Libya FAQs

Simoon Travel has specialised in tours to Libya since 2004 and has an in-depth knowledge of the country. Our itineraries offer something for everyone, from cultural journeys along the northern coastline through to fascinating desert landscapes and adventure deep in the Sahara. Tourism is still a relatively new phenomenon in Libya, so you should come with a sense of both adventure and humour, and an ability to adapt. If you are not sure, talk to one of our staff to get a better idea of what to expect from the tours and the country.

Yes. Our ATOL number is 6694.

It really depends on what you choose to do. We can tailor make a tour that can be as active or as relaxed as you like.

You can always opt out of an activity but, depending on the itinerary for that day, you may still need to travel with us as we’d be unable to provide a separate vehicle for you.

Simoon Travel puts the safety of its clients as a first priority and would not offer tours that in any way endanger our clients or staff. Simoon Travel is in contact with governments, media and nongovernmental organisations to monitor both the political and security situation on the ground in all of our destinations. Since we have been operating, Libya has remained calm, its people continue to make you feel very welcome and you will not feel threatened in any way.

The best time to visit the Sahara is October to March, however the winter temperatures can fall as low as freezing at night. The daytime temperatures during this period would be 20 – 30 degrees centigrade. Tripoli and the coastline can be visited at any time of year though temperatures from June to September can easily reach 35 degrees centigrade. Again in the North, rain showers can occur on a few days each month from November to February.

Please check your itinerary to see what is included but usually you will need very little spending money. You’ll just need enough for your personal spending, tipping and shopping. Further details will be provided in your pre-departure information. If you are not sure contact one of our staff.

Libya is a Muslim society, so shorts, leggings and tops with no sleeves are not appropriate. Men can wear long shorts in the desert. Loose fitting cotton clothing is the most practical type of clothing – both cooling and culturally sensitive.

A detailed equipment list will be sent to you. If you are heading to the desert though, a sleeping bag would be required.

There are no compulsory vaccinations for visitors but Simoon Travel recommends being up to date with Tetanus, Typhoid, Diphtheria, Hepatitis A and Polio

We will send information regarding tipping along with your pre-departure information.

The maximum number on a group tour is 15.

We closely consult with our team in Libya to use the best knowledgeable local guides we can (in Libya there are very few). However please be aware that if you are travelling on a private tour with a local guide only, you do not have the experience or the assurance of the UK guide accompanying to ‘pave the way’. Local guides in Libya are enthusiastic, experienced and helpful and most speak good English.

Off-road in the desert will usually be in early 1990’s Toyota Land Cruisers. In the North, you will be in private cars, mini-buses or coaches, depending on the size of your group. Most vehicles do not have seatbelts (including minibus and 4x4 vehicles) but private cars and some of the coaches do. We make sure that our drivers are experienced and that they drive safely.

Yes we can.

Apart from one good 5* hotel in Tripoli, most hotels are equivalent to 3* in Europe and have a lot of character. Infrastructure is still pretty basic and hotel management reflects this. We ask you to be prepared for this and not to expect hotels to be equivalent to Western standards or indeed those in neighbouring countries in the Middle East and North Africa. Our priority is always to find accommodation that is clean, safe, and in the best location, however our choice is sometimes limited. Over busy periods, hotels often double and triple book. This is out of our control and in this instance we will do our best to move you to a hotel of a similar standard. In the desert, nights are spent under the stars. This is the best way to sleep in the desert to take advantage of a spectacular night sky. We provide camp beds, tents, and mattresses for added comfort.

Yes and we can provide a full comprehensive insurance policy through Citybond Suretravel.

Your passport must be valid for 6 months after your date of departure from Libya. You must also make sure that you do not have an Israeli stamp in your passport (this also includes an Egyptian & Jordanian entry or departure stamps obtained at the border with Israel) as you will not be allowed into Libya with one. It is also a requirement that you have an Arabic translation of your passport details. We can arrange this for you at a cost of £55. Please be aware we cannot issue ‘visas only’ for individuals not travelling on a tour through us. This is by Libyan law.

Absolutely. Libya is a fascinating destination for a family holiday, though we would suggest a lower age limit of seven years to make sure you all get the most from the trip.

Yes flights are included in the price. However please note that flights may be subject to seasonal fare or tax increases. A land arrangement only price will also be available should you want to book your flights independently of us.