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Outamba-Kilimi
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The Outamba-Kilimi National Park in northwestern Sierra Leone consists of two separate areas, Outamba and Kilimi, and was established in 1981 as a game reserve. Outamba is characterized by hilly terrain, savannas, and rainforests, while Kilimi is flatter and mainly composed of grass savannas. The park is one of the most important primate conservation areas in West Africa, home to one of the largest populations of chimpanzees, as well as elephants and hippos. The Great Scarcies and Little Scarcies rivers flow through the park, providing habitat for numerous crocodiles and waterfowl. Historically, the park was one of the country's first formal nature reserves but suffers from a lack of infrastructure and illegal hunting. Ecotourism is actively promoted here, particularly canoe trips on the rivers for wildlife viewing. The biogeographic location at the transition from forest to savanna ensures extraordinary biodiversity.
- Location: Sierra Leone
- Nearby: Outamba-Kilimi National Park (20 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 28 | 30 | 30 | 28 | 25 | 24 | 23 | 24 | 25 | 24 | 24 |
| Rain mm | 2 | 4 | 6 | 32 | 135 | 295 | 500 | 597 | 369 | 146 | 32 | 2 |
📋 Practical info
Getting there
Situated in the far north, the national park is primarily reached via deteriorating unpaved routes stretching from Makeni to Kamakwie. Operating a sturdy four-wheel-drive vehicle is absolutely essential, and entering the main park headquarters frequently requires navigating a manual river ferry.
Best season
The distinctly dry season, spanning from late November through April, is recognized as the optimal period for terrestrial wildlife viewing. Once the heavy torrential rains commence, many park paths and approach roads become extensively flooded and entirely impassable.
Terrain & paths
The protected landscape features an engaging combination of dense tropical woodland, tall-grass savanna, and tangled riverine forest borders. Trails are largely informal, meaning that guided bush walks or traditional canoe excursions represent the standard methods of exploration.
What to bring
It is highly advisable to pack lightweight but long-sleeved tactical clothing to ward off persistent insects and thorny underbrush. Crucial equipment includes high-magnification binoculars for primate spotting, robust hiking boots, and all your own camping and food supplies.
Parking
Basic parking areas are designated directly at the park headquarters or adjacent to the rustic riverside camp where visitors must officially register. From this central staging point, all further exploration is necessarily conducted on foot or via local watercraft.
Safety
The risk of malaria is considered high, meaning that aggressive anti-malarial prophylaxis and the consistent application of strong repellents are mandatory. Always heed the direct instructions of armed park rangers, particularly when tracking larger wild mammals on foot.
Time needed
Most visitors deliberately plan for an immersive two to three-day stay, utilizing the rudimentary camping facilities to maximize their opportunities for spotting elusive chimpanzees and hippopotamuses.
Geography
Facts
- Established in 1981
- Consists of two separate areas
- Home to large chimpanzee populations
- Important elephant habitat
- Traversed by Great and Little Scarcies rivers
- Transition from forest to savanna
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Outamba-Kilimi (1)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you do safaris in the national park?
Yes, guided tours are possible, but animal sightings require patience.
What is the best way to travel there?
A 4x4 vehicle is almost always necessary for access.
Are there accommodations in the park?
Simple lodges or campsites are often available.
What is the best time for animals?
During the dry season, animals congregate around water holes.
Is the park safe?
Yes, with an official guide, a visit is safe and rewarding.
Outamba-Kilimi: where is it located?
Outamba-Kilimi is located in Sierra Leone.
Outamba-Kilimi: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Nov, Dec.
Outamba-Kilimi: why is it worth visiting?
The Outamba-Kilimi National Park in northwestern Sierra Leone consists of two separate areas, Outamba and Kilimi, and was established in 1981 as a game reserve.
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