Sherbro Island Island

Sherbro Island is a large island off the southern coast of Sierra Leone in the country’s Southern Province. It is notable for coastal environments including mangroves, sandy beaches, and small settlements.

Human settlement is concentrated in towns and villages, with the town of Bonthe on the island providing a ferry and administrative hub. Local economies are based on fishing, small-scale agriculture, and coastal resource use.

Historically Sherbro Island has been involved in regional trade and local political arrangements; it has seen colonial-era activity and continues to support traditional livelihoods. Infrastructure and services are relatively limited compared with the national capital region.

Geographically the island lies off Sierra Leone’s southern coastline in the Atlantic, separated from the mainland by estuaries and channels and approached by boat from regional ports.

• Access note: The island is accessed by boat from the Sierra Leone mainland; schedules and services are limited so planning ahead is advisable for visitors.

What to See#

• Bonthe: Bonthe town, located on Sherbro Island’s northeastern coast, serves as the island’s main population and administrative centre and provides the principal ferry and boat connections to the Sierra Leone mainland.
• Mangrove and coastal areas: Coastal mangrove systems and beaches that fringe much of the island and support local fisheries and traditional livelihoods.

Access is by boat from the mainland ports such as Bonthe or via chartered coastal vessels from Freetown. Travel logistics vary; arrange passage and lodging in advance through local operators or NGOs.

• Organize boat transfers and lodging in advance, especially in the high season-services on Sherbro Island are limited.
• Respect local customs and arrange any visits to local communities via recognized guides or community cooperatives.
• If fishing is the intent, ensure licenses and local regulations are followed; Sherbro is an important local marine resource.