A Comprehensive Guide about Living in Monrovia

Life in Monrovia

Monrovia is Liberia’s capital city. Mamba Point is traditionally Monrovia’s diplomatic quarter, and is where the Embassies of the United States, the United Kingdom and the European Union Delegation are located. This is where most expats choose to live.

Transport in Monrovia

As Monrovia is the capital city of Liberia, it has strong transport links with the rest of the country. The country’s busiest port, the Freeport of Monrovia, is located in the capital. The port provides a link for travel to other cities on the Liberian coast, as well as international travel.

Monrovia is also on the Liberian rail network and road system. Inland cities can be accessed from Monrovia by car, while trains and buses are a cheap way to travel, but are not advised as safe for foreigners.

Liberia’s largest airport, the Roberts International Airport is located only 37 miles away from Monrovia, in Harbel. The nearest airport to Monrovia is the Spriggs Payne Airport, which is less than four miles from Monrovia’s city center.

The easiest and safest way to travel within Monrovia is by taxis, which are readily available but can be expensive.

Culture and Leisure

Monrovia is home to one of the largest sports stadiums in Africa, the Samuel K. Doe Sports Complex Sports Stadium. Other notable cultural attractions are the National Museum of Liberia in the city’s center, and Blo Degbo, a rock formation that appears to resemble a human face in the eastern suburb of Paynesville.

Monrovia has three main beaches – Kendeja, Silver Beach and Ellen’s Beach – as well as a number of smaller ones. The popular tourist destination Monkey Island is located only a few miles outside of Monrovia.

There are various popular nightclubs and bars in Monrovia, and The Palm Spring Resort is popular with the city’s youth for its karaoke and casino.

Safety and Security 

Monrovia has high levels of crime, including armed robbery. Although crime is mainly targeted at Liberian locals, visiting foreigners are also at risk, so careful planning is necessary before traveling to the city. Reputable accommodation with full security is essential.

Transport to Monrovia must be carefully considered. Public transport is not safe for foreigners and should be avoided, and drivers and travel agencies must be thoroughly researched for security beforehand.

Foreign travelers are advised not to go out at night, and to avoid walking alone or walking in places not frequented by foreigners. There is a high incidence of rape in Monrovia.