Monrovia Roberts Layover Guide (ROB)

What are you looking for in ROB?
Tours/To do | Relax/Sleep | Internet/SIM | Transport | Storage | Money

Monrovia Airport (ROB) is an international airport located in Harbel, Liberia. It’s situated about 56 km (35 miles) from downtown Monrovia. The airport officially opened in 1944. Monrovia is the capital and largest city of Liberia, serving as the country’s political, economic, and cultural hub. It’s known for its vibrant markets, coastal views, and historical significance, offering visitors a glimpse into Liberia’s rich heritage and a growing urban experience.

Can you leave Monrovia Airport (ROB) airport during a layover? Do you need a visa?
You may exit Roberts International Airport during a layover if you clear immigration. Most travelers require an entry visa, obtainable as an e-Visa on Arrival via Liberia’s official portal, except ECOWAS citizens who travel visa-free. Ensure your passport is valid for six months. Apply at least seven days before departure. (more info).

Tours, Things to do, Sightseeing

Layover Guide Organized Tours

Layover Guide Things to do / Sightseeing

• Providence Island Historic site on Mesurado River, first landing point of freed slaves, offering scenic views and cultural insight into Monrovia’s origins. Visitors can explore ruins, plaques and enjoy artisanal crafts sold by locals. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi (~1 h) from Roberts International Airport)
• Liberian National Museum Contemporary museum housing artifacts, photographs and exhibitions highlighting Liberia’s history, culture and traditions, with guided tours explaining indigenous art and post-independence developments. It offers interactive displays and educational programs for history enthusiasts. (Time required: 1–2 hours / Airport to here: Taxi (~45 min) from Roberts International Airport)
• Waterside Market Lively waterfront market teeming with traders selling fresh fish, produce, crafts and textiles amid colorful stalls. Experience authentic Liberian commerce, street food snacks and vibrant atmosphere. Locals frequent for daily groceries and souvenirs. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi (~1 h) from Roberts International Airport)
• Centennial Pavilion Iconic historic pavilion overlooking Monrovia’s harbor, built in 1947 to commemorate Liberia’s centenary. Photogenic spot ideal for panoramic photos, relaxing walks and people-watching. Local vendors offer cold drinks and snacks nearby. (Time required: 30 minutes / Airport to here: Taxi (~1 h) from Roberts International Airport)
• Ducor Palace Hotel Ruins Abandoned mid-20th century luxury hotel overlooking Monrovia, offering atmospheric ruins and stunning city views. Guides narrate its glamorous past and wartime decline. Thrill-seekers and urban explorers find its corridors captivating. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi (~1 h) from Roberts International Airport)
• DuPont Park Popular urban park in Sinkor district featuring shaded paths, playgrounds, open lawns and soccer fields. Ideal for picnics, leisurely strolls and observing local daily life. Street vendors sell snacks and fresh juice at entrances. (Time required: 1 hour / Airport to here: Taxi (~1 h) from Roberts International Airport)
• Monrovia City Tour by Taxi Guided city sightseeing tour covering historic neighborhoods, colonial architecture, bustling markets and landmarks while learning about local culture, politics and urban development from knowledgeable drivers. Customize stops based on layover duration and interests. (Time required: 2–3 hours / Airport to here: Taxi pick‐up at Roberts International Airport)
• The Village Restaurant & Brewery Charming eatery offering traditional Liberian dishes such as jollof rice, chicken pepper soup and banana beer alongside continental options in a cozy, vibrant atmosphere with live music nights. Perfect for a leisurely meal during brief stays. (Time required: 1–1.5 hours / Airport to here: Taxi (~45 min) from Roberts International Airport)

Things to Do in Monrovia Airport (ROB)

Relaxing and Sleeping

Airport Lounges and Relaxing
Monrovia’s Roberts International has no dedicated public VIP lounges, though select airlines offer small, invitation-only spaces for premium passengers. General seating areas feature basic chairs and scattered power outlets. Travelers seeking comfort can purchase day-pass access to nearby private lounges just outside the terminal. » view all lounges or buy a lounge pass or membership online

Hotel and Sleeping
Several hotels lie within a ten-minute drive of Roberts International, including mid-range and upscale options offering airport shuttles. Popular picks include the Bella Casa, Kakata Grand, and Palm Farm. All provide 24-hour reception, onsite dining, and shuttle transfers. Advance booking is recommended to secure airport pick-up services. view all or book an airport hotel online

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Rest Area and Sleeping in Airport
Inside the terminal, travelers will find limited bench seating without armrests and a few cushioned chairs near departure gates. There is no designated quiet or sleeping zone. Floorspace is generally clean but hard; many visitors bring travel pillows and blankets. Overnight stays are tolerated, though security patrols resume early each morning.

WIFI/Internet and SIM Card

WIFI/Internet: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout Roberts International: connect to “RIA_Free_WiFi,” enter your email address, and enjoy up to 30 minutes of complimentary access. For extended browsing, premium packages can be purchased at the information desk. Mobile signal is strong, with 4G coverage from all major Liberian carriers.

SIM/eSIM Card: Upon arrival, you can purchase local SIM cards from Lonestar, Orange, and Novafone kiosks in the arrivals hall. Bring your passport for registration. eSIM packages are offered by major providers and can be arranged online before you travel. Data bundles start at 1 GB for 15 USD, valid for one month. » buy a global esim card for Layover Guide, that you can use for other countries as well!

Transportation to/from airport

Taxi: Metered taxis queue just outside the arrivals terminal. Fares to central Monrovia average 50–70 USD, payable in US dollars. All vehicles are privately operated; negotiate and confirm the rate before departure. Ride-hailing services are unreliable, so it’s best to use official airport taxis to ensure safety and fixed pricing.

Train: There is no rail link serving Roberts International. All trips to Monrovia and beyond must be by road transport. more info

Bus: Public buses and shared taxis depart hourly from a stop adjacent to the arrivals exit, heading to downtown Monrovia for around 5 USD. Buses fill up quickly; luggage is stored on roof racks. more info

Shuttle: Many nearby hotels provide free airport shuttle services for guests; schedules vary and require advance reservation. Private shuttle companies also operate shared-ride vans to Monrovia hotels, costing about 20 USD per person. Booking desks for these vans are located next to the taxi stand.

Car rentals: International and local car-rental firms—including Avis, Hertz, and Mano River—maintain counters inside the arrivals hall. Booking in advance is recommended. Drivers must be at least 25, hold an international driver’s license, and provide a credit card deposit. Vehicles include SUVs and sedans with optional driver hire. view available cars or rent a car now online

Parking: Roberts International offers short-term parking close to the terminal and a larger long-term lot about 200 m away. Rates start at 2 USD per hour or 20 USD per day. Both lots are paved and patrolled by security, though overnight stays should be arranged in advance for guaranteed space.

Luggage Storage & Lockers

The airport has no automated locker facility. For bag storage, travelers can request short-term hold services at the main information desk in the terminal for around 10 USD per bag per day. Hotels near the airport also offer luggage storage for guests, often complimentary. » book a luggage storage or locker at online (subject to availability).

Money Exchange and Withdrawal

- Monrovia Airport (ROB) ATMs, currency exchanges and banks