Things to Do in Ubari Lakes

The Ubari Lakes, located in the heart of Libya's Fezzan Basin within the Sahara Desert, represent one of the most spectacular and surreal natural phenomena in North Africa. These stunning saltwater lakes are scattered across the Ubari Sand Sea, creating an otherworldly landscape where crystal-clear waters reflect towering sand dunes and palm trees in an almost impossible desert oasis setting. The lakes, including the famous Gaberoun and Umm al-Maa, are remnants of a much larger ancient lake system that once covered this region thousands of years ago. Despite their remote location approximately 170 kilometers southwest of Sebha, the Ubari Lakes have become one of Libya's most photographed natural wonders, attracting adventurous travelers and photographers from around the world. The contrast between the deep blue and green waters against the golden sand dunes creates a dreamlike atmosphere that seems almost too beautiful to be real. The area is inhabited by the Tuareg people, who have adapted to this harsh yet magnificent environment, maintaining traditional settlements around some of the lakes and offering visitors glimpses into their ancient desert culture.

Dining options in the Ubari Lakes area are extremely limited, with most meals provided as part of organized tours or camping experiences. Traditional Tuareg cuisine features simple but hearty dishes including flatbreads, dates, goat meat, and the famous desert tea ceremony with multiple rounds of sweet mint tea. Visitors should expect basic but authentic meals prepared over open fires, often featuring rice dishes, grilled meats, and preserved foods suitable for desert conditions. It's essential to bring adequate water and snacks, as there are no restaurants or shops in the immediate lake area. Most tour operators include all meals in their packages, featuring a mix of Libyan and international dishes adapted for desert cooking conditions.

The optimal time to visit Ubari Lakes is during the cooler months from October to March, when daytime temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F) and nights are pleasantly cool. Summer months from May to September should be avoided due to extreme heat reaching 45-50°C (113-122°F), making outdoor activities dangerous and uncomfortable. Winter months occasionally bring cold nights that can drop near freezing, so warm clothing is essential. The period from November to February offers the most stable weather conditions with clear skies ideal for photography and stargazing, though visitors should be prepared for significant temperature variations between day and night.