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Bunce Island
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Historical site
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Bunce Island, a small island in the Sierra Leone River, was a major center of the transatlantic slave trade from the 17th to the 19th centuries. The island holds the ruins of a British trading post from which tens of thousands of enslaved Africans were shipped to North America and the Caribbean. Its strategic river location facilitated the movement of captives from the interior. The island was later fortified as a British colonial fort, with remnants now preserved as a historic site. Bunce Island stands as a symbol of the brutal slave trade and serves as a memorial to its victims. Archaeological excavations have uncovered artifacts providing insight into slave living conditions and trade activities. The island is open to visitors and is listed by Sierra Leone's National Commission for UNESCO as a tentative World Heritage site.
- Location: Sierra Leone
- Nearby: Tasso Island (12 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 26 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 27 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 1 | 2 | 3 | 25 | 136 | 399 | 644 | 699 | 400 | 187 | 71 | 4 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Bunce Island is a historic island in the Sierra Leone River, accessible only by boat. Visits are possible through guided tours organized from Freetown.
Typical hours
Tours are usually offered on specific weekdays, typically in the morning. As schedules are weather-dependent, it's advisable to book in advance with a tour operator.
Photography
Photography is allowed on the island and at the ruins to document the historic site. Use of drones is not permitted without special permission.
Time needed
A typical tour including boat ride and island walk lasts about three to four hours. Allow half a day for the full experience.
Combine with
Combine the Bunce Island trip with a visit to the Sierra Leone National Museum in Freetown. A walk through the historic Kroo Bay district is also worthwhile.
Getting there
The boat departure is usually from Murray Town Wharf or Aberdeen Pier in Freetown. The crossing takes about 30-45 minutes - a reliable tour operator is recommended.
Insider tip
Wear light, loose clothing and sturdy footwear - the terrain is uneven and can be muddy. Insect repellent is highly recommended due to the proximity to water.
Geography
Facts
- The island is located about 20 miles upstream from Freetown.
- The slave trade on Bunce Island lasted from around 1670 to 1808.
- An estimated 30,000 slaves were shipped through the island.
- The British fort was first built in 1742.
- The island covers about 1.5 hectares.
- In 1967, Bunce Island was declared a national monument.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What makes Bunce Island historically important?
It was a major base for the slave trade.
How do you get to the island?
By boat from Freetown; use local providers.
Is the trip worth it?
Yes, for history buffs it is a must.
Is there anything to consider?
The ruins are fragile, please do not touch anything.
Is there a museum there?
There is a ruin site, but no museum.
Bunce Island: where is it located?
Bunce Island is located in Sierra Leone.
Bunce Island: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Bunce Island: why is it worth visiting?
Bunce Island, a small island in the Sierra Leone River, was a major center of the transatlantic slave trade from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
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