Transportation

TRAFFIC SAFETY AND ROAD CONDITIONS: While in a foreign country, U.S. citizens may encounter road conditions that differ significantly from those in the United States. The information below concerning Liberia is provided for general reference only, and may not be accurate in a particular location or circumstance.

Driving in Liberia presents a danger to residents and visitors, as traffic laws are either nonexistent or not enforced. Traffic accidents are frequent and often result in injury or loss of life. Potholes and poor road surfaces are common, making safe driving extremely challenging. Cars, trucks, motorcycles, and taxis are often overloaded with people and goods, and vehicles make frequent stops without signaling. Drivers overtake on the right lanes as well as the left lanes. Many vehicles operate with threadbare tires, and blowouts are frequent. Public taxis are poorly maintained and usually overloaded. All drivers should approach intersections with extreme caution. Public street lights have been installed in some locations in Monrovia and there are a few traffic lights around city. However, drivers outside of Monrovia should remain vigilant as pedestrians, animals, and unrestricted speed limits are attributed to many fatal collisions.

Drivers and pedestrians are cautioned that high-speed car convoys carrying government officials require all other vehicles to pull off the road until they have passed.

Travelers should expect time-consuming detours around the many bridges and roads damaged by war, neglect, or the heavy annual rains occurring between May and November. Travelers can expect strict enforcement of border controls by Liberian, Ivorian, Sierra Leonean, and Guinean authorities. Corruption has been reported at many border locations and travelers may be asked for money prior to crossing the border. At times, border crossings to neighboring countries are closed.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information. Also, we suggest that you visit the website of Liberia’s national tourist office.

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: As there is no direct commercial air service to the United States by carriers registered in Liberia, the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has not assessed the government of Liberia’s Civil Aviation Authority for compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.