Finding suitable accommodation while traveling can be a daunting task, especially in less touristy regions like Sierra Leone. My journey through Airbnb in this West African country provided a mix of surprises and challenges, revealing both the unique offerings and drawbacks of lodging options available. Some Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone were worth their value.
My stays were quite the ride—full of surprises, both good and bad. Here’s the scoop on my four unique stays.
Stop 1: Ismahejoso Lodge
Budget-friendly picks under $20 were a no-go, so I landed on Ismahejoso Lodge at $25 a night. The warm welcome was a plus, but my room? Not so much. It wasn’t clean, and I had to wait till the next day for cleaners.The room was spacious with a big bed, a bathtub, and running water. Wi-Fi worked for one night, then became moody. The 24/7 power with a generator backup was a lifesaver, though!
The location? Adonkia—a beach lover’s dream with Lakka, River Number 2, and Lumley beaches close by. But a weird late-night knock from another guest left me a bit on edge.
Stop 2: Zakben Hotel
Next, I tried Zakben Hotel for $24. It was far from the city center but promised reliable power and fast Wi-Fi. Reality? A room filled with cigarette butts, roaches, and dust. Gross! Cleaners showed up the next day to fix it.
The power and Wi-Fi were decent, with occasional hiccups. But the remote location? A hassle. No nearby restaurants or attractions, and transport costs to the city drained my wallet.
Stop 3: Simple Single Bedroom
After Zakben, I switched gears to a no-frills single room at $20 for two nights. It was basic but delivered on the essentials—power, running water, and a generator backup. The host liked my Airbnb profile and even offered me another spot nearby, which turned out to be just fine.
Stop 4: Freetown Host’s Property
The final stop was a gem! My previous host invited me to their place in Freetown. It was clean, cozy, and secure with 24/7 guards. Electricity was pay-as-you-go but still cheaper than hotels.
The best parts? A kitchen and fast Wi-Fi! I stayed six days and finally felt at ease.
Final Thoughts
Sierra Leone’s Airbnb scene was a mixed bag. Some places nailed the basics, while others needed serious TLC. Cleanliness was hit or miss, but the hosts were super responsive.
My advice? Keep an open mind and stay flexible. With a little patience, Sierra Leone’s Airbnbs can be an adventure worth taking!
For reviews of accommodations in other countries, click this link.
