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About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel. I’ve been travelling the world for 33 years and, 209 countries and territories, and – seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is a Republic of the Congo Travel Guide from taste2travel.com
Date Visited: March 2024
Introduction
Tucked away in the heart of Central Africa, the Republic of the Congo is one of the continent’s best-kept secrets – a land of untamed wilderness, lush rainforests, and rich cultural heritage just waiting to be explored.
Art work in Brazzaville.
Often overshadowed by its larger neighbours, this is a country for adventurous spirits seeking a raw, authentic African experience far off the beaten tourist trail.
One of many contemporary paintings which are available for purchase from the Brazza-Art-Galerie in Brazzaville.
Unfortunately, people hear the word ‘Congo’ and automatically assume that it’s an unsafe, dangerous destination because ‘the Congo’ is often featured on the nightly news for all the wrong reasons.
However, there are two countries in Africa named “Congo” (as outlined below), the safe, peaceful and relaxed Republic of the Congo (which is the focus of this guide) and its neighbour, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) which is much more unstable, turbulent, unsafe, corrupt and the one everyone hears about for all the wrong reasons.
A Congolese artisan at a craft market in Brazzaville.
Visitors to the Republic of the Congo might be surprised to find that the country is very relaxed, safe and secure and that the locals are very friendly, welcoming and have a slight air of French sophistication, a legacy from the French colony period.
Brazzaville is home to many incredible African craft shops.
There is a thriving arts scene in Brazzaville which can be observed in the many craft markets and art galleries in Brazzaville.
The French influence is noticeable in the more affluent areas of Brazzaville where fine patisseries, cafés and bistros can be found.
Tintin in the Congo was the second volume of “The Adventures of Tintin”, the comics series by Belgian comic strip artist Hergé.
Further afield, National Parks offer the chance to see lowland Gorillas and a plethora of other African wildlife.
Exploring the National Parks however isn’t cheap with a typical daytrip from Brazzaville costing at least €400 per person.
Street art in Brazzaville.
I enjoyed my time in the Republic of the Congo, which was limited to a week-long stay in Brazzaville.
I look forward to returning one day to explore the country more fully.
Location
Brazzaville, Republic of the Congo
Straddling the Equator, the Republic of the Congo is located in Central Africa.
The Congo River separates Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo, from Kinshasa, the capital of the DRC, which can be seen in the distance.
It is bordered to the west by Gabon, to the northwest by Cameroon, to the northeast by the Central African Republic, to the southeast by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, to the south by the Angolan exclave of Cabinda, and to the southwest by the Atlantic Ocean.
Souvenir copper maps of the Republic of the Congo, showing all neighbouring countries.
The capital, and largest city, is Brazzaville (population: 2.2 million) which is located in the lush, green interior, on the banks of the mighty Congo River, across from Kinshasa, the much larger capital of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Did you know? With a length of 4,700 km (2,900 mi), the Congo River is the continent’s second longest river, after the Nile!
Located on the coast is the country’s 2nd largest city, and economic hub, Pointe-Noire (population: 1.4 million).
Why the two Congo’s?
The existence of two Congo’s is due to their distinct colonial histories.
The Congo, which always makes the nightly news cycle for all the wrong reasons, is the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), while the Republic of the Congo is much more peaceful, stable, relaxed, secure and a total joy to visit.
The capital of the Republic of the Congo is Brazzaville (population: 2.2 million), while the capital of the DRC is Kinshasa (population: 17.8 million). Both cities face each other across the Congo River.
Did you know? Kinshasa has the distinction of being the largest French-speaking city in the world!
The Republic of the Congo is often referred to as Congo-Brazzaville (after its capital) to avoid confusion with its much larger neighbour, the DRC or Congo-Kinshasa (after its capital).
The DRC has a population of 96 million, while Congo-Brazzaville has just 5 million.
With a surface area of 342,000 km², Congo-Brazzaville is around 7 times smaller than Congo-Kinshasa, which covers an area of 2,345,000 km².
Did you know? In terms of land area, the DRC is the 2nd largest country in Africa, after Algeria!
The Republic of the Congo was a French colony, while the Democratic Republic of the Congo was a Belgian colony, initially King Leopold II’s personal possession.
The Congo River formed a natural boundary between the two, with France controlling the territory to the west and Belgium to the east.
Throughout history, and even today, both countries have been exploited for their resources, although the DRC has always been known for its brutal exploitation, particularly of rubber and minerals.
French Congo
The French established the colony of French Congo in the late 19th century. It gained independence in 1960 and remains known as the Republic of the Congo.
Did you know? During WWII, when the Nazi’s occupied France, General Charles de Gaulle established a French government-in-exile which was headquartered in Brazzaville. He lived in Brazzaville from 1940 to 1943.
Belgian Congo
King Leopold II of Belgium controlled the territory that became the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), initially as a private possession, later becoming the Belgian Congo.
It gained independence in 1960, with its capital at Kinshasa, and was later known as Zaire under President Mobutu Sese Seko’s dictatorship.
Following the overthrow of Mobutu by Laurent-Désiré Kabila and his rebel forces, Zaire once again became the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on May 17, 1997.
History
During WWII, General Charles de Gaulle established a French government-in-exile which was headquartered in Brazzaville.
The Republic of the Congo has a rich and complex history shaped by indigenous kingdoms, European colonisation, and post-independence political shifts.
Pre-Colonial Era
Before European contact, the area now known as the Republic of the Congo was home to several Bantu-speaking ethnic groups and powerful kingdoms such as the Kingdom of Kongo – one of the most prominent, which also extended into parts of modern Angola and the DRC.
Other kingdoms included the Teke and Loango, which had their own systems of governance and trade networks.
These societies engaged in trade with each other and with European merchants (especially the Portuguese) along the Atlantic coast as early as the 15th century.
Colonial Period
The Fresque de l’Afrique (Fresco of Africa) represents the history of the Congolese people and their struggle for independence.
In the late 19th century, French explorer Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza established a French protectorate over the area, signing treaties with local rulers.
The city of Brazzaville, founded in 1880, became the capital and a key administrative centre.
By 1910, the region was incorporated into French Equatorial Africa, a federation of French colonial territories in Central Africa, comprising Gabon, French Congo, Ubangi-Shari (now Central African Republic), and Chad. Its capital was Brazzaville.
The French exploited the land and its people, especially through forced labor and harsh conditions in rubber and timber extraction industries.
Resistance movements and local dissatisfaction grew over time.
Free France Movement
After France’s fall to the Nazi’s in 1940, Brazzaville became a focal point for Free France.
It served as the capital of Free French Africa, providing General Charles de Gaulle with a political and military base.
The Free France movement in Brazzaville played a crucial role in rallying support for General Charles de Gaulle’s resistance movement.
Brazzaville, the capital of French Equatorial Africa, became a key hub for Free France, offering legitimacy, manpower, resources, and a base for military operations.
The city hosted the Brazzaville Conference in 1944, where representatives from French African colonies met to discuss the future of the French colonial empire, marking a significant step in shaping the relationship between France and its colonies.
Independence and Early Years (1960s)
The Republic of the Congo gained independence from France on August 15, 1960.
Fulbert Youlou became the first president, but was overthrown in 1963 amid political unrest.
The country soon moved toward a Marxist-Leninist system under leaders like Marien Ngouabi, who declared the People’s Republic of the Congo in 1969 — making it the first Marxist state in Africa.
Socialism and Political Instability (1970s–1990s)
A series of instability, including coups and assassinations, marked this period.
Marien Ngouabi was assassinated in 1977, and Denis Sassou Nguesso came to power in 1979.
The country aligned itself with the Soviet Union and other communist states during the Cold War.
By the late 1980s and early 1990s, pressures for reform and the global decline of communism led to the abandonment of Marxism and the introduction of multi-party politics.
Civil War and Recent History (1990s–Present)
After a brief period of democratic governance, civil war erupted in 1997 between forces loyal to then-President Pascal Lissouba and former President Denis Sassou Nguesso.
Sassou Nguesso returned to power after the war and has remained a dominant figure ever since, often winning elections amid accusations of electoral manipulation and suppression of dissent.
The country has remained relatively stable compared to some of its neighbours, especially DRC, but continues to struggle with economic inequality, corruption, and political repression despite being rich in natural resources like oil and timber.
People
Always friendly and welcoming, this Congolese shop owner managed to sell me an elephant carved from Malachite.
Home to 5 million souls, the people of the Republic of the Congo are as vibrant and diverse as the landscapes they call home.
Known for their warmth, resilience, and strong cultural identity, the Congolese make up a society that blends ancient traditions with modern influences, city energy with village rhythms, and over a hundred ethnic groups into a remarkably cohesive national spirit.
Street art in Brazzaville.
The Republic of the Congo is home to over 60 ethnic groups, but most belong to larger ethnolinguistic families:
Kongo (Bakongo): The largest ethnic group, especially around Brazzaville and the southwest
Teke: Historically influential, especially in the central regions
Mbochi (or Mboshi): Predominantly in the north; President Denis Sassou Nguesso is from this group
Sangha and other forest peoples in the north and northwest, including some semi-nomadic groups
Traditional pottery masks for sale at a craft market in Brazzaville.
As for languages, French is the official language, used in government, education, and the media, while two major national languages are widely spoken:
Lingala: spoken in Brazzaville and along the Congo River
Kituba (or Munukutuba): a simplified Kongo language, common in Pointe-Noire and the south
Most people speak two or three languages, their ethnic language, plus Lingala or Kituba, and often some French.
Brazzaville is a city with a thriving art scene (such as this street art) and a renown musical scene.
Brazzaville, in particular, is known for its stylish and musicalvibe – it’s even home to the “Sapeurs”, the flamboyantly dressed men who treat fashion as high art.
A souvenir wooden tray featuring the ‘Sapeurs’ of Brazzaville.
Brazzaville is also home to a thriving art scene with many fine art galleries located in the downtown area.
Paintings for sale at a craft market in Brazzaville.
In terms of religion, Christianity is the dominant faith, mostly Roman Catholic, followed by Protestant denominations.
Despite the introduction of Christianity by French missionaries, traditional African religions are still practiced, often blended with Christianity.
Flag
The flag of the Republic of the Congo features the Pan-African colours of green, yellow and red.
The flag of the Republic of the Congo was adopted on September 15, 1959, just before the country gained independence from France in 1960.
The flag is distinct in that it is one of the few national flags that use a diagonal design.
Like many other African flags, the Congolese flag uses the Pan-African colours.
The flag is a diagonal tricolour that consists of three colours:
Green in the upper hoist-side triangle (top left)
Yellow in a diagonal band running from the bottom hoist-side corner to the top fly-side corner
Red in the lower fly-side triangle (bottom right)
Symbolism of the colors:
Green symbolises the Congo’s agriculture and forests.
Yellow represents friendship and nobility.
Red stands for the struggle for independence and the people’s courage.
Pan-African Colours
The traditional flag of Ethiopia, the colours of which have been adopted by numerous African nations.
Green, yellow and red, the colours of the flag of Ethiopia, have come to represent the pan-Africanist ideology due to the country’s history of having avoided being taken over by a colonial power.
Numerous African countries have adopted the colours into their national flags, and they are similarly used as a symbol by many Pan-African organisations and the Rastafari movement.
Countries whose flags use the Pan-African colours include – Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Ghana, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Mali, Senegal, São Tomé and Príncipe and Togo.
Currency
The currency of the Republic of the Congo is the Central African CFA franc, abbreviated as XAF.
The currency of the Republic of the Congo is the Central African CFA franc, abbreviated as XAF or sometimes written as FCFA (from Franc de la Coopération Financière en Afrique Centrale).
Apart from the Republic of the Congo, this currency is used by five other countries in Central Africa, including – Equatorial Guinea (click to view my travel guide), Cameroon, Chad, Central African Republic and Gabon.
The CFA franc is pegged to the Euro, with a fixed exchange rate, providing stability in international transactions.
Currently, €1 = 655.96 CFA francs.
This peg has meant that travel costs in all countries in the CFA zone are much higher than costs on the non-CFA countries.
The currency of the Republic of the Congo is the Central African CFA franc, which is the official currency of six central African nations.
The currency is issued and regulated by the Bank of Central African States (BEAC), which is the central bank for the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC).
The bank is headquartered in Yaoundé, Cameroon, with the headquarters building featured on the front of all banknotes.
The CFA franc is denoted by the symbol “FCFA” or “XAF” and is available in both coins and banknotes.
Coins are available in denominations of 1, 2, 5, 10, 25, 50, 100, and 500 francs, while banknotes are issued in denominations of 500, 1,000, 2,000, 5,000, and 10,000 francs.
Almost a full set of (uncirculated) CFA franc banknotes – with the 2,000 missing!
Credit Cards
Like almost all other African countries, cash is king in Republic of the Congo with credit cards rarely accepted.
