Language
English is the official language. Krio — an English-based creole — is the true lingua franca, spoken and understood by almost everyone. Temne is dominant in the north, Mende in the south and east. Some basic Krio goes a long way.
Currency
The currency is the Leone (NLE — New Leone, introduced in 2022 by removing three zeros from the old Leone). Sierra Leone is largely cash-based. Credit cards are accepted at a handful of hotels and restaurants in Freetown but don't count on it elsewhere. ATMs exist in Freetown and accept foreign Visa and Mastercard cards, though they are frequently out of service. Bring enough dollars or euros to exchange; US dollars are widely accepted in tourist-facing places. Exchange at banks or official bureaux de change, not on the street.
Safety
Sierra Leone is at peace and stable, but petty crime — pickpocketing, bag-snatching — is common in Freetown, especially in crowded areas and on public minibuses. Don't display expensive gear. Avoid traveling outside the Freetown Peninsula after dark. Use pre-arranged transport at night rather than hailing random vehicles. The political situation is generally calm but demonstrations can happen; give them a wide berth.
Communications
Mobile coverage is decent in Freetown and the main towns; it disappears in rural areas. SIM cards from Orange, Africell, and Qcell are cheap and widely available. Mobile data is the practical way to stay connected. Power cuts are frequent; a portable charger is worth bringing.
Electricity
Power supply is unreliable throughout the country. Most hotels have generators. Plugs are British-style three-pin (Type G), though adapters for two-pin European plugs are also commonly needed.
Time zone
GMT (no daylight saving).