Overview
One of the poorest nations in Africa and only recently emerging
from a bloody civil war in which 300,000 of its people died,
Liberia is a land boasting 350 miles (563 km) of tropical beaches
juxtaposed by pristine wildernesses and verdant rainforests. It may
be on the mend but sadly travel to Liberia is currently not
recommended due to its political situation and lack of
infrastructure.
Originally founded as a refuge for liberated slaves, it's not
hard to find reflections of the historical ties between the United
States and this struggling country, located on just north of the
equator on the western bulge of Africa. The capital of Monrovia is
named after 5th President of the United States, James Monroe and
the country's flag closely resembles the American flag.
Towns outside of Monrovia such as Ganta offer nothing to
visitors other than a glimpse into a day in the life of a Liberian
living in what is nothing more than a shantytown. However, the city
of Buchanan offers breathtaking beaches, a modest selection of
restaurants and a handful of guesthouses. A day trip to Robertsport
is a must, where visitors can take a peek into the cultural history
of Liberia and relax on some of the cleanest and most beautiful
beaches in the country. A tent camp for those wishing to spend the
night on the beach has been set up by a group of South Africans
while the UN also offers accommodations on a first-come basis.
Liberia's key attraction is the Sapo National Park, the largest
untouched tract of rainforest in Western Africa and incorporating
the Nimba Mountains, which are abundant in spectacular wildlife
such as elephants, leopards, buffalo, pygmy hippos and monkeys.
Game viewing by taking a boating trip along the Sinoe River is a
popular activity.
Foreigners are advised to travel only in an organised tour and
never venture out alone. Gangs of former combatants armed with
machetes are known to walk around poorer areas of Monrovia and
should be avoided completely while women should prepare themselves
for plenty of unwanted affection and marriage proposals from local
men.
Health care facilities are sparse and diseases such as typhoid
and malaria are very common. Travellers are advised to take care
with their personal hygiene, as there are many risks involved in
every day situations.
Not a typical or ideal tourist destination right now, but when
the skies of political turmoil clear and make way for picture
perfect sunsets, Liberia is sure to be top on the list of West
African destinations to visit.