Visitors from the US, UK, Canada, Australia and EU member states are required to have a visa and a yellow fever vaccination certificate to enter Liberia, as travel visas are not issued upon arrival. Three-month visa fees for US and UK nationals may change without notice, and proof of funds covering your stay may be requested. Citizens of other countries are advised to check with their nearest Embassy in regards to the visa requirements and costs.

Health and Safety

Proof of a yellow fever vaccination is required for travel to Liberia, and routine shots should be up to date. Hepatitis A, B and E are recommended, as is a rabies inoculation if you’re planning to head to remote regions. Malaria is endemic and anti-malaria medication should be taken. Bilharzia is also present, with freshwater activities best avoided. Water and unpasteurized milk are also unsafe to drink due to low hygiene levels, and bottled water is essential to avoid travelers’ diarrhea and other illnesses. Hospitals in Liberia are of a very low standard, poorly equipped and with few drugs. Those on regular medication should bring enough to last the entire trip, and full health insurance with a medivac add-on is highly recommended.

A photocopy of your passport should be carried at all times, as you’re likely to be stopped by UN and police roadblocks. Traveling at night is strongly discouraged, and hyper-vigilance should always be a priority. In general, areas popular with expats and tourists are safer than local enclaves, as police are always visible where there are travelerss. Watch out for con-men though – if it sounds too good to be true, it is, especially if it involves gold or diamonds! Walking alone anywhere in the country, especially at night, is a bad idea, as street crime can occur in rural or urban areas.