Things To Do
in Awbārī
Awbārī is a remote oasis town in Libya’s Fezzan desert, perched along palm groves and desert dunes. It serves as a gateway to the Erg Ubari dunes and the Ubari Oasis, where turquoise lakes contrast with golden sand. The town is home to Saharan communities and a lineage of Tuareg and Arab descent, offering a sense of timeless desert life.
Travel here requires careful planning and local guidance due to limited infrastructure and security considerations.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a thrilling adventure in the Great Sand Sea, where you can take a guided camel ride through the endless dunes. Marvel at the breathtaking landscape as the sun rises, casting golden hues over the shifting sands. Capture stunning photographs of the unique rock formations and the quiet beauty of the Sahara desert.
After a picturesque morning, enjoy a hearty picnic lunch amidst the dunes, sampling local delicacies. Spend your afternoon learning about the fascinating geology and history of the area, perhaps even partaking in sandboarding or dune buggy rides for some exhilaration. Engage with local guides who can share stories about the desert's natural wonders and cultural significance.
As night falls, unwind with a stargazing session, witnessing the breathtaking clarity of the desert sky. Enjoy a traditional Libyan dinner under the stars, accompanied by traditional music and dance. Conclude your day with a cozy bonfire, where you can reflect on the day's adventures.
Begin your day by visiting the architectural marvel of Ksar Ouled Soltane, a beautifully preserved granary and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its ancient corridors, admiring the intricate designs and the striking landscape surrounding the premises. This site was also featured in 'Star Wars', adding a touch of cinematic excitement to your visit.
After exploring the Ksar, enjoy lunch at a nearby café, sampling local Libyan dishes such as couscous or shakshuka. Spend the afternoon interacting with the local artisans, watching them create pottery or traditional textiles and perhaps engaging in a workshop yourself. This immersive experience adds cultural depth to your visit, allowing you to appreciate the local craftsmanship.
As the sun sets, head back to Awbārī for dinner at a charming restaurant, where you can sample more of the region's cuisine. Consider taking a walking tour of the town to experience the evening life, including buzzing markets and friendly locals. End your day at a local café, sipping mint tea while enjoying the ambiance of the town.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| 🚕Short taxi ride within town | $1-4 |
| ☕Coffee or tea at a cafe | $0.5-2 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel room (1 night) | $25-60 |
| 🧺Basic groceries (weekly) | $25-50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning desert landscapes and oasis scenery
- Warm hospitality and fascinating Saharan culture
- Affordability and unique off-the-beaten-path experiences
- Accessible from Fezzan oasis hubs with guided tours
- Security risk and travel advisories; limited infrastructure
- Sparse medical facilities in town; need to plan ahead
- Limited connectivity and language barriers in some areas
- Seasonal travel constraints due to heat and access challenges
- "Salam" - Hello
- "Shukran" - Thank you
- "Min fadlik" - Please
- "Kam al-thaman?" - What is the price?
- "La shukran" - No thanks
- "Ayna al-hammam?" - Where is the bathroom?
Places to Visit in Awbārī
Visit one of these nice places.
Outstanding sea of dunes that glows orange at sunrise and sunset; ideal for wide desert landscape photography.
Turquoise lakes framed by palm groves and silver sand—best at blue hour.
Geological features along the desert edge offering stark light and texture.
Captures of early light over rolling dunes with long shadows and color gradients.
Food in Awbārī
Awbārī Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A thick barley dough served with meat sauce and chickpeas, a signature Libyan dish often shared around a single platter.
Must-Try!
Fluffy couscous topped with tender lamb, vegetables, and a spiced broth.
Slow-cooked camel meat with vegetables and spices, a desert staple.
Sweet pastries made with dates, almonds, and sesame, great with tea.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Dates, olives, grains, spices, and locally produced breads; street vendors grilling lamb skewers in the evenings.
Fresh dates, date paste, and palm sugar available from market stalls.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Greet with a handshake; use polite Arabic phrases; dress modestly in public; show respect for elders.
Wear modest clothing; women may choose conservative attire; avoid public displays of affection; ask permission before photographing people.
Safety
Tipping in Awbārī
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated for service in markets, cafes, and guided tours; consider 5-10% in formal settings and small tips for porters or guides.
Cash in local Libyan dinars is most common; credit cards are rarely accepted outside larger towns; have enough cash and small denominations; ATMs may be limited.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Very hot days, with extreme daytime heat; carry ample water, wear light breathable clothing, protect from sun, schedule outdoor activity for early morning or late afternoon.
Milder days (cool to warm) and chilly nights; warm layers needed; rain is rare but possible; wildlife and desert plants more active at dawn.
Most comfortable with moderate temperatures; ideal for outdoor exploration and photography; expect brief sand winds.
Awbārī at Night
Hiking in Awbārī
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Guided hikes across the dune fields with sunrise and sunset viewpoints; pearl of the Sahara.
Short hiking routes through palm groves and lake shores offering reflections and wildlife viewing.
Airports
How to reach Awbārī by plane.
Domestic and limited international flights; gateway to Fezzan hubs; best accessed with a pre-arranged transfer.
Libya's main international hub; used for long-haul and international connections when security allows; typically requires risk-aware planning.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Indigenous Saharan groups with nomadic and semi-nomadic traditions; strong desert knowledge and trading networks.
Established communities in town and surrounding settlements; hospitality is a central value.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport across Libya; local clubs and informal games are common.
Traditional desert activities enjoyed during special events and local celebrations.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Awbārī.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Navigate by asking for vegetable stews, lentil soups, salads, and bread; request meat-free versions of dishes like bazeen.