Sierra Leone's currency is the Leone (SLL, now NL after redenomination). The USD is widely accepted in Freetown and Lungi but at varying and often unfavourable rates. Here's how to...
Sierra Leone's currency is the Leone (SLL, now NL after redenomination). The USD is widely accepted in Freetown and Lungi but at varying and often unfavourable rates. Here's how to navigate currency exchange intelligently.
In 2022, Sierra Leone redenominated its currency — 1,000 old Leones = 1 new Leone (NL). Many people still quote prices in old Leones. Always confirm which denomination is being used. At time of writing, USD 1 ≈ NL 22–24. This rate fluctuates — check the Bank of Sierra Leone website for official daily rates.
Best options in order: (1) Commercial banks — GTBank, Rokel Commercial Bank, Access Bank, SLCB all offer official rates. Bring your passport. (2) Authorised forex bureaux — faster and often at marginally better rates than banks, found mainly in Freetown. (3) Your hotel — convenient but typically worst rate. (4) Airport — avoid if possible. Rates at Lungi Airport kiosks are 10–15% below street rate.
Mobile money is transforming Sierra Leone's economy. Orange Money and Africell Money allow transfers, payments and cash-in/cash-out. For USD-to-Leone transfers, some fintech operators offer competitive rates. Ask your hotel or local contact for current recommended operators.
Western Union and MoneyGram have agents throughout Freetown. WorldRemit and Remitly are popular digital options with better rates. For business transfers, GTBank Sierra Leone handles SWIFT transfers. Expect 1–3 business day clearing times for bank wires.
An informal USD/NL market exists with rates 5–15% above official. It is illegal to transact forex outside authorised channels. Enforcement is inconsistent but the risks — confiscation, arrest, scam — are real. We strongly recommend using official channels only.
Hariom Yogi Guest House offers forex services for guests at competitive rates. For corporate clients and NGO teams, multi-currency transactions can be arranged. Contact yogistay.com for current rates.
Exchange rates change daily. Check the Bank of Sierra Leone website or ask at a GTBank branch for the official interbank rate. As a rough guide: USD 1 ≈ NL 22–24 in mid-2025.
Rarely outside major Freetown hotels. Visa is accepted at a handful of establishments. Mastercard even rarer. Come with USD cash plus some Leones for small purchases.
Keep large amounts in a hotel safe. Carry only what you need daily. Use money belt or inside pocket for larger sums. Petty theft exists as in any city but violent robbery of tourists is uncommon in Lungi/Freetown.
Yes, at major banks and some forex bureaux. GBP also accepted at most. USD gives the best rates and is most universally accepted.
Hariom Yogi Guest House — opposite Lungi Airport. Book direct at yogistay.com.
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