If you are heading to Libya to see all the fantastic sights and attractions, you may be wondering how you are going to get around.
Of course the easiest and most practical choice is to travel to Libya with a tour operator. One that can ensure you see all the sights, do the driving for you and arrange all your hotel bookings.
If you have decided to do it on your own then there are a couple of things you should be aware of.
Libyan Roads
Because Libya is set on the edge of the Sahara Desert you probably have long dusty roads in your mind when it comes to driving in Libya. In fact there is excellent roads all the way from Tripoli to Benghazi, even along the picturesque coastal routes.
The one thing you need to bear in mind when driving yourself in Libya is there is no speed limit and that you drive on the right hand side of the road. This may take some getting used to as locals fly by. There is no breakdown service in the area, so you need to ensure that any vehicle you are driving is safe and sound and whatever you do, watch out for animals on the road, they are the major cause of accidents.
Hire a Car
If you feel you can brave the roads yourself, you will need an international driving license which is valid for three months in Libya before you need to get a Libyan driving license. Only hire a car from the international companies which can be found at the major airports, city centres and can be arranged through your hotel.
Anyone who feels uneasy driving on the Libyan roads can hire a car with their own personal driver who knows the roads well and will get you to your destination relaxed and at ease.
Transportation Options
There are no metered taxi’s found throughout Libya however taxis are popular for short destinations. If you intend travelling a fair distance by taxi ensure you agree on a price before you get in.
Small mini taxis are used by the locals, these are not an overly pleasant experience as everyone is packed together into a small mini bus.