Tiwai Island: Sierra Leone’s Natural Treasure
Despite covering only 11.9 square kilometers, Tiwai Island—which means “Big Island” in Mende—is one of the most biodiverse places in West Africa. This ecological jewel is home to some of the densest primate populations in the world, including endangered chimpanzees, as well as the rare and elusive pygmy hippo. With Sierra Leone’s new UNESCO membership, Tiwai has officially become part of the country’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site, marking a new era for conservation and eco-tourism in the region.
The Journey to Sierra Leone’s UNESCO World Heritage Site
Reaching Tiwai Island is no ordinary trip—it is an adventure in itself. Travelers start from Sierra Leone’s capital, Freetown, and drive nearly 240 kilometers along asphalt highways before transitioning to hours of travel on rugged, rust-red roads. Eventually, the journey reaches the banks of the Moa River, where visitors cross to Tiwai by dugout canoe.
These canoe rides often take place under torchlight, in the stillness of night, adding to the raw, adventurous spirit of the experience. The trip also includes entry into the Gola Rainforest National Park, now part of the UNESCO inscription, which expands the cultural and ecological significance of the region.
Staying Off the Grid: Tiwai’s Wilderness Camp
What awaits on the other side of the Moa River is an off-the-grid eco camp tucked away in a clearing of the rainforest. Surrounded by towering 12-meter piptadeniastrum trees, twisting liana vines, and dense bamboo groves, this wilderness lodge offers an immersive escape into raw nature.
The camp itself is simple but authentic: wooden cabins with mesh sides, beds with mosquito nets, a communal dining pavilion, and a basic bathing area. While it lacks luxury comforts, visitors don’t come here for fine linens or modern amenities—they come for the symphony of sounds from the West African rainforest at night.
The Magic of the Rainforest at Night
For many travelers, the highlight of visiting Tiwai Island is the night itself. Under the blanket of darkness, the forest comes alive with an orchestra of sounds—from chirping insects to mysterious rustles in the undergrowth.
As traveler Bea Meitiner recalled after her 2022 visit:
“I remember lying in bed and listening to the cacophony of sounds going off around me. One night, I woke up to something moving outside my tent. My heart pounded as I froze, convinced it was a predator. The next morning, we found pygmy hippo footprints near camp. Realizing that such a rare creature had walked by while I slept—it was magical and terrifying at the same time.”
This unique blend of awe, fear, and wonder is what makes Tiwai Island such a special place.
Why Tiwai Island Deserves Global Recognition
The recognition of Tiwai Island and the Gola Rainforest National Park as Sierra Leone’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site is more than just a conservation milestone. It positions Sierra Leone as an emerging eco-tourism destination, offering travelers the rare opportunity to experience pristine rainforests, endangered species, and authentic wilderness living.
For eco-travelers, researchers, and adventure seekers, Tiwai Island is not just a destination—it’s a living natural museum, a reminder of the fragile beauty that UNESCO aims to preserve for future generations.
FAQs About Tiwai Island, Sierra Leone
Q1: Why is Tiwai Island famous?
Tiwai Island is known for its dense primate populations, endangered chimpanzees, and the rare pygmy hippo. It’s also part of Sierra Leone’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Q2: How do you reach Tiwai Island?
Travelers drive about 240 km from Freetown, then continue on rough roads to the Moa River, where a dugout canoe transports them to the island.
Q3: Is accommodation available on Tiwai Island?
Yes, there is a basic wilderness camp with wooden cabins, mosquito net beds, a communal dining area, and simple bathing facilities.
Q4: What is the best time to visit Tiwai Island?
The dry season (November to April) is the best time for easier travel conditions and wildlife sightings.
Q5: Why did UNESCO recognize Tiwai Island?
Tiwai and the Gola Rainforest were recognized for their exceptional biodiversity, rare species, and cultural significance in preserving West African rainforest ecosystems.
