Sierra Leone
Money in Sierra Leone: currency, ATMs, cards and tipping
Use Sierra Leonean leone (SLE) for most purchases; bring US dollars or euros to exchange, and rely on cash in most places—cards work at a few Freetown ATMs, and tip around 5 % of the bill.
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GuideSierra Leone
Key facts
- Currency
- Sierra Leonean leone (SLE)
- Cash needed
- Almost everywhere; bring clean USD or EUR to exchange
- ATMscheck
- Limited to Rokel, Ecobank, UBA in Freetown (check availability)
- Card acceptancecheck
- Visa cards at few ATMs, rarely in shops
- Typical tip
- ≈5 % of bill or round up to nearest leone
Quick answer
Sierra Leone uses the leone (SLE). Bring US dollars or euros for exchange, keep cash handy, and use cards only at a few Freetown ATMs. Tip about 5 %.
Using money in Sierra Leone
The leone was redenominated in 2022 (1 new leone = 1,000 old). Prices are still quoted in thousands, so check the number of zeros.
Cash is essential for markets, taxis, restaurants and small hotels. Exchange clean USD or EUR at banks or licensed bureaus; rates are better than airport kiosks.
Mobile money services (Orange Money, Afrimoney) exist but are mainly used by residents. Visitors typically rely on cash.
ATMs and cards
ATMs are scarce outside Freetown. In the capital you can find machines at Rokel, Ecobank and UBA branches; availability may vary, so verify before travel.
Visa cards are accepted at those ATMs and rarely in shops. Expect fees and low withdrawal limits. Carry a backup of cash in case machines are out of service.
Tipping
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave about 5 % in leones. For guides, drivers and hotel staff, a tip of SLE 5–10 per service is common.
When paying in cash, you can add the tip directly; if using a card, leave the amount in cash.
Questions people ask
What currency is used in Sierra Leone?
The official currency is the Sierra Leonean leone (SLE).
Should I use cash or a card in Sierra Leone?
Cash is needed almost everywhere. Cards work at a few ATMs in Freetown, but most purchases require leones.
How much should I tip in Sierra Leone?
Around 5 % of the restaurant bill or round up to the nearest leone; guides and drivers usually receive SLE 5–10 per service.
Can I exchange foreign currency at the airport?
Yes, but rates are worse than at banks or licensed bureaus in town. Exchange a small amount at the airport for immediate needs.
Are ATMs reliable in Freetown?
ATMs at Rokel, Ecobank and UBA branches work but may run out of cash or be offline. Always carry a backup of USD or EUR.
Is mobile money (Orange Money) useful for visitors?
Mobile money is widely used by residents but not practical for short-term travellers. Stick to cash.
Check live
Prices, schedules, rules and availability change. Open these to confirm today's details before you book.
Deep dive
Every source; changeable facts are marked check
Sources
- officialSierra Leone Tourism Board
Ask about Sierra Leone
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