Southern Libya, the Akakus Desert in November 2025
Prospecting trip to Libya, focusing on the Fezzan region, to explore much of the magnificent and varied desert as well as historical sites such as Ghat, an ancient caravan centre. A journey to the heart of the Sahara, where the rock formations on the sand dunes of the Akakus massif will offer us unforgettable scenes. In this corner of the Sahara, past civilisations have left their mark on the rock in the form of paintings and engravings. In this arid desert, we will visit the Ubari lakes, a wonder of nature.
Will you join us on this first trip to Libya?
Summary of 9-day trip to Libya / Tadrart Akakus desert
- Day 1: Arrival in Tripoli , hotel accommodation
- Day 2: Flight to Sebha – Pyramids of al-Htiya – Maghidit. Today we will explore the Pyramids of al-Hatiya, resplendent despite neglect and abandonment. These are the pyramids of Hattia, located about 1,123 kilometers south of Tripoli, and rise from the dunes as a testament to the Garamanny civilization that settled in these areas some three thousand years ago. They are the least famous pyramids in the region compared to the pyramids of Egypt, although these archaeological monuments are no less important. Their discovery dates back to the 1950s, when they were found buried in the sand. They can be reached via many roads, including Ubari, the gateway to the Libyan Desert. The Garamantes tombs reveal highly diverse funerary rituals, with more than 200,000 burials in the Valley of Life alone. Many of the sanctuaries included Roman and Greek pyramid tomb art, suggesting that the Garamantes were in contact with other peoples to the east and southeast. Two 2,000-year-old mummified bodies were also found. Nights of camping.
- Day 3 Northwest of Jebel Akakus lies Wadi Meghidit, where the sandy valleys interweave between isolated skyscrapers of Mighidit rock, nicknamed “the city of ghosts.” We’ll climb to the haunted desert rock citadel of Kaf Ajnoun on the way to Ghat, another famous former Saharan caravan city with an old mud-built village. Overnight at a hotel in Ghat.
- Day 4: Visit to Ghat – Afzgar Arch – Tashwinat: We will explore the old town of Ghat, characterized by its traditional mud houses and ancient forts. The town’s unique architecture blends African and Islamic influences, and is a perfect place to marvel at the city’s history and culture. To the west, the imposing natural rock arches and breathtaking panoramic views of Jebel Akakus await. We will visit the impressive Afzgar Arch, one of the most spectacular landmarks in all of Jebel Akakus. The rugged rock faces, especially those of Wadi Tashwinat, are from the history books of the Sahara. There are also rock paintings here. Overnight in tents in Wadi Tashwinat.
- Day 5 Tlalent + Awies + Adad: We’ll continue exploring the Akakus. Travel through Wadi Adad and Finger Rock. Overnight at a camp in Wadi Adad.
- Day 6 Wan Kaza Dunes – Germa: We leave Akakus for a spectacular desert drive to Wadi Matkhendoush. Wadi Matkhendoush contains some of the oldest rock paintings in the world. Wedged into the rock face of the cliffs, the dry riverbed is a veritable prehistoric collection, including life-size elephants, giraffes, and crocodiles. We continue to Germa, where we camp. In the morning, we explore an archaeological site known in ancient times as Garama. We continue to the Ubari Lakes for an overnight stay at the Desert Moon Resort.
- Day 7 Desert Lakes (Qaberaoun – Umm al-Mafo – Mandara) We will explore the enchanting Ubari Lakes, known for their stunning beauty and pristine desert landscapes. Among the most picturesque are Gaberoun and Umm al-Maa (Mother of Water). Overnight at the Desert Moon Resort, overlooking the dunes.
- Day 8 Today we leave the Sahara behind and head to Sebha for the flight to Tripoli. Accommodation at the hotel.
- Day 9 End of trip. Breakfast and departure to Mitiga International Airport for your international flight.
