Liberia might not be the first country travelers think of when planning a budget trip, but it’s full of opportunities to save money while experiencing something a little different. From its untouched beaches to stunning national parks, this West African country can be explored without burning a hole in your wallet.
Save Money on Accommodation
Accommodation in Liberia is generally affordable, but there are ways to lower the cost even more. Hostels and guesthouses are your best options. In Monrovia, you can find basic guesthouses for around $20-30 USD per night. If you move outside the capital, prices drop even more. Always try to negotiate rates—many guesthouses are willing to lower the price, especially if you’re staying more than a couple of nights.
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For even cheaper accommodations, consider Couchsurfing. There are a growing number of hosts in Liberia, and this is a great way to meet locals while getting a bed for free. Another tip: If you’re visiting the countryside or small towns, ask around for homestay opportunities. Some locals are happy to host travelers for free or at a very minimal cost.
Transportation Tips
Public transportation in Liberia is cheap. For getting around Monrovia, shared taxis are the way to go. These taxis charge by the seat, so expect to pay between $0.50 to $1 USD for short rides within the city. Keep in mind they pack them full to maximize income, so don’t expect much personal space. If you want more comfort, you can always hire a private taxi, but that will cost more.
For longer distances, buses, and shared minibusses are your budget-friendly option. They’re not the most comfortable, but they’ll get you from city to city for a fraction of the cost of hiring a private vehicle. A minibus ride from Monrovia to Buchanan, for example, might cost about $5-10 USD.
Want to travel even cheaper? Hitchhiking is somewhat common for foreigners and can be safe in the rural parts of the country. Just always make sure to gauge the situation and trust your instincts when hopping into someone’s car.
Eat Affordably
Street food is your key to saving money while dining in Liberia. You can get a filling meal for no more than $1-2 USD. Some popular options include fried plantains, grilled fish, roasted chicken, and rice with cassava leaf stew. Not only are these meals filling, but they’re a great way to try the local cuisine.
If you prefer eating in restaurants, look for local spots that cater more to Liberians than tourists. A typical meal at these places will cost between $2-5 USD. Avoid Western-style restaurants, as prices can skyrocket to $10-20 USD per meal.
To save even more, head to local markets. Fresh fruit, veggies, and simple snacks can be bought at reasonable prices. Plus, if you’re staying somewhere with a kitchen, cooking for yourself will save you tons.
Free and Cheap Activities in Liberia
Liberia is rich in natural beauty, and most of it can be enjoyed for free or at a very low cost. For beaches, think of Cece Beach or Silver Beach near the capital. These beaches are free and great for relaxing, swimming, or catching a sunset. Just bring along some food from the market to avoid splurging on beachfront restaurants.
Visit Providence Island
This historic island near Monrovia is where freed slaves landed when they first arrived in Liberia. You can stroll around the island for free and learn about the country’s history. It’s a peaceful escape right next to the city and costs nothing unless you want to hire a local guide for a small fee.
Hike Mount Nimba
If you’re into nature, visit the Mount Nimba area. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, and entrance fees range from $5-10 USD. The area is filled with pristine rainforests, wildlife, and breathtaking views. If you’re an adventurous traveler, hiking Mount Nimba is worth every penny spent.
Sapo National Park
For wildlife lovers, Sapo National Park is a must. The fees are minimal (around $15 USD), and the park is home to Liberia’s rich biodiversity. You might spot pygmy hippos, elephants, and even chimpanzees. The park isn’t crowded, making it an authentic jungle experience without a lot of tourists around.
Find Budget-Friendly Destinations
Monrovia can be hectic and more expensive, but once you move beyond the capital, costs drop significantly. Buchanan, for example, is a coastal city about 2 hours away from Monrovia and is much cheaper. You’ve got beaches, calm vibes, and guesthouses that don’t cost an arm and a leg.
Another budget-friendly destination is Robertsport. Famous for its surfing scene, it’s laid-back, and the accommodations are affordable, with dorms starting at around $15 USD. Plus, renting a surfboard won’t break the bank either, with prices around $10 USD a day.
Maximize Your Money with Currency Exchange
When traveling to Liberia, the local currency is the Liberian Dollar (LRD), but the US Dollar is widely accepted. In case you need to exchange money, do so at local money changers rather than at the airport, where rates are worse. Also, when paying with USD, try to use smaller bills since larger bills can be hard to get change for, and you might end up spending more than intended.
Other Helpful Tips
While tap water in Liberia isn’t safe to drink, you can save money by sticking to bottled water. But instead of buying small bottles, purchase 5-10 liter jugs from supermarkets. They’re cheaper over time, especially if you’re staying for more than a few days. This is an easy way to avoid paying $1-2 for each small bottle!
For internet and phone connectivity, buy a local SIM card (like Orange or Lonestar). A pay-as-you-go plan with data won’t cost you more than $10 USD a month, which beats paying for Wi-Fi at each location. Most guesthouses offer free Wi-Fi, but it can be slow or unreliable, so a local SIM is a more practical solution.
Final Thoughts
Liberia offers an off-the-beaten-path experience for budget travelers. With affordable accommodation, cheap transportation, and meals that won’t cost much, you can experience the best of the country without any financial stress. Stick to local options, be open to meeting people, and enjoy the adventure Liberia offers without breaking the bank!
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