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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 under the highly regarded President Ellen Johnson
Sirleaf, re-elected in peaceful elections in 2011, 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 American 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.
There are several worthwhile attractions outside of the
dilapidated capital Monrovia. 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 are known to
walk around poorer areas of Monrovia while women should prepare
themselves for plenty of unwanted attention 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.