Libya — Travel Tips
Social Conventions
Life in Libya is regulated fairly strictly along socialist/Islamic principles; in general, Arab courtesies and social customs prevail and should be respected. Women do not generally attend typical Arab gatherings. Modest dress is advisable everywhere, particularly in religious buildings and small towns. On no account must alcohol be brought into the country. Severe penalties are imposed for criticising the country, its leadership or religion. Homosexuality is considered a criminal offense and sexual relationships outside of marriage are punishable by law.
Photography: It is unwise to use or carry cameras especially close to military or official sites.
International Travel
Getting There By Air
The national airline is Libyan Arab Airlines (LN) (www.libyanarabairline.com).
Departure Tax
None.
Main Airports
Tripoli International (TIP) is 25km (15.5 miles) south of the city. To/from the airport: Taxi services are available to the city (journey time - 40 minutes). Facilities: Chemist, post office, light refreshments, duty-free shops, banks, restaurants and shops.
Benghazi International (BEN) is 19km (12 miles) east of Benghazi city center.
Getting There By Water
Main ports: Es-Sider, Benghazi, Darna, Mersa Brega, Misurata and Tripoli.
Cruise lines call at Libya.
Getting There By Rail
There are currently no international rail links, although work on a network has started.
Getting There By Road
Main routes to Libya are from Egypt or Tunisia. Several buses and taxis operate on these routes.
Duty Free
Overview
The following goods may be imported into Libya without incurring customs duty:
• 200 cigarettes or 250g of tobacco or 250g cigars.
• 250mL of perfume.
Prohibited Imports
All alcohol is prohibited, as is the import of obscene literature, pork, pork products and any kind of food (including tinned). All goods made in Israel or manufactured by companies that do business with Israel are prohibited, for instance Coca Cola and certain makes of CDs and tapes. Bags are X-rayed upon arrival. For a full list of prohibited items, contact the nearest Libyan diplomatic representative.
Internal Travel
Getting Around By Air
Libyan Arab Airlines (LN) (www.libyanarabairline.com) flies between Tripoli and Benghazi, Ghadames, Ghat, Houn, Lebreq and Sebha. Buraq Air (UZ) (www.buraqair.com) also operates flights between Tripoli and Benghazi.
Getting Around By Rail
There is currently no train service, but a network is being constructed.
Getting Around By Road
Traffic drives on the right. The main through-road follows the coast from west to east. Road conditions in Libya are reasonable. Signposts are only in Arabic script; signs are, in any case, rare outside the main towns. The standard of driving is poor in comparison to European standards. Off-road driving is best done with a 4WD vehicle and in organized tour groups. Wind-blown sand deposits and wild animals can cause hazards on the roads. Drivers should be well-prepared with fuel, water and food.
Bus/taxi: There are few bus services, mainly luxury, air-conditioned coaches between Tripoli and Benghazi and other major urban areas. A minibus service operates from Benghazi to Tobruk. Long distance taxi fares can be quite expensive and should be agreed in advance.
Car hire: Car hire is available from international companies based in Tripoli airport and city, but as you have to be escorted to travel in Libya it is more likely that your tour company will arrange a car with driver.
Regulations: Police enforcement of traffic signs and laws is rare.
Documentation: A national driving license is valid for three months. After this time, a Libyan license must be obtained.
Note: Travelers visiting the desert regions require permission (a desert pass) from the Libyan authorities in advance. Tour operators can usually obtain these. Oil companies will provide passes for their employees.
Getting Around Towns and Cities
There are no public buses in Libyan towns. An overcrowded microbus system operates in Tripoli and Benghazi along certain routes. Taxis, the easiest way to get around, are plentiful and reasonably priced.
