Things to Do at Bunce Island

Bunce Island, located about 20 miles up the Sierra Leone River from Freetown, stands as one of West Africa's most significant historical sites and a sobering reminder of the Atlantic slave trade. This small island served as a major slave trading post from the 1670s to 1808, operated primarily by British merchants. The island's strategic location made it an ideal departure point for enslaved Africans being shipped to North America and the Caribbean, with an estimated 50,000 people passing through its facilities. Today, Bunce Island is preserved as a historical monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site candidate, offering visitors a powerful educational experience about this dark chapter in human history. The island's ruins, including the remains of slave quarters, fortifications, and trading posts, provide tangible evidence of the brutal realities of the slave trade. Archaeological excavations continue to uncover artifacts and structures that help historians piece together the daily operations of this infamous trading post.

Access to Bunce Island requires boat transportation from Freetown, as there are no bridges or regular ferry services. Visitors must arrange tours through licensed operators in Freetown, typically departing from Government Wharf or nearby marinas. The boat journey takes approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour each way, depending on weather conditions and tides. Most tour operators provide round-trip transportation as part of their packages. It's essential to book in advance as access is regulated and weather conditions can affect scheduling.