Buchanan
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At a glance
- Country
- Liberia
- Region
- Grand Bassa County
- Population
- 35,000
- Best time to go
- November to April
- Main airport
- None — nearest is Roberts International (ROB)
- Coordinates
- 5.88°N, 10.05°W
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Overview
Buchanan is Liberia's third city and the capital of Grand Bassa County, a port town best known for shipping iron ore from the mines inland. Tourism is very low-key, and that is much of the appeal.
Expect long, mostly empty beaches, fishing canoes pulled up on the sand and an unhurried pace after the noise of Monrovia. Facilities are basic, so come for a quiet couple of days by the sea rather than for sights.
Things to see
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The beachfront
Wide stretches of sand fringed by palms, often empty except for fishermen hauling in nets.
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The port
The working harbour and ore pier explain why the town exists, and the ships offshore are a constant presence.
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Town market
A lively place to see local life, with fish, fruit, palm oil and colourful lappa cloth.
Things to do
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Photo: T.K. Naliaka, CC BY-SA 4.0 Eat fresh fish
Order the day's catch grilled with pepper sauce at a simple beachside spot.
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Photo: blk24ga, CC BY 3.0 Walk the coast
Early mornings are cool and good for long beach walks, though swimming can be dangerous because of strong currents.
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Photo: Erik Cleves Kristensen, CC BY 2.0 Stop on the road from Monrovia
The drive passes rubber plantations and roadside villages, a good look at rural Liberia.
Where to stay
Beachfront
A handful of simple guesthouses and hotels close to the sea, best for a quiet stay.
Hotels in BeachfrontTown centre
Handy for the market and transport, with basic lodging.
Hotels in Town centre
Getting around
The town is small; walk or use motorbike taxis for short hops, agreeing fares first. Hiring a car and driver is the most comfortable way to arrive and explore.
Buchanan is roughly three hours by road south-east of Monrovia, and the drive from Roberts International is a little shorter.
When to go
Visit in the dry season from November to April, when the roads are easier and the beaches sunny. From May to October the rains are heavy and travel slows down.
Plan your trip to Buchanan
Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.