Sierra Leone, a picturesque country with a rainforest-covered island, remains largely undiscovered by tourists, despite the introduction of direct flights from the UK.
Annually, Intrepid Travel unveils its Not Hot List, highlighting ten hidden gem destinations deemed “ready for more visitors in 2026.” This curated list aims to guide travelers to places where their presence can make a positive impact.
Among the featured destinations is Sierra Leone, which recently launched a groundbreaking 10-year tourism strategy to attract global travelers and position itself as a leader in ecotourism.
In contrast to the bustling tourist crowds in other West African countries like Ghana, Sierra Leone offers unspoiled landscapes and genuine hospitality from local communities. In 2024, the country welcomed just 60,890 international overnight visitors, a fraction compared to Ghana’s 1.2 million visitors.
Following President Julius Maada Bio’s introduction of Sierra Leone’s first-ever long-term tourism plan in 2024, a bold initiative was set in motion to rebrand the nation as a sustainable travel pioneer.
The country’s push to redefine its global image and draw more international tourists comes after enduring a decade-long civil war that resulted in significant casualties and displacement.
Sierra Leone saw a positive development earlier this year with the commencement of direct flights from London and the opening of a new solar-powered airport terminal.
At the core of Sierra Leone’s tourism revitalization is Tiwai Island, known for its diverse wildlife populations and its inclusion in the Gola Forest National Park, a haven for rare flora and fauna.
In a significant achievement, Tiwai Island was designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site in July 2025. Managed by the Environmental Foundation for Africa, the island collaborates with eight local communities that reinvest all tourism earnings into community development projects.
Adventurous travelers can now embark on the new eight-day Sierra Leone Adventure: History, Culture & Nature expedition to explore Tiwai Island. This journey offers a chance to spend a night on the island surrounded by lush rainforest, guided by local experts on night walks through dense jungles and tranquil boat cruises along the Moa River.
The destinations featured on the Not Hot list are currently attracting relatively few international visitors, offering a unique travel experience away from overcrowded tourist hotspots.
Hazel McGuire, Intrepid’s chief marketing officer, emphasized that the Not Hot List promotes sustainable travel practices and sheds light on the efforts of countries and destinations striving for positive tourism development. The list is not a promotional campaign for Intrepid trips but aims to inspire travelers to explore less-visited regions responsibly.
In response to the growing issue of overtourism worldwide, Intrepid has adjusted its tours to mitigate negative impacts. By selecting accommodations outside city centers and offering alternative tour times, the company seeks to reduce the strain on popular destinations like Dubrovnik.
Intrepid aims to spread the benefits of tourism more evenly by exploring lesser-known regions and extending travel opportunities beyond peak seasons. The company’s commitment to responsible tourism aligns with its mission to support local communities and preserve the authenticity of travel experiences.