Libya, in North Africa, is a giant country (1 676 198 km²) with a population of only around 8 million people on the Mediterranean coast. The capital, Tripoli, is located on the coast in the north-west of the country. The country gained independence from Italian rule in 1947 and the official language is Arabic. English is spoken to some extent. Libya is an oil and gas producing country, which has traditionally resulted in one of the highest GDPs and living standards in Africa. However, the civil war that started with the Arab Spring and has since ended has caused difficulties for oil production. Tourism is almost non-existent.
Climate: Libya's climate is characterised by the Sahara desert, which has an increasing influence on temperatures, especially in summer. From October to March, the northern part of the country receives rainfall and the climate is similar to that of the Mediterranean. January and February are the coolest months in the north, with temperatures of around +10−15°C. Tripoli receives about 380 mm of rain per year. Summers (especially July and August) are hot even in the north, with daytime temperatures regularly reaching around +30°C.
Libya's interior has a dry desert climate and in many places rainfall is very low, even from November to January, when the interior receives most of the rainfall. For example, the inland oasis of Sabha receives only about 10 mm of rain per year. Temperatures range from around +10°C in January to over +30°C in July.
Security: The security situation in Libya is variable and travel is very limited. Independent travel is not possible and the government requires the presence of a guide and a separate tourist police officer everywhere. At present, Tripoli and its surrounding areas (including Leptis Magna and Sabratha) are safe, as are Ghadames and the Ghat and desert areas around it. The Ubari Lakes areas have also opened up to tourism as the security situation has improved.
Everywhere in the country, it is advisable to leave valuables at the hotel, as there are pickpockets in the crowd. Traffic and heat are also risk factors. If you want to take photographs, you must ask permission.
Visa: Westerners need a visa to enter Libya. The easiest way is to apply for an e-visa, which takes between less than 24 hours and two weeks to process. If you wish, we can apply for an e-visa for you at cost price. Please note that visa policies change frequently and without notice. The passport must be valid for the duration of your stay. The passport must not contain any record of visits to Israel.
Currency: Libya uses the dinar (LYD) as its currency. You should take dollars or euro banknotes with you and exchange them at your destination or withdraw them from an ATM. You should be prepared for the possibility that foreign cards will not be accepted at ATMs.
Vaccinations and malaria: No vaccinations are required, but please ensure that your basic vaccinations are up to date.
Travel insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance is recommended. We also recommend checking with your insurance company that your insurance is valid in Libya.
