A: For a visitor, getting around in the city of Monrovia can be a hazard. Several options for getting to desired destinations are rental car, taxicab for hire or shared with others and bus service. To rent a car in Monrovia can cost between $20-30USD daily without AC, $75-100USD with AC; you are responsible for fueling the car and maybe keep the vehicle overnight if agreed upon with the owner. There is no insurance and the renter is responsible for all repair costs for the duration of the rental period.

Taxicab fees vary depending on the distance. From one downtown area to another can range between $5-10LD; downtown to Sinkor is $15-20LD; downtown to across the bridge is $20LD; downtown to Gardnersville is $25LD; downtown to Paynesville is $35LD and from downtown to Brewerville is $40LD - $30 from downtown to Duala and the another $10LD to destination in Brewerville.

Buses run between 6AM to 11PM daily leaving from specified locations in and around the city. Fares range from $20-30LD round trip. A gallon of regular unleaded gas averages about $190LD ($3.60USD). Most buses accommodate about 15 to 20 people.

Traveling outside the city limits can also vary with one’s destination and one’s mode of transportation, mainly taxi, jeep and bus. Leaving from ELWA junction and going to Firestone is about $40-60LD; from the same location to Kakata can be about $125-175LD and from ELWA junction to Gbarnga is normally $200-250LD.

Q: Do you need a Liberian license to drive or is a foreign license valid? If so, for how long is a foreign license valid?

A: Foreign licenses are valid in Liberia.

Q: What are the roads and traffic conditions around Monrovia; in the countryside?

A: Due to the congestion and lack of electricity in and around Monrovia, traffic conditions can be horrendous. There are police checkpoints in and around the city as well as along the roads leading into the interior. Baggage and the vehicles are searched for arms as well as concealed weapons and operator’s license. Violations are usually costly and due immediately; if not paid, vehicle could be impounded. During the rainy season, roads are almost impassable; the dry season brings along dust and sandstorms.