How to Find Hotels in Liberia

The Republic of Liberia is located on the west coast of Africa, surrounded by Côte d'Ivoire, Sierra Leone and Guinea. Established by African-Americans, Liberia is famous for rolling coastal plains and low mountains as well as for the safaris and tours available in the region.

Things You'll Need

• Proof of vaccination for yellow fever
• Visa

Instructions

Know Your Destination

1. Be aware of the dangers. Liberia literally means 'The Land of the Free,' but recent civil unrest has ruined the economy and stability of the country.

2. Consider the weather--hot days in the winter and heavy rain in the summer.

3. Leave the language book behind. Other languages are spoken but English is the official language.

4. Make sure to have the right money. The Liberian dollar is the official currency.

Find Transportation

1. Fly to Monrovia International Airport which is about 60 km from Robertsfield.

2. Take a taxi from the airport to your hotel. Be cautious when taking taxis elsewhere.

3. Rent a Jeep 4x4 that can handle the roads.

Choose Accommodations

1. Give serious thought to staying in luxury accommodations (over $100 USD per night). Van service to the airport and security guards at the front doors help keep you safe.

2. Stay on or near Gurley Street in Monrovia for modern-style nightlife.

3. Find accommodations on Providence Island to enjoy traditional song and dance.

Learn Local Information

1. Buy local goods. Liberia is known for its crafts, especially its stunning masks and fabrics.

2. Eat like the locals. Delicious traditional food includes potato greens, chock rice, goat soup, palm butter, casava leaf and pepper soup.

Tips & Warnings

• Be prepared for problems with transport. Road conditions are bad across the country and there is really no reliable public transportation service for travelers.

• 10% tips for hotel staff are standard.

• When making purchases or meeting anyone, it is customary to shake hands, sometimes snapping the fingers after the handshake.

• Only stays of 48 hours are approved by customs. If you wish to visit longer, contact an immigration office.

• Never hail a taxi on the street as they can be dangerous.

• Be aware that carjackings happen.

• Avoid walking alone at night; rape and muggings are common.

• Crime rates tend to be high; use caution at all times while sightseeing.

• Recent civil wars have created unrest in the area and the Department of State has issued a warning urging caution when traveling to the region.