Monrovia in February

February weather, activities, events & insider tips

February Weather in Monrovia

32°C (90°F) High Temp

24°C (75°F) Low Temp

25 mm (1.0 inches) Rainfall

78% Humidity

Is February Right for You?

Advantages

Peak dry season means minimal rainfall - only 4 rainy days with brief 15-20 minute afternoon showers that actually provide cooling relief
Optimal surf conditions at Liberia with consistent 1.2-1.8m (4-6ft) swells and offshore winds, drawing international surfers for competition season
Dust levels are lowest of the year due to harmattan winds subsiding, making it ideal for exploring markets and outdoor activities without respiratory irritation
Sea turtle nesting season begins at Liberia beaches - February offers the best chance to witness leatherback turtles laying eggs before crowds arrive in March

Considerations

Extreme heat with temperatures feeling like 38°C (100°F) due to 78% humidity - outdoor activities become uncomfortable between 11am-4pm
Peak tourist season pricing with accommodation rates 40-60% higher than May-September, and advance booking essential for decent lodging
Frequent power outages during peak heat hours strain the electrical grid, affecting air conditioning in mid-range hotels and restaurants

Best Activities in February

Robertsport Surfing Sessions

February delivers world-class surf conditions with consistent swells and minimal rainfall. Water temperature stays warm at 26°C (79°F), and morning sessions (6-9am) offer glassy conditions before afternoon thermal winds. International surf competitions often occur mid-February, creating an energetic beach scene.

Booking Tip: Book surf guides 7-10 days ahead as February attracts international surfers. Lessons typically cost $25-40 USD per session. Look for instructors certified by local surf associations. Morning slots fill fastest - book early sessions to avoid crowds and heat.

Sapo National Park Wildlife Tracking

February's dry conditions make forest trails accessible and wildlife easier to spot near water sources. Early morning temperatures of 24°C (75°F) are perfect for chimpanzee tracking before heat peaks. Sea turtle nesting begins on park beaches, offering dual land-sea wildlife experiences unavailable other months.

Booking Tip: Reserve park permits 14 days minimum through Forestry Development Authority. Multi-day packages cost $180-250 USD including guides and camping. Choose morning departures to avoid midday heat. Ensure guides are FDA-certified for primate encounters.

Monrovia Cultural Heritage Walking Tours

Lower dust levels and brief afternoon showers make February ideal for exploring Monrovia's historical sites. Start at 7am to cover this destination, Ducor Palace ruins, and traditional markets before heat becomes oppressive. February coincides with local storytelling season when griots perform evening sessions.

Booking Tip: Book through licensed cultural guides association for $15-25 USD per person. Tours run 3-4 hours - always choose morning starts. Look for guides who speak indigenous languages and can access private historical compounds closed to independent visitors.

Firestone Plantation Historical Tours

February's clearer skies provide excellent visibility across the massive rubber plantation landscape. Cooler morning temperatures make the extensive walking tours comfortable, and February marks the peak latex collection season - offering authentic working plantation experiences rather than staged demonstrations.

Booking Tip: Tours must be arranged 5-7 days ahead through plantation visitor services, costing $30-45 USD including transportation from Monrovia. Choose full-day options departing 6am to avoid afternoon heat. Verify guide credentials for historical accuracy about plantation's complex legacy.

Kpatawee Waterfall Adventures

February's low rainfall creates perfect waterfall conditions - strong enough flow for swimming but not dangerous torrents. The 45-minute hike through forest is manageable in cooler morning temperatures, and clear skies provide excellent photography lighting for the 30m (98ft) cascade.

Booking Tip: Arrange through Bong County tourism office 3-5 days ahead, typically $20-35 USD including local guides and village fees. Depart Monrovia by 6am for cool hiking conditions. Local guides are essential for trail navigation and cultural protocols with nearby villages.

Traditional Medicine and Market Tours

February's dry season brings peak availability of medicinal plants and herbs to local markets. Traditional healers are more active during this period, and the absence of heavy rains means herbal products are at their highest quality. Market tours combined with traditional medicine education offer unique cultural insights.

Booking Tip: Book through traditional healers association for $12-20 USD per person. Tours include market visits and healing demonstrations. Schedule for early morning (6-8am) when vendors display full inventories and temperatures are tolerable. Ensure guides have cultural authority to explain sensitive practices.

February Events & Festivals

February 12

National Redemption Day

February 12th national holiday commemorating the 1980 coup with parades, cultural performances, and political speeches in central Monrovia. Streets close around Capitol Building creating festival atmosphere with traditional dancing, local food vendors, and historical reenactments.

Mid February

Liberian International Surf Championship

Mid-February brings professional surfers to Liberia for West Africa's premier surf competition. Beach festival atmosphere with live music, traditional food, and cultural performances. Best opportunity to experience Liberia's growing surf culture alongside international athletes.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Lightweight, moisture-wicking shirts in light colors - avoid cotton which stays damp in 78% humidity and takes hours to dry

High-SPF sunscreen (50+) and reapply every 90 minutes - UV index reaches dangerous level 11 with reflection off water

Insect repellent with 30% DEET minimum - February's warmth increases mosquito activity especially around dawn and dusk

Packable rain jacket for brief afternoon showers that last 15-20 minutes but can soak you completely

Electrolyte tablets or powder - you'll lose significant salt through sweat in extreme heat and humidity

Cooling towel or bandana that retains water - essential for neck cooling during midday outdoor activities

Comfortable walking sandals with good grip - many paths become slippery during brief but intense rain showers

Portable battery pack - frequent power outages during peak heat hours affect phone charging in mid-range accommodations

Wide-brimmed hat with chin strap - afternoon coastal winds can be strong enough to blow off loose hats

Quick-dry pants for forest activities - long pants protect against thorns and insects while drying fast after rain

Insider Knowledge

Local palm wine is at peak quality in February as palm trees produce most sap during dry season - best tasted fresh in morning before fermentation advances

Moneychangers offer better USD exchange rates on Bridgetown between 8-10am when daily rates reset, compared to afternoon rates that factor in volatility

Shared taxi fares double during afternoon peak heat (1-4pm) as drivers reduce frequency - schedule transportation before 11am or after 5pm for standard rates

Generator fuel becomes expensive mid-February as demand peaks with power grid strain - budget hotels may limit AC hours or charge extra for electricity

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities between 11am-4pm when heat index reaches dangerous levels - many tourists suffer heat exhaustion trying to maintain temperate climate schedules

Wearing synthetic fabrics that trap heat and moisture in 78% humidity - cotton and linen are essential despite slower drying times

Expecting consistent internet and power during peak heat hours when grid strain causes frequent outages affecting hotels, restaurants, and communication