Getting There & Getting About

International Airports

• Tripoli (TIP): 35 km from the city.
• Benghazi (BEN): 19 km from Benghazi.
• Sebha (SEB): 11 km from the town.

• Full list of airports in Libya with associated airport codes >

Internal Transport

There are some internal flights between main centres, particularly between Tripoli and Benghazi. Although there is currently no train service, a network is being constructed.

Car hire is available from international companies based at Tripoli airport and the city. Cars may be available to hire in other towns, but these may be poorly maintained. The National Coast Road runs from the Tunisian to the Egyptian border. The roads tend to be in reasonable condition, although all road signs are in Arabic only, and are often rare outside the main towns. The standard of driving is poor in comparison to European standards, and outside of the towns, wild animals and wind-blown sand deposits can cause hazards on the roads. Travellers visiting the desert regions must obtain permission (a desert pass) from the Libyan authorities in advance. Drivers should also ensure that they are well-prepared with fuel, water and food.

There are a number of bus services, including air-conditioned coaches, between Tripoli and Benghazi and other major urban areas. A publicly-owned bus system also operates in Tripoli, with fares charged on a three-zone basis. There is a similar system in operation in Benghazi. However, services are generally overcrowded and irregular.

Taxi fares tend to be quite expensive and should always be agreed in advance.