It is advisable to have some local currency on hand for all transactions, as well as Euros for larger purchases or in case of emergencies.
ATMs
ATMs are available in Brazzaville, where you can withdraw cash using international debit or credit cards at any Eco Bank ATM.
Costs
The coffee menu at (café) Paul Congo.
As with any other former-French colony using the XAF currency in Central Africa, travel costs in the Republic of the Congo are higher than in the non-XAF countries.
In cosmopolitan Brazzaville, there are options for all budget levels from backpacker to top-end!
Meal at Paul Congo: XAF 10,000 – 15,000 (US$17.20 – $25.90)
Meal at Capital Hôtel: XAF 8,000 – 10,000 (US$13.80 – $17.20)
Standard hotel room at the Capital Hôtel: €80 (US$90.68)
Half day city tour with guide (Satch): €60 (US$68.00)
Tour Guides
After a hot and sweaty city tour, I treated my guide Satch (pictured right) and driver to lunch at Paul in Brazzaville.
During my time in Brazzaville, I did a city tour with Satch Obambi Ndinga – a native of Brazzaville who spent many years studying in Ghana and hence, speaks good English.
I spent my time in Brazzaville which is a fascinating mix of French colonial charm, African culture and scenic riverfront views, including some impressive art galleries and artisan markets.
Brazzaville is a shopping paradise!
The capital, and largest city of the Republic of the Congo, Brazzaville is quieter and more relaxed than many African capitals.
It has a slow, confident rhythm, friendly people, and a warm, humid climate year-round.
Sleek, slender and beautifully carved, there is no shortage of traditional masks for sale in the craft markets in Brazzaville.
It’s also considered one of Africa’s safest capitals, which makes walking around and exploring more comfortable for travellers.
At no stage was I harassed, hassled nor did I ever feel unsafe.
The locals were very friendly and welcoming and carrying my camera bag on the street was never a problem.
One of many paintings which are offered for sale at the wonderful Brazza-Art-Galerie in Brazzaville.
It might not be as flashy as some capital cities, but Brazzaville is full of unique character and low-key gems, including an African version of the Statue of Liberty.
Following is a guide to some of the top sights and experiences in Brazzaville, the laid-back yet lively heart of the Republic of the Congo.
Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica
With its striking green tiled roof, Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica is one of the most iconic structures in Brazzaville.
An iconic symbol of Brazzaville, the striking Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica was built in 1943 by a Protestant French architect named Roger Erell.
Erell created the most striking of churches using a unique design blend of Gothic Architecture and local Congolese influences, making it stand out among colonial-era religious structures.
A view of the exterior of Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica, which blends European and African design elements.
The basilica was constructed with baked bricks and locally sourced materials, adding a regional authenticity to its construction.
At that time of its construction, Brazzaville was the official capital of Free France, the government-in-exile led by Charles de Gaulle that continued to fight against Hitler even after France had fallen.
The basilica was envisioned as a strong and visible symbol of the power of Free France and was intended to be the “sanctuary of remembrance of Free France”.
A grotto, next to Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica, is a popular spot for praying locals.
Charles De Gaulle was a keen supporter of the construction of Sainte-Anne’s church, and provided a substantial donation of 800,000 Francs.
A stained-glass window at Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica features a portrait of Charles de Gaulle.
Today, a stained-glass window in the church features a portrait of the former General, in recognition of his generous donation towards construction costs.
The church wasn’t consecrated until 1949, several years after the war had ended, and even then, its construction was incomplete.
In 2011, the spire of the bell tower was finally finished.
A view of the nave of Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica.
From a classical Latin cross point of view, the church is a building of vast proportions using a very sharp pointed arch inspired by the spearheads of northern Congo.
Evoking the emerald-coloured rainforest which surrounds Brazzaville, the roof of St Anne’s is covered with 240,000 green glazed tiles.
The 240,000 green glazed tiles which cover the roof, and the soaring spire, are symbolic of the equatorial rainforest which surrounds Brazzaville.
The entrance to Sainte-Anne of the Congo Basilica is through these striking copper doors, which were designed by sculptor Albert Gilles.
Entrance to the Basilica is through a large, extremely pointed, arched door.
This pointed arch is inspired by spearheads of the Zande culture of Southern Congo.
The main doors to the church feature two giant copper panels.
These copper doors, a notable part of the church’s architecture, were crafted by the sculptor Albert Gilles.
The doors were initially located at St. Joseph Church in Quebec City.
The interior of the basilica features pointy arches, inspired by Congolese spears.
The interior of the basilica features pointy, arches, inspired by Congolese spears, columns, and stained-glass windows – all of which create a solemn and inspiring atmosphere.
Nabemba Tower
Nabemba Tower is the tallest building in the Republic of the Congo.
The tallest building in the Republic of the Congo, this modern skyscraper is named after Mount Nabemba, the country’s highest peak (1,020 metres).
At 106 metres and 30 floors, Nabemba Tower is the tallest building in the Republic of the Congo.
It is named after Mount Nabemba, the highest mountain in the country which has an elevation of 1,020 metres (3,346 ft).
The tower was built with borrowed funds from the French oil company Elf Aquitaine and is also known as the Elf Tower.
The tower was designed by Jean Marie Legrand during the government’s five-year plan and was built between 1983 and 1986.
While it’s mostly used for government offices and not open to the public, it’s still a prominent part of the Brazzaville skyline and a popular photo stop for visiting tourists.
Despite it being considered by some as an architectural gem, local architect Norbert Mbila has said repeatedly that the tower is nothing more than a “symbolic building which was built purely for prestige and it is neither necessary nor useful for such a poor country”.
The annual running costs of the building are around €3.5 million which is an outrageous sum of money for such a poor country.
Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza Memorial
A statue of Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, the French explorer of Italian origin, who founded Brazzaville in October 1880.
In the heart of Congo’s capital stands a white-marble mausoleum which houses the remains of Pierre Savorgnan de Brazza, the French explorer of Italian origin, who founded Brazzaville in October 1880.
Installed in front of the mausoleum is a statue of the man himself.
With his family’s financial help, de Brazza explored the Ogooué region of Central Africa, and later, with the backing of the Société de Géographie de Paris, he explored the interior of the Congo, travelling along the right bank of the Congo River, where he founded Brazzaville.
Under French colonial rule, the capital of the Republic of the Congo was named Brazzaville after him and the name was retained by the post-colonial rulers.
Statue of Liberty Monument
An African version of the Statue of Liberty is installed outside Brazzaville Train Station.
Standing sentinel, outside Brazzaville Train Station (Gare de Brazzaville), is an African version of the Statue of Liberty.
The statue was inaugurated on December 28, 2009, by the President of the Congo and the Minister of Culture and the Arts.
At the time, the main square in front of Gare de Brazzaville was renamed “Place de la Liberté”.
The task of sculpting the statue was entrusted to the Mansudae Art Studio, the leading North Korean art studio which is located in Pyongyang and is featured in my North Korea Travel Guide.
Classically inspired by the American version, which was designed by the French Bartholdi and Eiffel, the woman holds the “inextinguishable” flame of Liberty in one hand and a “tablet of the Law” in the other.
This Africanised version is draped in a traditional Congolese loincloth.
Marché Plateau Craft Market
The Marché Plateau craft market in Brazzaville, features a treasure trove of locally carved masks and soap-stone sculptures.
The Marché Plateau craft market in Brazzaville is brimming with, locally-made, arts and crafts which make for fabulous souvenirs.
Available at the Marché Plateau craft market, metallic maps of the Republic of the Congo make for unique souvenirs.
A rabbit warren of tight laneways, you can find everything at the Marché Plateau craft market, from textiles and art to handicrafts, jewellery and much more.
The Marché Plateau craft market in Brazzaville is a shopper’s paradise.
The market is known for local handicrafts and can be a stimulating place to bargain for authentic Congolese items, especially carved Malachite items which is made from locally-sourced Malachite.
Sourced from local mines, Malachite stone carvings are plentiful at the Marché Plateau craft market in Brazzaville.
Galerie-Art-Brazza
A must visit sight in Brazzaville, Brazza-Art-Galerie is a private art gallery which was established by Sandra Plachesi, a native of France who has lived in Brazzaville for many years.
Brazzaville is a true paradise for artists and art lovers where the art scene is alive and thriving.
The gallery exhibits and eclectic collection of paintings and sculptures by emerging and established African artists.
There are several art galleries around the city which showcase works by local Congolese artists (from both Congo’s).
One such gallery is the Brazza-Art-Galerie.
The aim of the gallery is to promote the works of local Gongolese artists.
The gallery was founded by Sandra Plachesi, a native of France who has lived in Brazzaville for more than ten years and is a keen collector and promoter of local art.
The Brazza-Art-Galerie is known for its program of exhibiting radical local art.
The aim of the gallery is to promote the works of local artists with all works available for purchase.
The Brazza-Art-Galerie features several galleries where the works of contemporary Congolese artists are exhibited.
The gallery exhibits and eclectic collection of paintings and sculptures by emerging and established African artists.
Worldwide shipping is available on any large purchase.
The entrance to Brazza-Art-Galerie which is located in downtown Brazzaville.
Contact Details for Galerie-Art-Brazza
Address: 213 rue de la Musique Tambourinée –Brazzaville
Fresque de l’Afrique (Fresco of Africa) represents the history of the Congolese people, from the pre-colonial period to the introduction of socialism in the 1960s.
The “Fresque de l’Afrique” (Fresco of Africa), sometimes called The People Speak to the People, is a work made in 1970 on commission from the Congolese state during the presidency of Marien Ngouabi.
My guide, Satch, being strong, alongside the strong warrior, on the Fresque de l’Afrique in Brazzaville.
Composed of hundreds of hand-painted ceramic tiles, it represents the history of the Congolese people, from the pre-colonial period to the introduction of socialism in the 1960s.
The Fresco of Africa depicts the persecution of the Congolese people by European colonial powers, including enforced slavery.
The art piece was made by four Congolese artists, Michel Hengo, Émile Mokoko, André Ombala and Jean Itoua, supervised by the Italian artist Dégo.
The Fresco of Africa depicts the Congolese rising up to fight against the colonial powers in order to win their independence.
The fresco was originally signed “The people speak to the people”, before its creators were allowed to add their signatures in the 1980s.
Charles de Gaulle Memorial
A memorial to Charles de Gaulle, and the Free French movement, is installed in Place De Gaulle (De Gaulle Square).
As outlined in the Historysection above, Brazzaville served as the capital of the Free France movement from 1940 to 1943.
Unfortunately, the (mosaic) face of de Gaulle has been shot twice by bullets!
During this period, it served as the capital of Free French Africa, providing General Charles de Gaulle with a political and military base.
As head of the Free France movement, General Charles de Gaulle lived in Brazzaville from 1940 to 1943.
A memorial to Charles de Gaulle, and the Free French movement, is installed in Place De Gaulle (De Gaulle Square).
15th of August Bridge
Located on the Corniche, the “15th of August” bridge, is a suspension bridge that commemorates the country’s independence from France on August 15, 1960.
The 15th of August Bridge, officially named Pont du 15 Août 1960, is a suspension bridge that spans a ravine alongside the Congo River.
This majestic bridge commemorates the country’s independence from France on August 15, 1960.
The bridge is a key part of the Corniche, which provides a faster route east out of the city, bypassing the congested city centre.
Kilometre Zero
“Kilometre Zero” in Brazzaville is the symbolic point from which for all road distances within the country are measured.
Set in a shady park next to the 15th of August Bridge, “Kilometre Zero” is the symbolic point from which for all road distances within the country are measured.
The exact spot is marked by a large tiled compass with different countries and Congolese towns indicated at different compass points.
Les Rapides
A view of the rapids on the Congo River from Les Rapides bar and restaurant with, Kinshasa (DRC) in the background.
Close to where the Djoué River empties into the much larger Congo River, is Les Rapides, a series of impressive, raging rapids which would be rated off-the-scale in the world of white-water rafting!
Lining the banks of the Congo River are a few garden restaurants which offer a panoramic and dramatic view of the tossing, boiling, furious water.
As seen from the terrace of Les Rapides, young dare-devil kids swim in the turbulent waters of the raging Congo River.
The restaurants also offer a view of the dare-devil kids who love to swim in the less-turbulent waters closer to shore.
I invited my guide and driver to a refreshing drink at a popular restaurant and bar called Bar RestaurantLes Rapides.
A view of the Congo River (with DRC on the opposite shore) from Bar Restaurant Les Rapides.
The Congo River is most definitely Brazzaville’s best feature and makes the city what it is.
The gift shop at the Bar Restaurant Les Rapides.
There are many bars and restaurants which offer views of the Congo River.
Bantu Beach
Bantu Beach is a popular recreation spot for locals who wish to cool off in the calm, refreshing waters of the Djoué River.
