Complete Lungi Airport Transit Guide for First-Time Visitors (2026)

Arriving at Lungi International Airport (IATA: FNA) for the first time can feel daunting. This step-by-step guide covers everything — from landing to getting settled — so you can arrive with confidence.

Step-by-Step: What Happens When You Land

Money: What Currency and How to Get It

Sierra Leone's currency is the New Leone (NLe). USD, GBP and EUR are widely accepted at hotels and larger businesses, including Hariom Yogi. We also offer competitive forex exchange on-site — often better rates than the airport.

• Bring USD cash as backup — it's the most universally accepted foreign currency
• ATMs are available in Freetown but unreliable in Lungi — withdraw in Freetown if needed
• Mobile money (Orange Money, Africell) is widely used locally
• We accept cash, mobile money, and card payments via Stripe

SIM Cards and Mobile Data

Orange and Africell are the two main networks. SIM cards are available near the airport exit and in Lungi town for a few thousand SLE. Data is affordable — a 1GB bundle costs around NLe 50–100. We can help you get connected if needed.

Getting from Lungi to Freetown

There are three main options for crossing from Lungi to Freetown:

• Ferry: Cheapest option (~USD 5–10) but schedules are limited and can be unreliable. Runs roughly 6am–6pm.
• Water taxi / speedboat: Faster (~20 mins) but more expensive (~USD 25–50). Ask us for current operators.
• Helicopter: Available for urgent travel and larger groups. Ask us for contacts.

Our strong recommendation: if you arrive in the evening or at night, stay at Hariom Yogi and cross in the morning when ferries are reliable and the journey is comfortable.

What to Expect in Lungi Town

Lungi is a small town with all basic services. Expect: local markets, mobile money agents, small pharmacies, fuel stations, and local food vendors. Electricity supply from the national grid is limited — most businesses, including ours, use generators.