
Fourah Bay College Mount Aureol Viewpoint
Explore Fourah Bay College on Mount Aureol, a historic university with breathtaking Freetown views. A beacon of African knowledge.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light

Fourah Bay College Mount Aureol Viewpoint
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better light
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore Fourah Bay College on Mount Aureol, a historic university with breathtaking Freetown views. A beacon of African knowledge.
"The college is situated on a hill with an overview of the town. It's a historical school known for African leaders."

Wear Comfortable Shoes
The campus is spread out and hilly. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities on-site. Stay hydrated and energized for your visit. :water_wave:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Panoramic Freetown Views
Mount Aureol Summit
Breathtaking vistas of Freetown, the coastline, and the surrounding hills. A perfect spot for photos.

Historic Fourah Bay College
Campus Grounds
Explore one of Africa's oldest universities, a symbol of knowledge and resilience.

Architectural Heritage
Various Campus Buildings
Admire the blend of colonial and modern architecture, reflecting a rich academic history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to FBC
Respecting the Campus
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The campus is spread out and hilly. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities on-site. Stay hydrated and energized for your visit. :water_wave:
Respect Campus Rules
Fourah Bay College is an active university. Be mindful of students and faculty. :memo:
Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning. Don't forget your camera or phone for photos! :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
The campus is spread out and hilly. Comfortable footwear is essential for exploring. :athletic_shoe:
Bring Water & Snacks
There are limited facilities on-site. Stay hydrated and energized for your visit. :water_wave:
Respect Campus Rules
Fourah Bay College is an active university. Be mindful of students and faculty. :memo:
Capture the Views
The panoramic views are stunning. Don't forget your camera or phone for photos! :camerawithflash:
Learn the History
Engage with the rich history of FBC; it's a significant part of African intellectual heritage. :scroll:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors are drawn to Fourah Bay College for its significant historical importance as one of Africa's oldest universities and the stunning panoramic views from Mount Aureol. While the campus's historical depth and scenic vistas are highly praised, some note that the complex could benefit from better maintenance and cleanliness. The friendly nature of the people, however, often leaves a positive impression.
"Today, I got connected with Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, Bishop Alex Akinyele, Sam Mbakwe, Kenneth Dike and others.
I made a post about 48 hours ago, on " No free lunch, even in Freetown", one of my sisters at Olorunsogo back in the days, saw that post, we ended up chatting on it, long story short, I realized that one of my Kid sisters, Kehinde is also resident here. She sent me her number. I called her almost immediately, Kehinde's accent has not changed a bit, her diluted Yoruba inflection might undoubtedly be there till eternity. While having lunch at the Parliament building with Kenny, out of the blues she mentioned @Fourah Bay College, -University of Sierra Leone she told me, that was where Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther graduated from, coincidentally she also graduated from the same university. I checked on the map, it was just about few kilometers away from the parliament's building. .....Fourah Bay University, here I come....
I made further research on my own, the college was established on the 18th of February 1827, upgraded to a university in 1876. It was the first university in sub-Saharan Africa, until the 2nd world war, FBC offered the alternative to European and American education.When Alexander Babatunde Akinyele graduated from Fourah Bay College in 1912, he became the first Ibadan indigene to obtain a university degree. Akinyele oversaw the establishment of Ibadan’s first secondary school and became its first Principal in 1913. Akinyele later became the first Nigerian Vice Chancellor of University of Ibadan. Another Fourah Bay College graduate was Kenneth Dike, he became another VC at our prestigious University of Ibadan. Anytime I see UI on my CV, I am always very delighted . In 1859, Reverend Thomas Babinton Macauley from Fourah Bay College founded the CMS Grammar School in Lagos as the first secondary school in the whole of Nigeria.The CMS Grammar School produced the earliest crop of Nigeria’s political leaders and Civil Servants, including Herbert Macauley and Nnamdi Azikiwe.
The university is located on top of the mountains, anyway everywhere in SL are mountains and valleys, I once thought Europe had one of the highest number of mountains in the world, " SL has completely demystified that impression. Even to locate their international airport must have been a very huge task for the early architects, they couldn't find a suitable place with the appropriate topography in the whole of Freetown. They had to settle for an island located several kilometers away. The sea coach Ferry⚓ is very elegant, convenient and breathtaking, fully air conditioned, with TV.
I spoke with a couple of young guys at the University. One of them really astounded me, he knew virtually everything about Nigeria; yet he has never stepped into Nigeria for once ......at that point I was proud to be a Nigerian, he saw me as his big brother from another part of Africa. I saw love, I saw respect. Time would not permit me to stay with this guy forever, I have got other appointments to catch up with. I moved away to take some pictures, right there, Bishop Samuel Ajayi crowther, Bishop Akinyele, Sam Mbakwe and others came down, I could hear them discussing about Nigeria, the issues and the solutions. Maybe, maybe not, but I guess I actually went into a trance.
