Liberia isn’t on most bucket lists, but that’s exactly what makes it intriguing.
Tucked along the West African coast between Sierra Leone and Côte d’Ivoire, Liberia is a country with a unique backstory and raw, untapped beauty.
It was founded in the early 1800s by formerly enslaved African Americans, which shaped its identity as Africa’s first republic.
The country has endured civil wars, political upheaval, and public health crises.
Tourism in Liberia is barely a blip.
There’s no official count, but it’s believed that only tens of thousands of visitors come each year, mostly for work, research, or adventure travel.
There’s no polished tourism infrastructure, which means no big resorts or packaged tours.
But for those who are curious and comfortable navigating off-the-grid travel, Liberia offers rainforests teeming with wildlife, surf-ready beaches in Robertsport, and deep cultural history.
That said, this isn’t the kind of place you book on a whim.
Before you start picturing yourself under a palm tree, there’s a long list of safety considerations and logistical challenges to understand.
Warnings & Dangers in Liberia
OVERALL RISK: MEDIUM
Liberia carries a medium overall risk for travelers, mostly due to inconsistent infrastructure, spotty emergency services, and security challenges. Risks go up sharply after dark, so avoid nighttime travel whenever possible. With good planning and situational awareness, many visitors still travel safely, but it’s not a destination to approach casually.
TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH
Transport risk is high. Public transportation is unsafe, taxis are often unregulated, and road conditions are poor. Drivers rarely follow traffic laws, and accidents are common. It's best to hire a trusted local driver or arrange transportation through your hotel to avoid unnecessary risks.
PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM
Pickpocketing carries a medium risk, especially in busy areas like markets or transit points. Assume thieves may be armed, which adds a layer of danger. Keep valuables out of sight and avoid carrying anything you don’t need. Stay alert in crowds and don’t flash your phone or cash.
NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: LOW
Natural disaster risk is low. Liberia isn’t prone to earthquakes or major storms, but the rainy season (May to October) can flood roads and isolate rural areas. If you’re traveling during this time, check weather forecasts often and avoid areas with poor drainage or limited access.
MUGGING RISK: MEDIUM
Mugging risk is medium, and it’s a key reason why many countries issue elevated travel advisories. Armed robberies can happen in both urban and rural settings, often with knives or machetes. Police presence is limited, and response times are slow. Avoid walking alone, especially after dark.
TERRORISM RISK: LOW
Terrorism risk is currently low, but not zero. There's no active insurgency, but global threats can spill over anywhere. Public spaces like hotels, markets, or government buildings could be soft targets. Stay aware of your surroundings and avoid large crowds, especially during national events or holidays.
SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM
Scams are a medium risk. Bribe requests, fake fines, and financial scams targeting foreigners are common, especially at airports and border checkpoints. If someone demands money, request a receipt or contact your embassy.
WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM
For solo female travelers, risk is medium to high. Street harassment is common, and some women have experienced more serious threats. Dress modestly, stay in secure lodging, and avoid walking alone, especially at night. Group travel is safer, and connecting with trusted local contacts can help.
TAP WATER RISK: HIGH
Tap water in Liberia is not safe to drink. Contamination risk is high due to poor water treatment and outdated infrastructure. Stick to sealed bottled water for drinking and brushing your teeth. Also, avoid ice in drinks unless you're sure it’s made from filtered water.
Safest Places to Visit in Liberia
The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism (MICAT) runs the travel website enjoyliberia.travel.
As the official tourism website, this is a great place to start planning.
Here’s a highlight of the Top 10 Things to Do in Liberia.
Most tourists arrive in Monrovia. It’s a little gritty, but that’s part of the charm.
Dig into its layered history, wander chaotic markets, and check out the National Museum.
Sapo National Park takes you deep into one of West Africa’s last truly wild rainforests.
This isn’t a walk in the park with signage and snack bars.
It’s remote, raw, and filled with wildlife if you’re patient enough to look.
Kpatawee Waterfall isn’t huge, but it’s pure serenity.
Think natural pools, forested backdrops, and just enough infrastructure to enjoy it without ruining the vibe.
Great for a day trip with zero hassle.
Mount Nimba rises out of the landscape like a challenge.
If you’re into serious hiking, this one rewards you with rugged trails, sweeping views, and bragging rights few travelers earn.
Robertsport feels like the kind of beach town you’d stumble upon in a dream.
Gentle surf, laid-back locals, and no big resorts.
Marshall is another version of coastal quiet.
