Getting around Libya independently is difficult and, in many areas, inadvisable. All tourist travel requires a licensed guide and a police escort arranged in advance by your operator. This is not a formality you can skip.
By road. The coastal highway running from the Tunisian border through Tripoli, Misrata, and east to Benghazi and Tobruk is the backbone of Libyan travel. Most of it is paved and in reasonable condition, though stretches have been damaged in fighting. Intercity shared taxis (louage) and private buses connect major cities. Renting a car with a driver — arranged through your operator — is the standard approach for tourists. Self-drive is technically possible but not recommended given road conditions, checkpoints, and the language barrier.
By air. Libyan Airlines and Buraq Air run domestic routes between Tripoli, Benghazi, Sebha, and a few other cities. Schedules are unreliable. Domestic flights can be a practical way to cover the vast distances to Fezzan if you have limited time, but always confirm the day before.
The south. Travel to Fezzan — the Saharan region including Sebha, Ghat, Germa, and the Acacus Mountains — requires a 4WD and careful planning. Roads exist between main towns but are unpaved for long stretches, and distances are immense. The security situation in the south is separate from the coast; check current conditions carefully before heading there.
Checkpoints. Armed militia checkpoints are common throughout the country. Travel with your guide at all times, carry copies of your documents, and remain calm and cooperative at checkpoints.