LIBERIA HAS A TYPICALLY TROPICAL CLIMATE. IT’S HOT YEAR ROUND, WITH TEMPERATURES REMAINING PRETTY STEADY, AND HAS IT TWO SEASONS: HOT AND WET, AND HOT, DRY AND DUSTY.
Daytime temperatures can range from 23°C to 32°C by the coast; inland can be a little warmer. The Nov-April dry season has fewer mosquitoes and no flood-blocked roads. However, the harmattan wind blows down from the Sahara in Dec – early Feb, bringing uncomfortable dust and dryness, as well as reduced visibility for both photography and sightseeing – so November and mid-February are the best times to visit Liberia. March-April are searingly hot and the rains usually begin in May or June and fizzle out in Oct. At this time, the rains turn dirt roads into muddy swamps and even Monrovia can suffer from devastating flooding.
THINGS TO DO IN LIBERIA
Things to do in Liberia…
Liberia has some incredible beaches, and the country’s difficult reputation means that they are wild and unspoilt, and what development there is, is low rise and low key. There are surfing beaches and oceanfront resorts in and around the capital, including sublime Libassa Lodge, an eco-hotel founded in partnership with the forestry authority. Robertsport, a laidback surf town 100km from Monrovia, is one of the continent’s great undiscovered surf spots, offering empty golden beaches and a thick mane of rainforest. Do take the time to learn about the history and culture while you’re here. Throughout the country you’ll find crumbling colonial buildings that are reminders of the freed American slaves who founded the independent state of Liberia, while the National Museum, based at the former legislature in Monrovia, details the traditions of the country’s many ethnic groups, and the history its founders. It’s also worth reading up on the brutal civil wars (1989-1997 and 1999-2003), the effects of which are still evident today. Liberia may be tiny, but it’s not short on natural beauty so make sure you get out into the wild while you’re here. Hotspots include Chimpanzee Island – an archipelago that’s home to a community of rescued chimpanzees; Kpatawee Waterfall, whose tumbling waters and natural pool have sacred significance for the local people; and the area surrounding the popular Libassa Lodge, where you can stroll through botanical gardens, or search for birdlife in the local rainforest.