This little town offers boat access to mangroves, birdwatching, and a chance to see rescued chimpanzees in nearby conservation areas.
Settlements of former slaves like Clay-Ashland and Arthington connect Liberia to its founding roots.
These towns offer a powerful look at how freed African Americans shaped the country’s early identity.
Providence Island packs a lot of history into a small space.
This is where freed Black settlers from the U.S. first landed, and visiting with a guide adds real weight to the experience.
Birding in Liberia is next-level if you know where to look.
Forest reserves and coastal zones offer sightings of hornbills, bee-eaters, and other species you won’t see at home.
Cultural heritage isn’t confined to one museum or monument.
It’s in music, textiles, storytelling, and everyday life.
Attend a festival, try a local dish, or just listen.
With 16 major cultural groups, there’s something to learn in every town.
Places to Avoid in Liberia
Liberia’s risky regions aren’t always far from the tourist crowd.
For example, the United States State Department upped the risk level due to violent crimes happening near public beaches in city centers.
West Point, a densely populated neighborhood in Monrovia, is known for high crime rates and poor infrastructure.
It’s not a safe place for tourists to wander, especially without a trusted local guide.
Areas near political buildings or where demonstrations are happening should also be avoided, as protests can escalate quickly, and police response may involve tear gas or force.
Rural regions near the borders with Côte d’Ivoire, Guinea, and Sierra Leone can be unpredictable, with poor roads, limited cell service, and little police presence.
Avoid going out at night and only travel during daylight hours.
That includes driving between cities.
Even U.S. government workers can’t drive anywhere but to and from the ROB airport at night.
Safety Tips for Traveling to Liberia
- The Liberia National Police are the main law enforcement agency, but they’re not always reliable or responsive, especially outside Monrovia. Some officers have been known to ask for bribes. In theory, you can call 911 in an emergency, but calls may not go through.
- Liberia doesn’t have much in the way of formal tourism infrastructure. You won’t find marked trails, official guides, or help desks. If you’re exploring, you’re doing it on your own. This means higher risk if something goes wrong and limited assistance if you need help.
- There is no central emergency alert system for tourists, but local radio stations, embassy alerts, and mobile news apps are your best bets. Sign up for updates from your country’s embassy before arriving. The Liberia Meteorological Service exists, but it’s limited in both technology and reach. It doesn’t provide the kind of detailed, real-time forecasts or alerts many travelers are used to.
- Proof of yellow fever vaccination is required to enter Liberia. Malaria is common, so pack anti-malarial meds and use insect repellent. Other risks include Lassa fever, typhoid, and cholera.
- Foreigners can drive in Liberia with a valid international driver’s license. Road conditions are bad, especially in the rainy season. Potholes, unpaved roads, and reckless drivers are the norm. After dark, it’s downright dangerous. If you rent a vehicle, get a four-wheel drive, and hire a local driver if possible.
- English is the official language, but the way it’s spoken may not sound familiar to you. Many people speak Liberian English or local dialects, which can be hard to follow.
- Avoid rallies, protests, or political gatherings, even if they seem peaceful. Things can change fast, and the police might respond with tear gas or worse. Foreigners have been caught in chaotic situations just by being nearby. If you see a crowd forming, it’s a good time to change direction.
- Liberia has no landline system, and cell service is unreliable, especially in rural areas. Even in Monrovia, outages are common. Don’t rely on your phone to work all the time, and have a backup plan for emergencies. Share your travel itinerary with someone before you go off the grid.
- Outside of Monrovia, basic services like fuel, electricity, clean water, and lodging can be inconsistent or nonexistent. Hotels fill up fast, so book ahead. Don’t assume you can just show up and find a room or that gas stations will be operating.
- Liberia’s beaches are beautiful but not always safe. Powerful rip currents are common, and there are no lifeguards or posted warnings. Some coastal waters are contaminated with sewage. Portuguese man-of-war jellyfish have been spotted, and they can deliver serious stings. Stonefish, coral, and sea urchins also pose hazards.
So... How Safe Is Liberia Really?
Liberia isn’t the most dangerous destination, but it’s not one to take lightly either.
Petty theft, corruption, and violent crime, especially at night, are all real concerns.
The United States, Canada, and Australia rate Liberia as the second-lowest risk level on a four-tiered scale.
That means you should “exercise increased caution.”
Monrovia has a visible police presence, but that fades quickly in rural areas.
Police can be helpful, but some are known to solicit bribes.
