If you're planning a trip to Libya, it's highly recommended to go through a local or specialized agency due to the visa requirements and logistical complexities. Luckily, there are several reliable tour operators offering both private and group trips:

Local & Regional Tour Agencies:

• Tidwa Tours (tidwa.com) – Based in Libya, they offer well-organized cultural and archaeological tours.

• Affordable Tours Libya (affordabletours.com) – A good option for shorter, flexible itineraries.

• Sherwes Travel (sherwestravel.com) – A Libyan-run company focusing on historical sites.

• Smalos Tours (smalos.com) – Known for tailored cultural tours in Libya and neighboring countries.

• Cyrene Tours (cyrenetour.com) – Specialists in ancient Greek and Roman heritage tours in Libya.

Group Tours & International Agencies:

• Rocky Road Travel – Offers small-group tours with an adventurous edge, including Libya.

• Young Pioneer Tours – Known for visiting off-the-beaten-path destinations, including Libya, often with a political or cultural lens.

Each of these agencies can also help with the crucial step: securing your Libyan visa. 

It’s a question I’ve heard many times: “Wait… can you even travel to Libya?”
And the answer might surprise you — yes, you can. With the right steps and a little preparation, Libya has slowly reopened its doors to travelers. And what’s even more surprising? It’s stunning, safe (if done right), and largely untouched by mass tourism.

For many years, Libya remained off the radar — and off-limits — to most tourists due to security concerns and political instability. But in the past year, things have started to shift. Since mid-2023, Libya has introduced an official tourist visa, a game changer for anyone dreaming of exploring this historically rich and visually breathtaking country.

But here’s the catch:
You can’t just show up and ask for a visa at the airport or embassy. You’ll need an invitation letter from a licensed local tour agency. That means your trip must be pre-arranged through a company that can organize both the visa and your itinerary. Independent travel is not (yet) possible in the traditional backpacker sense — but that doesn’t mean you won’t experience authentic Libya.

I traveled solo — yes, as a woman — and visited Tripoli, the legendary ruins of Leptis Magna, and the hauntingly beautiful Sabratha. Not only did I feel completely safe, but I also felt genuinely welcomed. The people, the food, and the sheer scale of historical sites without the usual crowds all far exceeded my expectations.

Thinking about traveling solo to Libya? You’re not alone — well, sort of 😉. As one of the least-visited countries in North Africa, Libya offers a raw, authentic, and truly unforgettable travel experience. But it’s also a destination that requires careful planning, strong local connections, and the right mindset — especially if you’re going solo.

That said, while you may arrive as a “solo traveler,” you’re never really alone. Your local guide will be with you every step of the way — whether you're exploring ancient ruins, sipping coffee in Tripoli, or watching the sun set over the Mediterranean.

Forget the crowds of Rome or Athens. Sites like Leptis Magna and Sabratha — among the world’s best-preserved Roman ruins — are quiet, untouched, and deeply atmospheric. Walking through them feels like stepping straight into a history book, with no tourist noise to distract you.

Just don’t expect spontaneity — everything must be arranged in advance. But what you trade in flexibility, you gain in safety, insight, and connection. Libyans are among the most genuinely kind people I’ve ever met. I was treated with deep respect, warmth, and generosity at every turn.

Libya is home to some of the most stunning, yet least-visited sights in the Mediterranean. Despite its complex past, the country offers a treasure trove for history lovers, architecture buffs, and those who crave raw, unfiltered travel experiences.

1. Leptis Magna
Often called “the Rome of Africa,” Leptis Magna is one of the most spectacular Roman cities outside of Italy. Think giant amphitheaters, sweeping arches, marble columns, and markets — all impressively preserved and nearly empty of tourists. Walking through its sunlit ruins feels surreal.

2. Sabratha
Located on the Mediterranean coast, Sabratha is another awe-inspiring Roman site. The highlight? Its magnificent three-story theater facing the sea — picture-perfect at sunset. It’s a place where silence and sea breeze meet ancient stone.

3. Tripoli
The capital may surprise you. Tripoli offers a lively medina, colorful souks, and fading Italian colonial architecture. Don’t miss the Red Castle (Assaraya al-Hamra) and the old town for a glimpse of Libya’s layered history.

4. Ghadames
Known as the “pearl of the desert,” Ghadames is a UNESCO World Heritage Site near the Algerian border. Its traditional Saharan architecture and maze-like whitewashed alleys are unlike anywhere else — timeless, beautiful, and deeply cultural.

5. The Sahara & Acacus Mountains
For desert lovers, the Akakus region in southwestern Libya offers dramatic dunes, ancient rock art, and Martian-like landscapes. It’s remote, yes — but unforgettable.

All of these destinations are visited as part of a pre-arranged tour with a licensed local agency. The entire itinerary must be planned in advance, as it determines not only the length and cost of your trip, but also allows your guide to obtain the necessary travel permits for each region — especially outside Tripoli.

If you’re hoping to also visit Misrata or Benghazi, keep in mind that it adds another layer of complexity. Benghazi, in particular, is currently under a different administration than Tripoli, and at the time of writing, requires a separate visa and coordination through a tour agency authorized in the East.

When it comes to where to stay in Tripoli, your tour agency will handle all the arrangements for you, ensuring a hassle-free experience. From comfortable hotels to unique guesthouses, everything will be pre-arranged based on your preferences and the details of your itinerary.

When visiting Libya, it's important to dress conservatively to respect local customs. During my trip, I noticed that every woman I encountered wore a hijab, and none were without it. To blend in and avoid drawing unnecessary attention, it's advisable for women to wear long, loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders, arms, and knees at all times. Dresses or skirts that reach the ankles, paired with loose tops, are perfect for this conservative setting. Although a hijab isn’t mandatory for non-Muslim women, it’s a good idea to bring one along, especially if you plan to visit mosques or religious sites.

For men, similar modesty applies. Long pants and shirts are ideal; shorts and sleeveless tops should be avoided, particularly in public or religious places.

When traveling to Libya, you'll be using the Libyan Dinar (LYD) as the local currency. I had no trouble exchanging my Euros and Dollars for Dinars at the airport, and the process was quick and straightforward. It’s always a good idea to carry some cash with you, as not all places accept cards.

As for staying connected, purchasing a SIM card is also hassle-free. Upon arrival at the airport, you can easily buy a SIM card with any amount of data you need. The process is quick, and it ensures you're all set for calls and internet use during your stay in Libya.

Travelling to Libya is expensive and somehow therefore very "exclusive". If you're going through an international tour agency, expect to pay a bit more, as these agencies tend to include additional services and overhead. However, if you choose to arrange your trip directly with a local guide or agency, you can expect to pay around 200 to 250 USD per day. This price typically covers transportation, guiding services, security, permits for the ancient sites, and even water and food throughout the day. Everything is included in this package, and all payments are made directly to the tour agency.