Libya Revealed - Overland Trip

2 weeks: Tripoli to Tripoli (IMT-ETLR)

Intro

Libya – unknown by tourists but well known by travellers. Now its welcoming doors have been opened to all in search of fantastic archaeological sites, mesmerising desert scenery, incredible rock art and ancient oasis settlements. A visit here is a visit back in time to time-old Arab traditions and culture where you can roam at peace through the markets, meet modern businessmen in Tripoli and nomadic Berbers in the mountains. From the Mediterranean coast to the mountains of the Sahara, every day will be different and utterly memorable.

Maximum Group Size:

15

Staffing:

By Imaginative Traveller tour leader and Libyan local guide

Transport:

Bus, 4WD jeeps

Accommodation:

7 nights tourist class hotel, 7 nights camping

Activities:

Extensive walking at sites

Meals:

As per itinerary (B-Breakfast, L-Lunch, D-Dinner)

Arrival Transfers:

Included

 

Itineraries

Day 1,TRIPOLI

Arrival day. Transfer to the hotel.

Day 2,LEPTIS MAGNA

A short drive this morning brings us to the magnificent site of Leptis Magna. Originally Phoenician, it became an important port from which the riches of Africa were brought to the Roman Empire. (B)

Day 3,SABRATHA - GHARIYAN

Excursion to the ancient city of Sabratha for a guided tour. We end our day in the city of Ghariyan, well known for its traditional underground houses. (BD)

Day 4,GHARIYAN – GERMA

A long drive to the southern region of Sabha. Overnight in Germa. (BD) 

Day 5,GERMA - GHAT - AKAKUS MOUNTAINS

Tour the ruins of Garama. We also visit the excellent Germa Museum – a great introduction to the wonders of the Akakus Mountains. This afternoon we begin our journey into the Akakus. Overnight camping in the desert. (BD)

Day 6 to Day 7,AKAKUS MOUNTAINS

The immense Akakus mountain area showcase some of Libya’s most spectacular scenery.We spend two full days here exploring caves decorated with ancient rock art, depicting lively scenes of hunting and festivities amongst others. It is a superb region for desert trekking as there are intricately carved wadis for some shady walking and easily climbed mountains offering panoramic views. Vast tracts of flat sand give way to fantastic rock arches and rugged escarpments so that breathtaking scenery greets you at every mile (BLD)   

Day 8,AKAKUS - AWAYNAT - GERMA

Emerge from the Akakus at the oasis of Awaynat. There’s time to freshen up here before heading through Wadi al Hayat to Germa for the night. (BLD)   

Day 9 to Day 10,UBARI SAND SEA & SALT LAKES

We embark on an exhilarating two day jeep safari across the dunes of the ‘Ubari Sand Sea’. The desert here is punctuated with beautiful salt-water lakes. We make stops throughout the days to ‘swim’ in the buoyant waters of Lakes Gabaroun, Mandara and Um el Maa. Overnight camping on top of the dunes where the views are breathtaking. (BLD) 

Day 11,GHADAMES

Our journey sweeps westward to Ghadames – known as ‘The Jewel of the Desert’. Overnight in local villas. (BLD)  

Day 12,GHADAMES

This morning will be spent exploring the intriguing old city of Ghadames, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The remainder of the day is free to explore the peaceful covered alleys or perhaps bartering for one of the colourful handwoven rugs made here. With its labyrinthine passages, white-washed adobe building and palm gardens, Ghadames is regularly considered a highlight of a visit to Libya. (BD)  

Day 13,NALUT - TRIPOLI

Traverse the Nafusa Mountains en route to Tripoli, stopping along the way to visit the old citadel and granaries of Nalut. (B)

Day 14,TRIPOLI

A full day tour of Tripoli takes us to Saray al Hamra (the Red Castle), the National Museum, and the labyrinth of winding streets and ancient souqs of the medina. (B(

Day 15,TRIPOLI

Tour ends after breakfast. (B)



Last updated: 22nd October 2009

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