Africa
Libya
Libya is one of the most historically significant and least visited destinations in North Africa, home to some of the finest Roman ruins in the world at Leptis Magna and Sabratha, the ancient Greek city of Cyrene, vast Saharan landscapes and a Mediterranean coastline of considerable beauty. Travellers should research current conditions and entry requirements carefully before planning a visit.
Elect's take
"Libya holds extraordinary historical significance that is rarely acknowledged in travel conversations. Leptis Magna is one of the best preserved Roman cities in the world and the combination of ancient ruins and Saharan landscape creates something that few destinations can rival."
Leptis Magna is the defining Libyan experience and one of the most remarkable archaeological sites in the Mediterranean world. This Roman city of theatres, markets, basilicas and triumphal arches is extraordinarily well preserved and receives relatively few visitors. Sabratha is another outstanding Roman theatre on the Mediterranean coast. The Saharan landscape of the Fezzan region includes the Ubari Sand Sea with its extraordinary blue lakes and the ancient rock art of the Akakus Mountains. Tripoli has a beautiful Ottoman medina and excellent cuisine reflecting centuries of Mediterranean trading connections.
Best time to visit
How to get there
What to expect
Leptis Magna
One of the finest Roman cities in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Sabratha Theatre
A beautifully preserved Roman theatre on the Mediterranean coast.
Ubari Sand Sea
Extraordinary Saharan dunes with remarkable blue oasis lakes.
Cyrene
A UNESCO listed ancient Greek city in the fertile Green Mountain region.
Tripoli Medina
An atmospheric Ottoman old town with traditional markets and architecture.
Akakus Rock Art
Ancient Saharan rock paintings in a UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
