Libya

Known as the gateway to the Mediterranean Sahara and sitting at the historical crossroads where ancient coastal empires meet the vast, sweeping sands of Africa’s interior, Libya is fiercely proud all the while being one of the most profoundly hospitable countries you will visit.

Libya is also blessed with some of the most jaw-dropping ancient architecture and arguably the most stunningly diverse desert landscapes the world over. The Sahara here is a masterpiece of nature, stretching from the monumental, windswept sand seas of the Ubari, where vibrant, saltwater lakes are framed by towering dunes, to the surreal, black volcanic craters of Waw an Namus. Beyond the sands, its history is etched into the landscape, from the imperial marble grandeur of Leptis Magna facing the sea, to the prehistoric rock art hidden deep within the Akakus Mountains, and everything in between.

These beautiful destinations attract a niche crowd of travelers inside Libya’s borders, but it’s the human connection that leaves its mark on most travelers. Sharing a strong cup of Libyan coffee in the intricate, mudbrick labyrinth of Ghadames (the “Pearl of the Sahara”), hearing the multi-generational stories of Tuareg guides under a canopy of desert stars, and navigating the vast emptiness of the deep south with people who know the sands like the back of their hand: this is Libya.

It’s undeniable that Libya has a complex and turbulent past, rocked by political upheaval and centuries of conquest. Many an empire has left an indelible mark on its soil, from the Phoenicians and Romans on the coast to the ancient Garamantes who mastered the Saharan trade routes, right through to the modern conflicts of the recent decade.

Travelers intrepid enough to make the journey to Libya will be greatly rewarded with incredible adventures and a warmth from the local people that knows no bounds. That said, travel in Libya, especially deep into the remote Sahara, doesn’t come without inherent security complexities, strict entry logistics, and changing local conditions.

Still want to visit Libya? Get in contact about arranging a private expedition in the country or check out the group departures we have on offer.