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Margibi County, Liberia Travel Guide

Explore Margibi County in Liberia: A sanctuary of natural splendor, rich cultural heritage, and coastal charm, perfect for a memorable escape.

Margibi County, located in the central region of Liberia, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness. Visitors can explore the lush landscapes that are home to diverse wildlife, including many bird species that will delight any nature enthusiast. Margibi's serene environment provides a perfect backdrop for relaxation and adventure alike. The county is also known for its cultural heritage. Visitors can engage with the local communities to learn about traditional Liberian customs and partake in vibrant festivals that celebrate the region's history and way of life. The warmth and hospitality of the people in Margibi are sure to make any visit memorable. One of the highlights of Margibi County is its access to the Atlantic Ocean. Beautiful beaches offer a great spot for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying fresh seafood. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor adventurer, or just seeking a peaceful retreat, Margibi County has something special to offer.

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Margibi County.

  • Visit during the dry season (November to April) for the best weather conditions.
  • Engage with local guides to enhance your cultural experience.
  • Try the local seafood, which is both fresh and delicious.
  • Don't forget to bring insect repellent, especially if you plan to explore the natural areas.
  • Respect local customs and traditions when visiting villages.

Top City Travel Guides in Margibi County

The cities of Margibi County, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Explore Margibi County on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Margibi County, mapped for you.

Margibi County Essentials

  • Margibi County is easily accessible via Roberts International Airport (RIA), which is located near the town of Harbel. The airport services international flights from various destinations including Accra, Lagos, and Brussels. From Monrovia, the capital city of Liberia, you can reach Margibi County by car in about an hour via the Robertsfield Highway. Taxis and rental cars are available at the airport and in Monrovia.
  • Transportation within Margibi County includes taxis, motorcycle taxis (known as 'pehn-pehns'), and shared minibuses. Taxis are generally more comfortable but can be more expensive. Pehn-pehns are a popular and inexpensive option but exercise caution and wear a helmet. Shared minibuses offer a budget-friendly way to travel between towns but may be crowded and less comfortable. Renting a car is another option for those looking for more flexibility.
  • The official currency in Liberia is the Liberian Dollar (LRD), but US Dollars (USD) are widely accepted. Credit cards are not commonly used, and it's advisable to carry cash for most transactions. ATMs can be found in major towns, but they may not always be reliable, so carrying sufficient cash is recommended. Currency exchange services are available at the airport and in larger towns.
  • Margibi County is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night and keep your belongings secure in crowded areas. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but general vigilance is advised. Be cautious when using pehn-pehns and prefer registered taxis for longer journeys.
  • In case of emergency, dial 911 for immediate assistance. Roberts International Airport has a medical clinic, and there are hospitals in Kakata and Harbel. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacies are available in major towns where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
  • Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in rural areas and religious sites. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always remove your shoes when entering a religious site. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake and a warm smile. It's polite to ask about their well-being. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don't refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
  • To experience Margibi County like a local, visit the Harbel Market where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Liberian goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the area's history and culture. Don't miss visiting the Firestone Rubber Plantation, one of the largest in the world, for an insightful tour. For a unique experience, take a boat ride on the Farmington River, offering scenic views and a chance to see local wildlife.

When is the best time to visit Margibi County?

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With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Margibi County

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation
Eve, your Evendo local guide

Here are the phrases I use most often in Margibi County. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

    • HelloSalutation
      [sah-loo-tay-shun]
    • GoodbyeGoodbye
      [good-bye]
    • YesYes
      [yes]
    • NoNo
      [no]
    • Please/You're welcomePlease
      [pleez]
    • Thank youThank you
      [thank you]
    • Excuse me/SorrySorry
      [saw-ree]
    • How are you?How you dey?
      [how you day?]
    • Fine. And you?I dey fine. How you?
      [ai dey fine. how you?]
    • Do you speak English?You sabi English?
      [you sah-bee English?]
    • I don't understandI no sabi
      [ai no sah-bee]
    • I'd like to see the menu, pleaseI wan see di menu, please
      [ai wan see dee men-oo, pleez]
    • I don't eat meatI no eat meat
      [ai no eat meat]
    • Cheers!Cheers!
      [cheers]
    • I would like to pay, pleaseI wan pay, please
      [ai wan pay, pleez]
    • Help!Help!
      [help]
    • Go away!Make you go!
      [make you go]
    • Call the Police!Call di police!
      [call dee po-lees]
    • Call a doctor!Call one doctor!
      [call one doc-tor]
    • I'm lostI lost
      [ai lost]
    • I'm illI dey sick
      [ai dey sick]
    • I'd like to buy...I wan buy...
      [ai wan buy...]
    • I'm just lookingI just dey look
      [ai just dey look]
    • How much is it?How much e be?
      [how much eh be?]
    • That's too expensiveDat too much money
      [dat too much mon-ee]
    • Can you lower the price?You fit lower di price?
      [you fit low-er dee price?]
    • What time is it?Wetin time be?
      [we-tin time be?]
    • It's one o'clockNa one o'clock
      [na one o-clock]
    • Half past (10)Half past ten
      [half past ten]
    • MorningMornin'
      [mor-nin]
    • AfternoonAfternoon
      [af-ter-noon]
    • EveningEvenin'
      [ee-venin]
    • YesterdayYestaday
      [yes-ta-day]
    • TodayToday
      [to-day]
    • TomorrowTomorrow
      [to-mor-row]
    • 1One
      [one]
    • 2Two
      [two]
    • 3Three
      [three]
    • 4Four
      [four]
    • 5Five
      [five]
    • 6Six
      [six]
    • 7Seven
      [seven]
    • 8Eight
      [eight]
    • 9Nine
      [nine]
    • 10Ten
      [ten]
    • Where's a/the...?Wetin be di...?
      [we-tin be dee...?]
    • What's the address?Wetin be di address?
      [we-tin be dee ad-dress?]
    • Can you show me (on the map)?You fit show me (for di map)?
      [you fit show me (for dee map)?]
    • When's the next (bus)?When be di next (bus)?
      [when be dee next (bus)?]
    • A ticket (to ....)One ticket (to ....)
      [one tick-et (to....)]

History of Margibi County

  • Margibi County, established in 1984, is one of Liberia’s younger counties but has quickly become significant due to its strategic location and cultural wealth. The county was carved out from Montserrado and Grand Bassa counties, named after the Margibi River that runs through the region and the Kpelle tribe, the indigenous people who inhabit the area.

  • The Kpelle people are the largest ethnic group in Margibi County and have a rich cultural heritage that dates back centuries. Known for their farming skills, the Kpelle have historically cultivated rice and other crops in the fertile soil of Margibi. Their traditional social structures, including the Poro and Sande secret societies, play a crucial role in community life, providing education, leadership training, and cultural preservation.

  • Established in 1926, the Firestone Plantation Company is one of the most significant economic entities in Margibi County. The company’s vast rubber plantations have not only shaped the economy but also the social landscape of the region. The plantation has provided employment to thousands of Liberians, although it has also been a site of labor disputes and controversies over working conditions and environmental practices.

  • Margibi County was deeply affected by the Liberian Civil Wars (1989-1996 and 1999-2003). The conflicts led to significant displacement of people, destruction of infrastructure, and a strained local economy. Despite these challenges, the resilient people of Margibi have worked tirelessly to rebuild their communities, and the county has seen substantial recovery and development efforts in the post-war era.

  • Margibi County is home to vibrant cultural festivals that celebrate the rich heritage of its people. Events like the Kpelle Cultural Festival showcase traditional music, dance, and rituals that have been passed down through generations. These festivals not only serve as a reminder of the county’s history but also as a means of preserving and promoting cultural identity in the modern era.

  • Margibi County is home to several important educational institutions, including the Kakata Rural Teacher Training Institute (KRTTI) and the Booker Washington Institute (BWI), Liberia’s oldest vocational school. These institutions have played a crucial role in the education and professional development of many Liberians, contributing significantly to the nation’s human resource base.

  • Margibi County boasts several natural attractions that are becoming increasingly popular for ecotourism. The Margibi River, lush forests, and diverse wildlife offer opportunities for nature lovers to explore the region’s natural beauty. Efforts are being made to promote sustainable tourism that benefits local communities while preserving the environment.

Neighbouring Regions of Margibi County

The closest regions to Margibi County, if you have time for more than one.

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