Monrovia: West Africa
Lagos, Abuja, Abidjan, Freetown, Monrovia, Lomé
🌍 Explore Monrovia: Travel & Business Guide for Visitors from Ghana and West Africa
Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia, is a coastal hub steeped in Pan-African history, with vibrant street life, a growing economy, and a relaxed atmosphere. Named after U.S. President James Monroe, the city is one of Africa’s few capitals founded by formerly enslaved people returning from the Americas.
Today, Monrovia offers a mix of heritage, ocean views, entrepreneurial spirit, and increasing business opportunities — perfect for regional travelers seeking a destination that is both historic and forward-looking.
✈️ How to Get to Monrovia from Ghana
Main Airport: Roberts International Airport (ROB), located about 50 km outside Monrovia.
Flights from Accra (Ghana)
Direct and connecting flights are available via:
ASKY Airlines
Africa World Airlines
Air Côte d'Ivoire (via Abidjan)
Brussels Airlines, Royal Air Maroc, and Kenya Airways (with stops)
Flight time: Approx. 2 to 2.5 hours from Accra.
🏙️ Why Visit Monrovia?
✔️ Pan-African Heritage
Liberia was founded as a settlement for freed African-Americans. Monrovia’s architecture, museums, and cultural landscape reflect this unique African-American legacy blended with local tribal traditions.
✔️ Emerging Business Landscape
Liberia is rebuilding and growing. Sectors like agriculture, mining, construction, ICT, and renewable energy are gaining traction. There’s rising interest from ECOWAS neighbors, including Ghana, in investment, trade, and consultancy.
✔️ Nature and Coastline
From palm-lined beaches to lush interior forests, Monrovia offers plenty for nature lovers and beach seekers.
📍 Top Things to Do in Monrovia
🏛️ Historic & Cultural Sites
National Museum of Liberia – Located downtown, this museum tells the story of Liberia’s founding, civil wars, and cultural traditions.
Centennial Pavilion – A landmark where presidents are sworn in and national events are hosted.
Providence Island – The original landing site of freed African-Americans in 1822. An important stop for those exploring Black history.
🏖️ Beaches & Leisure
Silver Beach – One of Monrovia’s most popular and scenic beaches. Great for swimming and weekend barbecues.
Kendeja Resort Beach – Home to a private beach, near a former luxury resort once managed by international hotel brands.
ELWA Beach – Wide stretch of coast, popular with locals for parties and relaxation.
🦍 Nature & Wildlife
Wologizi Mountains & Rainforest (day trips possible) – Ideal for eco-tourists and hikers.
Sapo National Park – Liberia’s largest national park, known for rare species and deep rainforest. (Best visited with a guide)
🏨 Where to Stay in Monrovia
🛎️ Luxury & Upscale
| Hotel Name | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Royal Grand Hotel | Top business hotel, modern rooms, rooftop restaurant |
| Mamba Point Hotel | Ocean views, international clientele, strong security |
| Cape Hotel | Overlooking the sea, known for its restaurant and spacious rooms |
🛏️ Mid-Range
| Hotel Name | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Boulevard Palace | Central location, meeting rooms, solid amenities |
| Bella Casa Hotel | Near Mamba Point, good food, reliable service |
| Palm Spring Resort | Located on the outskirts, great for quiet stays |
🛏️ Budget Options
| Hotel Name | Notes |
|---|---|
| Corina Hotel | Modest but clean, walkable location |
| Suncoast Hotel | Affordable, friendly staff, decent food |
🍽️ Where to Eat in Monrovia
🇱🇷 Liberian Cuisine
Musu’s Spot – Famous for local dishes like palm butter, cassava leaf, and jollof rice.
Golden Gate – An upscale local spot offering Liberian and West African food.
Diana Restaurant – Casual eatery with great pepper soup and grilled fish.
🌍 International Dining
Anglers Bar & Grill – Great seafood and cocktails with oceanfront seating.
Sajj House – Lebanese restaurant known for fresh hummus, shawarma, and kebabs.
The Hub Diner – Continental and American-style dining, good for business meals.
💼 Business Travel Tips for Monrovia
Currency: Liberian Dollar (LRD), though USD is widely accepted.
Language: English is the official language, widely spoken.
Time Zone: GMT — same as Ghana.
Connectivity: SIM cards available (Lonestar MTN, Orange Liberia). Wi-Fi common in hotels.
Transport:
Ride-hailing apps not fully developed — rely on hotel cars, taxis, or private drivers.
Roads vary in quality — plan ahead for meetings or travel to rural areas.
Dress Code: Smart casual to formal, depending on the occasion.
Networking: Business is often relationship-driven. Arrive on time, but be patient with local timing.
🌄 Day Trips & Excursions Near Monrovia
| Destination | Travel Time | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Robertsport | ~3–4 hrs | Surfing, fishing, historic town with American roots |
| Lake Piso | ~3.5 hrs | Largest lake in Liberia, serene, birdwatching |
| Marshall | ~1.5 hrs | Quiet beaches, eco-lodges, turtle-watching in season |
| Firestone Plantation | ~1 hr | Learn about Liberia’s rubber industry (arrange tour) |
🎊 Festivals & Cultural Events
Independence Day (July 26) – Parades, music, and national pride events
Liberian Arts & Culture Festival – Celebrates dance, art, and storytelling (seasonal)
Palm Wine Music Nights – Live music featuring traditional instruments and Afrobeat
✅ Conclusion: Monrovia — West Africa’s Coastal Comeback City
Monrovia is more than just a capital — it’s a city rebuilding with resilience, with its roots in Pan-African identity and a strong sense of community and opportunity. From historic Providence Island, to the beaches of Silver and ELWA, and boardrooms in Mamba Point — Monrovia invites travelers from Ghana and across the region to experience a city that’s warm, evolving, and ready for regional collaboration.