Located at the point where the Djoué River flows into the Congo River, a sandy inland beach, Bantu Beach is a popular recreation spot for locals who wish to cool off in the calm, refreshing waters of the less powerful Djoué River.
Bantu Beach is located at the point where the Djoué River (seen above) flows into the mighty Congo River.
Visitors have a choice of relaxing under the shade of thatched cabana’s or sitting at chairs and tables which have been placed at the edge of the Djoué River, where one can immerse their feet in the cool river water.
Visitors can sit at chairs and tables which have been placed at the edge of the Djoué River, allowing one to immerse one’s feet in the cool river water.
Local boatman can be hired to row you to nearby islands where you can enjoy a close-up view of the rapids on the raging Congo River.
Djoué River Barrage
A view of the Djoué River Barrage from the Brazzaville Beach Hotel.
Located on the outskirts of town, 10 km south-west of downtown Brazzaville, the Brazzaville Beach Hotel offers pleasant rooms, a swimming pool and restaurant all of which overlooks the Djoué River and the nearby Djoué River barrage (dam).
The grounds of the Brazzaville Beach Hotel, which overlooks the Djoué River dam.
The hotel restaurant and pool are popular with local visitors on the weekend.
Pink Sandstone Quarry
A view of the pink sandstone quarry on the banks of the Congo River, where hard-working labourers use hammer and chisels to chip away the sandstone bedrock manually.
Located on the banks of the Congo River is a pink sandstone quarry where hard-working labourers use hammer and chisels to slowly break the sandstone bedrock into smaller fragments which are then used for the construction and landscaping industry.
Many of the labourers are illegal immigrants from neighbouring DRC and, understandably, did not want their photo taken.
My guide explained that many of the labourers are illegal immigrants from neighbouring DRC and, understandably, did not want their photo taken.
They are paid a minimal wage for a very hard days’ work with both young (children) and old working to break the large sandstone chunks into smaller pieces.
The pink sandstone is broken down into small pieces which are then used in the construction and landscaping industries.
Who is the buyer?
Located nearby is a Chinese-owned rock processing plant!
The pink sandstone quarry spans a huge area with hundreds of labourers working in small tenements.
Accommodation
Capital Hôtel
My comfortable and spacious room at the Capital Hôtel, which cost around €80 per night and included buffet breakfast, airport shuttle and free laundry service.
Located in the Plateau district of Brazzaville, the 5-star Capital Hôtel provides 15 spacious, clean rooms, a garden (but no pool), free private parking, a shared lounge, restaurant and a terrace.
My room at the Capital Hôtel including this small sitting room.
Rooms, which cost around €80, can be booked on booking.com
My bathroom at the Capital Hôtel in Brazzaville.
The friendly staff made me feel very welcome and went out of their way to ensure my stay was an enjoyable one.
The hotel includes free shuttle service to/ from the airport and even a free laundry service.
Amazing!
A delicious buffet breakfast is included in the cost of all rooms at the Capital Hôtel.
Also included in the room price is a wonderful buffet breakfast each morning, which is served in the hotel’s restaurant.
The menu, at the Capital Hôtel restaurant in Brazzaville.
The hotel restaurant is operated by young, friendly Lebanese chef with a menu which is heavy on Lebanese offerings.
The amazing beef shish kebabs which were prepared by the Lebanese chef at the Capital Hôtel.
I especially recommend any of the shish-kebab meals, such as the incredible beef shish-kebabs, with three giant-size kebabs, which were served with fries and a fiery piri-piri sauce.
The hotel is a short taxi ride from downtown with a taxi fare typically costing XAF 1,000.
Maya-Maya International Airport is just 3 km (1.9 mi) away!
The Capital Hôtel is a wonderful hotel and one I would highly recommend.
Eating Out
Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of the Congo, boasts a vibrant culinary scene that reflects its rich cultural tapestry.
From traditional Congolese fare to international cuisines, Brazzaville offers everything from sophisticated to traditional market food.
A popular dish is Moambe (Poulet Moambe), a dish made with chicken stewed in a thick, rich sauce of palm butter (moambe), spices, and sometimes peanut butter and normally served with rice or cassava.
Staple foods include:
Cassava (manioc): The cornerstone of many meals. It’s usually boiled, pounded into dough-like fufu, or dried and ground into flour to make chikwangue (fermented cassava wrapped in banana leaves).
Plantains: Fried, boiled, or grilled, they’re a common accompaniment.
Rice and maize: Also popular, especially in urban areas.
Restaurants
Paul Congo
The French patisserie chain – Paul – offers freshly baked French bread, the most divine, freshly made pastries and excellent barista-made coffee.
I’m a big fan of the French Patisserie chain – Paul – and I was happy to find a branch of this fine French culinary institution in Brazzaville, where it is known as Paul Congo!
Tip: For anyone visiting neighbouring Gabon, it’s worth noting that there are three branches of Paul in Libreville (I visited all of them), including one at the airport.
The dining room at Paul in Brazzaville, with its images of a very distant Paris, which is the dream destination for most Congolese.
In both Brazzaville and Libreville, Paul’s are operated as franchises by local Lebanese businessmen.
I believe the world would be a better place if every city had at least one Paul.
Lunch at Paul in Brazzaville, featuring a French classic – Croque Madame – with a freshly made ice tea.
I’m not ashamed to admit that I visited Paul in Brazzaville on a daily basis.
A cappuccino and a freshly made mille-feuille, the perfect afternoon tea at Paul in Brazzaville.
Paul is home to amazing, barista-made, coffee, the most divine selection of freshly made pastries, freshly baked, crusty baguettes and a menu offering excellent French cuisine.
Heaven!
Bar Restaurant Les Rapides
The shady garden at the Bar Restaurant Les Rapides, which is located 9 km south-west of downtown Brazzaville.
Located on the Congo River, 9 km (5.5 mi) south-west of downtown Brazzaville, is Les Rapides, a rocky section of the river which is full of raging rapids.
The menu at Bar Restaurant Les Rapides, which overlooks the rapids on the Congo River.
This is the setting for several riverside bars and restaurants where locals come to relax in shady gardens while viewing the many brave young boys who enjoy swimming in the rapids.
Visa Requirements
My Congolese visa which was issued at the Republic of the Congo embassy in Paris.
The Visa Policy of the Republic of Congo with grey countries needing a visa in advance.
Passport holders from the Central African Economic and Monetary Community (CEMAC) enjoy visa-free access to the Republic of Congo.
This includes passport holders from Gabon, Cameroon, the Central African Republic (CAR), Chad, the Republic of the Congo and Equatorial Guinea.
Almost all other nationalities are required to visit a Republic of the Congo embassy to obtain a visa.
The Republic of the Congo embassy in Paris, which is located a short walk from the Arc de Triomphe.
Online Visa Application (Paris Embassy Only)
Visa applications can be submitted online at the Republic of the Congo embassy in Paris; however, you are still required to physically attend the embassy to submit your passport (and wait the required number of days) before returning to collect your passport.
Even though the visa application form asks for your email address, at no time did I receive any emails from the system.
Luckily, I have the habit of taking screenshots as I work and these served as the only record I had of my application.
You should ensure you take screen shots of:
the completion page of your visa application (which will include an application number)
the payment receipt page
the passport submission appointment page
The application form is only available in French, although Google Chrome will offer English translation.
Online Visa Payment
Once you have completed the 7 pages of the form, you will be taken to a payment page where payment can be made using credit card.
The following visa fees apply at the Paris embassy:
15-day tourist visa (normal processing time – i.e. 7 business days): €55
15-day tourist visa (express processing time – i.e. 3 business days): €110
Embassy Appointment
Once you have completed your application and made payment, you will be taken to an appointment page where you select the day and time on which you wish to attend the embassy in Paris to deposit your passport.
Submitting your Passport at the Paris Embassy
When I arrived at the Paris embassy, no one was interested in seeing my appointment slip, they simply serve whoever comes through the door.
If you have submitted your application online, you simply need to handover your passport and a printout which shows your visa application number.
Collecting your Passport and Visa at the Paris Embassy
You then return after the required number of business days (they will advise you of the collection date) to collect your passport and visa.
Passports can only be collected after 2pm on the day of collection.
Republic of the Congo Paris Embassy Contact Details:
Address: 37 Bis Rue Paul Valéry, 75116 Paris, France
Maya-Maya Airport (IATA: BZV) is the international airport of Brazzaville, the capital of the Republic of Congo.
The airport is located 5.6 km (3.4 mi) from downtown Brazzaville.
The airport boasts three air bridges which were installed as part of a new, Chinese-built, terminal that opened in 2010, alongside a new 3,300-metre runway. In 2013, the Chinese expanded the airport further.
The following airlines operate scheduled services to/from Maya-Maya Airport:
Afrijet – flies to/ from Libreville
Air Côte d’Ivoire – flies to/ from Abidjan, Accra, Libreville, Kinshasa–N’djili
Air France – flies to/ from Paris–Charles de Gaulle
ASKY Airlines – flies to/ from Kinshasa–N’djili, Lomé
Camair-Co – flies to/ from Douala
Canadian Airways Congo – flies to/ from Impfondo, Ouesso, Pointe-Noire
Ethiopian Airlines – flies to/ from Addis Ababa
Kenya Airways – flies to/ from Luanda, Nairobi–Jomo Kenyatta
Mauritania Airlines – flies to/ from Bamako, Cotonou, Nouakchott
Royal Air Maroc – flies to/ from Casablanca
RwandAir – flies to/ from Cotonou, Kigali
TAAG Angola Airlines – flies to/ from Luanda
Trans Air Congo – flies to/ from Douala, Libreville, Pointe-Noire
Arrival in Brazzaville
Upon arrival at Maya-Maya International Airport, there are two checkpoints before you reach immigration.
The first is a health check point where you must show your Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate.
You must be vaccinated in order to be allowed to enter the country.
The second check point is a police check point which is directly in front of immigration.
The police will check your passport, proof of return flight, hotel booking and a Letter of Invitation (LOI)!
Myself, and most other foreigners which arrived on my flight, did not have an LOI.
We were made to sit in a corner and wait while an immigration official called our hotels to ensure we had confirmed reservations.
Once the hotel confirmed my reservation, I was then allowed to proceed to immigration where I was stamped into the country!
While the entry process took time, all officials were friendly and courteous and never asked for money.
Note: The LOI requirement is also enforced at Libreville airport.
If you arrive at Libreville without an LOI, immigration will contact your hotel to confirm your reservation before allowing you to enter Gabon.
Airport Transport
Maya-Maya International Airport is located 5.6 km (3.4 mi) from downtown Brazzaville.
If you’re energetic (or on a tight budget), you could walk from the airport to your hotel.
My hotel, the wonderful Capital Hôtel, was located just 3 km (1.9 mi) from the airport.
My hotel included a free shuttle service.
From the airport into downtown, a taxi will cost between XAF 1,000 – 2,000.
Land
The Republic of the Congo shares land borders with Cameroon, Central African Republic, DRC, Gabon and Angola (Cabinda exclave).
Many of these crossings are located in remote forested regions, and road conditions can vary widely.
Security can sometimes be a concern in border regions, especially near the Central African Republic.
Cameroon
The border between the Republic of the Congo and Cameroon is 523 km in length and includes two key crossings:
Sangmélima – Ouesso: A well-known northern crossing via road connecting Cameroon’s southern region to the Congolese town of Ouesso.
Ntam – Souanké: Another border post used for regional trade and travel.
Central African Republic (CAR)
The border between the Republic of the Congo and Central African Republic (CAR) is 487 km in length and includes two key crossings:
Mobaye – Dongou: Located in the northeast, this crossing allows travel and trade between CAR and northern Congo.
Bangui (via river) – Likouala region: The Ubangi River serves as a natural border, with boat crossings from Bangui into Likouala.
Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC)
The border between the Republic of the Congo and Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) is 1,229 km in length and includes three key crossings:
Brazzaville – Kinshasa: The most prominent and heavily used crossing via ferry over the Congo River – one of the busiest urban river crossings in Africa.
Louzala – Luozi: A lesser-known crossing further south along the river border.
Louziba – Tshela: In the Bas-Congo area (Kongo Central)
Gabon
The border between the Republic of the Congo and Gabon is 1,903 km (the longest) in length and includes three key crossings:
Lekoko – Mbinda: Important for rail and road transport; connects to the COMILOG railway.
Lékoko (border post) – Franceville route: Road access through the forests of southeastern Gabon.
Ndendé – Dolisie: One of the most active border crossings with road infrastructure.
Angola
The border between the Republic of the Congo and Angola (Cabinda exclave) is 201 km in length and includes two key crossings:
Massabi – Cabinda: A major legal crossing between the Republic of the Congo and Angola’s Cabinda enclave.
Yema – Cabinda: Another used but less formalized crossing.
