In this Libya travel guide, we will introduce you to some of the things to do in Libya as well as the best tourist attractions in Libya. Libya is a country with a rich and diverse history, culture and natural beauty, but also one that faces many challenges and risks due to the ongoing civil war. Travel to Libya is not advised at the moment, but we hope that this guide will inspire you to visit this amazing land once it is safe and stable again.
One of the main reasons to visit Libya is its incredible ancient sites, which are among the finest Roman and Greek ruins in existence. You can explore the magnificent city of Leptis Magna, which was once one of the most prosperous and powerful cities in the Roman Empire, or admire the stunning temples, theatres and tombs of Cyrene, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that was founded by the Greeks in the 7th century BC. Another impressive site is Sabratha, which boasts a well-preserved theatre, basilica and museum.
But Libya is not only about ancient history. It also has some of the most beautiful corners of the Sahara Desert, where you can experience the magic and mystery of this vast and diverse landscape. You can visit the Ubari Sand Sea, a sea of sand dunes that covers an area the size of Switzerland and shelters palm-fringed lakes and oases. You can also discover the Jebel Acacus, a remote mountain range that is adorned with prehistoric rock art depicting animals, humans and scenes of life. Or you can venture to the Wawa al-Namus, an isolated black volcano that rises from the desert floor and creates a striking contrast with the surrounding sand.
If you are looking for more urban and cultural experiences, you can visit some of the charming and historic towns and cities in Libya. One of them is Ghadames, a labyrinthine caravan town that dates back to the 5th century BC and is known as the «pearl of the desert». Here you can wander through the narrow alleys, admire the whitewashed houses and enjoy the hospitality of the local people. Another option is Tripoli, the capital and largest city of Libya, where you can explore the old medina, shop in the rose-scented souks, visit the impressive mosques and museums, and sample some of the delicious Libyan cuisine.
Libya also offers some surprises for those who are looking for more adventurous activities. You can go diving in the Mediterranean Sea and discover some of the best coral reefs and shipwrecks in Africa. You can also enjoy some nightlife in Libya, especially in Benghazi, where you can find some bars, clubs and cafes that cater to locals and foreigners alike.
As you can see, there are many things to see and do in Libya, but you also need to be aware of some Libya travel tips before you plan your trip. First of all, you need to know that travel to Libya is currently very dangerous and difficult due to the civil war that has been raging since 2014. You should not travel to Libya unless you have a very compelling reason and you are fully prepared for the risks involved. You should also check the latest travel advice from your government and follow their recommendations.
Secondly, you need to know that travel to Libya requires a visa that is not easy to obtain. You need to have an invitation letter from a Libyan sponsor or tour operator, as well as a valid passport, proof of funds, health insurance and yellow fever vaccination certificate. You also need to register with the local authorities upon arrival and follow their rules and regulations.
Thirdly, you need to know that travel in Libya is not very comfortable or convenient. You should expect poor infrastructure, unreliable transportation, limited accommodation options, frequent power cuts, water shortages and internet censorship. You should also be prepared for cultural differences, language barriers, conservative dress codes and religious sensitivities.
Finally, you need to know that travel in Libya is not cheap. You should budget for high costs of flights, visas, tours, guides, drivers, security escorts, entrance fees and tips. You should also bring enough cash in US dollars or euros, as credit cards are not widely accepted and ATMs are scarce.
We hope that this Libya travel guide has given you some useful information and insights into this fascinating but troubled country. We hope that one day soon Libya will be able to overcome its difficulties and welcome visitors with open arms. Until then, we invite you to keep dreaming of this amazing destination and its wonderful people.
