Liberia is one of Africa’s poorest nations and is struggling to get back on its feet after a long civil war, which led to the deaths
of 250,000 people. In 2006, Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf was elected president, becoming Africa’s first female ruler. She faces the
daunting task of rebuilding the country.
Travellers are currently advised against all but essential travel to Liberia. But if this nation recovers enough to open up
to tourists, intrepid travellers will have the opportunity to explore the sprawling city of Monrovia, relax on the beach or venture into the pristine wilderness of Sapo National Park.
The most evocative description of Liberia can be found in Graham Greene’s Journey without Maps, an account of his overland trip across the country in 1935. Although it can now hardly pretend to be an up-to-date guide
book, the descriptions and the atmosphere of the country it creates – particularly when dealing with the mysterious and jungle-rich
interior – make the book a valuable and entertaining introduction for anyone planning to visit the country.
eneral Information
Area
97,754 sq km (37,743 sq miles).
Population
3.2 million (2003).
Population Density
33.1 per sq km.
Capital
Monrovia. Population: 550,200 (2003).
Government
Republic. Declared independence in 1847.
Language
English is the official language. The main local languages are Bassa, Dan (Gio), Kpelleh, Kru, Lorma and Mano. There are 16
major languages and dialects.
Religion
Officially a Christian state, with more than 30 denominations represented; Islam is practised in the north and traditional
animist beliefs exist throughout the country.
Time
Social Conventions
In Muslim areas, the visitor should respect the conventions of dress and the food laws, since failure to do so will be taken
as an insult. Dress is casual and must be practical, but smarter dress will be expected in hotel dining rooms and for important
social functions. The visitor should be aware that the cost of living is high. Sending flowers or chocolates to hosts is inappropriate;
a letter of thanks is all that is required.
Electricity
110 volts AC, 60Hz.
Head of State
President Ellen Johnson-Sirleaf since January 2006.
Overview 
