Few things beat the feeling of sneaking in a city visit during a layover in Freetown. Hastings Airport is well-positioned for exactly that — downtown is reachable in about 100 minutes. Here’s what you need to know to make it happen smoothly.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
A few things to sort out before you leave HGS:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Sierra Leone. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Freetown takes about 100 minutes by Shared Taxi / Poda-poda. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is SLL. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
How to Get Into Freetown
You have two main options for getting from Hastings Airport into town:
- Shared Taxi / Poda-poda: About 100 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 120 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
Storing Your Luggage at Hastings Airport
Luggage storage options at HGS can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Freetown for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Money & Budget Tips
Quick budget math for your Freetown layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$7 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$22 |
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Freetown, two standouts are:
- Cotton Tree — It’s a popular stop for visitors with limited time in Freetown.
- Lumley Beach — It’s a great spot to stretch your legs and take in the scenery.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside HGS — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Aircraft Observation Point
- Informal Local Craft Stall
Where to Grab a Meal
For food in Freetown, local travelers recommend Balmaya Restaurant. If you have time for a second stop, Crown Bakery & Cafe is another popular pick.
Back at HGS, Hastings Airport Canteen is the go-to. Beverage & Snack Kiosk rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
WiFi at HGS should cover you while you’re in the terminal. Once you step outside, you’ll want your own data connection for maps, translating, and getting around. An eSIM is the simplest solution — set it up on your phone before landing in Sierra Leone and you’re good to go.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at HGS, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — everything you need to make a layover in Freetown count. The hardest part is usually just deciding to leave HGS. Once you do, you’ll be glad you did.
Keep your flight info handy, budget a buffer for the return, and enjoy the ride.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.