Plizio Visual Lab

Putu Range Forest

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Forest

Weather…

The Putu Range Forest, located in the Grand Gedeh County of southeastern Liberia, is recognized as a critical biodiversity hotspot within the Upper Guinean forest ecosystem. Rising above the surrounding lowlands, this mountain range acts as a biological island, hosting a dense cover of primary rainforest that is home to several globally threatened species. It is one of the few remaining strongholds for the elusive pygmy hippopotamus and provides a vital habitat for significant populations of Western chimpanzees, forest elephants, and Diana monkeys. The botanical diversity is equally impressive, with a high degree of endemism among its vascular plants and ancient tree species. The forest plays a crucial role in regional carbon sequestration and serves as a vital watershed for the surrounding communities. However, the area faces significant conservation challenges due to its rich iron ore deposits, which have attracted large-scale mining interests. Efforts by international and local conservationists continue to advocate for the protection of this unique wilderness to ensure its survival as one of West Africa's most important natural sanctuaries.

Location: Liberia
Nearby: Blay (16 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	27	27	27	26	25	24	24	25	25	26	26
Rain mm	39	72	120	137	206	279	145	164	221	232	134	71

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Reaching this ecologically isolated habitat involves navigating difficult eastern rural routes, always requiring the coordination of local guides from base communities.

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Best season

Dry season travel is essential; torrential rains make the isolated dirt roads completely impassable and obscure the unique flora beneath swollen streams.

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Terrain & paths

Expect a mix of rising slopes and profoundly thick vegetation where trails are often barely discernible, demanding constant physical exertion to push through.

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What to bring

Arm yourself with serious wilderness survival gear, heavy-duty trekking boots, lightweight long clothing for scratch protection, and potent insect repellent.

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Parking

Transport must generally be left in a designated larger settlement on the perimeter, as the dense range interior does not permit vehicular traffic.

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Safety

Because the region holds isolated wildlife populations, visitors must tread carefully, strictly follow their guide's advice, and maintain a respectful distance.

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Time needed

To truly appreciate this vital habitat, trekkers generally embark on multi-day journeys spanning 3 to 5 days deep into the forested hills.

Geography

Coordinates

5.65000, -8.60000

Facts

Maximum elevation: 600 m.
Annual rainfall: 3,200 mm.
Iron ore reserves: estimated 4 billion tons.
Endemic bird species: Putu warbler (Phylloscopus putuensis).
Community forest area: 200 km².
Threat: planned open-pit iron ore mining.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Mount Putu12 km · NExplore →

Blay16 km · NEExplore →

Sapo National Park20 km · WExplore →

Putu Forest23 km · NExplore →

Gbo35 km · EExplore →

Krahn-Bassa Hills35 km · SEExplore →

Mount Gbo40 km · SEExplore →

Grand Gedeh Plateau40 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Where is the Putu Range Forest located?

In southeastern Liberia, in Grand Gedeh County, in a hilly mountain region.

What is the economic importance of the region?

The Putu Range contains large iron ore deposits, favoring mining plans.

Are there rare birds there?

Yes, the forest is known for its rich avifauna, including several endemic species.

What is the terrain like?

Steep and forested, making access and exploration difficult.

Is the forest protected?

There are efforts to designate parts of the range as a protected area to preserve biodiversity.

Putu Range Forest: where is it located?

Putu Range Forest is located in Liberia.

Putu Range Forest: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.

Putu Range Forest: why is it worth visiting?

The Putu Range Forest, located in the Grand Gedeh County of southeastern Liberia, is recognized as a critical biodiversity hotspot within the Upper Guinean forest ecosystem.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →