Can You Enter Libya Overland?: A Guide to Land Border Crossings (Updated 2025)

Ben Crowley

Nov. 11, 2025

Overland entry into Libya is possible for foreign travellers and overlanders, provided that documentation is arranged in advance and the correct land border crossings are used. Libya shares land borders with Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Niger, Chad, and Sudan, but not all of these are viable or open for tourism or private travel. Understanding how each border operates in practice helps travellers plan realistic, safe, and efficient routes into the country.

Foreign travellers typically enter by air into Tripoli or direct cross the Tunisia-Libya border at Ras Ajdir, which is a well-travelled route.

Below we will provide a practical, up to date guide to help you navigate the land border crossings of Libya. It goes without saying that conditions in Libya can change very quickly, with events seemingly occurring out of nowhere, so it’s best to get in touch for the most up to date information.

Summary of Land Border Crossings:

Land border details:

Libya-Tunisia border (Ras Ajdir crossing):

• The Ras Ajdir border is the busiest border in and out of Libya.
• The Ras Ajdir border crossing between Libya and Tunisia, a vital and heavily contested crossing, was closed due to armed clashes but reopened on July 1, 2025.
• While it is currently possible to cross this border, issues with Militias in far Western Libya mean that the border could close again at any time.

Libya-Egypt Border (Salloum/Imsaad Crossing):

• Crossing from Libya to Egypt via Salloum is quite common for tourists and overlanders. Although some challenges like insurance fees and vehicle paperwork take time, the crossing is operational with many travellers passing through without major issues.
• You will need some patience due to bureaucratic formalities, but with proper preparation and local guidance, the process is smooth and accessible.
• Travellers require police escort for much of eastern Libya, as well as permits to be in the region. This part of Libya is not controlled by the same government as in Tripoli.

Libya-Algeria Border:

• The official border crossing near Ghadames (Libya) and Debdeb (Algeria) lies in a remote desert region with heavy militarization. While virtually closed to general travelers due to security concerns, adventurous travellers occasionally organize desert expeditions here with specialised arrangements.
• Ordinary tourists usually do not cross here, but western Libya (close to the Algerian border) is safe and great for exploration.

Other Borders (Chad, Sudan, Niger):

• These southern borders are extremely remote and generally inaccessible under normal tourist conditions due to security and logistical challenges.
• For many border crossings in the south, it is difficult to ascertain who is in control.
• Many militant and jihadist groups operate in the south of Libya.

If you're interested in travel to Libya, the easiest, no-frills way is by coming on one of our Libya group tours. Check out our Libya group tour departure dates here on our website.

For more practical Libya travel information, check out our Libya destination guide here.