Destination:
Libya

Overview

*Libya is currently in the aftermath of a civil war that toppled the Gaddafi regime. While fighting in most of the country has ended, safety in Libya is far from certain and all but essential travel to Libya at this time is not advised.

Oil-rich Libya has had a tumultuous history and many have wrestled for control of this fascinating and beautiful land. Tucked between Egypt and Tunisia, and bordering on the Mediterranean Sea, Libya has seen invasions by Turks, Vandals, Byzantines, Romans, Arabs and Italians; only gaining independence in 1951. These various civilisations have left their mark, particularly evident in the striking Roman and Greek ruins at Leptis Magna, Cyrene and Sabratha, though Libya remains quintessentially Arabic - evident in the Medina (old city) of the capital Tripoli, the nomadic lifestyle of desert-dwelling Bedouin and Berber tribes, and the language, culture and customs of the people.

Tripoli, in the northeast, is the country's main port, and is a bustling city dominated by the splendid Assaraya al-Hamra (Red Castle), a large palace complex, as well as the walls and gates of the Medina. Filled with orange groves, grapevines, palms and olive trees, the lush city is home to several interesting mosques, museums and historical sites, as well as modern amenities. Its ideal location on the Mediterranean makes it a popular attraction for locals and tourists alike. Benghazi is Libya's second largest city and is chiefly more modern in flavour, having been all but destroyed during World War II, though one can still enjoy the lively local souqs (markets), and it acts as a good base from which to explore the neighbouring Green Mountain area, as well as several Roman ruin sites along the coast.

Libya is largely an undiscovered tourist destination, due to sanctions imposed on the country through its rocky political history, including participation in several acts of terrorism (including the 1988 bombing of a PanAm flight near Lockerbie in Scotland) and the support by 'Guide of the Revolution' Colonel Mu'ammar al Qadhafi of various international terrorist and revolutionary organisations. Sanctions, however, were lifted in 2003, once the Lockerbie incident had finally been resolved, and the Libyan government ceased production of weapons of mass destruction. This has seen a rise in tourism and an increased interest in the country, with a number of resorts springing up along its Mediterranean coast. Although 90 percent of Libya is desert or semi-desert, there are breathtaking oases to be discovered, ruins to explore, cities to investigate, beaches to laze on and of course, the hospitality and friendliness of its people to enjoy.

Basics

Time
Local time is GMT +2.

Electricity
Electrical current is 127/230 volts, 50Hz. Round 3-pin plugs are used.

Language
The official language of Libya is Arabic (used for all official business), though some English is spoken, especially in the cities and tourist-orientated establishments.

Health
There are no major health risks associated with travel to Libya. Visitors travelling from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Travellers are encouraged to get vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Healthcare facilities in Libya are basic and travellers are advised to have full health insurance. In remote areas there may be no health facilities at all, therefore travellers are advised to carry their own basic medications. Tap water in Libya is chlorinated, but it is advised to drink bottled or boiled water.

Tipping
Hotels and restaurants usually add a service charge of 10 to 20%. Tipping guides and drivers is expected.

Safety
*Libya remains unstable in the aftermath of the revolution and war that toppled the Gadaffi regime. Safety in Libya is far from certain and all but essential travel to Libya at this time is not advised. Generally Libya is a safe country to travel in but travellers are advised against all but essential travel to all areas bordering Chad and Sudan, due to instability in the region. With exception to official land border crossings to Tunisia and Egypt, visitors are not permitted to travel in the interior or to border areas without an officially sanctioned guide, or specific permission from the Libyan authorities. Travelling in a group or with an organised tour is recommended in remote regions and travellers should be advised of a threat of terrorism that can occur randomly. Prior permission from the Libyan authorities is required for travel to the desert regions and is in the form of a desert pass; however the oil mining areas of the desert should be avoided. It is highly recommended that one monitor the media and seek advice from the relevant authorities before travelling. Violent crime is generally not a problem, although visitors should avoid carrying valuables in public.

Customs
Libya is an Islamic country (97-98% of Libyans are Sunni Muslim) and therefore visitors should be respectful in terms of following Arabic customs, particularly during the month of Ramadan when eating, drinking, smoking and chewing gum in public is forbidden. Swimwear should be restricted to beaches, and women should dress modestly, and avoid Arab gatherings where women are not permitted. Homosexuality is illegal and extramarital sexual relationships are forbidden. Criticism of the Libyan Government, Islam and the country itself is not tolerated. Permission must always be sought prior to photographing people, and it is not recommended that a camera be used or carried near any official or military buildings. Libya is one of the strictest countries in terms of a ban on alcohol and drugs, and neither should be brought into the country, though smoking is very common.

