Genvisec advise against all travel to Libya due to the ongoing fighting.

 

There is a threat of terrorist attacks and kidnap against foreigners, including from Daesh-affiliated extremists (formerly referred to as ISIL), and a dangerous security situation throughout the country. 

 

The situation throughout the country remains dangerous and unpredictable. Fighting continues in many parts of Libya. It can be unclear in some areas which faction has control. This fighting includes extremist groups such as Ansar Al Sharia and affiliates of Daesh and Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb (AQ-M)

 

Crime

There are reports of increased crime levels in Libya, including robberies, muggings and carjackings at gun and knife point. There is limited police capacity to deal with street crime.

 

Road travel

There is a widespread and worsening shortage of petrol and diesel and lengthy queues at fuel stations are common.

The standard of driving in Libya is very poor, but the roads are generally in reasonable condition. Take care when driving anywhere in Libya, particularly at night. Always wear a seatbelt and drive defensively. 

You should avoid all off-road driving due to the risk of unexploded ordinance. Violent incidents have occurred on some desert routes. Take great care in remote areas, travel in a group and make sure you are well prepared with enough fuel, water and food. 

Air travel

On 13 July 2014, Tripoli International Airport was closed following clashes that broke out between armed groups in the area surrounding the airport. Other airports may change their flight schedule without notice. Contact your airline or travel company for further information before travelling.

Benghazi airport has been closed since May 2014.

Due to a number of ongoing safety concerns, the European Union has agreed with the Libyan authorities to continue a voluntary restriction on Libyan airlines flying into the EU. However, some Libyan airlines operate flights to the EU using aircraft leased from other airlines.

 

Local laws and customs

 

Don’t use cameras close to military or official sites.

 

Males and Females should both be aware of the threat of rape and take appropriate precautions. Genvisec has had reported incidents of sexual harassment of foreign men by some locals.

 

Money

 

Libya is a cash society.

 

Credit cards are not widely used although Visa and Mastercard are accepted in some places. There are a few reliable ATMs in Tripoli. Commercial money transfer services are available at Tripoli International Airport and in Tripoli. Money transfers can also be arranged through some banks.

 

Health

Healthcare in Libya is on the whole below the standard available in the UK. There are private clinics in Tripoli. If you need treatment you may be evacuated to Malta or mainland Europe. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.

 

Medical help in remote areas may not be available. Even if your travel or insurance company has arrangements with an international air ambulance provider, they may not be allowed to carry out a rescue operation within Libya. The current status of Libyan rescue services is uncertain.

 

 

Although not common in Libya, there were confirmed cases of malaria in the south-eastern city of al-Kufra in 2010.

 

Entry requirements

 

Previous travel to Israel

 

Passports showing previous travel to Israel are not accepted for travel to Libya.

 

Passport validity

 

Your passport should be valid for the proposed duration of your stay. No additional period of validity beyond this is required.

 

The Libyan authorities have confirmed they will accept British passports extended by 12 months by British Embassies and Consulates under additional measures put in place in mid-2014.

 

Yellow fever

 

Yellow fever vaccination is required for travellers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission.

 

Registering with the Libyan authorities

 

All tourists and short stay visitors must register with the police within a week of arrival. This is usually arranged by the company you are visiting or the local travel agency you are travelling with. If you don’t register, you may be fined when you leave the country.