Always carry a copy of your passport, and avoid traveling after dark outside the capital.
Roads are rough, lighting is limited, and emergency services often don’t respond.
Don’t treat it like a casual beach getaway.
Be smart, stay aware, and use common sense.
Do all of your travel during daylight hours.
Don’t travel at night.
We’ve addressed the biggest concerns in Liberia, but always check those government advisories before you go to see if anything has changed.
In summary, Liberia is more risky because of what COULD happen, not because of what is going to happen.
That can induce anxiety for travelers who like a more laid-back vibe.
How Does Liberia Compare?
| Country | Safety Index |
|---|---|
| Liberia | 45 |
| Djibouti | 38 |
| Croatia | 83 |
| Mexico | 65 |
| France | 64 |
| Puerto Rico | 34 |
| Somalia | 16 |
| United Kingdom | 77 |
| Peru | 50 |
Useful Information
Visas
Most travelers need a visa to enter Liberia, including those from the EU, UK, and Australia. Apply through the nearest Liberian embassy or consulate. E-visas are not currently available, and you'll need proof of yellow fever vaccination, travel plans, and accommodation details.
Currency
Liberia uses the Liberian dollar (LRD), but US dollars are widely accepted in cities and for major transactions. Bring clean, undamaged USD bills in small denominations. ATMs are limited and not always reliable, so carry cash, especially when traveling outside Monrovia.
Weather
Liberia has a tropical climate with two main seasons: a hot, dry season (November to April) and a rainy season (May to October). Roads can be difficult during heavy rains, especially outside the capital. Pack lightweight clothes, insect repellent, and something for sudden downpours year-round.
Airports
Roberts International Airport (ROB), near Monrovia, is the country’s main international hub. It’s small and basic but functional. Some flights also use Spriggs Payne Airport for domestic or regional routes.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommended and often required for your visa. Coverage should include medical evacuation, theft, and trip cancellations. Liberia’s healthcare system is limited, and serious injuries or illness may require evacuation to another country for proper treatment.
Liberia Weather Averages (Temperatures)
Average High/Low Temperature
| Temperature / Month | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| High °C |
31 | 31 | 33 | 33 | 32 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 | 31 |
| Low °C |
23 | 23 | 23 | 24 | 24 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 | 23 |
| High °F |
88 | 88 | 91 | 91 | 90 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 | 88 |
| Low °F |
73 | 73 | 73 | 75 | 75 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73 | 73 |
Liberia is totally safe and a place to be.
My sister (American) traveled to Liberia by herself and loved it and felt very safe.
Please how safe is Liberia?
I am a Nigerian, I have a friend on Facebook who wants me to come and live there, probably marry her.
I want to come to Liberia but i don’t know anything about the country and the people
So… How Safe Is Liberia Really?
Liberia is a country of many dangers, from petty theft to violent crimes that can befall you whether you are walking or driving around.
Avoid walking around at night, but be aware that armed robberies can happen even during the day and the presence of people around you isn’t any kind of a guarantee.
When driving, make sure that your car doors are locked and your windows are up, as thieves may just reach into your car and grab the first thing they get their hands on.
Keep your windows up particularly in busy areas of Monrovia.
Rape and armed robbery are also common in Liberia.
Mamba Point and Sinkor in Monrovia are the places where thefts of more serious type occur as this is where foreigners tend to stay, and many of them have reported incidents of mugging, assault, and other crimes.
Foreign workers get attacked in their locals too, and hotels can become scenes of burglaries so make sure your doors and windows are locked shut.
West Point is one of the many slum areas in Monrovia but is definitely the most dangerous place in Liberia when it comes to diseases as well as crime.
As for diseases, tuberculosis, AIDS and other serious illnesses infect the vast number of residents living here, so be sure to avoid this place.
i died in liberia
lies
you liar
She is saying the Truth Liberia is safe. Since the civic era ended with the first female president around 2005. Liberia had been Peaceful, and to interest you. Young Liberian has change their minds and Emotion toward self development.
Liberia Is A Nice Place
Liberia Is A Nice Country When Your Talking About Africa
yooo…I’m a foreigner and i’ve traveled to Liberia and lived there for a couple of years…It’s not as bad as this article makes it sound…
safe
If you thinking about a securest place to be,think about Liberia
Got the full Liberian experience 10/10 would get pickpocketed again
I love Liberia it is Safe!
Liberia is more safer than Sierra Leone and Guinea. Even Nigeria. Yes be careful with your phones and flashy things outside, but that is on every vacation anywhere. But Liberia is my favorite place to visit in the world othet than St. Vincent.