Sea
One cruise ship company which calls at Point-Noire is Swan Hellenic on their Southwest Africa Cruise.
Very few cruise ships visit the Republic of the Congo, but one cruise ship company which calls at Pointe-Noire is Swan Hellenic on their Southwest Africa Cruise.
Getting Around
I did a city tour of Brazzaville with a guide and a taxi driver.
Public Transport
Public buses are the most affordable way to travel around Brazzaville.
They serve various routes within the city, though they can sometimes be crowded or unreliable.
The fares are low, making buses a popular choice for locals.
Taxi
All taxis in Brazzaville are the same uniform green colour which is representative of the lush green forest which surrounds the city.
Taxis in Pointe-Noire are all coloured blue which symbolises the blue Atlantic Ocean which the city is located on.
Taxis are common and can be hailed on the street or booked by phone.
They are an easy way to get around the city with most trips costing aroundXAF 1,000 – 1,500.
Fares must be negotiated in advance but, because there are few tourists, I found drivers were always honest and quoted the same price.
Rental Cars
You can rent a car with a driver though most hotels.
That’s the end of my travel guide for the Republic of the Congo.
If you wish to leave feedback/ comments, you can do so using the form below.
Safe Travels!
Darren
Further Reading
Following is a list of my travel content from the region:
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel. I’ve been travelling the world for 33 years and, 209 countries and territories, and – seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is a Liberia Travel Guide from taste2travel.com
Date Visited: March 2025
Introduction
I first attempted to visit Liberia in 1992 while on an 18-month, solo, backpacking trip from the top to the bottom of Africa.
Flashback 1992: Me, as a young, crazy kid, visiting the Akodessawa Fetish Market in Lome, Togo.
In those days I was a 24-years young, crazy, kid looking for adventure.
A taxi in downtown Monrovia.
On that trip, which was before internet, guidebooks, ATM’s, mobile phones, email etc, I spent 6 months meandering through all the countries of West Africa, using just a Michelin roadmap – North and West Africa (#741).
After 6 months, I had managed to slowly explore (as is my style) all the countries of West Africa, except for Liberia which was completely closed due to the First Liberian Civil War (1989–1996) which was raging at the time.
A corner store in West Point slum.
The war was being fought by Charles Taylor who led a Libyan-backed rebel group, the National Patriotic Front of Liberia, to overthrow the government of Samuel Doe.
Charles Taylor won the war and, following the execution of Samuel Doe, became Liberia’s 22nd President.
During his term in office, Taylor was accused of war crimes and crimes against humanity and, in May of 2012, was sentenced by the ICC (International Criminal Court) to 50 years in prison.
Locals in Monrovia, gambling on the popular boardgame – “African Delights’ Ludu Board Game” which features African cultural figures.
Back to 1992! Despite the war, I had a Liberian visa in my passport and I was keen to visit.
I had just left Sierra Leone, where a young Captain Valentine Strasser had recently become the world’s youngest head of state, seizing power in a coup, at the age of 25.
Freetown was a crazy place in the post-coup days so I thought I should also try to enter Liberia.
A view of Monrovia, and, in the distance, the crowded West Point, the largest slum in Liberia which is home to 90,000 people, as seen from the roof of the abandoned Ducor Hotel.
In an attempt to enter war-torn Liberia, I travelled through the remote jungle, on the Guinean side of the Guinea/ Liberia border, where I met Liberian refugees who had fled across the border and were being housed in UNHCR refugee camps.
Everyone I spoke to said it was far too dangerous to enter Liberia and that I would certainly die!
Artwork, at the Liberian National Museum in Monrovia.
I decided not to enter, and to keep heading east, where I eventually entered Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast).
Fast-forward to March 2025, and, after a delay of 33 years, I found myself finally boarding a flight in Brussels and heading to Monrovia.
The wait was over!
I thoroughly enjoyed my time in Liberia.
After many years of Civil War, a deadly Ebola virus outbreak and more, the Liberians are full of optimism for the future.
Liberia is a worthwhile travel destination but, at this stage, is best suited to more intrepid travellers.
Location
Monrovia, Liberia
Liberia is located in West Africa, positioned along the Atlantic Ocean’s coastline.
A souvenir wood carving shows the 15 counties of Liberia.
To the west, Liberia shares a border with Sierra Leone, while to the north, it is bordered by Guinea.
To the east, Liberia shares its boundary with Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast).
Liberia boasts 560 kilometres (350 miles) of Atlantic coastline with many fine, golden-sand beaches.
The country’s coastline stretches for about 560 kilometres (350 miles), offering picturesque beaches and natural harbours along the Atlantic.
Liberia is divided into 15 counties – Bomi, Bong, Gbarpolu, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Lofa, Margibi, Montserrado, Nimba, Ngn, River Cess, River Gee, Sinoe, and Maryland.
Geographically, Liberia’s landscape is diverse, featuring coastal plains, mountainous regions, tropical rainforests, and savannahs.
The Guinea Highlands form the country’s northeastern border, while the Liberian Coastal Plain runs along the coastline. The country is also crisscrossed by numerous rivers, including the Lofa River, Cavalla River, and St. Paul River, which are crucial to its ecology and economy.
The mix of coastal and inland terrain gives Liberia a rich variety of ecosystems, from dense forests and wildlife reserves to open savannah areas, making it a unique and scenic destination in West Africa.
People
The Liberians are generally friendly, warm and welcoming.
The people of Liberia are known for their warmth, resilience, and rich cultural heritage, reflecting the diverse history and traditions of the country.
As with other African countries, visitors need to be wary of their security, since most Liberians live in poverty and tourists are seen as easy targets. However, I never experienced any issues and found the people to be welcoming and friendly.
A proud fisherman in West Point, the largest slum in Liberia.
The country has always been home to a diverse range of ethnic groups which include the Kru, Bassa, Gio, Mano, Lorma, and Mende peoples, among others. These were the original occupants of the land.
I was normally greeted by warm smiles in Liberia, including from this girl in the West Point neighbourhood of Monrovia.
Introduced somewhat later into the mix, the Americo-Liberians is one of Liberia’s most distinctive cultural groups. These are descendants of freed African-Americans and formerly enslaved people from the U.S. who migrated to Liberia in the 19th century.
This group played a key role in the founding of Liberia and has influenced the country’s history, politics, and cultural identity.
Americo-Liberians traditionally follow Christian faith and have contributed to Liberia’s political and social development.
A sculpture at the Liberian National Museum which depicts Liberians helping each other to rise up.
In addition to English, various indigenous languages are spoken, with the most common being Kru, Bassa, Gio, and Lorma.
In terms of religion, Liberia is predominantly a Christian country, with many people adhering to various Christian denominations, especially Protestantism.
However, there is also a significant Muslim minority, particularly among ethnic groups along the northern border, and traditional African religions are still practiced by some communities.
History
Bronze relief plates at the Joseph J. Roberts Monument depict the life of Liberia’s first president.
Liberia has a unique and complex history.
It is one of the few African countries not colonised by a European power (along with Ethiopia), though its creation was closely linked to the transatlantic slave trade and the abolitionist movement.
Pre-Colonial and Indigenous Peoples
Before European contact, the area that is now Liberia was inhabited by several indigenous groups, including the Kpelle, Bassa, Grebo, and Mende.
These groups had their own rich cultures, systems of governance, and trade networks.
The land was known for its fertile soil and natural resources, which attracted external interest.
European Exploration and the Slave Trade (15th–18th Centuries)
European interest in Liberia began in the 15th century, with Portuguese explorers being among the first to arrive.
The region became an important part of the transatlantic slave trade.
Many enslaved Africans were transported to the Americas, but some were also brought back to Africa by European traders, including the British and Americans.
By the 18th century, the area was becoming a hub for the establishment of colonies for freed slaves, particularly by the United States.
Founding of Liberia (1820s)
The origins of modern Liberia can be traced to the American Colonisation Society (ACS), which was founded in 1816.
The aim of the society was to encourage and support the repatriation of freeborn people of colour and emancipated slaves to the continent of Africa.
However, the African-American community and the abolitionist movement overwhelmingly opposed the project.
Controversially, the ACS was founded to address the prevailing view that free people of colour could not integrate into U.S. society; their population had grown steadily following the American Revolutionary War, from 60,000 in 1790 to 300,000 by 1830.
Slave owners also feared that these free Black people might help their slaves to escape or rebel.
In addition, many White Americans believed that African Americans were inherently inferior and should be relocated to Africa.
In most cases, African American families had lived in the United States for generations, and their prevailing sentiment was that they were no more African than white Americans were British.
Contrary to claims that their emigration was voluntary, many African Americans, both free and enslaved, were pressured into emigrating.
In 1821, the ACS began sending free African Americans and formerly enslaved people to what is now Liberia, establishing the colony of Liberia in 1822.
Surrounded by the Mesurado River, in downtown Monrovia, Providence Island was the site of the first successful settlement of American freed slaves.
The settlers initially settled on tiny Providence Island which is located in downtown Monrovia.
The settlement was named Liberia, derived from the Latin word for “freedom,” in recognition of the freedom the settlers sought.
These settlers, who called themselves Americo-Liberians, established a society that closely resembled the United States, including its form of government and legal system.
A highly unsuccessful project, between 1821 and 1847, only a few thousand African Americans, out of millions, emigrated to what would become Liberia, while the increase in Black population in the U.S. during those same years was about 500,000.
Liberia’s Independence (1847)
Liberia declared its independence on July 26, 1847, becoming the first republic in Africa.
The Americo-Liberians established a government modeled on the U.S. Constitution, with a president, legislature, and judicial system.
Joseph Jenkins Roberts, an Americo-Liberian, became Liberia’s first president.
The Americo-Liberian Era (1847–1980)
For much of Liberia’s early history, power was controlled by the Americo-Liberian elite, who often treated indigenous groups as second-class citizens.
The indigenous people faced discrimination and exclusion from political power, which led to tensions and resentment.
During this period, Liberia maintained strong ties with the United States, which supported its development and provided military protection.
Liberia also served as a symbol of the ideals of freedom and independence in the context of African history.
The 1980 Coup
Artwork, at the Liberian National Museum in Monrovia, illustrates the struggle for unity in Liberia.
In 1980, dissatisfaction among the indigenous population, coupled with economic inequalities, led to a military coup.
Samuel K. Doe, an ethnic Krahn, led a group of soldiers in overthrowing the Americo-Liberian government, marking the end of nearly 133 years of rule by the Americo-Liberians.
Doe established a new military government, but his rule was marked by corruption, repression, and human rights abuses, particularly against his political opponents.
Liberian Civil War (1989–1997)
Photos from the Liberian Civil War, on display at the Liberian National Museum.
In 1989, Liberia plunged into a brutal civil war, sparked by Charles Taylor’s insurgency against President Doe.
The conflict was complicated by ethnic tensions, political factions, and the involvement of neighboring countries.
The war resulted in widespread devastation, with over 200,000 people killed and millions displaced.
The war saw several factions, including Taylor’s National Patriotic Front of Liberia (NPFL), as well as other warlords, vying for power.
The international community, including the United Nations and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), intervened with peacekeeping forces, but it wasn’t until 1997 that Taylor emerged victorious in the country’s first post-war elections, becoming president.
Second Civil War and the Fall of Charles Taylor (1999–2003)
A bulletproof Mercedes, which was a gift from Colonel Gaddafi to Charles Taylor, at the Liberian National Museum.
Although Taylor was elected president in 1997, his rule was marred by corruption, human rights abuses, and continued conflicts with rebel factions.
This led to a second civil war in 1999, which was even more brutal than the first. The war involved numerous rebel groups and saw widespread atrocities, including massacres and the use of child soldiers.
In 2003, as Taylor’s regime collapsed, international pressure and a peace agreement led to his departure.
Taylor was later tried for war crimes by the Special Court for Sierra Leone.
On 20 June 2006, the Special Court for Sierra Leone transferred Charles Taylor to the detention centre of the International Criminal Court (ICC) in The Hague for the purpose of using the facilities of the ICC during his trial.
In May 2012, Charles Taylor was sentenced to 50 years in prison. He was 64 years of age at the time of sentencing.
Post-War Reconstruction
Former president, Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, looms large at the centre of this painting at the Liberian National Museum in Monrovia.
After the war, Liberia faced the immense task of rebuilding its infrastructure, economy, and social fabric.
In 2005, Liberia elected Ellen Johnson Sirleaf as president, making her the first female head of state in Africa.
The desk, which was used by President Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, on display at the Liberian National Museum.
Her presidency focused on rebuilding the country, strengthening democratic institutions, and securing international aid.
Under her leadership, Liberia experienced a period of relative stability and economic growth, though challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and corruption remained.
Ebola Virus (2014)
Photos, from the 2014 Ebola virus outbreak, on display at the Liberian National Museum.
