors we love to see though, we had the pleasure of welcoming a group of American pilgrims to Lunsar in 2022 as they aimed to reconnect with their west African heritage.

Watch ‘Home Again’ here and discover even more amazing things about Sierra Leone