Handy Tips For Exploring Monrovia
Historical and Cultural Experiences
Explore Providence Island
Visit the historical landing site of freed American slaves in the 19th century. Providence Island is significant in Liberia’s history and offers a peaceful escape with scenic views.
Visit the National Museum of Liberia
Discover Liberia’s rich history, artifacts, and artwork in this three-story museum, located in a historic building downtown.
Walk Through the Centennial Pavilion
See where Liberia’s presidents have been inaugurated since 1947 and enjoy the beautiful architecture and historical exhibits inside.
Stop by the Temple of Justice
Liberia’s Supreme Court is housed in this grand building. While you can’t enter the courtrooms, it’s a great spot for history enthusiasts to learn about Liberia’s judicial system.
Discover Local Art at the Tides Art Gallery
Support local artists by visiting this gallery, which showcases Liberian talent in various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and crafts.
Stroll Through the Old Ducor Palace Hotel
Once a symbol of Liberia’s prosperity, the abandoned Ducor Palace Hotel offers panoramic views of the city and ocean and a unique glimpse into Monrovia’s past.
Natural Attractions
Relax at ELWA Beach
Escape the city’s hustle by heading to ELWA Beach, a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with sandy shores and beautiful ocean views.
Wander Through the Liberian Botanical Gardens
Take a stroll in this serene garden filled with native plants, trees, and flowers, which provides a relaxing break in nature.
Take a Boat Trip on the Mesurado River
For a unique perspective of the city, enjoy a boat ride along the river, where you might spot some wildlife and mangrove forests.
Explore Monkey Island (if possible)
Monkey Island, home to a population of rescued chimpanzees, offers an exciting wildlife encounter if local tours and permissions allow.
Food and Drink Tips
Try Local Dishes at Golden Beach Restaurant
Sample Liberian specialties like fufu and soup or jollof rice at this popular restaurant with beach views.
Visit the Liberian Chophouse for Authentic Fare
Enjoy a true taste of Liberia at the Chophouse, where you can try dishes like palm butter, cassava leaves, and peanut soup.
Sip Fresh Coconut Water from Street Vendors
Refresh yourself with a cool, hydrating drink from one of Monrovia’s many coconut vendors—you can watch them cut open the coconut fresh!
Taste Fresh Seafood at Bong’s Fish Market
Head to this bustling fish market to sample or purchase freshly caught seafood, which is an important part of Monrovia’s cuisine.
Experience Local Coffee at Kendeja Cultural Center
Try a cup of locally grown Liberian coffee at this cultural center, where you can also see traditional performances.
Explore Congo Town for a Taste of Local Life
Congo Town, a lively neighborhood in Monrovia, is known for its local markets, community vibe, and great street food. Stroll through the area to experience the authentic side of Monrovia, where you can mingle with locals, sample freshly prepared snacks like fried plantains and grilled meats, and gain insight into everyday Liberian life.
Shopping and Souvenirs
Browse the Waterside Market
Wander through Monrovia’s bustling Waterside Market for an authentic shopping experience, with everything from fabrics to handmade crafts.
Visit the Mamba Point Art and Craft Market
This market is a great spot for souvenirs, featuring wood carvings, jewelry, textiles, and artwork from local artisans.
Shop for Colorful Lappa Fabric
Take home Liberia’s iconic lappa fabric as a vibrant souvenir, available at various markets and shops across Monrovia.
Practical and Miscellaneous Tips
Use Local Transportation Cautiously
Try shared taxis and motorbikes for a local experience, but always prioritize safety and check the best routes with locals.
Respect Local Customs and Traditions
While Liberia is known for its friendliness, it’s good to ask before taking photos of people, especially in markets and cultural sites, as a sign of respect.
A Day in Monrovia: Exploring Liberia’s Capital
Monrovia, the vibrant heart of Liberia, offers an engaging blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that you can explore in just one day. Here’s a suggested itinerary for making the most of your time in this dynamic city.
Morning: Discover Liberia’s Heritage
Start at the National Museum of Liberia
Begin your day with a visit to the National Museum of Liberia. This museum is a treasure trove of Liberian history, housing artifacts, artwork, and historical displays that tell the story of the nation’s journey from independence to modern-day. It’s a great introduction to the country’s unique heritage and culture.
Walk Through the Centennial Pavilion
After the museum, head over to the nearby Centennial Pavilion. This historic building, used for presidential inaugurations, is significant in Liberia’s political history. It’s a great spot to learn about the country’s leadership and admire Liberian architecture.
Stop by Waterside Market
Just a short walk away, you’ll find Waterside Market. Here, you can experience the lively atmosphere of a Monrovia market. Browse through stalls selling colorful lappa fabric, handcrafted goods, and local produce. It’s a fantastic spot to pick up a unique souvenir and soak in the city’s bustling vibe.
Midday: Relax by the Coast
Lunch at Golden Beach Restaurant
For lunch, head to Golden Beach Restaurant, where you can enjoy Liberian dishes while taking in the ocean views. Try local specialties like jollof rice, fufu, or palm butter stew. The relaxed beach setting provides a nice break from the city hustle.
Walk Along ELWA Beach
After lunch, take a stroll along ELWA Beach. With its sandy shores and serene ocean backdrop, this beach is a perfect place to unwind. Dip your toes in the water, snap a few photos, or just relax on the sand and enjoy the peaceful environment.
Afternoon: Explore Monrovia’s Arts and Culture
Visit the Tides Art Gallery
Head back into the city to explore Monrovia’s art scene at Tides Art Gallery. This gallery showcases local Liberian art, with pieces ranging from paintings and sculptures to crafts. It’s a great place to appreciate the creativity of Liberia’s artists and support the local art community.
Discover Providence Island
Next, make your way to Providence Island, a historic site where freed American slaves first landed in Liberia. Now a peaceful retreat, the island offers scenic views of the city and a place to reflect on Liberia’s founding history. It’s a must-visit for understanding Monrovia’s unique past.
Evening: Local Cuisine and City Views
Dinner at Liberian Chophouse
For dinner, head to the Liberian Chophouse, where you can sample more traditional Liberian dishes like cassava leaves, peanut soup, and grilled fish. The cozy ambiance and hearty meals make this a perfect spot to end your day.
Sunset at the Ducor Palace Hotel Ruins
As the day winds down, visit the ruins of the Ducor Palace Hotel. Once one of West Africa’s premier luxury hotels, the Ducor now stands as a historic, albeit abandoned, landmark with panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. Watching the sunset from here is an unforgettable way to close out your day in Monrovia.
Optional Nightcap: Local Music or Coffee
Experience Monrovia’s Nightlife
If you’re up for it, end your day by catching some live music at a local venue or stopping by a café for a cup of Liberian coffee. Monrovia has a budding music scene and vibrant nightlife that offer a taste of the city’s energy after dark.
This itinerary offers a blend of history, culture, and relaxation, giving you a taste of Monrovia’s diverse offerings. Whether it’s exploring heritage sites, enjoying the coast, or immersing yourself in local arts, Monrovia is sure to leave a lasting impression.
