WANDERLIST Libya: Ten must-see attractions (and some off-the-beaten-track)

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Located in the heart of North Africa and, sadly, currently deep in conflict, Libya is a destination with a rich historical and cultural heritage.

  • Ancient Roman Ruins of Leptis Magna: Admire the exceptionally well-preserved ruins of this ancient city, once one of the greatest Roman cities in the Mediterranean.
  • Sahara Desert: Embark on an adventure across the vast dunes of the Libyan Sahara – witness magical sunsets, sleep under star-studded skies, and experience the silence of this desert.
  • Cyrene: Explore the archaeological site of Cyrene, an ancient Greek city renowned for its exceptional ruins, including the UNESCO-listed Temple of Apollo.
  • Tripoli’s Medina: Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Tripoli’s Old Town, wandering through narrow streets lined with traditional bazaars, historic mosques, and beautiful Ottoman-era architecture.
  • Ghadames: Discover the enchanting oasis town of Ghadames, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its labyrinthine streets, earthen architecture, and intricate craftsmanship.
  • Waw an Namus: Venture to the volcanic field of Waw an Namus, located in the remote Fezzan region, to witness the extraordinary volcanic craters and lunar-like landscapes.
  • Sabratha: Visit one of Libya’s three most famous Roman cities, Sabratha. Explore its magnificent theatre, forum, and coastal setting, which make for an experience.
  • Jebel Acacus: Admire the striking mountain range of Jebel Acacus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which hosts rock art, deep canyons, and beautiful natural formations.
  • Murzuq Sand Dunes: Escaping the crowds, make your way to the Murzuq Sand Dunes, where the undulating golden waves stretch as far as the eye can see.
  • Benghazi: Explore Libya’s second-largest city, Benghazi, known for its markets, historic architecture, and the coastline promenade known as the Corniche.

Off-the-Beaten-Track Gems:

  • Tadrart Acacus: Discover hidden treasures within the Tadrart Acacus region, offering landscapes, secluded oases, and ancient cave paintings.
  • Apollonia: Delve into Apollonia, an ancient Greek city situated on the coast, and witness its well-preserved structures, including the impressive Basilica of Apollonia.
  • Jebel Uweinat: Embark on a thrilling expedition to Jebel Uweinat, a distinctively shaped mountain located in a remote part of the Libyan Desert where borders of Libya, Egypt, and Sudan converge – a true explorer’s dream.
  • Akakus Mountains: Admire the rugged beauty of the Akakus Mountains, characterized by dramatic sandstone formations, rock art, and vast empty expanses.
  • Jebel Al Haruj: Wander through the deserted expanse of Jebel Al Haruj, an immense volcanic field featuring intriguing volcanic craters, geological formations, and surreal landscapes.
  • Haua Fteah Cave: Embark on a journey to the Haua Fteah Cave, one of the most significant archaeological sites in North Africa, known for its evidence of ancient human occupation.
  • Marble Arch: Venture to the remote Ubari Sand Sea to discover the Marble Arch, an extraordinary natural rock formation that emerges from the sandy landscape.
  • Al Hamada Al Hamra: Witness the beauty of the Al Hamada Al Hamra – a striking red sandstone plateau that offers views, ancient rock art, and a chance to encounter the local nomadic communities.
  • Desert Lakes of Ubari: Be mesmerised by the surreal Desert Lakes of Ubari, a natural wonder amid the barren desert, where shimmering saltwater lakes dot the landscape, creating an otherworldly oasis.
  • Qasr al-Haj: Explore the well-preserved mud-brick fortress of Qasr al-Haj, situated deep in the desert, an architectural marvel that provides insight into pre-Islamic cultures.
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