Ghadames

Ghadames is an oasis town in western Libya, close to the Algerian border. Its old quarter is built from mud brick and palm trunk, with houses set close together and linked by narrow covered lanes. Many homes have several levels, with storerooms on the ground floor, living rooms above, and rooftops that connect across the block. The old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For centuries it sat on Saharan trade routes, where caravans carried goods between the Mediterranean coast and sub-Saharan Africa.

This trip suits travelers who want a slow pace and few stops. Most of the time goes to walking the old quarter, climbing to a rooftop, and visiting the palm gardens at the edge of town. One to two days covers the main sights at an easy pace. The cooler months, roughly October to April, are the most comfortable, since summer heat is intense. Libya's security situation and entry rules change, so check your government's current travel advice and arrange transport and a local guide before you go.