Travel Vaccines and Advice for Liberia

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Liberia. The CDC and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Liberia: hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, yellow fever, rabies, meningitis, polio, measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), Tdap (tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis), chickenpox, shingles, pneumonia and influenza.

COVID-19 vaccination is recommended for travel to all regions, both foreign and domestic. Check with your local Passport Health clinic if immunization is offered in your area.

Malaria is present in all regions of Liberia. Use of antimalarials are highly recommended. Do note, malaria in Liberia is chloroquine-resistant.

The medical care in most Liberian cities is comparable to America. Hospitals are located in Monrovia. But, for those staying in rural areas, there may be a need to travel at least a day to get to the nearest physician.

Travelers should avoid contact with animals like dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds and bats as contact with these animals could lead to infections like avian influenza and rabies. Ebola has also been linked to contact with bats.

For vaccination information, see our vaccinations page. Book your appointment today by calling or book online now.

There is a risk of contracting cholera in Liberia as food and water can become contaminated. Vaccination is recommended for travelers, especially those going to rural areas.

The best protection against cholera is through vaccination. Passport Health clinics offer the cholera vaccine. Book your cholera vaccination appointment today!

U.S. citizens must have a valid passport and Liberian visa to enter the country. You cannot enter the country without a visa. Proof of yellow fever immunization is required to get a Liberian visa.

Liberia Entry Requirements
Do I Need A…	For My Trip to Liberia?
Passport
Tourist Visa
Business Visa
Vaccinations

Sources: Embassy of Liberia and U.S. State Department

Liberia has a tropical climate, there’s hardly ever a shortage of rain and the heat and humidity are not lacking. Along the coast, temperatures range anywhere from 70 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit while the inland tends to fare a tad warmer.

The monsoon season lasts from May to October. During the winter months, November through March, dust-laden winds blow inland. This sometimes causes respiratory problems for residents.

• Monrovia – As the capital experiences a rainy season from late spring to early autumn, with continuing rains the rest of the year. The warmest times are from February to April reaching a high of up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit.
• Harper – Harper, located in southern Liberia, has a tropical climate. It’s warmest month is April, when reaches highs of 80 Fahrenheit, and its coldest month is August.
• Buchanan – As a port town in southern Liberia, Buchanan has a tropical monsoon climate with wet and humid summers, and warm winters. The temperature has very little variance in temperature with an average of 79 Fahrenheit throughout the year. A dry season during August brings a temporary decrease in rain.

As in most major cities, criminal activity increases after dark. The majority of the crimes that do take place in Liberia tend to be opportunity based. Most happen in tourist frequented destinations like Mamba Point and Sinkor in Monrovia.

Be vigilant and smart in hotel rooms, and do not leave valuables exposed. Do not open the door to strangers, and confirm with reception if someone knocking at the door claims is, in fact, hotel staff.

Do not hail taxis from the street, and have a hotel or reliable contact arrange a driver in advance. Sit in the back seat of taxis and make sure doors are locked, and keep bags at your feet.

Sapo National Park is a biodiversity hot spot. It is regarded as having the highest diversity of mammal species in any region of the world.

Located in the southwestern of Liberia, Sapo has a wide range of species of fauna, flora and the largest population of Pygmy Hippopotamus. Hikers and trekkers may be lucky enough to spot one of these pygmy hippos. But, keep a safe distance.

Allot at least a full day’s travel to get from Monrovia to Sapo. Travel in a 4-wheel-drive vehicle that can handle tumultuous terrain.

Here are some essential items to consider for your trip to Liberia:

• Rain resistant clothing– Whether you’re touring the local markets or spending a night out in Monrovia, the clothing you bring to Liberia should be able to accommodate possible rain.
• Unlocked cell phone– SIM cards, which are relatively cheap, allow you to take advantage of the low cost of airtime. This costs much less than making calls from a hotel or resort.
• Water Purification Tablets– If you have plans on camping or visiting remote areas, the cleanliness of water may be compromised. Bring purification tablets and use bottled water to drink, and brush teeth.
• Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination – A vaccination book known as the ‘Yellow Vaccine Book’ will contain proof of this vaccination, which is good for up to 10 years. Proof of vaccination is required for entry.
• Sun protective clothing – The sun in Liberia tends to be pretty strong during the summer. Bring a hat and sunglasses to protect you from strong sun rays.
• Cash – Liberia is a cash-only country, and there are currently few ATM machines. Businesses and banks do not accept traveler’s checks, or credit cards as a form of payment.
• Scarf– During the summer in Liberia, it is possible to experience wind-borne sand and dust.

All Americans visiting Liberia should register online with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program. This will inform the office of your travel plans within the country and will allow them to reach you in case of emergency.

If you plan to buy a local SIM card you can also enter your phone number to receive text updates.

U.S. Embassy in Liberia
502 Benson Street
Monrovia
Telephone: (+231)77-677-7000
Fax: (+231) 77-677-7370
Email: ConsularMonrovia@state.gov

Visit the U.S. Embassy in Liberia website before leaving to confirm correct contact information.

The U.S. Department of State also operates a 24 hour Emergency Operations Center. The collect call number to reach the center while abroad is +1-888-407-4747 or +1-202-501-4444.

If you have any questions about traveling to Liberia or are wondering what shots you may need for your trip, schedule an appointment by calling or book online now.