Banana Island holds a place of profound significance in Sierra Leone’s history. Inhabited since the early colonial era, its role as a key slave-trading center—alongside Plantain Island, Bunce Island, and Kent—has left behind a wealth of historic structures. Thousands of enslaved people were held on the island, awaiting transport on transatlantic ships. Notable landmarks from later historical eras also endure, including the slave hole, the Old Fort, the historic St. Luke’s Church, the old bell, a 19th-century iron lamp post, early settlers’ gravestones (some dating back to the 1700s), the old wharf steps, the big well, and the King’s Wharf cannons. A one-hour guided historical tour juxtaposes these colonial remnants with modern island life and the residential areas of Dublin Village.
For nature enthusiasts, the island’s pristine terrain makes it an ideal destination for guided forest walks. With long trails offering majestic views, a rich variety of tropical flora, and varying levels of difficulty, the treks cater to all hikers and range from 1.5 to 5 hours in duration.
The dramatic landscape of volcanic hills rising almost vertically from the sea and covered in lush rainforest is best appreciated from the water. Popular scenic boat rides take guests around the archipelago in comfort and relaxation. For a truly complete experience, these cruises can be combined with a guided forest walk, featuring boat pick-ups at various stages of the trek to showcase both the interior and exterior of beautiful Banana Island.