Is cash still widely used?
Yes. Sierra Leone is predominantly cash-based. Markets, poda-podas (local minibuses), local restaurants, and most businesses require leone cash. Freetown has some card acceptance at larger hotels. Mobile money (Orange Money, Afrimoney) is growing but not accessible to foreign visitors.
ATMs and withdrawing cash
ATMs are available in Freetown. Rokel Commercial Bank and Sierra Leone Commercial Bank machines accept some foreign cards.
- Fees are around 50,000 SLE per withdrawal for foreign cards
- Very limited availability outside Freetown
- Withdraw cash in Freetown before beach travel or regional trips
Card acceptance
Low. Some hotels and restaurants in Freetown accept cards. Everywhere else requires cash.
Tips for travelers
- Sierra Leone has some of West Africa’s finest and least-visited beaches
- Carry leone cash for all travel outside Freetown
- USD is also accepted at some tourist-facing businesses
- Tipping guides and boat operators is appreciated