Monrovia in December
December weather, activities, events & insider tips
December Weather in Monrovia
Is December Right for You?
Advantages
- Dry season arrives - December marks the beginning of Monrovia's driest months with only 5 rainy days, making it ideal for outdoor exploration and beach activities
- Harmattan winds begin - Cool, dry winds from the Sahara start arriving in late December, providing relief from humidity and creating spectacular dust-filtered sunsets over the Atlantic
- Festival season peaks - December brings multiple cultural celebrations including Christmas festivities blended with traditional Liberian customs, plus New Year preparations
- Sea conditions are optimal - Atlantic waters are calmest December through February, perfect for surfing at CeCe Beach and swimming at Silver Beach with 2-3 foot waves maximum
Considerations
- High season pricing kicks in - Accommodation rates increase 40-60% from mid-December as diaspora Liberians return for holidays, book 6-8 weeks ahead
- Dust from Harmattan winds - While cooling, the seasonal winds bring fine Saharan dust that can irritate sensitive eyes and respiratory systems, especially late December
- Limited nightlife on Sundays - Monrovia's strong Christian culture means most bars and restaurants close early on Sundays throughout December, plan accordingly
Best Activities in December
Providence Island Historical Tours
December's dry weather makes boat access to this founding site of Liberia reliable. The 30-minute boat ride from Mesurado River is comfortable without rainy season chop, and you can explore the ruins of the first Americo-Liberian settlement without mud. Perfect visibility for photography of the Atlantic coastline.
Sapo National Park Wildlife Tracking
December marks peak dry season access to Liberia's largest protected area. Roads are passable without 4WD, and wildlife congregates around permanent water sources making elephant, pygmy hippo, and chimpanzee sightings more likely. Forest canopy is less dense, improving visibility.
Ducor Hotel Ruins Urban Exploration
The iconic abandoned luxury hotel offers panoramic views of Monrovia and the Atlantic. December's clear skies provide excellent photography conditions, and the drier weather makes navigating the deteriorating structure safer. Best visited at sunset for dramatic lighting.
Robertsport Surfing Expeditions
December brings consistent 3-6 foot Atlantic swells to Liberia's premier surf destination 2.5 hours (150 km/93 miles) from Monrovia. Water temperature is warmest at 26°C (79°F), and offshore Harmattan winds create clean wave conditions. Fewer crowds than January-February peak.
Firestone Plantation Heritage Tours
December's dry conditions allow full access to this massive rubber plantation that shaped modern Liberia. Cooler morning temperatures make walking tours comfortable, and you can witness the rubber tapping process that begins at 5am daily. Controversial but historically significant.
West Point Township Cultural Immersion
December brings community Christmas preparations to this densely populated peninsula. Dry weather makes walking tours feasible, and you'll witness unique urban culture, local markets, and community resilience. Most authentic cultural experience in Monrovia, though challenging.
December Events & Festivals
Liberian Christmas Festival
Unique blend of American-style Christmas traditions with West African customs. Features traditional dress parades, palm wine celebrations, and community feasts. Churches hold elaborate Christmas pageants with local choirs performing both hymns and traditional songs.
Year-End Beach Celebrations
Local families gather at Silver Beach and ELWA Beach for weekend celebrations throughout December. Traditional drumming, local food vendors, and informal football matches. Most active Saturday afternoons and Sunday evenings.