Sapo National Park

Sapo National Park is the largest protected area in Liberia and the country’s only national park. At more than 697 square miles, it’s also the second-largest area of primary tropical rainforest in West Africa. Highly regarded as one of the most beautiful spaces in Liberia, the park is also home to some of Africa’s most endangered species.

Visiting Sapo can be difficult, as there are few roads or trails within the park. It also doesn’t help there are plenty of things in there that could kill you. However, with an experienced guide you’ll find Sapo is an intriguing, and stunning, piece of land. It’s not uncommon to come face to face with rare creatures like the pygmy hippopotamus and the zebra duiker. The region is also home to the West African elephant, though you don’t want to get too close to one of them.

The park is suffering from deforestation, but still houses an extraordinary amount of unique plant species. Be careful where you tread, as there’s something endangered around every corner. The park itself is a good mix of swampy marshland and dry, riparian forests. The tropical climate means it can get swelteringly hot in the summer months, so come prepared with proper clothing that keeps you cool but protects your legs.

Through trekking through Sapo National Park was a bit of a chore, and I’ve probably never seen so many mosquitoes in my life, I still found the region incredibly beautiful and diverse. It’s certainly worth a trip if you’re nearby, but absolutely do not attempt to wander through without a guide.