Libya Travel Specialists
Our Libya specialists are experienced and passionate about the country - between them they have spent many weeks a year researching new experiences and ensuring everything is of the highest standard. They know Libya inside out.
SarahLibya Specialist01993 838 409
Pack sturdy shoes for your Libya trip - the going can be uneven at the archaeological sites.
Libya travel specialist - Sarah
Practical Information
Tourism may have taken off in Libya in the last two or three years, but it is still very much in its infancy. However, thanks to strong Italian links there is a good amount of experience around and things will certainly improve.
Traditionally people have travelled to Libya on organised group tours partly because visas were until recently only available for groups rather than individuals. We provide both group and individual travel to Libya.
Exploring Libya
Individual travel, particularly to the desert, is more expensive as the cost of guides and 4×4 vehicles is being shared by fewer people. However individual travel does offer the greatest flexibility and the best chance to bond with those Libyans accompanying you on your trip.
Travel is either by coach, minibus, saloon car or 4WD and you will always have at least a driver and a guide with you. For trips to the desert there will also be a cook.
Language
Arabic, the official language of Libya, however, if you do have any knowledge of Egyptian or Tunisian Arabic, you may find yourself understood, particularly in the border regions. All of the guides and representatives who deal with you will speak reasonable or good English.
Tipping
If you wish to tip your guide, you may do so in Libyan dinars, US$ or £ Sterling. Tipping is discretionary: it is an accepted part of culture but please do not feel obliged to tip to these guidelines if you felt the service was substandard. Please remember that many of the staff in hotels and restaurants are foreign workers (most of them Tunisian and Egyptian) and may come from countries where tipping is more widespread than in Libya. Small amounts for service, porterage and housekeeping will be greatly appreciated.
Social
Etiquette is essential to consider in Arab countries; on the whole Libya and her neighbours are deeply conservative countries and it is important (and sometimes a legal requirement) to conform. The more respect you offer the local culture (particularly regarding dress) the more respect you'll receive and the warmer your welcome will be. Women should wear garments which cover their upper arms and their legs at least to their knees. Both men and women are expected to dress conservatively in public places. Jeans are acceptable clothing for both men and women. When taking photographs of locals, especially women, always ask permission first. Taking photographs of military establishments is not allowed. Non Muslims are not allowed to enter Mosques (with one or two notable exceptions). During Ramadan, do not eat, smoke or drink in public.
Under The Skin
Read
Hisham Matar's novel 'In the Country of Men' was nominated for several literary awards in 2006 and provides a searing account of a child's life in Tripoli during the 1970s and 1980s under Gadaffi's regime. It is wise to read this book either before or after visiting Libya.'The Green Book' is Gadaffi's own take on government and society, and is utterly ubiquitous in Libya.
Listen
Libya doesn't really have unique music, but wondering around Tripoli you will find many small shops selling hundreds of cassettes of all manner of Arab music and the proprietors will be more than happy to give you an introduction and some suggestions.
Watch
Michael Palin's 'Sahara' took in several countries in North Africa, including Libya. Although he stopped there only briefly, the episode has some good scenes of the classical sites and Benghazi as well as a visit of Tobruk.
Eat
Like all the Maghrebi countries, Libya's staple dish is couscous with a vegetable or lamb stew. Occasionally you'll find a really good fish tajine, and should you go on a desert expedition, the fresh salads whipped up by your support crew will probably be the best meals you have in Libya.
Drink
Libya is perhaps more notable for the absence of drink - as alcohol is prohibited throughout the country!
Word
Baraka llahu fik (Blessings of God be upon you/ Thank you!.
Trademarks
Gadaffi, Roman cities, desert, rock-art, off-the-beaten track.
Pottery, carpets, spices, silks, jewellery.
Other countries in North Africa & the Middle East:
EgyptIranJordanLebanonMoroccoOmanSyriaTunisia