Wow..sound so great
Liberia-is,safeTell about your experience or leave a tip for others
Liberia is beautiful and safe
USA isn’t safe either especially when you’re skin color isn’t white. Chances you’d face racism and discrimination are 1000%.
Rubbish…you can’t have been there…Africa is far more racist…that’s what tribalism is after all…
Um how is Liberia is safe?
It isn’t lol
Liberia is a beautiful place to live… Liberian are peace loving people in Africa,Liberian love foreigner then their own people
5 Stars
Liberia is a wonderful place. Best place in the world to vacation. Relaxing, slow-paced, beautiful beaches and great food. There is no more crime here than any other place in the world. You will enjoy it. I lived there 10 years.
The worse country ever am a Kenyan citizen come here recently for an invite stayed six month planing to go this month but I have a lot of bad experience here I wish I didn’t come …I had good job left everything..in Qatar this country have only few friendly people all bad behaviours violence drungs fight if you want come in this poor country can wait to go back to Kenya
This nonsense must stop!
Is this true and are you still living there ?
Kenya is one of worst countries with regards to safety.
Tell about your experience or leave a tip for others
I’m Liberia u need to always in keep your money at your front pocket or else passenger 57 will dupe you before you get to know it. And there are other group called Galaxy Boys be warn of then
Go to Liberia
Really want to come to Liberia and want to know how safe it is….
Liberian is the best place to live
The real Liberia
Stop saying what you know nothing about Liberia. I’m sure you haven’t stay in Liberia for about a year. Lib is the best place on earth, friendly people, beautiful girls, nice food, et.. Your country is 10000 times dangerous than Liberia bc everyday there’s a dead body in the streets, highly educated people can’t get job and sleeping in the street. You don’t find that in Liberia. Take this down about Liberia now please and stop scaring people who want to visit a beautiful country. There’s no racism in Liberia, police don’t kill people like they do in your country.
Thank you. I’m considering going, but after my horrible experience in Kenya (1st time to Africa) I didn’t even want to try.
Charles Taylor era damaged Liberia
Well , last time I came in Liberia was 2003 and left in Jan-2006.
Some of the comments above are really really harsh about Liberia.
Majority is nice & friendly and one would love to interact with them.
I am from Pakistan, I love Liberia and the Liberian people and always prayed
for the betterment of this country. Look pre-war era, what happened to this
once a resouce rich country (and it still is).
The suffering of people was obviously the result of that. Now after the departure of Charles Taylor,Madam Elen Johnson improved a lot during her tenure. Gentleman Veah a prominent sport man from 2018 onward doing his best to raise standard of Liberian people.,
With more funding to Liberia, it will further impove its infrastructure. I wish it should
progress on more faster pace. I have lot of love & respect for Liberians. Comming
for three months and I will really enjoy every minute of my stay in Monrovia. YES.
All the best to Liberia & Liberians.
got beat up
lies
almost got kidnapped
Sure ya did
Learn the fact before put out misleading information
It’s a shame that whoever wrote this article didn’t do their homework. Why put out these outrageous, untrue information? This is ridiculous! Liberia may not be the best but it is not as bad as it is described.
Liberia is a place I will never visit again. All what the writer mentioned is all true. It’s very unsafe and and was scared my entire trip. I had to leave a week before my departure date. NEVER ME AGAIN!!!
Lies although Liberia 🇱🇷 is not the best since the Civil War, but Liberians are very friendly 👌. .
U don’t know much about Liberia, in the whole of west Africa Liberia is the most safest place to travel to. Liberia only have pickpocket criminals but never heard of bus or train robbery.
Liberia is the best place to visit. Foreigners are well respected. More places for tourism. Probably, the best beaches you will ever find in West Africa is in Liberia. Like any place there are few crimes rate, but it is rare for foreigners to get harm. Liberian are the warmest people you will ever meet. I hate that this article give such a bad picture of Liberia.
This is ridiculous! Yes Liberia had it’s own share of wars and a lot of damage was done, but this article is beyond ridiculous. It’s one of the safest countries in Africa.!
