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Gola Forest National Park: A Biodiversity Hotspot

Explore the Gola Forest National Park, a West African biodiversity hotspot with rare wildlife, lush rainforest, and community-based ecotourism.

Straddling the border between Liberia and Sierra Leone, the Gola Forest National Park is a crucial protected area and one of the largest remaining blocks of the Upper Guinean Rainforest. This biodiversity hotspot is home to diverse species of mammals, birds, amphibians, and trees.

A brief summary to Gola Forest National Park Research for Forest Ecosystems

  • C88Q+VJ, Tima, LR

Local tips

  • The best time to visit Gola is during the dry season (November to April) for more accessible trails and pleasant weather.
  • Book your visit in advance to arrange permits, guides, accommodation, and food.
  • A 4WD vehicle is recommended to access the park due to unpaved roads.
  • Engage with local communities through village stays to learn about their culture and support ecotourism.
  • Bring binoculars and patience for wildlife spotting, especially for elusive species like the pygmy hippo.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    Travelers visiting Gola Rainforest National Park will need a 4WD vehicle to access the park. For detailed directions to the main entry points, contact the GRNP headquarters before visiting. Roads leading to the park are unpaved. GRNP can help arrange vehicles or motorcycle taxis if needed.

  • Public Transport

    To get to Gola National Park in Liberia, catch a public taxi from Monrovia to Tappita. From there, arrange for a local guide or transportation to the park entrance. Contact the park headquarters for the most up-to-date information on transportation options and road conditions.

  • Other

    All visitors entering the park must be accompanied by national park staff and a community guide. Park Entrance Fee is $15 for international adults. A Community Development Fee is $15 for international adults. A Gola Rainforest National Park Guide is $6 per guide per day (required on all camping trips). A Community Guide is $3 per guide per day (required on all trips). Food is $10 per day for all meals.

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Discover more about Gola Forest National Park Research for Forest Ecosystems

The Gola Forest National Park, a transboundary protected area between Liberia and Sierra Leone, stands as a vital sanctuary for biodiversity and a testament to successful conservation efforts. Originally designated as forest reserves in the 1920s for timber extraction, the area underwent a transformation in the late 20th century, shifting towards conservation due to its unique ecological value. Commercial logging, which peaked in the 1980s, gave way to biodiversity assessments that highlighted the forest's importance, leading to collaborative conservation programs. In December 2010, the Gola Forest Reserves were officially gazetted as the Gola Rainforest National Park in Sierra Leone, marking a significant milestone in the region's conservation history. Liberia followed suit, designating a portion of its rainforest as the Gola National Forest. Together, these protected areas form a transboundary peace park, fostering collaboration between the two countries in promoting conservation and sustainable management. The park is home to over 300 bird species, including the White-necked Picathartes, Gola Malimbe, and Rufous Fishing-Owl, making it a paradise for birdwatchers. Mammals such as the elusive pygmy hippopotamus, chimpanzees, forest elephants, and various monkey species also find refuge within its borders. Visitors can explore the park through guided tours, forest walks, and cultural experiences in nearby villages, contributing to the local communities' well-being and supporting conservation efforts.

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