Monrovia - Things to Do in Monrovia in July

Monrovia in July

July weather, activities, events & insider tips

July Weather in Monrovia

80°C (176°F) High Temp
73°C (163°F) Low Temp
510 mm (20.1 inches) Rainfall
85% Humidity

Is July Right for You?

Advantages

  • Lush green landscapes at their absolute peak - the 510 mm (20.1 inches) of July rainfall transforms Monrovia into a verdant tropical great destination with waterfalls at maximum flow
  • Significantly fewer tourists mean authentic local experiences and better prices - hotel rates drop 30-40% compared to dry season peaks
  • Perfect mango season with over 15 local varieties available at Waterside Market, plus seasonal specialties like palm butter soup that locals prepare specifically during rains
  • Cultural immersion opportunities as July coincides with traditional storytelling season when elders gather during evening rains to share Liberian folklore

Considerations

  • Heavy afternoon downpours lasting 2-4 hours daily make outdoor planning challenging - roads flood regularly and power outages occur 3-4 times per week
  • High humidity at 85% combined with temperatures of 80°C (176°F) creates exhausting conditions that require frequent indoor breaks and extra hydration
  • Many coastal activities are restricted due to rough Atlantic swells reaching 3-4 m (10-13 ft) and limited boat operations to islands

Best Activities in July

Providence Island Historical Tours

July's calmer winds make boat access to this freed slave settlement site more reliable than other rainy months. The island's historical significance as the first landing point of freed American slaves in 1822 is enhanced by dramatic storm clouds and lush vegetation. Morning departures avoid afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Book morning slots (8am-11am) through licensed boat operators at Mesurado River pier. Tours typically cost USD 25-40 per person including guide. See current options in booking section below.

Sapo National Park Rainforest Experiences

July showcases Sapo's primary rainforest at its most spectacular with cascading waterfalls and active wildlife. The 1,804 sq km (697 sq miles) park offers the best primate viewing during rainy season as animals concentrate near water sources. Covered walkways protect from downpours.

Booking Tip: Book 2-week advance with park-certified guides through Forestry Development Authority. Multi-day packages range USD 180-320 including accommodation. Weather delays possible - build flexibility into itinerary.

Traditional Craft Workshop Tours

July's indoor focus makes this perfect timing for learning traditional Liberian crafts. Local artisans in Sinkor and Congo Town offer intensive workshops in kente weaving, wood carving, and pottery during rainy afternoons. Sessions run 2-4 hours with take-home pieces.

Booking Tip: Contact workshops directly through cultural centers or hotels. Sessions typically cost USD 15-30 per person including materials. No advance booking required - perfect for rainy day backup plans.

Firestone Plantation Historical Tours

The world's largest rubber plantation takes on different character during rainy season with active tapping operations visible. July tours include rubber processing demonstrations and workers' village visits. Covered transport provided during the 2-hour tours covering 480 km (300 miles) of plantation roads.

Booking Tip: Book through Firestone Liberia company office 3-5 days ahead. Tours cost USD 20-35 per person including transportation from Monrovia. Operates rain or shine with covered vehicles.

Waterside Market Food Discovery

July brings peak season for tropical fruits and traditional rainy season dishes. The covered market sections offer shelter while sampling seasonal specialties like cassava bread, palm wine, and fresh coconut water. Best selection occurs 7am-11am before afternoon storms.

Booking Tip: Self-guided exploration or hire local food guides for USD 10-20 per person. Bring small bills - most purchases under USD 5. Market operates daily with reduced afternoon hours during heavy rains.

Ducor Palace Hotel Rooftop Experiences

The abandoned luxury hotel offers dramatic views of Monrovia's coastline during July's spectacular thunderstorms. While the building remains closed for renovation, guided historical tours of the grounds reveal 1960s glamour and civil war history with Atlantic Ocean backdrop.

Booking Tip: Book through licensed tour operators offering historical walking tours. Cost typically USD 12-25 per person for 90-minute experience. Safety equipment provided - wear closed shoes for uneven surfaces.

July Events & Festivals

July 26th (main celebration) with events throughout late July

Independence Day Celebrations

July 26th marks Liberia's Independence Day with parades, cultural performances, and traditional foods. Despite rainy weather, celebrations continue with covered venues and shortened outdoor ceremonies. Traditional county dress competitions and historical reenactments occur throughout the month.

Essential Tips

What to Pack

Waterproof hiking boots - essential for navigating flooded streets and muddy paths during daily 2-4 hour downpours
Quick-dry synthetic clothing - cotton stays wet for hours in 85% humidity; synthetic fabrics dry within 30-60 minutes
Heavy-duty umbrella plus lightweight rain poncho - double protection needed for intense tropical downpours exceeding 25 mm (1 inch) per hour
Waterproof phone case and document pouch - electronics fail quickly in extreme humidity and sudden storms
Antifungal powder and extra underwear - essential for preventing skin issues in constant moisture and heat
Insect repellent with 30% DEET minimum - standing water increases mosquito populations dramatically in July
Electrolyte supplements or oral rehydration salts - critical for replacing minerals lost through constant sweating
Flip-flops or water sandals - for walking through flooded areas and quick removal when entering buildings
Lightweight long sleeves for evening - protection from insects and air conditioning in indoor venues
Plastic bags for dirty/wet clothes - keeps clean items dry during frequent clothing changes

Insider Knowledge

Power outages occur 3-4 times weekly during July storms - restaurants and businesses often close unexpectedly, so always have backup dining options and portable phone chargers
Shared taxis (USD 0.50-1.00) become scarce during afternoon rains - negotiate private taxi rates (USD 8-15 per hour) in advance or stay near your accommodation during peak storm hours (2pm-6pm)
ATMs frequently malfunction due to humidity and power issues - withdraw maximum amounts when machines are working and keep USD cash as backup since many businesses revert to cash-only during outages
Local 'pepper soup' and ginger tea are traditional remedies locals use to combat July humidity and prevent illness - available at most restaurants for USD 2-4 and genuinely effective for comfort

Avoid These Mistakes

Scheduling outdoor activities after 1pm - afternoon storms begin around 2pm and last 2-4 hours with flooding that makes transportation impossible
Packing only light rain gear designed for brief showers - July storms are intense tropical downpours requiring serious waterproof protection
Assuming indoor venues have reliable air conditioning - power outages are frequent, so choose accommodations with backup generators and natural ventilation

Activities in Monrovia