Excursion Bunce & tasso island exploration tour at Freetown

Bunce Island was the largest British slave castle on the Rice Coast of West Africa. This is a must see for anyone interested in the history of the slave trade. You cannot hear the story of Bunce Island without being moved by its history. Founded around 1670, it exported tens of thousands of African captives to North America and the West Indies until the British Parliament finally closed it down in 1808.

As you approach the dense forest by boat, you are quickly overcome by the stillness and silence permeating the place. A walk around the island takes you to different holding cells; dark, damp, deep, and covered in thick vegetation snaking around them. Rusty canons emblazoned with the royal crest surround the island. At the opposite end of the island, graves are marked according to race of their inhabitants. The elaborate graves of the British are positioned on one end, and the overgrown graves of African workers lie in ruin on the other.

Your next destination will be Tasso Island. Upon arrival it will be time to enjoy a picnic lunch before continuing with discovering this unique island. The island is a great base for local walks and exploration of the estuary. Islanders follow Islam and/or animist beliefs and there is also a small Christian group. Each village has its own Mosque.

Afterwards return by ferry to Freetown with a short bus transfer to your awaiting Silversea cruise line.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Bunce Island, Tasso Island

Note

Please note: This tour involves a moderate amount (at least 20 minutes) of walking on uneven, hilly terrain. Guests are recommended to wear walking shoes with covered toes.