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Money & currency

Money in Sierra Leone

Updated 2026-08-16

Money & Currency
Le

Sierra Leonean Leone (SLL)

Currency code: SLL

Practical Money Tips

New Leone (SLE) — USD Widely Accepted

Sierra Leone redenominated its currency in 2022: the new Sierra Leonean leone (SLE) replaced the old leone at a rate of 1 SLE = 1,000 SLL. US dollars are widely accepted at hotels, supermarkets, and larger businesses. Exchange USD or GBP at Ecobank, Rokel Commercial Bank, or licensed bureaux de change in Freetown.

ATMs Mainly in Freetown — Very Scarce Elsewhere

Ecobank and Rokel Commercial Bank have ATMs in Freetown, primarily in the central business district and around Lumley. Outside Freetown — including Bo, Kenema, and Makeni — ATM coverage is very limited. Withdraw sufficient cash before leaving the capital.

Cards at a Handful of Hotels Only

Visa cards are accepted at a small number of upscale hotels and international businesses in Freetown. Mastercard acceptance is even more limited. Apple Pay and Google Pay are not supported. Plan on cash for the vast majority of spending.

Cash-Dominant Economy — USD Highly Practical

Cash is essential throughout Sierra Leone. USD is widely accepted alongside SLE in Freetown; in provincial towns, SLE is the norm. Carry a mix of both. Avoid large-denomination USD bills (USD 100 notes are sometimes refused); smaller notes (USD 5, 10, 20) are preferred.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

What currency is used in Sierra Leone?

The new Sierra Leonean leone (SLE), introduced in 2022 to replace the old leone (SLL) at a 1:1,000 ratio. US dollars are widely accepted, particularly in Freetown. GBP is also exchangeable.

Can I use US dollars directly in Sierra Leone?

Yes — USD is widely accepted at hotels, supermarkets, and larger businesses in Freetown. In smaller towns and rural areas, SLE is preferred. Having local currency avoids unfavourable informal exchange rates.

Are there ATMs in Sierra Leone?

Yes, but primarily in Freetown at Ecobank and Rokel Commercial Bank branches. Outside the capital, ATMs are very scarce. Always withdraw enough cash before leaving Freetown.

How expensive is Sierra Leone?

Sierra Leone is a budget destination overall. Basic guesthouses cost a fraction of what international restaurants in Freetown charge for a meal, and local street food costs considerably less again. Budget travellers can generally get by comfortably without needing to track every individual price.

Is tipping expected in Sierra Leone?

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. A small tip for restaurant staff and guides is a generous gesture. Use small USD bills or SLE for tips.

What happened with the currency redenomination?

In 2022, Sierra Leone introduced the new leone (SLE), equal to 1,000 old leones (SLL). When changing money, confirm whether prices are quoted in new or old leones to avoid confusion.

Do Apple Pay and Google Pay work in Sierra Leone?

No — contactless mobile payments are not available in Sierra Leone. Cash (USD or SLE) is essential for all transactions.

Is it safe to carry cash in Sierra Leone?

Use common-sense precautions — keep larger amounts in a hotel safe and carry only what you need for the day. Petty theft exists in busy areas of Freetown. Use a money belt in crowds.

Entry rules, visa types and practical notes live on the Sierra Leone overview.

Treat this Visaja page as your starting point: verify the current rules directly with the official source before you submit an application.