Business
Although most business in Libya has traditionally been conducted with state organisations, there has been some movement towards privatisation. All official documents are in Arabic (it is useful to have a translator for this) due to government policy, and although English is often understood official business will usually be conducted in Arabic. Bureaucracy can slow down any business process and one should be prepared for this. Business cards are useful but are not widely exchanged. Suits and ties are the norm, although due to the heat particularly in summer, more casual business wear is accepted. The vast majority of Libyans are Muslim and therefore one should be mindful of Islamic custom, particularly during Ramadan. Women should ensure that they dress modestly.

Communications
The international dialling code for Libya is +218. The outgoing code is 00, followed by the relevant country code (e.g. 0027 for South Africa). City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)21 for Tripoli and (0)22 for Tripoli International Airport. There are several Internet Service Providers and Internet cafes are available in Tripoli and other major centres, as well as some towns. Mobile phones operate on GSM 900 and 1800 networks and general telecommunications are being modernised.

Duty Free
Travellers may enter the country with 200 cigarettes or 250g cigars or 250g tobacco, and 250ml perfume. All alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited, as well as all foodstuffs (including canned goods). There is also an extensive list of banned items, including any articles manufactured or produced in Israel or countries that trade with Israel, and it is best to consult a Libyan Embassy for more information.

Currency

The official currency is the Dinar (LYD), which is divided into 1,000 dirhams. Credit cards have very limited acceptance (usually only in five-star hotels) and travellers cheques are not accepted, therefore it is advised to carry cash. ATMs are unreliable, though available in Tripoli. Banks are usually closed on Thursdays and Fridays. Currency can be exchanged at the airport or any bank in Tripoli.

LYD 1 =

US$ 0.76

£ 0.50

C$ 0.78

A$ 0.74

R 6.42

EUR 0.60

NZ$ 0.96

Note: These currency exchange rates are not updated daily and should be used as a guideline only.

Health

Health Overview
There are no major health risks associated with travel to Libya. Visitors travelling from infected areas require a yellow fever vaccination certificate. Travellers are encouraged to get vaccinations for Hepatitis A and Typhoid. Healthcare facilities in Libya are basic and travellers are advised to have full health insurance. In remote areas there may be no health facilities at all, therefore travellers are advised to carry their own basic medications. Tap water in Libya is chlorinated, but it is advised to drink bottled or boiled water.

Visa

Americans


UK nationals


Canadians


Australians


South Africans


Irish nationals


New Zealanders

Passport/Visa Note
Most foreign passengers require a visa to enter Libya. Tourist visas must be organised in advance, but can be issued on arrival; provided that travellers are holding a copy of a letter issued by the Libyan immigration authorities, confirming that a visa will be granted to them upon their arrival at the airport. This copy must be sent to the office of the transporting carrier in Libya at least 24 hours in advance. Visitors travelling to Libya for touristic purposes are also required to convert USD 1,000 (or equivalent) in freely convertible cash, or to debit the amount from a valid credit card upon their arrival at the airport. Failure to do so will result in the traveller being refused entry to Libya. Note that admission and transit will be refused to holders of (i) documents containing a valid or expired visa for Israel, or (ii) tickets showing an Israeli destination. All visitors must also hold proof of sufficient funds to cover their expenses while in Libya, and a yellow fever vaccination certificate (if arriving within six days or leaving or transiting through an infected area). Please note that the volatile political situation in Libya means that visa/entry requirements often change abruptly, and as such, travellers should make sure they are in possession of up-to-date information BEFORE leaving home. NOTE: It is highly recommended that your passport has at least six months validity remaining after your intended date of departure from your travel destination. Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources.

Note: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

Contacts

Libya Tourism
Department of Tourism, Tripoli: +218 (0)21 360 3400

Foreign Embassies in Libya

Libya Embassies

Regions and Cities

Tripoli

The Libyan capital of Tripoli is filled with wonderful sights, charm and hospitality. Situated on the Mediterranean Sea in the north-west of the country, Tripoli has the largest harbour in North Africa; it is a city constantly abuzz with activity. The many historical sites and ruins dotted throughout the city stand testament to its rich and fascinating history. Visitors to Tripoli can stroll in the bustling bazaars, shopping for holiday souveniers and trinkets as well as beautiful textiles and exquisite jewellery. Tourists are spoilt for choice when it comes to the amazing sights in and around the city, from the Red Castle to the Gurgi and Karamanli Mosques Tripoli is overflowing with places to discover and sights to behold.