Discover Gola Rainforest

Discover the Gola Rainforest National Park and embark on a remarkable journey through its lush and vibrant expanse. Spanning nearly 700 square kilometres, GRNP is the largest remnant of the Upper Guinean Rainforest in Sierra Leone. It is home to over 300 bird species and a charismatic cast of mammals including the pygmy hippo, chimpanzees, and forest elephants. The importance of the Gola Rainforest has led to its recognition as a global biodiversity hotspot and a BirdLife Forest of Hope. Immerse yourself in the wonders of Gola’s natural beauty and contribute to the preservation of this precious rainforest.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION. In order to prevent negative impacts on the park and to ensure the availability of accommodation and services for all guests, visitors are required to make an advanced booking prior to their trip to arrange for permits, food, accommodation, camping equipment and guides. All visitors entering the park and on all camping trips must be accompanied by a member of staff and community guide. We thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

To book a visit to the Gola Rainforest, please fill out the contact form here.

Birdwatching

The Gola Rainforest is home to over 300 different species of birds including the flagship White-necked Picarthartes. For the best viewing opportunities, our guides will lead you to one of the nesting colonies around sunset or, for those who want an early start, head out before daybreak to catch a glimpse of the birds before breakfast. Wake up to the sounds of hornbills and turacos or see if you can spot a Nimba Flycatcher.

Alternatively, trek into the heart of Gola Central and pitch your tent at the serene Malimbe Camp, which offers opportunities for spotting rare species like the Gola Malimbe and Rufous Fishing Owl.

Forest Walks & Hikes

Enjoy a guided walk following the network of nature trails leading into the forest. Daytime walks are usually taken in the early hours of the morning or at dusk when animals are at their most active. If you’re lucky you might spot resident groups of Diana Monkeys or hear Chimpanzees hooting and drumming on trees. Night walks are ideal to spot nocturnal species, like the elusive pygmy hippo or pangolin.

For more intrepid travellers, there is also the option of multi-day hikes through the forest. Trek across Gola South on a 3-day hike ending at the Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, or pick your way through Gola Central to the Morro River which separates Sierra Leone and Liberia.

Cultural Experiences

Enjoy a village stay at the Belebu Community Guesthouse or Nemahungoima Village. Village guides have extensive indigenous knowledge about medicinal plants and can help you to spot wildlife. In the evening, join in with traditional Mende games and cultural dancing, or simply relax by the fire pit and gaze up at the night sky in the locally made hammocks. Visitors to Lalehun can visit an ancient grave site of the original Gola people and don’t miss the ‘Gola’ masked devil dance performed by Lalehun villagers, which can be arranged upon request. Homestays can also be arranged in the quaint village of Vaama near Gola North where you can relax and learn to weave the rattan vine to make traditional baskets with some of the elders.

Specialised Tours

For tourists who want a bespoke experience, we can arrange specialized tours combining different stays and activities. For example, keen birders may want to go in search of rare species, or wildlife enthusiasts more interested in trying to catch a glimpse of a pygmy hippo. Our specially trained staff will prepare the ground for you, go on scoping trips to assess the best locations and then accompany you into the forest. If you are interested in specific mammals, birds, or plants please contact us and we will get back to you as soon as possible.