Buchanan

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

• The beachfront

  Wide stretches of sand fringed by palms, often empty except for fishermen hauling in nets.

• The port

  The working harbour and ore pier explain why the town exists, and the ships offshore are a constant presence.

• Town market

  A lively place to see local life, with fish, fruit, palm oil and colourful lappa cloth.

Things to do

• 

  Eat fresh fish

  Order the day's catch grilled with pepper sauce at a simple beachside spot.

• 

  Walk the coast

  Early mornings are cool and good for long beach walks, though swimming can be dangerous because of strong currents.

• 

  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 Beachfront

• Town 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

• HotelsBooking.com
• Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
• FlightsKiwi.com
• Attraction ticketsTiqets
• Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
• Flight and hotel dealslastminute.com
• Car hireAuto Europe
• Adventure travel insuranceWorld Nomads
• Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
• GuidebooksAmazon

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Guide last checked October 2026. Opening times and prices change, so check before you go.

More city guides for Liberia

• Monrovia

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