Tiwai Island, a 12-square-kilometer sanctuary in Sierra Leone’s Upper Guinean rainforest, offers visitors a chance to encounter wildlife rarely seen elsewhere in West Africa. The island is home to 11 recorded primate species, including Diana monkeys, western red colobus, and western chimpanzees, as well as more than 135 bird species. It is also home to the elusive pygmy hippopotamuses. For visitors to the island, forest walks, river excursions, and cultural visits with eight neighboring communities form the core of experiences. Lodging is basic, with community-cooked meals. A wildlife sanctuary since 1987, Tiwai is managed with local involvement, and tourism funds support nearby conservation and community development. The complex was added to UNESCO’s World Heritage List in July 2025, recognizing its exceptional biodiversity and conservation importance.