Bintimani (also known as Loma Mansa) stands at 1,945 metres - more than one and a half kilometres above sea level. Near the top, the air is cool and fresh, and clouds often wrap around the rocky peaks like a scarf. From the summit on a clear day, you can see for enormous distances across Sierra Leone.
The cloud forest that blankets the upper Loma Mountains is a special kind of habitat. The constant mist means the trees, mosses and ferns stay soaking wet even when it has not rained. Strange and beautiful plants grow here that you would not find in the lowlands. Chimpanzees and forest duikers (small antelopes) roam through the misty trees.
The Loma Mountains Forest Reserve was created to protect this precious ecosystem. Local communities have traditionally regarded the mountains as a place of great importance, and their knowledge of the plants and paths has helped scientists understand the area. Climbing Bintimani is a real adventure that rewards walkers with spectacular views.