Things To Do
in Monrovia
Monrovia is the capital and largest city of Liberia, perched on the Atlantic coast with a mix of sandy beaches and bustling urban neighborhoods. It is a city shaped by history, trade, and a resilient local spirit that shines through in its music and markets. The waterfront and colonial-era remnants sit alongside lively markets, creating a vibrant, imperfectly polished urban landscape.
Visitors should expect warmth, color, and a dynamic culture centered on community, conversation, and coastal life.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the National Museum of Liberia, where you can learn about the rich history and culture of the country. As you wander through the exhibits, take note of the traditional artifacts and artwork that tell the story of Liberia’s past. Afterward, stroll down to the nearby Providence Island, where you can enjoy the waterfront views and the historical significance of this site.
For lunch, head to a local restaurant to savor traditional Liberian dishes such as jollof rice and cassava leaf. After your meal, visit the historic Waterside Market, a vibrant hub where you can shop for handcrafted goods, textiles, and spices. Engage with the local vendors to gain insight into their crafts and daily lives.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely walk along the Atlantic coastline at ELWA Beach. Enjoy the serene atmosphere as you listen to the waves crashing and watch the vibrant colors of the sunset. For dinner, treat yourself to fresh seafood at a beachside restaurant, soaking in the sounds and sights of the ocean.
Begin your morning with a visit to a local church service in Paynesville to experience the communal spirit and vibrant music of Liberian worship. Engage with the congregation and learn about the significance of faith in Liberian culture. After the service, enjoy a traditional breakfast of plantains and eggs at a nearby eatery.
After breakfast, visit the Liberian National Cultural Center to explore exhibitions showcasing the diverse ethnic groups and traditions of Liberia. Participate in a workshop where you can learn traditional dance or craft-making, allowing you to immerse yourself further into the local culture. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local café, sampling dishes made with ingredients sourced from the region.
As evening approaches, attend a performance at the Center for the Arts, where you can witness local artists showcasing music, dance, and theater. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and connect with fellow attendees who share your passion for the arts. After the performance, head to a local bar to unwind with a cold beverage and engage in conversation with the locals.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (short distance) | $2-7 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $1-3 |
| 🏨Budget hotel room per night | $25-60 |
| 🛒Groceries for a week | $20-60 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- English is widely spoken, making communication easy for visitors.
- Friendly, welcoming locals and a rich cultural scene.
- Coastal access with beaches and seafood.
- Low-cost street food and accommodation options for budget travelers.
- Infrastructure and road conditions can be challenging.
- Power outages and inconsistent utilities.
- Healthcare facilities are variable in quality; plan for private clinics or travel medical insurance.
- Safety concerns in certain areas; always stay informed and travel with guidance.
- "Wetin you dey do?" - What are you doing?
- "How you dey?" - How are you?
- "Tank you" - Thank you
- "Abeg" - Please / Excuse me
- "I no sabi" - I don't understand
- "How much be this?" - How much is this?
Places to Visit in Monrovia
Visit one of these nice places.
The abandoned hotel on a hill offers dramatic city views and a sense of Liberian history; best at sunset when the light is warm.
Vibrant coastal scenes with fishing boats, market life, and palm-lined horizons.
Rugged green hills outside the city that provide panoramic views of Monrovia and the harbor on clear days.
Energetic, colorful street life with vendors, buses, and pedestrians—great for candid daytime shots.
Food in Monrovia
Monrovia Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A one-pot tomato-based rice dish common across West Africa, typically served with fried fish or chicken and pepper sauce.
Must-Try!
A rich palm-fruit soup served with fufu or cassava; a Liberian comfort staple.
Fresh Atlantic fish seasoned and grilled, usually served with white rice or cassava.
A spicy pepper sauce paired with fried plantains or cassava as a common accompaniment.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample fried fish, cassava chips, yams, pepper soups, and a variety of street snacks.
A city market offering fresh produce, herbs, spices, and everyday Liberian staples.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a smile and handshake; ask about well-being and be patient in conversations.
Dress modestly in public; lightweight clothing is practical in the heat, but show respeto in more conservative neighborhoods.
Always ask before taking photos of people or sacred spaces; avoid filming in sensitive areas.
Safety
Tipping in Monrovia
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tip around 10-15% if service isn’t included; small tips to street vendors are appreciated.
Cash in Liberian dollars or US dollars is widely accepted; credit cards are available at larger hotels, cafes, and some restaurants; ATMs exist in main areas.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Sunny, lower humidity, and ideal for outdoor activities, beach days, and city walks.
Frequent afternoon showers and high humidity; plan indoor visits and carry a compact rain gear.
Monrovia at Night
Hiking in Monrovia
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Forest trails near the Mount Coffee area with city views; hire a guide for safety and local insights.
Rugged jungle trails and scenic overlooks within a short drive of Monrovia; ideal for experienced hikers.
Airports
How to reach Monrovia by plane.
Liberia's main international gateway located about 40-60 minutes from Monrovia by road, depending on traffic; shuttle or taxi services are common.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A large proportion of the population is under 30, contributing to a lively, music-filled city vibe.
Kpelle, Mano, Gio, Bassa, Krahn, and other groups are represented alongside a significant Liberian diaspora.
A growing number of Liberian-Americans, Europeans, and West Africans living or visiting Monrovia.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; many streets host impromptu games and local leagues.
Widely played in schools, communities, and urban gyms; streetball culture is strong.
A notable sport with local matches and gym training across the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Monrovia.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available; look for vegetable stews, cassava, plantains, and rice dishes; ask for no meat or seafood in soups.