If you’re planning a trip to Sierra Leone, staying connected should be high on your arrival checklist. During my visit in 2024, one of the first things I did after landing at Lungi International Airport was to purchase a local Orange Sierra Leone SIM card—and I highly recommend you do the same.

Among the various telecom options available in Sierra Leone, Orange stands out as one of the most reliable providers, offering good network coverage and convenient access to SIM cards throughout the country.

Orange SIM Card in Sierra Leone: What to Expect

Orange Sierra Leone offers prepaid SIM cards suited for both short-term visitors and long-term users. You can buy a SIM card easily at kiosks located at the airport, in Freetown, or in major towns across the country.

What You Need:

• A valid passport or national ID to register the SIM
• A small amount of local currency (SLL) for the SIM card and data bundles

I found the process fast and hassle-free when I arrived in 2024. Within minutes, I had a working line and could start using mobile data.

Cost of Orange Data Bundles (2024)

One of the challenges I faced in Sierra Leone was the high cost of mobile data. Compared to other African countries, internet access in Sierra Leone is relatively expensive.

As of 2024:

• 600MB of data costs around SLL 200, which is about $20 USD
• This bundle is good for basic browsing, WhatsApp, and social media
• Larger bundles are available but come at a higher price

So if you’re planning to stream or use GPS apps frequently, be prepared to top up often or opt for larger data plans.

Wi-Fi Availability in Sierra Leone

Don’t count on widespread free Wi-Fi in Sierra Leone. While a few hotels and Airbnbs offer internet access, it’s often slow, limited, or not included in the base rate.

During my stay in 2024, I noticed that:

• Most restaurants and cafes did not provide Wi-Fi
• Local guesthouses may charge extra for access
• Your mobile hotspot using Orange was often the fastest option

That’s why I relied on my Orange SIM for almost everything—from navigation to ride-hailing apps and communicating with locals.

Travel Tip: Get Your SIM at the Airport

If you’re flying into Sierra Leone, don’t wait until you reach Freetown. Buying your SIM at Lungi International Airport saves you the stress of hunting down a store in town, especially after a long flight.

After landing, I simply showed my passport, selected a plan, and the SIM was activated in under 10 minutes. Easy, quick, and essential.

Why You Should Get an Orange SIM Card in Sierra Leone

Here’s a quick summary of why Orange is your best bet in 2024:

• Easy registration with passport
• Available at the airport and in most towns
• Wide coverage throughout Sierra Leone
• Reliable mobile data, even in areas with limited Wi-Fi

Whether you’re a digital nomad, tourist, or business traveler, having a working SIM card means you’ll always have access to maps, ride-hailing, and communication apps—key tools for any smooth travel experience.

Final Thoughts

Getting a SIM card from Orange in Sierra Leone is one of the smartest decisions you can make upon arrival. Although data prices are on the high side, the convenience and reliability are worth every cent.

Check my old posts to see what you can do in Sierra Leone and other 20 countries within Asia and Africa.