How to Get to Monrovia. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel Essentials

Airport Overview

Roberts International Airport (ROB) is Liberia's main international airport, is approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) southeast of Monrovia. Plan for travel time between the airport and the city.

Airport Services

Basic facilities: immigration, customs, duty-free shops, eateries.
Currency exchange available.
Car rental desks available.

Flight Routes

Several airlines connect Monrovia to other African and European hubs. Booking purchasing flights in advance is generally suggested for better rates.

Airline Connections

European connections via Brussels Airlines (Brussels).
African connections via Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, Royal Air Maroc, Air Côte d'Ivoire, ASKY Airlines.
Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner assist in finding deals.

Taxi Transfers

Most common and recommended. Official airport taxis outside the terminal. Fares to Monrovia $40-80.

Hotel Pick-Up

Some higher-end hotels arrange airport pick-up services. Inquire when booking.

Pre-arranged Cars

Arrange private car services in advance via your hotel or a tour operator for comfort.

Seasonal Flight Dynamics

Peak Travel

Peak travel often aligns with the dry season (December-February).
Major holidays can also impact prices and availability.
Expect higher demand and potentially higher prices during these times.
Booking flights well in advance is highly recommended.

Off-Peak Travel

The wet season (May-November) typically sees lower demand.
Potential for lower flight prices during these months.
Transition months like March and November can also offer better value.
Fewer crowds at the airport and on flights.

Customs & Immigration

Entry Procedures

Upon arrival, you will go through immigration control. Present your passport, visa, and health documents.

Departure Procedures

Arrive at ROB 2-3 hours before international flights. Have passport and boarding pass ready. Exit taxes are usually in ticket price.

General Considerations

Maintain polite communication with officials. Always keep all travel documents accessible.

Overland Travel

Border Crossings

Liberia shares land borders with Sierra Leone (west), Guinea (north), and Côte d'Ivoire (east). Entry or exit needs valid visas for each country.

Border Protocols

Ensure valid visas for all countries.
Roads near borders can be poor, causing slow travel.
Allow ample time for border formalities and travel.

Local Road Travel

Formal long-distance bus systems are limited. Shared taxis, minivans, or larger vehicles operate between major towns. These are often crowded and uncomfortable.

Road Conditions

Self-driving is generally not suggested for tourists due to poor roads and aggressive driving habits.
Traffic accidents happen often. Night driving is not recommended due to poor lighting and unlit vehicles.
Monrovia's main roads are paved, but many side streets are unpaved. Potholes are common.

Self-Driving Notes

If you choose to self-drive, an international driving permit is advisable, alongside a valid home country license.

Driving Realities

Many unpaved roads outside Monrovia.
Sparse signage.
Heavy traffic jams.

Alternative Transport

No passenger train services exist. Rail lines are mainly for cargo.

Local Options

Shared taxis and minivans for inter-town travel.
Check with locals about routes and schedules for collective vehicles.
Ask cab drivers or locals for guidance on transport options.

Safety on Roads

Frequent traffic accidents.
Night driving is unsafe due to poor lighting and unlit vehicles.
Pedestrians and animals on roads present hazards.

Poor road conditions, especially outside Monrovia.
Unpaved roads become muddy and difficult during the rainy season.
Local driving habits can be aggressive.

Sea & River Transportation

Sea Access

No regular international passenger ferry services operate to Monrovia. The Freeport of Monrovia functions as a commercial cargo port.

Cruise Information

Does not typically accommodate passenger cruises.
No formal tourist arrivals by boat.
Mainly a economic and cargo port.

River Options

Monrovia and its immediate surroundings present limited formal tourist options for travel on the river.

Local River Crossings

Local canoe or boat services may exist on the Mesurado River for short crossings.
These services are not regulated for tourism.
Inquire locally for informal options; use with caution.

Ferry Connections

No regular international passenger ferry services for tourist travel.

Cruise Arrivals

The Freeport of Monrovia does not typically accommodate passenger cruises.

Seaport Immigration

Procedures generally do not apply for tourist sea travel, which is uncommon.

Departure Information

Exit Formalities

Leaving the airport taxes are typically included in your airline ticket price. Confirm this with your airline to avoid surprises.

Departure Timing

Arrive at Roberts International Airport (ROB) at least 2-3 hours before international flights.
This accounts for potential queues, security checks, and check-in procedures.
Ensure all travel documents, passport, and boarding pass are ready.

Airport Departure Services

ROB offers basic facilities for departing travelers, ensuring a functional exit experience.

Available Amenities

Waiting areas for comfort before your flight.
Check-in counters for smooth processing.
Immigration and security for necessary checks.

Preparing for Departure

Document Check

Verify passport validity, visa status, and boarding pass details.

Luggage Limits

Confirm airline baggage allowances to avoid excess fees.

Last-Minute Needs

Limited dining and duty-free options for convenience.

Pre-Departure Checklist

Review your itinerary, confirm flight details, and ensure all necessary documents are accessible for a smooth departure from Monrovia.

How to Get to Monrovia