Scuba Diving in

Liberia

Liberia, officially the Republic of Liberia, is a country on the Atlantic coast of West Africa. It is bordered by Sierra Leone to the northwest, Guinea to the north, and Côte d’Ivoire to the east. Liberia has a diverse geography, ranging from the coastal lowlands to the rolling hills and mountains of the interior. The country is known for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife.

Marine Species in

Liberia

Dive Centres in

Liberia

Geography

Liberia covers an area of 96,320 square kilometers (37,200 square miles). The country's terrain is characterized by coastal lowlands, rolling hills, and mountains in the interior. The highest point in Liberia is Mount Nimba, which rises to 1,752 meters (5,748 feet). The country is also home to numerous rivers, including the Mano, St. Paul, and Cavalla rivers. The largest river in Liberia is the Lofa River, which flows for over 400 kilometers (250 miles).

Population

Liberia has a population of approximately 5.2 million people. The majority of the population is concentrated in the coastal regions. The capital and largest city of Liberia is Monrovia, which is located on the Atlantic coast. The country's population is ethnically diverse, with over 16 recognized tribes, including the Bassa, Kpelle, Gio, and Mano. The official language of Liberia is English, but many other languages are spoken throughout the country.

Culture

Liberian culture is a vibrant mix of African traditions and Western influences. The country has a rich musical heritage, with genres such as traditional drumming and dancing, hip-hop, and reggae being popular. Liberian cuisine is also diverse, featuring dishes made with rice, cassava, fish, and other local ingredients. The country is known for its colorful and elaborate festivals, which often celebrate traditional customs and beliefs.

Economy

The Liberian economy is primarily based on agriculture, with the main crops being rubber, coffee, cocoa, and palm oil. The country also has deposits of iron ore, diamonds, and gold. Liberia's economy has been impacted by years of civil war and the Ebola outbreak. However, the country has made significant progress in recent years towards economic recovery and development.

History

Liberia was founded in 1822 as a colony for freed African slaves from the United States. The country gained independence in 1847. Liberia was a relatively stable democracy for several decades, but it experienced a period of civil war from 1989 to 2003. The civil war left the country devastated and impoverished. Since the end of the war, Liberia has been working to rebuild its infrastructure and economy. The country has held several democratic elections, and it is considered to be on a path towards stability and prosperity.

Major Landmarks

Some of the major landmarks in Liberia include:

  • Monrovia City Hall: A historic building that serves as the seat of the city government.
  • The National Museum: Houses a collection of artifacts that showcase Liberia's history and culture.
  • Providence Island: A picturesque island off the coast of Monrovia, known for its beautiful beaches and lush vegetation.
  • Mount Nimba: The highest point in Liberia, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna.
  • Sapo National Park: One of Liberia's largest national parks, home to a variety of wildlife including elephants, chimpanzees, and leopards.