Yes and No
Some of what is said is true. Monrovia is a big city (just under 1 million), crowded, and as such crime is to be expected. There is only one stop light in the whole area and most in Monrovia avoid it because it causes traffic jams. Be careful in traffic; stop signs are just suggestions. We went to West Point with our group and a guide – I wouldn’t do it on your own. Its crowded, very narrow streets, and a sea of blue tarps and metal roofs. Narrow walkways between “houses” get you where you need to go, but is a maze that would be easy to get lost in, and is not really a place for sightseeing. The average temperatures given are about 10 – 20 deg. F too low. Liberia is near the equator and temps rarely get near freezing – if ever. We were there in January and temps were mostly 74 – 90 deg. F. Get the book “Red Dust on Green Leaves” for a bit of history and what Liberia is like. Most roads outside of Monrovia are dirt/gravel. If you go in the rainy season expect lots of mud. Also, during the dry season there are ruts in the roads from the wet season, so be cautious. There are main paved highways between Monrovia, Ganta and bigger cities. People walk alongside the road – even the highways – within just a few feet of cars traveling 60 mph/100 kph, so be careful if you’re driving. Sometimes they carry a machete, but are not a threat, just headed to their garden somewhere in the bush. Rubber trees are owned by Firestone – a million+ acers. The smell of rubber refinery is everywhere. Liberians cook with charcoal fires – make and sell their own – so the smell is everywhere. There are few hospitals (2 in Monrovia and 1 in Ganta I’m aware of), and no ambulance services; so if you wreck your car don’t expect a wrecker, ambulance, or much medical attention. Almost every small town has a rope at the city limit, and the local police will likely ask for a “fee.” Usually $5 US. Nevertheless, we found the people very friendly and more than happy to talk with us. Do expect a request for money or assistance from people. It’s just their way. Also, bargain with anyone selling. You can often negotiate 50% off the asking price or combine items to get a better price. Although, we tried to pay a fair price as this is their only income. Hope that helps.
Looking forward to my visit.
I am looking forward to my visit to west liberia. Someone please tell me about Christmas there. I am a Christian and love Christmas. I know nothing of this country and is looking forward. What I know my future daughter in law is a beautiful, kind, intelligent and clean individual. And she is from there.
Liberia is a good place to visit
Liberia 🇱🇷 and Liberian are the most welcoming people in Africa, they have always had good hearts toward foreigners, they made what we called in penguin English Palava for foreign nationals with locals.
A second chance
Fast and pray b4 u visit Liberia. Because of sin, Liberia is not what she used to be. Too much innocent blood is in the ground. God is angry.Repent Liberia, Repent.The people are nice in Liberia but too many people are not serving the true God.
fair enough
Liberia is a beautiful country. You know every country has a dark side. Liberia is a little bit darker, if you are a foreigner in liberia, you got to be very very careful cus if something bad happen to you nobody will help you. Liberia is amazing place with God fearing people and lots of religion.
It’s better you state facts than stating your opinions. Liberia is a peaceful country with a low crime rate compared to its neighbors. The Liberian people are friendly toward foreigners, hospitable and very tolerant. There’s never been anything like a bus or train robbery as stated in the article. As a matter of fact, trains in Liberia transports raw materials only, not passengers. In short, there’s a lot of bias opinions held by the author of this article meant to portray a negative image of Liberia to the outside world.
I’ve been planning to travel to Liberia in 4 days time,,,May God be with me
Liberia is the safest place in West Africa
It’s so-called American colony, because OF COURSE IT IS!
I would love to visit and perhaps find my roots. 🥸
Liberia is a beautiful Place to visit.
I was in Liberia a few months ago, and my own experiences have to do with a country that had 14 years of civil war. It is a beautiful place to visit, people-friendly, the culture is incredible, the beaches are awesome, the temperature is good but the ordinary Liberian live on less than one dollar a day.
It is a tuff country to live in but beautiful memories. Like other countries, bad stuff happened there too, even in the greatest country in the world, bad things happened.
Lots of killing, robberies, and attacks u name them. Liberia is a nice place to visit, if u want to experience the true nature of life, LIB is the place to be. I love that country and planning for a vacation in December of 2022.
No place like home
No where like home. We all can agree that Liberia is much better safe place in the world aspecially in West Africa. #1like place of freedom, liberty and justice for all. #peace to mother LIB.
Liberia is one of the safest place to live in west Africa….Just visit and feel the Liberian culture.
A friend of mine is there and tells me to come over, but what I Google about Liberia scared me here. so I don’t know is the truth about Liberia base on different comments and post I read here
Can someone guard me through about Liberia.
Truth be told, Liberia is one of the safest countries in West Africa.
You’ll get to know real blacks. The foods are all deep fried, and watermelons abundant.