Africa
Is Libya safe?
L4Do not travel
Is Libya safe?
The UK advises against all travel except essential travel to Tripoli, Benghazi, Al-Bayda and Derna. Clashes between armed groups, kidnapping, landmines and detention of foreigners are risks.
Key facts
- US travel advisory: Level 4: Do not travel, updated 2025-07-15.
- Road deaths: 21.3 per 100,000 people a year (2019, WHO).
- Solo women: Strict social codes; headscarf expected. Solo women are not advised to travel.
Risks, scams and laws
Main risks
- Armed clashes between militias, especially in Tripoli
- Kidnapping and arbitrary detention
- Landmines and unexploded ordnance
- Cash shortages and limited medical care
Laws visitors break by accident
- Alcohol is banned and punishable.
- Photographing military sites, checkpoints or officials leads to detention.
- Same-sex relations are criminalised.
Quick answers
Is Libya safe for tourists?
The UK advises against all travel except essential travel to Tripoli, Benghazi, Al-Bayda and Derna. Clashes between armed groups, kidnapping, landmines and detention of foreigners are risks.
Is Libya safe for solo female travelers?
Strict social codes; headscarf expected. Solo women are not advised to travel.
Sources
- World Bank: intentional homicides
- US State Department travel advisory
- UK FCDO travel advice: Libya
- World Bank open data
Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.