Cremation and ashes transport
Cremation in Sierra Leone and bringing ashes home
For some families, arranging cremation locally and carrying ashes home is the right choice, and it can be quicker than full repatriation. This page sets out what Sierra Leone requires, and what to check before you decide.
Cremation in Sierra Leone
Can you cremate someone in Sierra Leone?
Cremation arrangements in Sierra Leone depend on local facilities and on whether an investigation is open. Contact us and we will confirm the current position before you make any decision.
Weighing cremation abroad against bringing your loved one home intact? How families decide between the two.
Documentation language
English
Airline guidance
Can you carry ashes on the flight home?
Departure airports: Lungi International Airport (FNA), Lungi: across the Sierra Leone River estuary from Freetown city centre
What affects the cost from Sierra Leone
We do not publish a figure, because it turns on the specifics of the case. For Sierra Leone the things that move it are:
- Distance from where the death happened to the nearest crematorium
- Whether an investigation must conclude before release
- Translation, since documentation is in English
- Whether you carry the ashes yourself or need them shipped
Contact us with the details and we will give you a figure for your case. Source: FCDO guidance and funeral industry data
Considering full repatriation instead?
Some families decide they want their loved one brought home intact. The full Sierra Leone guide sets out that process.
Full repatriation guide for Sierra LeoneOfficial lists for Sierra Leone
Published by the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office for British nationals. We are not connected to the firms listed.
- Lawyers, where an estate or an investigation needs local legal advice
Sources: FCDO: death abroad · FCDO travel advice · Repatriation from Sierra Leone
Talk to us about cremation in Sierra Leone
We can advise on whether cremation abroad is the right choice for your family. Tell us what has happened and we will take it from there.
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