In 2014, Liberia experienced a devastating Ebola outbreak that originated in Guinea and quickly spread, leading to a surge in cases and deaths, particularly in the capital Monrovia, and ultimately resulting in a global health emergency.
The outbreak commenced in March 2014 with the entire West Point slum (home to 90,000 people) in Monrovia being locked down.
Liberia was finally declared free of Ebola virus transmission by the WHO on May 9, 2015.
In the end, the country reported 10,672 cases of Ebola and 4,808 deaths.
Recent Developments
In 2018, George Weah, a former soccer star, was elected president in a democratic transition.
While his administration focused on economic reforms and tackling corruption, Liberia continued to face significant challenges, including high unemployment, infrastructure deficits, and poverty.
On January 22, 2024, Joseph Boakai was sworn in as the twenty-sixth and current president of Liberia.
Taking up office at 79, he was the oldest president of the country.
Flag
Posing, with the flag of Liberia, at the Liberian embassy in Paris.
Very much part of the stars and stripes flag family, the flag of Liberia bears a close resemblance to the flag of the United States, representing Liberia’s founding by former black slaves from the US.
The flag was adopted on July 26, 1847, the same day Liberia declared its independence.
The design of the flag of Liberia is heavily influenced by the flag of the United States.
The flag consists of 11 horizontal red and white stripes, representing the 11 signatories of the Liberian Declaration of Independence.
The stripes symbolise the country’s fight for independence and the unity of its people.
The whiteStar in the top left-corner represents Liberia as the “Land of Freedom” and symbolises the freedom and liberty that the country gained after declaring its independence.
Currency
The currency of Liberia is the Liberian dollar which trades under the international currency code of LRD.
Liberian Dollar
Issued by the Central Bank of Liberia, the Liberian Dollar, which trades under the international currency code of LRD, is the official currency of Liberia.
A rather sad currency display at the Liberian National Museum.
The first Liberian dollar was issued in 1847 and was pegged to the US dollar at par and circulated alongside the US dollar until 1907, when Liberia adopted the British West African pound, which was pegged to sterling.
The Liberian dollar was re-instated in 1943.
The LRD $20 banknote features a portrait of Liberia’s 18th President, William V.S. Tubman.
A bonus for foreign visitors is that the United States Dollar (USD$) is also legal tender in Liberia and is used widely alongside the Liberian Dollar currency.
This allows visitors to arrive with a mix of USD banknotes and not have to worry about withdrawing money from an airport ATM or exchanging money on arrival. You simply pay for everything with your USD.
ATMs in Monrovia (when working) dispense either USD$ or LRD$, although USD$ notes are always old and in very shabby condition.
I purchased these two wads of uncirculated LRD $20 banknotes from a currency trader in Monrovia.
The Liberian currency comprises banknotes and coins with LRD banknotes issued in the denomination of $5.00, $10.00, $20.00, $50.00 and $100.00 while coins are issued in the denomination of $0.05, $0.10, $0.25, $0.50 and $1.00.
A small selection of my uncirculated Liberian dollar banknotes, in numerical order.
The obverse (face) side of all banknotes feature former Liberian presidents, with the LRD $20 banknote featuring President Tubman, the 19th president of Liberia and the country’s longest-serving president.
I purchased two wads of uncirculated LRD $20 banknotes (worth USD$20 in total) from a currency trader on Ashmun Street, the main street of Monrovia.
If you wish to purchase uncirculated banknotes, you can do so from the money changers on Ashmun Street.
US Dollar
Very shabby USD banknotes which were issued by an ATM in Monrovia.
While the US dollar circulates widely alongside the Liberian dollar, the condition of USD banknotes, like the Liberian banknotes, is always bad.
The very sad looking notes pictured above were issued to me by an ATM in Monrovia.
Change in Liberia, such as these notes which I received as change in a cafe, is often given as a mixture of US and Liberian dollars.
Dirty, dusty, smelly, shabby, creased, torn, completely soiled – most banknotes in circulation in Liberia (both USD and LRD) are in terrible condition.
For this reason, it’s important to spend any poor-quality USD banknotes before leaving Liberia as money changers in other countries would definitely refuse to accept such notes.
Currency Exchange
Like most other African countries, cash is king in Liberia with credit cards rarely accepted.
If you are staying at The Cape Hotel, or other upmarket hotels, you can settle your bill using a credit card (Mastercard and Visa).
When carrying foreign currency into Liberia, it’s important that you only bring USD for exchange since money changers only accept USD – they will not accept Euros!
During my visit, in March 2025, the exchange rate was:
USD$100 = LRD$ 19,962
Click to check the current USD$/ LRD$ exchange rate.
Costs
Menu prices at Angel’s Lounge Bar and Grill in Monrovia.
For the most part, travel costs in Liberia are totally reasonable.
The biggest expenses are accommodation and flights to this remote country, which has just a few airlines flying monopoly routes and charging monopoly prices.
Sample costs:
Breakfast at Angels Lounge: US$4-5.00
Meal, inexpensive Restaurant: US$7.50
Meal, expensive Restaurant: US$15.00
Cappuccino at Angels Lounge: US$2.00
Club beer: US$1.50
Coke/Pepsi (0.33 litre bottle): US$2.00
Bottle of water(0.33 litre bottle): US$2.00
Return flight (economy class) from Brussels with Brussels Airlines: €1,000 – 1,600
A Standard room at The Cape Hotel in downtown Monrovia: US$170
Four Hunger
Four Hunger, a grass-roots charity is helping to make a huge difference to the lives of the residents of West Point, Monrovia – which has the unfortunate distinction of being the largest slum in Liberia with a population of 90,000!
A non-profit, the mission of Four Hunger is “To provide lifesaving food and water around the world” and what better place to start than West Point – a bustling community which sadly lacks so much.
As an example, there are reportedly just 4 public toilets for the 90,000 residents which forces most to defecate on the nearby beach. There are paid-for toilets that many people cannot afford.
Needless to say, you should never swim in any of the beaches in Monrovia.
Apart from toilets, there is also no reliable fresh water supply for the 90,000 residents.
To provide some relief, Four Hunger, working in co-operation with the local council, initiated a project to build 28 freshwater pumps throughout the sprawling slum.
The funding for these pumps has come from generous foreign donors, many being tourists who have learned about the project on a visit to Monrovia.
Donations
If you wish to get involved in a great initiate and donate money you can do so through the donation page of their website:
A donation to Four Hunger is 100% directly invested into each water pump.
Unlike larger aid organisations, there is no frivolous/ wasteful spending of donations on ‘administration’ costs, vehicles, offices etc.
Windell King, the co-founder of “Four Hunger”, is passionate about helping the poor of Liberia.
During my time in Monrovia, I spent time with Windell King who is the co-founder of Four Hunger.
Windell, who is knowledable, enthusiastic and very generous with his time also provided me with city tours of Monrovia. I have included his contact details in the ‘Tour Guide‘ section below and highly recommend him as a guide/ fixer for anyone visiting Monrovia.
At the time of my visit, Windell had just inaugurated freshwater pump #26 of 28.
He took me to see the freshwater pump, which was largely funded by the enthusiastic Danish traveller Erik Futtrup (https://www.instagram.com/erikfuttrup) and his family.
Erik decided to invest in the project after meeting Windell, and seeing the work of Four Hunger, during a trip to Monrovia.
West Point Visit
A panoramic view of West Point, the largest slum in Liberia, with a population of 90,000 residents, which was devastated by the Ebola virus outbreak of 2014.
Overview
My visit to West Point with Windell King was the highlight of my trip to Liberia.
It provided a fascinating insight into the life of the poor, who were incredibly welcoming and curious about the foreigner in their midst, that I would not normally have the opportunity to experience.
Beautiful smiles in West Point, Monrovia.
West Point was hit particularly hard by the Ebola virus outbreak in 2014 with the whole neighbourhood being quarantined and locked-down.
No official statistics showing the exact number of Ebola cases or deaths specifically in West Point are available.
Needless to say, the locals appreciate the work that Four Hunger, and Windell, who is very hands-on and spends most days in West Point checking on progress, are doing for the community.
We were certainly well received!
Getting To West Point
Lots of smiles from the friendly kids in West Point.
Sprawling West Point sits on a low-lying sandy peninsula with the beach at the front side and the Mesurado River behind.
One main road traverses this tightly-packed community. The road is bustling with market stalls selling fruits, vegetables, fish and anything else required by the local residents who have little to spend.
The playful kids of West Point.
We travelled along the main road in a tricycle which was an amazing experience.
Video: Riding, with Windell, in a tricycle, along the bustling main street of West Point, Monrovia.
Video: Riding, with Windell, in a tricycle, along the bustling main street of West Point, Monrovia.
Visting the Commissioner
Windell King, and the Commissioner of West Point, the Hon. Mcphearson Daweh.
The first part of our visit to West Point included a stop at the office of the Commissioner of West Point, the Hon. Mcphearson Daweh, who is the highest authority in West Point.
The Commissioner discussed the project and expressed his gratitude for Four Hunger’s freshwater pump project, which has been life transforming for the residents of West Point.
Walking through West Point
A corner store in West Point.
After leaving the Commissioner’s office, we proceeded through a rabbit-warren of narrow, sandy, laneways to the newly installed, freshwater pump #28.
Windell King, leading me through one of the narrow laneways in West Point.
The locals of West Point were very friendly and welcoming and our arrival did cause a little commotion.
Video: Walking with Windell King through the tight laneways of West Point.
The Project
With Windell King at freshwater pump #28, which was sponsored in large part by Danish traveller Erik Futtrup and family.
We eventually reached freshwater pump #28 where more curious residents gathered.
The residents of West Point, which thanks to Windell and his team, now have access to fresh drinking water.
They too expressed their appreciation for the fact that they now have access to fresh water on their doorstep.
The residents of West Point gather around as we visit freshwater pump #26.
Life changing stuff!
Life in West Point just got a little easier thanks to the installation of the new freshwater pump.
I conducted an interview with Windell at the pump, which is included below.
Video: An interview which I conducted with Windell King at Water Pump #26 in West point.
This is a well worthwhile project which is nearing its completion.
Never one to be lazy, Windell has advised that Four Hunger has identified a new project which will be to deliver freshwater pumps to the residents of Todee village which is located outside of Monrovia.
The residents of Toddee currently use dirty creek water for drinking, cooking etc.
Getting Involved
If you would like to get involved in a great direct-aid project, you can contact Four Hunger using the details below.
Exploring the sights of Monrovia with the wonderful Windell King.
I would highly recommend the amazing Windell King as a tour guide for your visit to Liberia.
Apart from being the co-founder of the incredible Four Hunger charity (as featured in the previous section), Windell is a font of knowledge when it comes to the sights of Monrovia and beyond.
I spent several days in the company of Windell, who showed me the sights of Monrovia and took me to see the latest water pump (#26) which had been installed by Four Hunger in the West Point slum. This was the highlight of my trip to Liberia!
Video: Walking with Windell King in downtown Monrovia!
Windell King Contact Details:
If you have any inquiries regarding tours, or the work of Four Hunger, you can contact Windell King at:
Home to a third of the country’s population, Monrovia is the capital and largest city of Liberia.
Monrovia is the capital and largest city of Liberia.
The city was founded in 1822 by the American Colonization Society (ACS) as a settlement for freed American slaves.
The city is named after U.S. President James Monroe (served two terms from March 4, 1817 – March 3, 1825), reflecting Liberia’s historical ties to the United States, as the country was founded by freed American slaves in the 19th century.
Today, it serves as the political, cultural, and economic centre of the country.
The city has a population of 1,761,032 representing a third of Liberia’s total population.
The main thoroughfare of Monrovia is Ashmun Street, which is where you’ll find shops, banks, churches and the Liberian National Museum.
Ashmun Street is named after Jehudi Ashmun (April 21, 1794 – August 25, 1828), an American religious leader and social reformer from New England who helped lead efforts by the American Colonization Society to “repatriate” African Americans to Liberia.
Ducor Hotel
Once, one of the finest five-star hotels in Africa, the former Ducor Intercontinental Hotel is an abandoned luxury hotel which overlooks Monrovia.
Many years ago, long before the Liberian Civil War bought considerable death, damage, destruction and chaos to Liberia, Monrovia boasted one of the finest 5-star hotels in all of Africa.
The Ducor Intercontinental Hotel, originally named Ducor Palace Hotel, was Liberia’s first international-class hotel, built in 1960 by an Israeli industrialist, and later managed by InterContinental Hotels.
The hotel was built on top of Ducor Hill, the highest point in downtown Monrovia, and offered sweeping views in every direction.
Boasting 106 deluxe rooms on eight levels, a large swimming pool, tennis courts, and a French restaurant, the hotel was popular with tourists from the Côte d’Ivoire and Ghana, as well as visiting professionals from the US, Europe, and Asia.
The abandoned swimming pool at the Ducor Hotel, where Idi Amin is said to have swum while carrying his gun.
