For meals, transport, tips - whats the safe amount to carry in Sierra Leone ? Trying to plan a daily budget for a month long trip
I recommend bringing about $30-$40 daily. Street meals like fried cassava or grilled chicken cost $2-$5, while motorbike taxis or 'poda poda' buses are super cheap for getting around Freetown. Carry cash since some places don’t take cards, and small tips of 5-10% add to a better experience at restaurants.
Honestly, getting around is a mixed bag; shared taxis are cheap but overcrowded. I spent about $30/day eating local food and using taxis. If you want to visit remote spots like Tiwai Sanctuary, budgeting extra for 4x4 rentals and boats is a must. Staying safe means not carrying too much cash.
Car rentals are pricey and roads can be tricky, so using moto taxis and public transport is advisable. Plan for around $40 daily if you want to eat at small restaurants and take motos or taxis. Remember to use SunTrust or Rokel Bank ATMs in Freetown for cash. Tipping 10% in restaurants seems appreciated but is not mandatory.
For budgeting Sierra Leone, street food like cassava leaf stew and fried plantains can cost just $2-$4 per meal. Shared taxis called poda podas are super cheap, around $0.50-$1 for short trips. I’d budget $25-$35 daily to cover transport, meals, and small tips if you stick mostly to local options. Avoid renting cars outside urban areas unless experienced with rough roads.