Things To Do
in Voinjama
Voinjama is the capital of Liberia's Lofa County, set among rolling hills and lush forest in the northwestern part of the country. It functions as a regional market and cultural hub for surrounding communities, with a strong sense of community and resilience. Daily life revolves around the market, churches, schools, and small family-run businesses.
Visitors can experience rural Liberian hospitality, watch traditional crafts being made, and explore nearby natural scenery unique to this corner of Liberia.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Voinjama Cultural Center, where local artists and historians share insights about the rich traditions of the Lofa County. Engage in interactive workshops that showcase traditional crafts and songs. Be sure to try some authentic Liberian breakfast dishes from nearby eateries.
Spend your afternoon strolling through the bustling markets of Voinjama, where vibrant colors and lively conversations fill the air. Sample local produce and handmade goods while interacting with friendly vendors. Experience the local vibe and find unique souvenirs to take home.
As the sun sets, enjoy a communal dinner with local families in a traditional setting. Learn about the diverse flavors of Liberian cuisine while sharing stories with your hosts. End your evening by participating in a local dance or music session that reflects the cultural spirit of Voinjama.
Embark on a morning hike in the surrounding hills, taking in the breathtaking views of the lush landscapes and local flora. Listen to the sounds of nature and look out for unique bird species endemic to the area. Capture stunning photographs of the panoramic vistas.
After your hike, head to a nearby river for a relaxing afternoon of fishing or swimming. Engage with local fishermen to learn their techniques and even catch your own dinner. Enjoy a picnic by the riverside, surrounded by nature's tranquility.
Gather around a campfire in the evening, sharing stories and enjoying the stars above. Consider preparing your catch from earlier or sharing a meal with new friends you've made during the day. This cozy gathering will create lasting memories and connections.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-8 |
| 🏨1 night in a budget hotel | $20-40 |
| 💧Bottle of water (1.5 L) | $0.50-1 |
| 🚕Taxi ride (1 km) | $1-2 |
| 🍽️Meal for two at a mid-range restaurant | $25-45 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Warm, welcoming people and strong sense of community
- Rich rural scenery and authentic local experiences
- Generally lower costs and fewer crowds than major cities
- Opportunity to learn about traditional crafts and culture
- Limited infrastructure and occasional travel delays
- Fewer accommodation options and basic amenities
- Healthcare facilities may be limited in town
- Longer travel times to major cities for some services
- "How you dey?" - How are you?
- "Tenki" - Thank you
- "Wey na market?" - Where is the market?
- "Abeg, plis help me" - Please, help me
- "Wetin be your name?" - What is your name?
Places to Visit in Voinjama
Visit one of these nice places.
Colorful stalls, early-morning light, and active trading make for vibrant, candid street photography.
Elevated viewpoints provide sweeping vistas of the town and surrounding forested hills, ideal for landscape photography at golden hour.
Riverside scenes with locals fishing and kids playing; captures daily life and serene water reflections.
Food in Voinjama
Voinjama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Pounded cassava (fufu) served with a rich, coconut-palm butter soup, often including fish or meat.
Must-Try!
A thick peanut-based stew cooked with vegetables and sometimes meat, typically eaten with rice.
A spiced tomato-based rice dish cooked with vegetables and meat, commonly served with fried plantains on the side.
A green leaf stew made from cassava leaves, cooked with palm oil, sometimes with fish or meat, and served with rice.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Primary local market where you can sample fresh produce, dried fish, cassava products, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Sidewalk and stall vendors offering grilled fish, fried plantains, beans, and other quick Liberian meals.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet elders first with a smile and a handshake. Use polite forms of address and show respect in conversations.
Cover shoulders and knees in most public spaces; avoid provocative attire in more traditional communities.
Ask permission before photographing people, particularly in villages or private spaces.
Refer to people by their titles where applicable; avoid loud public debates in markets and places of worship.
Safety
Tipping in Voinjama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. In restaurants, round up the bill or leave 5-10% if service is good. For guides, drivers, and hotel staff, small tips (a few dollars) are common for quality service.
Cash is widely used (Liberian dollar and US dollars). Carry small denominations for markets and street vendors. Cards are rarely accepted in small towns; agree on prices in advance for large purchases or services.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Nov-Feb is typically dry and cooler; days are sunny and skies often clear. Roads are drier but can be dusty; breathable clothing and sunscreen are essential. Water and insect repellent remain important for evening outdoor activities. Expect more reliable outdoor movement but limited rainfall for lush green views.
Mar-Oct brings heavier rainfall and humid conditions; expect muddy trails and occasional road closures after heavy rain. Lush vegetation is at its peak, offering rich photo opportunities but more mosquitoes. Pack waterproof gear, quick-dry clothing, and a compact umbrella. Rivers may rise, affecting some crossings or short trips.
Apr-May and Sep-Oct can feature variable weather with sudden showers and sunny spells. Conditions are good for hiking but carry rain gear. Mosquito activity remains high; use repellent in the evenings. These periods can be excellent for avoiding peak crowds while still enjoying interesting scenery.
Voinjama at Night
Hiking in Voinjama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A forested ridge area offering scenic views, wildlife sightings, and opportunities for short to moderate hikes near the town.
Riverside trail with gentle elevation changes, ideal for a relaxed day hike and photography.
Airports
How to reach Voinjama by plane.
Liberia's main international gateway; international flights and domestic connections. From Monrovia, road or domestic flights can link to Voinjama when available.
A small, local airstrip serving limited charter flights. Availability varies; best to confirm schedules with local operators.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant groups include Kpelle and related Lofa County communities, with a mix of other groups such as Lorma and Mano in the surrounding areas. Liberian English is widely spoken, alongside local languages in daily life.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Liberia, with community matches and informal play in towns like Voinjama.
Common in schools and local gatherings; informal games are a social staple in the evenings.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Voinjama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist in many kitchens as bean dishes, greens, cassava-based meals, and peanut stews. Ask for vegetables cooked without meat or fish and request palm oil-free or light-oil preparations when needed.