The hotel was a popular venue for meetings between African leaders and, on one occasion, it is said that Idi Amin, the former Ugandan dictator, an someone who is considered to be one of the most brutal despots in modern history, once went swimming in the pool while carrying his gun.
The hotel closed its door in 1989, just before the First Liberian Civil War, and suffered significant damage during the conflict.
The building endured much damage during the war, due both to the violence of the war and to looting.
During this time, displaced residents of many of Monrovia’s slums began to occupy the hotel’s empty rooms.
It has been abandoned since the hotel closed its door although there are rumours that it could be renovated and reopened again.
During my visit, a security guard showed me where engineers had taken concrete samples which were then tested to determine if the current concrete structure could be utilised in a new development.
Access: The hotel complex is fully locked and guarded by a couple of security guards who are happy to provide access and a, tightly controlled, wander around the premises in exchange for a tip.
Photography is strictly forbidden and the guards will keep an eye on you to ensure compliance!
Joseph J. Roberts Monument
Located on Ducor Hill, the Joseph J. Roberts Monument is dedicated to the first president of Liberia.
Located on Ducor Hill, next to the abandoned Ducor Palace Hotel, the Joseph J. Roberts Monument is dedicated to the first president of Liberia, who served from 1848 to 1856, and again from 1872 to 1876.
Joseph Jenkins Roberts was born in Norfolk in 1809 and later moved to Petersburg, Virginia, where his family ran a river transport business.
In 1829, Roberts and his family emigrated to the colony of Liberia, serving in various positions before becoming the first president.
Bronze relief plates at the Joseph J. Roberts Monument depict the life of Liberia’s first president.
The monument consists of a bronze statue of Joseph J. Roberts standing above a relief plate which tells the story of Joseph Roberts’ life.
The monument was officially unveiled in 1950, during a period when Liberia was highlighting its history and legacy as Africa’s first independent republic.
The bronze statue of J.J. Roberts was sculpted by Italian artists, as Liberia sought international craftsmanship to commemorate its most important national figure.
A family of ‘caretakers’ look after the enclosure, to which the entrance gate is normally kept closed.
The family will provide entrance in exchange for a small tip.
While you visit the site, the family will perform some cursory sweeping in order to justify any tip given.
Fort Norris Cannons
Cannons, from the former Dutch-built Fort Norris, are installed in front of the Joseph J. Roberts Monument.
Fort Norris, also located on Ducor Hill, was built by the Dutch before 1822, later taken over by the US Navy, and renamed Coastal Battery Fort Norris.
The cannons from the fort are installed in front of the Joseph J. Roberts Monument.
Liberian National Museum
Housed in the former First Executive Mansion on Ashmun Street, Monrovia, the National Museum of Liberia is the only museum in Liberia.
The National Museum of Liberia is the national museum which is located on Ashmun Street, Monrovia.
A view of the ground floor of the Liberian National Museum, the only museum in Liberia.
The museum was established in 1958 under the administration of Liberia’s 18th President, Dr William V.S. Tubman.
Moved several times, the current museum has been housed since 1987 in the former Supreme Court building.
On display at the Liberian National Museum is this 250-year-old dining table which was given as a gift from Queen Victoria to Liberia’s first President, Joseph Jenkins Roberts.
The museum occupies three floors with the ground floor devoted to the history of Liberia.
This fertility statue is a highlight of the Ethnographical Gallery at the Liberian National Museum.
On the next floor is the Ethnographical Gallery and on the top floor the contemporary arts gallery which illustrates Liberian artistic works many of which are product of a contract between the museum and art institutions and art colleges throughout the country where artists are commissioned to produce for the museum purposes.
One of many traditional masks which are displayed at the Liberian National Museum in Monrovia.
The museum was hugely affected by the 14-year-long Civil War when approximately 5,000 artifacts were looted.
Now, just 100 larger artifacts remain.
The limousine of President Tubman, the 19th president of Liberia and the longest-serving president in the country’s history, at the Liberian National Museum.
On the museum grounds, visitors are able to see several presidential limousines used by presidents Tubman and Doe and the famed bulletproof Mercedes, which was a gift from Colonel Gaddafi to Charles Taylor (pictured above in the ‘History‘ section).
United Methodist Church
The United Methodist Church was founded in 1822 by freed slaves.
Closed during my visit, the United Methodist Church, on Ashmun Street, was founded in 1822 with the arrival of black immigrants from the United States.
Among its early members was Joseph Jenkins Roberts, who served as the first president of Liberia.
The United Methodist Church in Liberia is a member of the United Methodist Church, one of the world’s largest denominations.
It is part of the Wesleyan Tradition, a methodical faith and practice started by John Wesley, whose father was a priest in the Anglican Church in England.
Accommodation
Monrovia
The Cape Hotel
While not cheap, the popular Cape Hotel offers a safe, secure environment with very good rooms, a decent restaurant, swimming pool and gym.
During my stay in Monrovia, I chose to stay at the excellent The Cape Hotel which is a very secure, 5-star hotel, located at Mamba Point.
Surrounded by security walls and well-guarded, the hotel is located across the road from the beach and around the corner from the very large United States Embassy.
The wonderful swimming pool at The Cape Hotel was never busy.
Security is paramount in a country like Liberia and The Cape Hotel is certainly very secure.
The hotel is set inside its own compound which has security guards posted at both the entry and exit gates.
Security guards are also posted on the main doors of both the hotel building and the restaurant building.
This abundance of security allows guests to truly relax while at the hotel.
My room at The Cape Hotel, a standard single room.
As per the Accommodationpage of the hotel’s website, the hotel offers rooms, apartments and suites, which range from US$170 up to US$600 for the Presidential suite.
I stayed in the cheapest room, a standard single which cost me US$170 per night.
Rooms include a very fine buffet breakfast.
A view of my bathroom at The Cape Hotel.
Power outages occur frequently in Liberia with the power often being down for extended periods of time.
However, this was never a problem at The Cape Hotel which is equipped with a large generator which seemed to be on more than it was off!
Facilities at The Cape Hotel include a gym and swimming pool.
The hotel also features the very popular The Cape Hotel Restaurant whose menu includes many Lebanese specialities which are prepared by the Lebanese head chef, who has lived in Liberia for about 25 years (see the ‘Eating Out‘ section below for more details).
The hotel also includes a very fine swimming pool (almost Olympic size), which is only busy on the weekend, and a fitness centre.
Eating Out
Street food, known locally as ‘Calla’ in West Point, Monrovia.
Liberian cuisine, a blend of West African and Creole traditions, features stews, soups, and rice-based dishes, often with seafood, meat, and vegetables, and is known for its spicy flavors and starchy staples like rice, cassava, and plantains.
As with other African countries, Chinese and Lebanese immigrants have opened restaurants which offer an alternative to the local cuisine.
Restaurants
A fine lunch of grilled fresh fish and mashed potato at The Cape Hotel in Monrovia.
Since I was staying the The Cape Hotel who have an excellent restaurant – The Cape Hotel Restaurant – I ate many meals at the hotel.
The Lebanese chef at The Cape Hotel Restaurant prepares superb Lebanese cuisine.
The kitchen is under the command of Shad Greg, the F&B Manager, and a Lebanese ex-pat who has been resident in Liberia for many years.
The restaurant offers a menu of international food, Liberian and Lebanese cuisine.
I especially reccommend any of the Lebanese dishes, including the chicken shish which is served with a fresh salad and home-made flat bread.
The local grilled fish, served with loads of mash potato, was also excellent.
Delicious!
Bars
Enjoying a Club Beer at a beach bar in Monrovia.
Monrovia Breweries keep the country satiated with their very popular Club Beer, a refreshing lager which is brewed using malt imported from Denmark.
Wherever you go in Liberia, Club Beer will be on offer.
Visa Requirements
My Liberian visa which was issued at the Liberian embassy in Paris.
Most visitors to Liberia need to apply in advance for a visa.
The Visa Policy Map for Liberia with countries highlighted in grey needing a visa.
As per the Visa Policy Map, passport holders from the grey countries need to apply for a visa in advance while those countries highlighted in blue (ECOWAS citizens) are visa exempt.
Alternatively, visas can be obtained from a Liberian embassy.
The Liberian embassy in Paris.
I applied for my visa at the Liberian Embassy in Paris where the friendly staff issue a 90-day single-entry visa for €100 (7 business days processing), or €150 for express service (3 business days), without any fuss.
The beautiful embassy building has been owned by the Liberian government since the 1940’s.
If applying at the embassy in Paris, it’s best that you pre-check the Visa Application Requirements before visiting the embassy to ensure you bring all the required documents.
Prior to visiting the embassy, it’s best to print two (2) copies of the Visa Application Form and have these ready to hand in when you apply.
Note: You will need to show your Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate when applying for your visa and also on arrival in Liberia.
Brussels Airlines offer one of the very few connections to Monrovia, several times a week, with flights also stopping at either Abidjan or Freetown.
Located 2-hours east (56 km/ 35 mi) of downtown Monrovia, Roberts International Airport (IATA: ROB) is the only international gateway to Liberia.
The airport is named in honor of Joseph Jenkins Roberts, the first President of Liberia.
A project, which was funded by the Chinese and Saudi governments, saw the building of a new, modern, 2-level, terminal which includes two air bridges. The terminal commenced operations in 2019.
The comfortable business-class lounge at Roberts International Airport.
The new terminal includes a comfortable business-class lounge which is also available to economy-class passengers who are charged a US$30 usage fee (credit cards accepted).
The reason the airport is located so far from town is that it was never built as a public facility but was built by the U.S. military as an Air Force base for use during World War II.
The base was originally used by the US military for refuelling large bomber planes and as such, when it opened, the airport boasted the longest runway in Africa at 3,353 metres/ 11,000 feet.
The departure area at Roberts International Airport, the only international airport in Liberia.
For many years, Pan Am used the airport as its base for flights between the United States and various destinations in Africa.
The airport is a much quieter place today, being served by just 7 airlines, with 6 being African carriers, offering flights to other African destinations, with connections beyond Africa.
The sole non-African carrier serving Monrovia is Brussels Airlines.
Brussels Airlines
Brussels Airlines offer the only direct connection between Liberia and Europe.
Brussels Airlines flies several times per week between its base at Brussels International Airport (IATA: BRU) and ROB with stopovers in either Freetown (Sierra Leone) or Abidjan (Côte d’Ivoire).
On both of my flights, most of the passengers were US citizens (many from the Liberian community living in the US) whose only way to reach Liberia from the United States was through Brussels Airport.
Upon my return to Brussels, only myself and one other passenger exited into Belgium, with all other passengers connecting to other international flights, mostly to the United States.
The flights operate under flight codes SN307 and SN241 with the following routing:
Flight SN307 flies from Brussels to Monrovia, then onto Abidjan before returning to Brussels.
Flight SN241 flies from Brussels to Freetown, then onto Monrovia before returning to Brussels.
If you wish to fly direct each way (as I did) you need to fly to Monrovia on flight SN307 and return to Brussels on flight SN241.
While in Monrovia, the airline crew are housed at the The Farmington Hotel which is located directly opposite the airport, far from downtown Monrovia.
Scheduled Flights
The following airlines operate scheduled services to/from Roberts International Airport:
The 56 km (35 mi) drive between the airport and downtown Monrovia takes about 2-hours due to the condition of the road, road works and traffic.
The Chinese government is currently building a 4-lane highway to connect the airport with Monrovia, with still much work to be done.
Hotels offer shuttle services for around US$50 – $70 while taxi operators charge US$50.
Land
Liberia shares land borders with Sierra Leone to the northwest, Guinea to the north and Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast) to its east.
The following border crossings are currently open:
Guinea:
Ganta: Ganta is a transit point for those traveling to and from southeastern Liberia, Ivory Coast, and Guinea. Bolonguidu: In 2020, the road between Voinjama and Bolonguidu was rehabilitated, making it easier to cross the border.
Yeala: During the rainy season, canoes are used to cross the stream (Muleyea).
Solumba: The closest town on the Liberian side is Solumba (3.4 km) from the border, and the closest town on the Guinea side is named Kessaney (1.5 km) from the border point.
Sierra Leone:
Mendicorma: The nearest town or city to the Mendicorma border crossing is Foya City, which is 16 km away.
Cote d’Ivoire:
Loguatuo: The road access to Loguatuo is muddy but passable throughout the year.
Pleebo: Pedebo is a small city of the Pleebo district in Maryland County, about 15 km away from Harper town.
Sea
Although Monrovia is a port city, it is not a destination for cruise ships.
Getting Around
Video: Riding in a tricycle through West Point Monrovia – a great way to explore Monrovia!
In Liberia, public transportation primarily consists of buses, shared taxis and tricycles within and around Monrovia.
