Liberia Travel Guide: All you need to know to visit Liberia in 2023

Liberia, the land of rolling hills, idyllic beaches, and lush rainforests, is a hidden gem in West Africa. Its natural beauty is unparalleled, with stunning waterfalls, wildlife reserves, and national parks offering a unique travel experience.

This ultimate Liberia travel guide offers practical tips, visa information, and must-see attractions to help you explore this unique nation.

Document checklist for Liberia

• Valid passport with one blank page

• Visa

• World Health Organization (WHO) card with yellow fever vaccination

Essential Liberia travel information

• Currency - The currency of Liberia is the Liberian dollar (LRD). 1 LRD is approx. 0,0062 USD.

• Daily budget for 1 person - Allow a daily budget of 300-400 LRD approx. $1.75 to $2.35

• Languages - The official language of Liberia is English. Other local languages include Kpelle, Bassa, Grebo, Dan, Kru, Mano, Loma, and Mandingo.

• Number of travelers per year - According to the World Bank's World Development Indicators, the number of international tourist arrivals to Liberia in 2019 was 81,000.

• Socket type - Types A and B. Liberia operates on a 120V supply voltage and 60Hz.

• Time zone - Greenwich Mean Time (GMT).

• Top 3 cities to visit - Monrovia, Gbarnga and Kakata.

• Top 3 landmarks/monuments - Centennial Pavilion, Wulki Farms, and Sacred Heart Cathedral.

Visa information for Liberia

To enter Liberia, most visitors require a visa, which can be obtained from the nearest Liberian embassy or consulate. The type of visa required may vary depending on the purpose of the visit, such as tourism, business, or work.

When applying for a Liberian visa, visitors can choose between a single-entry or multiple-entry visa, depending on their travel plans.

As part of Liberia's entry requirements, visitors must also fill out a health declaration form before traveling. This form typically includes questions related to recent travel history, health status, and COVID-19 exposure.

Find the documents you need with our handy Visa Checker Tool.

Visa difficulty index for Liberia

Accessibility: 3/5

There isn't an electronic version of the Liberian visa. Therefore, travelers have to visit an embassy or consulate for assistance. This can be very inconvenient.

Time to get your visa: 2/5

You should expect to wait at least 5 – 10 business days from when the embassy or consulate receives your application, but it can take longer.

Costs: 4/5

The Liberia Tourist Visa fee is approximately $70-125 for a 3-month single-entry visa and $150-350 for a multiple-entry visa.

Typical costs and budget for Liberia

A guide to what you'll spend on a daily basis in Liberia on a mid-range budget.

• Daily spending - A daily budget of around 300-400 LRD (approximately $1.75 to $2.35) per day can be a reasonable estimate for mid-range travelers.

• Meals - Local Liberian food can cost approximately 50-100 LRD (approx. $0.29 to $0.58) per meal, depending on the location and type of food.

• Transport - A typical taxi ride can cost around 30-50 LRD ($0.18 to $0.29) for a short trip, while a shared minibus ride can cost around 50-100 LRD ($0.29 to $0.58), depending on the distance.

• Hotel - Mid-range hotels and guesthouses in Liberia can cost around 150-250 LRD ($0.90 to $1.45).

The average hotel cost for a couple per night in Liberia would be around 300-500 Liberian dollars (approx. $1.75 to $2.90).

Transport and the best ways to travel around Liberia

Liberia is accessible by air, land, and sea. Here are the best ways of getting to and around Liberia.

Getting to Liberia

By air, travelers can fly into Roberts International Airport (ROB), which is located about 50 kilometers (31 miles) outside Monrovia, Liberia's capital city. Several airlines offer flights to Roberts International Airport from various international destinations.

These include:

• Flydubai.

• United Airlines.

• Etihad Airways.

• Air France.

• American Airlines.

• Oman Air.

• Virgin Atlantic.

• Turkish Airlines.

By land, visitors can enter Liberia by crossing the border from neighboring countries, such as Sierra Leone, Guinea, and Côte d'Ivoire. However, it's important to note that land travel in the region can be challenging due to poor road conditions and occasional security concerns.

By sea, travelers can arrive in Liberia via the Port of Monrovia, the largest and busiest port in the country. However, sea travel to Liberia is limited and may not be a practical option for most visitors.

Arrival and immigration tips for Liberia

Here are a few tips to make the immigration process smoother:

• Visitors to Liberia generally require a valid passport and a visa. Make sure you apply for these in advance.

• After clearing immigration, travelers will proceed to customs, where they must declare any items they are bringing into the country. It's important to follow all customs regulations and restrictions to avoid delays or penalties.

• Credit cards are not widely accepted in Liberia, and ATMs can be difficult to find outside major cities. Therefore, it's advisable to bring sufficient funds for your trip and exchange them only at reputable foreign exchange facilities.

Getting around Liberia

Taxis are a popular and relatively affordable mode of transportation in Liberia. However, it's important to negotiate the fare in advance and ensure that the vehicle is in good condition and meets safety standards.

Shared minibusses, known as "bush taxis," are a common means of transportation for short and medium-length trips in Liberia. These vehicles can be crowded and uncomfortable, but they are often the only option for travel between smaller towns and villages.

