Welcome to Liberia 😊

Quick Facts About Liberia

Money and Finances

The currency used in Liberia is the Liberian dollar (LRD), and it is divided into cents. Notes come in denominations of LRD 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 500, and 1,000, while coins come in denominations of LRD 5, 10, and 25 cents.

ATM Network

ATMs are not widely available in Liberia, and those that do exist are often out of service. It is recommended to carry enough cash with you, as credit cards and travelers' checks are not widely accepted either.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are not widely accepted in Liberia, and even when they are, the fees can be high. Visa and Mastercard are more commonly accepted than American Express.

Internet and Phones

In Liberia, the average internet speed for downloads is about 1.4 Mbps and the average speed for uploads is about 0.5 Mbps. There is no government interference in internet use.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The primary telco companies in Liberia are Lonestar Cell MTN and Orange Liberia. The average cost for a mobile phone plan is around USD 6 per month. There may be compatibility issues for some SIM cards.

Dialling to Liberia

To call Liberia from another country, dial the international access code followed by Liberia's country code, which is +231. Within Liberia, there are several area codes, the most common being 77, 88 and 47.

Transport Around Liberia

Air Travel

Liberia has one major international airport, Roberts International Airport, which is located in the capital city of Monrovia.

Train Travel

Liberia does not have an inter-city train network.

Metro / Local Trains

Liberia does not have a local train network within major cities.

Buses

Liberia has a limited bus network primarily used for transportation within Monrovia. A typical bus fare within the city is about 50 Liberian dollars (approximately 0.25 USD). Journey times depend on traffic and can range from 30 minutes to over an hour.

Rideshare

Popular rideshare companies in Liberia are ZOOM and KruRide. Average travel prices depend on distance but are generally affordable.

Driving by Car

Driving in Liberia can be difficult due to poorly maintained roads and unpredictable road conditions. Speed limits are typically not posted, but drivers are expected to drive at a safe and appropriate speed. Liberia uses right-hand drive and most vehicles have a manual transmission.

Local Customs

In Liberia, tipping is not a common practice. Locals usually greet each other with a handshake or a nod, and it is considered polite to ask about family and their well-being. It is also common to address elders or those in positions of authority with respect, using titles such as 'Mr.' or 'Madam.' Men and women generally address each other using formal titles, such as 'Sir' or 'Madam.' When speaking with strangers, Liberians tend to be very friendly and hospitable.

Health and Diseases

Medical System

Liberia's health system faces many challenges and may not meet Western standards. Non-emergency medical services may be scarce outside of major cities. Visitors should have comprehensive travel insurance that includes medical evacuation services. A visit to a doctor in Liberia can cost between 40 and 100 USD depending on the location and specialty.

COVID Situation

Liberia was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. As of September 2021, there have been over 5,000 confirmed cases and over 200 deaths. The government has implemented lockdowns, mandatory mask-wearing, and limited gathering sizes to control the spread of the virus.

Common Health Risks

Liberia poses several health risks to travelers. Malaria is prevalent, and preventive medication is recommended. Yellow fever vaccination is required for travelers arriving from countries with high-risk for yellow fever transmission. There is also a risk of food-borne illness, so visitors should exercise caution with food and water sources and consider getting vaccinated for hepatitis A and typhoid.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

The legal drinking age in Liberia is 18 years old. Alcohol is legal in Liberia, but public drunkenness and disorderly conduct are punishable by law. It is also prohibited to drink alcohol in public places such as streets, parks, and beaches.

Recreational Drugs

Drug use is illegal and strictly prohibited in Liberia. Possession, trafficking, and use of drugs, including cannabis, can lead to heavy fines and imprisonment.

Pre-Marital Relationships

There are no laws specifically criminalizing pre-marital relationships in Liberia. However, sexual activity with a minor under 18 years of age is illegal and punishable by law.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexual acts are illegal in Liberia, and same-sex marriage is not recognized by law. LGBTQ individuals face discrimination and prejudice in the country. There is no legal protection against discrimination based on sexual orientation.

Firearms / Guns

Firearms are strictly regulated in Liberia, and ownership is limited to certain individuals such as hunters and security personnel. Unauthorized possession, sale, and use of firearms are punishable by law.