Just landed - wondering what gives the better rate in Liberia: ATM withdrawal or airport exchange counter?
For travelers, definitely avoid the airport exchange counter in Liberia unless you need a small amount to get by. ATMs from big banks like Ecobank are more reliable and offer much better rates even after ATM fees. Make sure your card is set up for international use before landing.
ATMs in Monrovia, especially at Ecobank and UBA, offer way better rates than airport exchange counters. Withdraw bigger amounts there if you can, because the airport kiosk’s poor rate plus extra commission can cost you a lot. Just watch ATM availability during weekends - sometimes they run dry.
Ivy and I landed recently and quickly learned that ATMs are your best friend in Liberia. The airport exchange is convenient for small amounts but charges crazy fees and has poor rates. Use the UBA or Ecobank ATMs downtown for better currency conversion rates.
Just landed in Monrovia and honestly, the airport exchange counter’s rates were way worse than the ATMs at Ecobank and United Bank for Africa. I used my Visa card at Ecobank ATM and even with the withdrawal fee, I got more Liberian dollars for my money. The airport rates feel like a big rip-off.