Things To Do
in Upper Buchanan
Upper Buchanan, Liberia sits along the Saint John River estuary with a small-town vibe and riverine scenery. The town serves as a gateway to coastal Liberia, offering markets, fishing culture, and views of the Atlantic trade routes. Life here moves at a relaxed pace, with a friendly, welcoming community and a backdrop of lush Liberian landscapes.
The surrounding region provides a glimpse into traditional livelihoods, coastal ecosystems, and Liberian hospitality.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Roberts International Airport and take a scenic drive to Upper Buchanan. Check into your accommodation and freshen up. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Liberian dishes.
Explore the surrounding area on foot, getting acquainted with local markets and shops. Engage with friendly locals and learn about their culture and way of life. Stop for lunch at a popular spot to savor fresh fish and cassava.
Relax back at your accommodation, watching the sunset over the ocean. Enjoy dinner featuring local cuisine, with an emphasis on seafood. Wind down the day sharing stories with fellow travelers.
Spend the morning at the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the sound of the waves. Participate in beach games with local children or simply relax with a good book. Take a refreshing swim in the Atlantic Ocean to kickstart your day.
Visit a nearby village to immerse yourself in the local culture. Participate in traditional crafts or music sessions alongside the villagers, making authentic cultural connections. Have lunch in the village, trying out local delicacies made with fresh, organic ingredients.
Return to Upper Buchanan and enjoy a sunset walk along the beach. Dine at a beachfront restaurant where you can enjoy fresh seafood dishes, followed by a stroll under the stars. Share your day's experiences with new friends over drinks.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 💧Bottle water (1.5L) | $0.50-1.00 |
| 🚖Short taxi ride | $2-6 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $40-70 |
| 🍜Street food snack | $1-3 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Quiet, authentic Liberian town experience
- Warm, welcoming locals
- Limited tourist infrastructure
- Roads can be rough and services sporadic
- "How you dey?" - How are you?
- "Wetin be your name?" - What is your name?
- "Tank you" - Thank you
- "How much be dis?" - How much is this?
- "Abeg help me" - Please help me
Places to Visit in Upper Buchanan
Visit one of these nice places.
Golden hour over the river with boats, palm trees, and a calm horizon—perfect for silhouettes and reflections.
Expansive shoreline and tidal flats provide wide foregrounds for landscape and wildlife shots.
Weathered wood and remnants of past maritime activity offer texture and historical context for moody photography.
Food in Upper Buchanan
Upper Buchanan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A tomato-based one-pot rice dish popular across Liberia; commonly served with grilled or fried fish.
Must-Try!
Rich palm oil-leaf soup served with fufu for dipping and fullness.
Creamy cassava leaf stew often paired with rice; hearty and flavorful.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Central market with fresh fish, cassava, plantains, and everyday staples; great for observing daily life and picking up snacks.
Street-side stalls offering grilled fish, fried plantains, and quick bites for on-the-go meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A simple handshake or nod with polite verbal greetings; address elders with respect and courtesy.
Dress modestly in markets and religious sites; remove hats when addressing elders or in formal settings.
Safety
Tipping in Upper Buchanan
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for good service; 10-15% in restaurants if service is not already included; small tips for street vendors or guides are common but discretionary.
Cash (Liberian dollars) is commonly preferred; USD is often accepted in larger towns. Mobile money and card acceptance are variable; carry small denominations for everyday purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Dry days with lower humidity make outdoor exploration comfortable; mornings and evenings are pleasantly cool, but heat builds midday. Dust can be present in some areas; carry water and sun protection.
Frequent tropical rainfall brings lush vegetation and vibrant scenery; expect humid conditions and possible flooding on unpaved roads. Schedule afternoon activities with indoor options or flexible plans.
Upper Buchanan at Night
Hiking in Upper Buchanan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Gentle hikes through coastal forest with opportunities to observe birds and coastal flora.
Easy to moderate trails with river views and wildlife.
Airports
How to reach Upper Buchanan by plane.
Main international gateway serving Monrovia; a lengthy drive to Buchanan area; plan transfers accordingly.
Small airstrip used for charter flights; limited service; verify schedules in advance.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A major ethnic group in the region with a rich cultural presence.
Another significant group in Grand Bassa and surrounding areas; languages and customs influence local life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport; local matches and informal games are common.
Popular in schools and community centers.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Upper Buchanan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by asking for vegetable stews (like cassava leaf or mixed greens), rice, and plantains; request fish-free broths when possible and confirm no meat stock.