Things To Do
in Liberia
Liberia is a West African nation on the Atlantic coast known for its tropical rainforests, long sandy beaches, and a resilient history. Its capital, Monrovia, blends colonial-era architecture with busy markets, colorful street life, and a growing arts scene. Beyond the city, rivers, coves, and protected parks showcase Liberia’s biodiversity and coastal beauty.
Visitors are drawn by warm hospitality, rhythmic music, and the opportunity to explore a country shaped by community and endurance.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Roberts International Airport and take a smooth ride into Monrovia, the vibrant capital city. Check into your hotel for a bit of rest before embarking on your urban exploration. Enjoy a traditional Liberian breakfast at a local eatery to energize yourself for the day ahead.
Visit the Liberia National Museum to immerse yourself in the nation's rich history and cultural heritage. Stoll through the bustling waterside markets and indulge in some local street food. This hands-on experience will give you a taste of Liberia’s lively atmosphere.
As the sun sets, head to the Atlantic Ocean beach for a relaxing evening by the water. Dine at a beachfront restaurant, feasting on freshly caught seafood while enjoying the cool ocean breeze. Conclude your first day with a leisurely walk along the shore under a starlit sky.
Begin your day with a guided tour of the iconic Providence Island, a site rich in historical significance. Discover the remnants of the first settlement founded by freed American slaves while enjoying the lush scenery surrounding you. Appreciate the cultural narratives tied to this landmark.
After lunch at a local café, visit the beautiful Centennial Pavilion that showcases Liberia’s collaboration with the Republic of America. Experience the varied architecture and local shops in the area. Spend time interacting with locals and learning about their daily lives.
Enjoy dinner at a renowned restaurant known for traditional Liberian cuisine. Engage in conversation with fellow travelers and locals to gain deeper insights into the culture. Wrap up your evening by attending a local event, such as a music performance or cultural show.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-12 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $20-40 |
| 🚖Taxi ride (short city trip) | $2-6 |
| 💧Bottled water (1.5L) | $1-3 |
| 🛏️Budget hotel room per night | $40-70 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm hospitality and friendly, welcoming people
- Dascapes of beaches, rainforests, and wildlife
- Growing food scene with diverse flavors
- Cultural experiences and a resilient historical narrative
- Developing infrastructure outside Monrovia can be challenging
- Road conditions and traffic in the capital can be congested
- Healthcare options can be limited outside major cities
- Limited high-end amenities compared to some neighboring countries
- "Wetin be yu name?" - What is your name?
- "How much be dis?" - How much is this?
- "Plis, mek I get some water." - Please, may I have some water?
- "Tank yu." - Thank you.
- "Wetin time now?" - What time is it?
Places to Visit in Liberia
Visit one of these nice places.
A kaleidoscope of color and characters—great for candid portraits, texture shots, and market life.
Harbor views, boats, and morning light along the coastline—excellent for seascapes and street scenes.
Dramatic coastline and horizon shots with cliffs and ocean spray—best at dawn or dusk.
Colonial-era architecture and government buildings provide strong architectural photography opportunities.
Lush rainforest, wildlife, and canopy glimpses; wildlife photography opportunities with careful trekking.
Food in Liberia
Liberia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tomato-rich, flavorful one-pot rice dish cooked with peppers and onions, often served with fried plantains and meat or fish.
Must-Try!
A rich, nutty palm oil soup rich with leafy greens and meat or fish, traditionally served with fufu (pounded cassava dough).
A hearty stew made with mashed cassava leaves, sometimes cooked with peanut butter or palm oil and meat/vegetarian protein.
Freshly caught fish, grilled and served with a bright, spicy pepper sauce and typically accompanied by rice or cassava.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant stalls selling produce, fish, textiles, and street snacks; great for people-watching and trying quick bites.
Harborfront market offering seafood, fresh fruit, and casual eateries with sea views.
Try fried plantains, grilled fish skewers, pepper sauce, and other quick bites from informal vendors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet others warmly with a handshake; show respect to elders and authority figures; ask before taking photos of people.
Dress modestly in markets and religious sites; avoid displays of wealth in crowded areas; keep noise and crowds respectful at cultural sites.
Safety
Tipping in Liberia
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated in restaurants and for hotel staff. Typical tips range from 5-10% in urban venues; round up taxi fares when possible.
Cash (especially USD and Liberian dollars) is widely used; many hotels and larger shops accept cards. ATMs are limited outside major cities, so plan ahead.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
November to April brings sunny days and lower humidity; ideal for city touring and outdoor photography. Nights can be cooler; bring a light jacket.
May to October brings frequent tropical rain, higher humidity, and lush landscapes. Afternoon showers are common—plan flexible itineraries and have rain gear handy.
Liberia at Night
Hiking in Liberia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Jungle trekking routes through Liberia’s premier protected area, offering forest photography and wildlife viewing.
Rugged coastal terrain and viewpoints along the southern coastline, suitable for day hikes and scenery shots.
Airports
How to reach Liberia by plane.
Liberia’s main international gateway, located roughly 60 km from Monrovia. Well-connected for international flights and transfer to the city by road.
Domestic and regional flights with limited international service; primarily used for shorter domestic hops and access to nearby towns.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
One of Liberia’s largest ethnic groups, primarily in the interior regions, with rich cultural traditions and language variations.
A major ethnic group concentrated along the coast and inland areas, known for strong community ties.
An influential group in the southeastern areas with distinct customs and music traditions.
A prominent group in the interior with distinctive art, dress, and social structures.
Communities along the coast with a rich maritime heritage and trading history.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local leagues and informal games are common in cities and towns.
Widely played in schools and communities; active pickup games and local clubs exist in urban areas.
Traffic
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for plant-based versions of stews and rice dishes; many sides feature beans, cassava, and vegetables.
Opt for rice, cassava-based dishes, and grilled proteins; avoid processed sauces unless confirmed gluten-free.
Some restaurants can accommodate with halal meat; always confirm with the kitchen in advance.
Healthcare
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Liberia.