New tourism hopes arise after the Foreign Office reconsidered travel advice, as the west African country was declared Ebola free

Sierra Leone reopened to visitors, following the World Health Organization's virus free declaration.

Though the British Foreign Office still warns that tourists should be careful “before planning any travel to Sierra Leone” and to “continue to practice enhanced precautions against infection by Ebola”, the developments in tourism industry are finally likely to happen for a country that has been struck by both civil war and deadly Ebola outbreaks which caused significant loss of human lives.

Nevertheless, the country's medical care system is still a difficult one because its health infrastructure has been “severely strained” by the Ebola infection.

Founder of adventure tour operator Native Eye, Jim O'Brien, said that the good news about Ebola eradication will hopefully “convey the message that West Africa is once again open for business”, by attracting “seasoned Africa traveler looking for a more unpolished traveling experience, with hugely friendly people, tropical beaches and rich wildlife untouched by mainstream travel.”

The director of Undiscovered Destinations Jim Louth shares O'Brien's opinion and hopes that traveling here will change general perceptions over the whole area:

“Intrepid travelers will return with positive stories of meeting the friendly local people and discovering the country’s rich heritage. We know that tourism can have a positive impact and will help to re-build the country.”

Larger-scale hoteliers like the Hilton brand are also investing locally, as the Hilton Freetown Cape Sierra construction work has been resumed.

“Amazing white sandy beaches, idyllic villages and smiling people" are among the incredible things travelers could experience while visiting this country. The top things to see here are considered to be the unique Tiwai Island Wildlife Sanctuary, home to many endemic species, the Tacugama Chimp Sanctuary, Bunce Island, Mende villages and Freetown.

The announcement about the virus eradication is also likely to boost tourism to other affected countries in west Africa.