Deep in Sierra Leone’s rainforest, Tiwai Island is a haven for some of West Africa’s rarest wildlife.
Crossing the Moa River at Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, Sierra Leone / Stephanie Zito / Wikimedia Commons
It’s conservation story is just as compelling, with local communities helping protect the forest. Unlike Africa’s better-known safari destinations, Tiwai is all about the rainforest. Wildlife hides in the canopy and dense vegetation, making patience and a knowledgeable guide essential.
Covering approximately 12 square kilometres, the island forms part of the Upper Guinean Forest, one of Africa’s most important biodiversity hotspots. It’s name means ‘Big Island’ in Mende.
A remarkable diversity of wildlife
Eleven primate species have been recorded on Tiwai, including the endangered Diana monkey, western red colobus, sooty mangabey and western chimpanzee.
Guided forest walks offer opportunities to spot them in the canopy. The island also supports more than 135 recorded bird species, including hornbills.
It’s most elusive resident is the pygmy hippopotamus, a rare West African species that favours forested habitats near freshwater. Night-time boat trips along the Moa River offer opportunities to look for these secretive animals, although sightings are never guaranteed.
Exploring the island
Guided forest walks introduce visitors to Tiwai’s wildlife and rainforest ecology, while boat excursions along the Moa offer another way to explore.
Between December and March, sandy beaches emerge along the island’s northern edge as water levels drop. Visitors can swim in the freshwater when conditions allow.
Cultural experiences can also be arranged with the eight surrounding communities, including traditional dances and introductions to local heritage.
Accommodation is simple, with camping and basic lodge facilities available. Meals prepared by community members typically feature local dishes, including rice, stews and traditional sauces.
Conservation and community
Designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1987, Tiwai has a long history of conservation and scientific research, particularly into primates and rainforest ecology.
Today, local communities remain central to it’s protection. The ecotourism camp is operated by the Environmental Foundation for Africa’s Sierra Leone organisation, with tourism revenue supporting the sanctuary and a Community Development Fund serving the eight surrounding communities.
Tiwai forms part of the wider Gola-Tiwai landscape, which includes Gola Rainforest National Park. Together, these protected areas cover more than 71,000 hectares and provide habitat for threatened species, including western chimpanzees and pygmy hippopotamuses.
In July 2025, the Gola-Tiwai Complex was inscribed on UNESCO’s World Heritage List, recognising it’s exceptional biodiversity and importance to the Upper Guinean Forest.
Planning a visit
Reaching Tiwai involves travelling from Freetown towards Sierra Leone’s Southern Province, followed by a road transfer to the Moa River and a boat crossing.
The dry season, generally December to March, offers better conditions for exploring and access to the seasonal river beaches. The rainy season typically runs from May to October and can make travel more challenging.
Transport, accommodation and guided activities should be arranged in advance through the sanctuary’s tourism team.
A rainforest worth discovering
Tiwai Island may be lesser-known than Africa’s established safari destinations, but it’s wildlife and conservation importance make it worth discovering. For travellers willing to venture beyond the familiar routes, it offers a chance to encounter rare species, explore an exceptional rainforest and learn about the communities working to protect it.
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