Fast Facts about Liberia

• The second Black Republic in the world after Haiti, Liberia, better known as the Republic of Liberia, is an African country located on the west coast of the African continent. It is surrounded by Sierra Leone, Guinea and Côte d’Ivoire (formerly Ivory Coast) on three sides, while the south coast borders Atlantic Ocean.
• It serves as one of the biggest exporters of iron ore in Africa.
• Containing one of the richest ecosystems on the African continent, the Sapo National Park is declared as one of the 261 natural wonders of the world. Home to the world-famous pygmy hippopotamus, this sanctuary has several other animal species and is spread over an area equal to the size of Los Angeles, California.
• Facing the Atlantic Ocean, Liberia’s coastline is characterized by lagoons, mangrove swamps, and river-deposited sandbars; the inland grassy plateau supports limited agriculture.
• The beaches of Liberia are spectacular but difficult to reach and only the strongest swimmers would venture into the sea where the surf is high and the currents strong.
• The wild rubber tree (Funtumia elastica) is indigenous, but the cultivated Hevea brasiliensis is the source of Liberia’s commercial rubber. A variety of coffee peculiar to Liberia, Coffea liberica, was formerly common but has given way to the preferred Coffea robusta. Fruit trees include citrus varieties, the alligator apple, papaya, mango, and avocado. Pineapples grow wild. Among the cultivated plants are cassava, cotton, cacao, indigo, and upland rice.
• Situated north of Liberia, it is known to be the home of Lamco, an operational iron mining company. Its major attraction however is Guesthouse Hill, the country’s highest point.
• Sapo National Park. It’s the country’s best nature reserve. If you enjoy a trip to Zwedru, you will enjoy Sapo National Park even more. Animal species unique to the area can be seen here including the African Civet, Giant Forest Hog, Great Blue Turaco, and White Necked Rockfowl. Crocodiles, leopards, bee-eaters, and kingfishers also thrive in its land.
• The city is one of the top tourist attractions in Liberia for several reasons. It combines historical attractions with beaches. Harper’s beaches offer swimming, surfing, and scuba diving opportunities.
• Executive Mansion. It is located in Monrovia and serves as a home to the president and his family. Government meetings involving cabinet members are often held here. You may find some historical items in several rooms of the mansion. Catching a glimpse of them is enough to make your trip to the palace worthwhile.
• It’s another mining town but its buildings are the most interesting sights here. Structures build between the late 1800s and early 1900s can be seen lined up along roads. Nimba also has a museum showcasing remnants of early mines.