Private cars can be rented for longer trips or more comfortable and convenient transportation. However, it's essential to ensure the driver is licensed and the vehicle is in good condition before agreeing to a rental.

If you wish to drive in Liberia, visitors may need to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country's driver's license. It's necessary to check the latest regulations and requirements before driving in Liberia.

Safety in Liberia

Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, being aware of potential risks and following some basic safety guidelines can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

• Avoid traveling alone, especially at night, and stay in well-lit and populated areas.

• Carry a copy of your passport and keep the original in a safe place.

• Be cautious of pickpockets and keep your valuables, including cameras and phones, secure and out of sight.

• Avoid public transportation and use official taxis or reputable car rental services.

• Stay updated with weather forecasts and take necessary precautions during the rainy season.

• Be aware of health risks and take the necessary vaccinations and precautions before your trip.

• Always follow the advice of local authorities and obey local laws.

• Monitor local media for up-to-date information about COVID-19 regulations and protests. Things can change quickly with little or no warning.

• Always keep digital copies of your travel documents in case your passport is lost or stolen.

It is important to purchase travel insurance in advance to get access to medical services and avoid medical emergencies. This will enable you to receive medical treatment, get immediate medical advice, cover overseas medical costs and even arrange medical evacuation if needed.

Weather in Liberia

Liberia has a tropical climate with two distinct seasons: rainy and dry. The rainy season typically lasts from May to October, while the dry season lasts from November to April.

Temperatures in Liberia remain fairly consistent throughout the year, with average highs ranging from 30 °C (86 °F) to 33 °C (91 °F) and average lows ranging from 22 °C (72 °F) to 24 °C (75 °F).

Must do and see in Liberia

Don't miss these awesome sights on your holiday to Liberia:

1. Sapo National Park - This park is located in the southeastern part of Liberia and covers over 1,800 square kilometers. It is home to some of the last remaining rainforests in West Africa, as well as a variety of wildlife, including chimpanzees, pygmy hippos, and forest elephants.

2. Providence Island - This small island off the coast of Monrovia is steeped in history and was once the site of a major settlement of formerly enslaved people. Visitors can explore the island's museums and monuments to learn more about Liberia's past.

3. Robertsport - This coastal town in northwestern Liberia is a popular destination for surfers and beachgoers. It is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning sunsets, and laid-back vibe.

4. Kpatawee Waterfall - Located in Bong County, this beautiful waterfall is surrounded by lush rainforest. Visitors can take a dip in the natural pool at the waterfall's base or explore the surrounding hiking trails.

5. Liberian National Museum - Located in Monrovia, the Liberian National Museum is home to various exhibits showcasing the country's history and culture. Visitors can see artifacts ranging from traditional masks and clothing to historical documents and photographs.

Typical Liberian food to try

You'll have a great experience with these mouth-watering dishes from Liberia.

• Jollof Rice -This popular West African dish is a staple in Liberia and is made with rice, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of spices. It is often served with fried plantains or chicken.

• Cassava Leaf -This dish is made with the leaves of the cassava plant, which are boiled and then stewed with meat, onions, and spices. It is a hearty and flavorful dish usually served with rice.

• Pepper Soup - This spicy soup is made with a variety of meats such as chicken, goat, or fish, as well as a mix of spices and herbs, including ginger, garlic, and chili pepper. It is typically served as a main dish or as a starter.

• Fufu - This starchy dish is made from cassava or plantains that have been boiled and mashed into a smooth dough-like consistency. It is often served with soup or stew and eaten by dipping small balls of fufu into the sauce.

Vaccine information for Liberia

Liberia is considered a high-risk country for yellow fever, a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes. The yellow fever vaccine is recommended for all travelers to Liberia. Before traveling to Liberia, we advise you to check the CDC website for up-to-date information about all vaccination requirements and recommended medications.

A guide to visiting Sapo National Park in Liberia

Sapo National Park is Liberia's largest protected area, covering over 180,000 hectares of pristine rainforest. It is home to a diverse array of flora and fauna, including endangered species such as the pygmy hippopotamus and the Liberian chimpanzee. Here's a guide to visiting the park:

1. Plan ahead: Sapo National Park is located in a remote area of southeastern Liberia, and visiting requires careful planning. Contact the Liberia Forest Sector for information on permits, transportation, and accommodations.

2. Hire a guide: It is recommended to hire a local guide who is knowledgeable about the park's trails, wildlife, and cultural history. Your guide can also help you arrange transportation and accommodations.

3. Choose your activities: The park offers a range of activities, including hiking, wildlife watching, birding, and cultural tours. Choose the activities that interest you the most and plan your itinerary accordingly.

4. Pack appropriately: Be sure to pack sturdy hiking shoes, insect repellent, sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water. It can also be helpful to bring binoculars and a camera to capture the park's wildlife and scenery.

5. Respect the park's rules: Sapo National Park has rules in place to protect its fragile ecosystem and wildlife. Follow these rules and guidelines, such as staying on designated trails, avoiding littering, and refraining from feeding or disturbing the animals.

Visiting Sapo National Park is a unique opportunity to experience Liberia's rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. You can have a safe and memorable visit by planning ahead, hiring a guide, selecting your activities, packing appropriately, and respecting the park's rules.