The National Transit Authority (NTA) is working to improve public transportation, including adding new routes and buses, but road conditions can be challenging, especially outside of Monrovia.
The Chinese government is currently upgrading the highway between Monrovia and Roberts International Airport, which is 56 km (35 mi) east of downtown Monrovia, but, currently, a 2-hour drive.
Generally, infrastructure is in very poor condition in Liberia.
Public Transport
Shared mini-buses can be found in Monrovia.
Taxi/ Tricycles
Taxis and tricycles are available for rent with fares needing to be negotiated in advance.
Rental Car
Cars, with drivers, can be rented through most major hotels.
One company which offers rental cars is Paykoo Car Rental which can be contacted at:
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel. I’ve been travelling the world for 33 years and, 209 countries and territories, and – seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
While I have not published a Moldova Travel Guide on taste2travel, I have published a Transnistria Travel Guide.
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel. I’ve been travelling the world for 33 years and, 209 countries and territories, and – seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
While I have not published a Cyprus Travel Guide on taste2travel, I have published a Northern Cyprus Travel Guide.
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel. I’ve been travelling the world for 33 years and, 209 countries and territories, and – seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is a Georgia Photo Gallery from taste2travel.
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel.
I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 242/251 countries and territories (189/193 UN countries), and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is an Armenia Photo Gallery from taste2travel.
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel.
I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 242/251 countries and territories (189/193 UN countries), and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
This is a UNESCOWorld Heritage Sites Quiz from taste2travel!
How well do you know your UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
Test your knowledge with this quiz from taste2travel.
If you have an interest in UNESCO World Heritage Sites, don’t forget to check out my interactive map of all UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
How well will you score? Your result will be displayed at the bottom of the quiz – will you get to see the legendary Marco Polo?
Good luck!
01. Lagoons of New Caledonia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which ocean?
Correct!Wrong!
The New Caledonian barrier reef is a barrier reef located in New Caledonia in the South Pacific, being the longest continuous barrier reef in the world and the third largest after the Great Barrier Reef of Australia and the Mesoamerican Barrier Reef.
02. Gelati Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Gelati is a medieval monastic complex near Kutaisi in the Imereti region of western Georgia. One of the first monasteries in Georgia, it was founded in 1106 by King David IV of Georgia as a monastic and educational centre.
03. The Temple of Heaven, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which city?
Correct!Wrong!
The Temple of Heaven is a complex of imperial religious buildings situated in the southeastern part of central Beijing. The complex was visited by the Emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties for annual ceremonies of prayer to Heaven for a good harvest.
04. The cathedral and churches of Echmiatsin, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Etchmiadzin Cathedral is the mother church of the Armenian Apostolic Church, located in the city dually known as Etchmiadzin and Vagharshapat, Armenia. It is usually considered the first cathedral built in ancient Armenia, and often regarded as the oldest cathedral in the world.
05. The old town of Djenné, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Inhabited since 250 B.C and famous for its Sudanic-style "Grand Mosque", the world's largest mud-brick building, Djenné became a market centre and an important link in the trans-Saharan gold trade. In the 15th and 16th centuries, it was one of the centres for the propagation of Islam.
06. Los Glaciares National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Los Glaciares National Park is in the Austral Andes of southwest Argentina, near the Chilean border. Its many glaciers include Perito Moreno, best known for the dramatic icefalls from its front wall, into Lake Argentino.
07. The archaeological site of Sabratha, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Sabratha, in the Zawiya District of Libya, was the westernmost of the ancient "three cities" of Roman Tripolis, alongside Oea and Leptis Magna. It lies on the Mediterranean coast about 70 km west of modern Tripoli.
08. The churches of Moldavia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
The north of the Moldavia region in Romania preserves numerous religious buildings as a testimony of the Moldavian architectural style developed in the Principality of Moldavia starting from the 14th century.
Of these, eight Romanian Orthodox Churches located in Suceava County and built from the late 15th century to the late 16th century are listed by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.
The churches have their external walls covered in authentic and unique fresco paintings, representing complete cycles of religious themes.
09. Bahrain Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located on the waterfront of which city?
Correct!Wrong!
The Qal'at al-Bahrain, also known as the Bahrain Fort or Portuguese Fort, is an archaeological site located in Bahrain.
Archaeological excavations carried out since 1954 have unearthed antiquities from an artificial mound of 12 m (39 ft) height containing seven stratified layers, created by various occupants from 2300 BC up to the 18th century, including Kassites, Greeks, Portuguese and Persians.
It was once the capital of the Dilmun civilisation and was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2005.
10. The Palace of the Sheki Khans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Palace of the Sheki Khans is an 18th-century palace in Azerbaijan that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
It is a symbol of Azerbaijani culture and a masterpiece of craftsmanship.
The palace's windows are among the finest examples of "shebeke," an Azerbaijani technique that creates stained glass windows without glue or nails.
Unfortunately, photographers are charged a hefty fee to photograph the interior of the palace.
11. Historic Jeddah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Historic Jeddah is situated on the eastern shore of the Red Sea.
From the 7th century AD it was established as a major port for Indian Ocean trade routes.
12. The historic city of Sucre, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Sucre, the first capital of Bolivia, was founded by the Spanish in the first half of the 16th century. Its many well-preserved 16th-century religious buildings, such as San Lázaro, San Francisco and Santo Domingo, illustrate the blending of local architectural traditions with styles imported from Europe.
13. The ancient city of Paphos, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Old Paphos, which was settled by Greek colonists in the Mycenaean period, contained a famous temple of Aphrodite and was the legendary site where Aphrodite was born from the sea foam.
In Hellenic times Paphos was second only to Salamis in extent and influence among the states of Cyprus.
14. The historic city of Paramaribo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is the capital of which country?
Correct!Wrong!
The Dutch colonial town established in 17th and 18th centuries was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
The historic inner city is located along the left bank of the Suriname River.
The original architecture of buildings and street plan has largely remained intact and preserved.
15. The historic monuments and sites of Kaesong, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Historic Monuments and Sites in Kaesong is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Kaesong, North Korea.
The site consists of 12 separate components, which together testify to the history and culture of the Koryo Dynasty from the 10th to 14th centuries.
16. Great Zimbabwe National Monument, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Great Zimbabwe was a city in the south-eastern hills of the modern country of Zimbabwe, near Masvingo.
It was settled from 1000 AD, and served as the capital of the Kingdom of Zimbabwe from the 13th century.
It is the largest stone structure in precolonial Southern Africa.
Construction on the city began in the 11th century and continued until it was abandoned in the 16th or 17th century.
17. Santiago de Compostela, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Santiago de Compostela is the capital of northwest Spain’s Galicia region.
It’s known as the culmination of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage route, and the alleged burial site of the Biblical apostle St. James.
His remains reputedly lie within the Catedral de Santiago de Compostela, consecrated in 1211, whose elaborately carved stone facades open onto grand plazas within the medieval walls of the old town.
18. The historic town of Ouro Preto, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Ouro Preto is a colonial town in the Serra do Espinhaço mountains of eastern Brazil.
It’s known for its baroque architecture, including bridges, fountains and squares, and its steep, winding cobbled streets.
19. The Tajik National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, lies in which mountain range?
Correct!Wrong!
Pamir (aka Tajik) National Park encompasses the high peaks, plateaux and river gorges of the Pamir Mountains of eastern Tajikistan.
Unique natural features include Sarez Lake, formed after an earthquake, Karakul Lake (pictured here) in a meteor crater, and massive Fedchenko Glacier.
Accessed via the mountain towns of Murghab and Khorugh, the sparsely populated park is home to rare wildlife including snow leopards and Siberian ibex.
20. Fremantle Prison, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in which country?
Correct!Wrong!
Fremantle Prison, sometimes referred to as Fremantle Gaol or Fremantle Jail, is a former Australian prison and World Heritage Site in Fremantle, Western Australia.
The site includes the prison cellblocks, gatehouse, perimeter walls, cottages, and tunnels.
Travel Quiz 80: UNESCO Heritage Sites
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Travel Quizzes on taste2travel
Welcome to taste2travel!
My name is Darren McLean, I’m the owner of taste2travel and I love travel trivia and I certainly enjoy creating travel quizzes.
There are a total of 80 different travel quizzes on taste2travel, with each quiz containing 20 questions.
That’s a total of 1,600 trivia questions waiting to challenge you.
You’ll find a range of quizzes covering such topics as:
Currencies
Flags
Capital Cities
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
World Museums
Map Quizzes
Continent-specific Quizzes
World Islands
Landlocked Countries and much more!
Don’t forget to share these quizzes with your family, friends and community using the social media buttons at the top of the quiz.
Apart from excellent travel quizzes, you’ll also find other outstanding content on taste2travel – such as travel guides, photo galleries and feature articles which provide tips on booking cheap flights and much more.
All images are copyright! If you wish to purchase any images for commercial use, please contact me via the Contactpage.
About taste2travel!
Hi! My name is Darren McLean, the owner of taste2travel.
I’ve been travelling the world for 36 years and, 242/251 countries and territories (189/193 UN countries), and seven continents later, I’m still on the road.
Taste2travel offers travel information for destinations around the world, specialising in those that are remote and seldom visited. I hope you enjoy my content!
Ever since I was a child, I have been obsessed with the idea of travel. I started planning my first overseas trip at the age of 19 and departed Australia soon after my 20th birthday. Many years later, I’m still on the road.
In 2016, I decided to document and share my journeys and photography with a wider audience and so, taste2travel.com was born.
My aim is to create useful, usable travel guides/ reports on destinations I have visited. My reports are very comprehensive and detailed as I believe more information is better than less. They are best suited to those planning a journey to a particular destination.
Many of the destinations featured on my website are far off the regular beaten tourist trail. Often, these countries are hidden gems which remain undiscovered, mostly because they are remote and difficult to reach. I enjoy exploring and showcasing these ‘off-the-radar’ destinations, which will, hopefully, inspire others to plan their own adventure to a far-flung corner of the planet.
I’m also a fan of travel trivia and if you are too, you’ll find plenty of travel quizzes on the site.
Photography has always been a passion and all the photos appearing in these galleries were taken by me.
If you have any questions or queries, please contact me via the contact page.
![Tintin in the Congo was the second volume of "The Adventures of Tintin", the comics series by Belgian comic strip artist Hergé.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ROTC_IMG_22.jpg?media=1744865699 "Tintin in the Congo was the second volume of "The Adventures of Tintin", the comics series by Belgian comic strip artist Hergé.")
![Located on the Corniche, the "15th of August" bridge, is a suspension bridge that commemorates the country's independence from France on August 15,1960.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ROTC_IMG_28.jpg?media=1744865699 "Located on the Corniche, the "15th of August" bridge, is a suspension bridge that commemorates the country's independence from France on August 15,1960.")
!["Kilometre Zero" in Brazzaville is the symbolic point for measuring all road distances within the country.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/ROTC_IMG_27.jpg?media=1744865699 ""Kilometre Zero" in Brazzaville is the symbolic point for measuring all road distances within the country.")
![Locals in Monrovia, gambling on the popular boardgame - "African Delights' Ludu Board Game" which features African cultural figures.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/LIB_IMG_30.jpg?media=1744865699 "Locals in Monrovia, gambling on the popular boardgame - "African Delights' Ludu Board Game" which features African cultural figures.")
![Menu prices at "Angel's Lounge Bar and Grill" in Monrovia.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/LIB_IMG_70.jpg?media=1744865699 "Menu prices at "Angel's Lounge Bar and Grill" in Monrovia.")
![Of the profusion of frescoes which cover the outside walls of the church at the Moldovița Monastery, it is said that they are "the holy scriptures in colour".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_102-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Of the profusion of frescoes which cover the outside walls of the church at the Moldovița Monastery, it is said that they are "the holy scriptures in colour".")
![The sound of "toaca" (wood beaten against wood) is used to call the nuns to pray at Moldovița Monastery.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_104-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The sound of "toaca" (wood beaten against wood) is used to call the nuns to pray at Moldovița Monastery.")
!["Bucovina Blues", a view of the Bucovina countryside.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_101-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 ""Bucovina Blues", a view of the Bucovina countryside.")
![A highlight of the Sucevita Monastery is the 30-rung "Ladder of Virtue" frescoe, which symbolises the endless battle between the good and the evil in everyone’s heart.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_163-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A highlight of the Sucevita Monastery is the 30-rung "Ladder of Virtue" frescoe, which symbolises the endless battle between the good and the evil in everyone’s heart.")
![Widely known throughout Europe as "the Sistine Chapel of the East" due to its interior and exterior wall paintings, Voronet features an abundance of frescoes featuring an intense shade of blue commonly known as 'Voronet Blue'.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_79-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Widely known throughout Europe as "the Sistine Chapel of the East" due to its interior and exterior wall paintings, Voronet features an abundance of frescoes featuring an intense shade of blue commonly known as 'Voronet Blue'.")