(C)Oladipo Akinremi
9th October, 2019"
Oladipo Akinremi
"I loved that the college is situated on a hill with an overview of the town. It's a historical school and known to be party of the educational history of our African leaders. It's spacious and on quite a large expense of land. The Kennedy building is one of the places I visited and it's home to quite a few base stations. It was a nice visit and hope to visit again soon"
Debbie Ubaru
"In the Department of Economics and Commerce, I have been taught to work hard so much so that my major remains my major and my minor remains my minor.
This is supercalifraligisticexpialidocious and terrific.
Fourah Bay College is the citadel of learning indeed.
Non Sibi Sed Aliis."
Julian Earlkin Tucker
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The viewpoint is located on Mount Aureol, where Fourah Bay College is situated. You can take a taxi or a shared taxi (poda-poda) from Freetown city center towards Mount Aureol. The journey offers scenic views as you ascend.
Yes, taxis and poda-podas are readily available in Freetown. Negotiate your fare beforehand, especially for trips up the hill.
The campus is quite extensive and hilly. Walking is the best way to explore and enjoy the views, but be prepared for inclines.
As you ascend Mount Aureol, you'll start seeing the distinctive buildings of Fourah Bay College. The main campus area offers the best vantage points.
Ride-sharing apps are not as prevalent in Freetown as in some other major cities. Traditional taxis and poda-podas are the most common modes of transport.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, there is generally no admission fee to visit the grounds of Fourah Bay College or its viewpoint. It's an open campus.
As an active university, the campus is accessible during daylight hours. However, it's best to visit during the day to fully appreciate the views and architecture.
Visiting during daylight hours is recommended for the best views. Late afternoons offer beautiful golden hour lighting for photography.
Graduation ceremonies are significant events at FBC. While you might witness the festivities, access to certain areas might be restricted.
Visitors are expected to be respectful of the academic environment. Avoid loud noises and be mindful of ongoing classes or events.
📸 📸 Photography
The panoramic viewpoint overlooking Freetown is a prime spot. Also, capture the historic architecture of the various college buildings.
Yes, photography is generally allowed. However, always be respectful and avoid taking intrusive photos of students or staff without permission.
Late afternoons, during the golden hour, provide the most dramatic and beautiful lighting for capturing the Freetown skyline.
The historic buildings, including the Kennedy building and the older structures, offer a lot of character and photographic appeal.
You can expect sweeping shots of Freetown, the harbor, and the surrounding lush green hills. It's a great place for landscape and cityscape photography.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Established in 1827, FBC is one of the oldest universities in Sub-Saharan Africa and has played a crucial role in African intellectual history, producing many prominent leaders.
FBC has produced notable figures like Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, Kenneth Dike, and Alexander Babatunde Akinyele, contributing significantly to education and leadership across Africa.
This Latin motto translates to 'Not for oneself, but for others,' reflecting the college's ethos of service and contribution to society.
While the main campus is on Mount Aureol, there are references to an 'Old Fourah Bay College' building in Cline Town, Freetown, which stands as a historical monument.
This nickname highlights its historical importance as a center of learning and intellectual development in the West African region during its early years.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Focus on the historical aspect as a learning opportunity. You can share stories about the college's importance in African education, making it an educational and scenic visit. The open spaces might also be good for a relaxed picnic if you find a suitable spot away from academic activities.
🎓 Students & Academics
Consider researching some of the notable alumni or historical events associated with FBC before your visit. This will enrich your experience and provide context to the significance of the place. The 'Non Sibi Sed Aliis' motto is a powerful reminder of the college's enduring values.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Historical Tapestry of Fourah Bay College
FBC's legacy is deeply intertwined with the intellectual and political development of West Africa. It has produced numerous influential alumni, including figures like Bishop Samuel Ajayi Crowther, who was instrumental in missionary work and translation, and Kenneth Dike, a renowned historian and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ibadan. The college's motto, 'Non Sibi Sed Aliis' (Not for oneself, but for others), underscores its commitment to service and societal contribution.
The campus itself, situated on Mount Aureol, offers not only stunning views but also a tangible connection to this rich history. Exploring its grounds allows visitors to walk in the footsteps of intellectual giants and appreciate the enduring spirit of academic pursuit that has characterized FBC for nearly two centuries.
Experiencing the Mount Aureol Viewpoint
To make the most of your visit, timing is key. Weekday mornings often offer a more serene experience with fewer visitors, allowing for quiet enjoyment of the scenery. Late afternoons, particularly during the golden hour, present a magical light that enhances the visual appeal of the cityscape and coastline, making it a photographer's delight.
While the primary draw is the view, the journey to the viewpoint is also part of the experience. The drive or taxi ride up Mount Aureol itself is scenic, winding through lush vegetation. Remember to wear comfortable shoes as you might want to explore the college grounds a bit after taking in the view.





Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit