Things to do in Ghadames
Discover the best attractions and experiences Ghadames has to offer
Historic Monuments
Ghadames’ historic heart lies in its UNESCO-listed old town, a maze of whitewashed mud-brick houses and narrow lanes.
Old City of Ghadames (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
A remarkably preserved caravan city with winding alleys and traditional architecture that transports you back in time.
Ghadames Fort
An ancient fortress within the medina offering views over the skyline and a glimpse of historical defense.
Traditional mud-brick architecture in the Old City
Explore the iconic white-washed houses and wind-towered streets that define Ghadames.
Museums
Learn about local history and daily life through small museums and preserved traditional houses.
Ghadames Museum
Exhibits on local history, culture, and the oasis lifestyle of Ghadames.
Guided tour of traditional Ghadames houses
Visit restored houses to see courtyards, architecture, and furnishings.
Religious Monuments
Religious sites in the medina showcase centuries of faith and architectural influence in Ghadames.
Great Mosque of Ghadames
One of the oldest mosques in the medina, reflecting the town’s religious heritage.
Mosques of the Ghadames medina
Quiet, centuries-old places of worship tucked into narrow lanes.
National & Theme Parks
The surrounding desert offers dramatic landscapes and day-trip adventures from Ghadames.
Coming Soon!
We're currently working on adding national & theme parks recommendations for Ghadames. Check back soon for curated suggestions in this category.
Neighborhoods
Walk through the different quarters of Ghadames to glimpse life inside and outside the old walls.
Old Medina of Ghadames
The historic core with maze-like lanes and white-washed houses.
New Town around the oasis
A more contemporary area where daily life continues beyond the old walls.
Ghadames Souq area
Where locals barter, mingle, and sample street snacks.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the charm of Ghadames without spending a dinar with these simple, memorable experiences.
Stroll the shaded alleys of the Old City at sunset
Watch the white-washed blocks glow as temperatures drop.
People-watch at the Ghadames Souq
Observe daily market life and friendly bargaining.
Photograph the skyline and wind towers
Capture iconic views of the medina from vantage points.
Gastronomy
Taste Libyan flavors simmered in centuries of desert life, right in the heart of Ghadames.
Libyan couscous at a local guesthouse
Try a hearty couscous dish cooked with vegetables and spices.
Tagine and dates in a courtyard cafe
Savor slow-cooked meat with dates and gentle spices.
Nightlife
Evenings in Ghadames are tranquil, with cafes and starlit desert skies to enjoy.
Evening strolls through the medina with tea in a courtyard cafe
Relax in a cool courtyard and watch the town light up.
Stargazing on the desert outskirts
Clear Libyan skies reveal a brilliant tapestry of stars.
Entertainment
Cultural evenings offer a glimpse into traditional Libyan arts and storytelling.
Folk music evenings at a traditional guesthouse
Live music and shared stories in a sacred setting.
Desert storytelling and crafts demonstrations
Learn local legends and see crafts in action.
Sports
Adventure options around Ghadames let you experience the Sahara’s breadth.
Camel rides in the surrounding desert
A gentle journey across sand and scrub with desert guides.
Desert dune buggy or 4x4 excursions
Thrilling spins over rolling dunes for adrenaline seekers.
Off the Track
Ventures beyond the city walls reveal the vast Libyan Sahara’s beauty.
Desert safari to the dunes beyond Ghadames
Day trips to remote dunes with a local guide.
Sunrise over the Sahara from a desert camp
Experience the first light on endless dunes.
Palm grove walk near the oasis
A quiet stroll among palm groves after dawn.