![The dramatic "Last Judgement" fresco adorns the western wall of Voronet Monastery, Romania.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_68-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The dramatic "Last Judgement" fresco adorns the western wall of Voronet Monastery, Romania.")
![Detail of the "Last Judgement" fresco at Voronet Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of 8 painted churches in the Bucovina region of Romainia.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_67-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Detail of the "Last Judgement" fresco at Voronet Monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of 8 painted churches in the Bucovina region of Romainia.")
![Salina Turda was ranked in 2013 by Business Insider as among the "25 hidden gems around the world that are worth the trek".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_122-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Salina Turda was ranked in 2013 by Business Insider as among the "25 hidden gems around the world that are worth the trek".")
![A view of the 90-metre (295 ft) deep, bell-shaped, chamber of the Terezia Mine at Salina Turda, which features a plunging "cascade of salt".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_158-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A view of the 90-metre (295 ft) deep, bell-shaped, chamber of the Terezia Mine at Salina Turda, which features a plunging "cascade of salt".")
![The yellow house is the birthplace of Vlad Dracul, who was better known as "Vlad the Impaler", the historical character who inspired Bram Stoker's "Dracula".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_135-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The yellow house is the birthplace of Vlad Dracul, who was better known as "Vlad the Impaler", the historical character who inspired Bram Stoker's "Dracula".")
![Vlad Dracul House in the town of Sighișoara is the place where "Vlad the Impaler", the historical character who inspired Bram Stoker's "Dracula", is supposed to have been born, in 1431.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_126-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Vlad Dracul House in the town of Sighișoara is the place where "Vlad the Impaler", the historical character who inspired Bram Stoker's "Dracula", is supposed to have been born, in 1431.")
![Built during medieval times from beige sandstone, the "Black Church" is the main city landmark of historical Brașov, and a museum is open to visitors.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_139-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Built during medieval times from beige sandstone, the "Black Church" is the main city landmark of historical Brașov, and a museum is open to visitors.")
![Marketed outside Romania as Dracula's Castle, the real life "Bran Castle" is presented as the home of the title character in Bram Stoker's Dracula, despite "Vlad the Impaler" having little association with the castle.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_136-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Marketed outside Romania as Dracula's Castle, the real life "Bran Castle" is presented as the home of the title character in Bram Stoker's Dracula, despite "Vlad the Impaler" having little association with the castle.")
![The "Moldova" National Museum Complex hosts four museums located in the Palace of Culture in Iași, including an Art Museum.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/RO_IMG_47-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The "Moldova" National Museum Complex hosts four museums located in the Palace of Culture in Iași, including an Art Museum.")
![Tipova Cave Monastery consists of three chambers, with the oldest, the "Elevation of the Holy Cross" cave church, thought to date from the 11th century.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_73-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Tipova Cave Monastery consists of three chambers, with the oldest, the "Elevation of the Holy Cross" cave church, thought to date from the 11th century.")
![A "Cricova" stained glass window illuminates the subterranean world at the winery.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_91-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A "Cricova" stained glass window illuminates the subterranean world at the winery.")
![A map of the "Cricova Underground Wine City" which contains galleries totaling 120 kilometres in length.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_89-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A map of the "Cricova Underground Wine City" which contains galleries totaling 120 kilometres in length.")
![A tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cellars at Cricova, aka "The National Wine Cellar", currently holds approximately 1.3 million bottles.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_85-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A tentative UNESCO World Heritage Site, the cellars at Cricova, aka "The National Wine Cellar", currently holds approximately 1.3 million bottles.")
![Cricova is known for its sparkling wines, which are made using the traditional French method, also known as "Methode Champenoise".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_92-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Cricova is known for its sparkling wines, which are made using the traditional French method, also known as "Methode Champenoise".")
![Visible in the distance, this walkway leads to the "Struve Geodetic Arc" obelisk - one of a chain of survey triangulations stretching from Hammerfest in Norway to the Black Sea, through ten countries.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_56-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Visible in the distance, this walkway leads to the "Struve Geodetic Arc" obelisk - one of a chain of survey triangulations stretching from Hammerfest in Norway to the Black Sea, through ten countries.")
![Moldova has one UNESCO World Heritage Site listed (with 3 others on the tentative list). The "Struve Geodetic Arc" is located in a remote farm field in the middle of nowhere.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_57-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Moldova has one UNESCO World Heritage Site listed (with 3 others on the tentative list). The "Struve Geodetic Arc" is located in a remote farm field in the middle of nowhere.")
![An "I heart Comrat" sign in downtown Comrat, the capital of the Gagauzia autonomous Region.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_30-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "An "I heart Comrat" sign in downtown Comrat, the capital of the Gagauzia autonomous Region.")
![The name "Comrat" consists of two words of Turkic origin “komur-at”, which means “black horse”.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_46-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The name "Comrat" consists of two words of Turkic origin “komur-at”, which means “black horse”.")
![Owned by the Turkish Efes Beverage Group, "Chisinau Blonde" is the most popular beer in Moldova.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_2-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Owned by the Turkish Efes Beverage Group, "Chisinau Blonde" is the most popular beer in Moldova.")
![The Neo-classicial style "Cathedral of Christ's Nativity" in Chișinău is the main cathedral of the Moldovan Orthodox Church.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_97-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The Neo-classicial style "Cathedral of Christ's Nativity" in Chișinău is the main cathedral of the Moldovan Orthodox Church.")
![Paintings, hanging on the walls of the 'Blue Room" at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Moldova.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_16-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Paintings, hanging on the walls of the 'Blue Room" at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Moldova.")
![A view of the "Red Room" at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Moldova in Chișinău.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_15-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A view of the "Red Room" at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Moldova in Chișinău.")
![A ceramics display, in the "Bronze Room" at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Moldova in Chișinău.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/MD_IMG_13-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A ceramics display, in the "Bronze Room" at the National Museum of Fine Arts of Moldova in Chișinău.")
![The United Nations Buffer Zone in Cyprus is a demilitarised zone, also known as the "Green Line", that separates the Greek Cypriot south from the Turkish Cypriot north of the island, effectively dividing Cyprus into two parts.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_19-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The United Nations Buffer Zone in Cyprus is a demilitarised zone, also known as the "Green Line", that separates the Greek Cypriot south from the Turkish Cypriot north of the island, effectively dividing Cyprus into two parts.")
![The "Green Line", the border between north and south Cyprus blocks many of the streets in Nicosia old town. You can view photos from the other side of the wall in my Northern Cyprus Photo Gallery.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_20-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The "Green Line", the border between north and south Cyprus blocks many of the streets in Nicosia old town. You can view photos from the other side of the wall in my Northern Cyprus Photo Gallery.")
![Former apartments in Nicosia, which are located on the "Green Line", lie abandoned in no-mans land.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_21-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Former apartments in Nicosia, which are located on the "Green Line", lie abandoned in no-mans land.")
!["UN Sector 2" signage, on a now abandoned apartment building in the heart of Nicosia old town.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_22-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 ""UN Sector 2" signage, on a now abandoned apartment building in the heart of Nicosia old town.")
![One of the largest ancient residential structures in the Mediterranean, the "House of Theseus" is a Roman villa in the Paphos Archaeological Park.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_48-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "One of the largest ancient residential structures in the Mediterranean, the "House of Theseus" is a Roman villa in the Paphos Archaeological Park.")
![The "House of Theseus" is known for its mosaics, which depict scenes from Greek mythology.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_47-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The "House of Theseus" is known for its mosaics, which depict scenes from Greek mythology.")
![The 4th-century (BCE) necropolis - "Tomb of the Kings" - at the UNESCO-listed Nea Paphos archaeological area.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_52-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The 4th-century (BCE) necropolis - "Tomb of the Kings" - at the UNESCO-listed Nea Paphos archaeological area.")
!["Petra tou Romiou" ("Rock of the Roman"), also known as Aphrodite's Rock, is a sea stack in Paphos, Cyprus.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_56-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 ""Petra tou Romiou" ("Rock of the Roman"), also known as Aphrodite's Rock, is a sea stack in Paphos, Cyprus.")
![The golden "Iconostasis" in Kykkos Monastery.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/CYP_IMG_46-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The golden "Iconostasis" in Kykkos Monastery.")
![Born "Ioseb Jughashvili", Stalin adopted the pseudonym "Stalin", which translates to "man of steel".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_36-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Born "Ioseb Jughashvili", Stalin adopted the pseudonym "Stalin", which translates to "man of steel".")
![A "Mary and Child" icon in the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_94-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A "Mary and Child" icon in the Holy Trinity Cathedral in Tbilisi.")
![The "Love Lock Bridge" is located in Tbilisi old town, near the Leghvtakhevi waterfall.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_86-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The "Love Lock Bridge" is located in Tbilisi old town, near the Leghvtakhevi waterfall.")
![Located in Tbilisi old town, the "Love Lock Bridge" is weighed down by many padlocks which sentimental couples have attached to the bridge to symbolise their eternal love.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_87-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Located in Tbilisi old town, the "Love Lock Bridge" is weighed down by many padlocks which sentimental couples have attached to the bridge to symbolise their eternal love.")
![Georgia is famous for its red wine, especially "Saperavi", a red grape variety which is bold and fruity.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_106-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Georgia is famous for its red wine, especially "Saperavi", a red grape variety which is bold and fruity.")
![A popular snack, "Churchkhela" is a traditional Georgian candle-shaped candy which consists of strings of walnuts covered in a rubbery grape molasses.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_25-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A popular snack, "Churchkhela" is a traditional Georgian candle-shaped candy which consists of strings of walnuts covered in a rubbery grape molasses.")
![A popular snack since ancient times, "Tklapi" is a traditional Georgian puréed fruit roll-up leather. It is spread thinly onto a sheet and sun-dried on a clothesline.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/GE_IMG_26-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A popular snack since ancient times, "Tklapi" is a traditional Georgian puréed fruit roll-up leather. It is spread thinly onto a sheet and sun-dried on a clothesline.")
![Geghard, or more fully Geghardavank, means "the Monastery of the Spear", named after the spear which had wounded Jesus at the Crucifixion, which was once stored here as a relic.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_37-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Geghard, or more fully Geghardavank, means "the Monastery of the Spear", named after the spear which had wounded Jesus at the Crucifixion, which was once stored here as a relic.")
![The rock-hewn "Upper Zhamatun" (1288), tomb of Papak Proshyan and his wife Ruzukana.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_34-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "The rock-hewn "Upper Zhamatun" (1288), tomb of Papak Proshyan and his wife Ruzukana.")
!["Roman Warrior" by Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, in the Cascade Sculpture Park in Yerevan.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_2-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 ""Roman Warrior" by Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, in the Cascade Sculpture Park in Yerevan.")
![A winter view of "Roman Warrior" by Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, in the Cascade Sculpture Park in Yerevan.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_91-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A winter view of "Roman Warrior" by Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, in the Cascade Sculpture Park in Yerevan.")
![A winter view of "Woman Smoking a Cigarette" by Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, in the Cascade Sculpture Park in Yerevan.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_93-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A winter view of "Woman Smoking a Cigarette" by Colombian artist, Fernando Botero, in the Cascade Sculpture Park in Yerevan.")
![Popular in Armenia, "Khachapuri" is a traditional Georgian dish of cheese-filled bread with an egg and a generous dollop of butter.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_58-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Popular in Armenia, "Khachapuri" is a traditional Georgian dish of cheese-filled bread with an egg and a generous dollop of butter.")
![A popular sweet in Armenia, "Sujukh" (also known as "Sharots") is a string of walnuts covered in (rubbery) grape molasses.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_31-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A popular sweet in Armenia, "Sujukh" (also known as "Sharots") is a string of walnuts covered in (rubbery) grape molasses.")
![A winter holiday at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort", which is located in the Tsaghkunyats Mountains, 50 km from Yerevan.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_64-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A winter holiday at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort", which is located in the Tsaghkunyats Mountains, 50 km from Yerevan.")
![Plenty of snow at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort" in Armenia.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_61-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "Plenty of snow at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort" in Armenia.")
![A winter wonderland view at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_63-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A winter wonderland view at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort".")
![A view of the monochrome winter landscape at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort".](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/ARM_IMG_65-scaled.jpg?media=1744865699 "A view of the monochrome winter landscape at "Arthurs Aghveran Resort".")
![A "Welcome to St Helena" sign, outside St Helena Airport.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SH_IMG_109.jpg?media=1744865699 "A "Welcome to St Helena" sign, outside St Helena Airport.")
![Keen hikers should ensure they familiarise themselves with the many "Post Box" walks which can be found around the island.](https://usercontent.one/wp/www.taste2travel.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/SH_IMG_64.jpg?media=1744865699 "Keen hikers should ensure they familiarise themselves with the many "Post Box" walks which can be found around the island.")
