Surt

Surt is a coastal popularate in central Libya, situated along the Gulf of Sidra. The district is named after the city of Sirte, the hometown of Muammar Gaddafi. The landscape is predominantly flat, arid coastal plain, with the Mediterranean to the north and the Sahara Desert creeping southward. The district includes the oil-export terminals of Ras Lanuf and the coastal settlements of Bin Jawad, Nofaliya, and Harawa. Surt was heavily damaged during the 2011 civil war and subsequent conflicts, with much of Sirte's infrastructure destroyed. The population is predominantly Arab.

October to April is the only comfortable period. Summer is extremely hot and humid along the coast.

The coastal highway (N1) runs through the district, connecting Misrata (200 km west) to Benghazi (300 km east). Shared minibuses run these routes. Ghardabiya Airbase (SRX IATA) near Sirte has flights to Tripoli.

• Sirte — Coastal city, Gaddafi's birthplace, with the Ghardabiya Airbase and the remnants of grand government buildings.
• Bin Jawad — Coastal town west of Sirte, site of fighting during the 2011 civil war.
• Nofaliya — Small coastal settlement east of Sirte on the road to Benghazi.
• Harawa — Coastal village in the eastern part of the district.
• Ras Lanuf — Industrial town centred on a major oil refinery and export terminal on the coast.

Seafood is available along the coast. Libyan standards: couscous, lamb, grilled fish.

Festivals are limited due to the impact of recent conflicts. Libyan national holidays are observed.

• Visit the remains of the government buildings constructed by Gaddafi in Sirte.
• See the oil infrastructure at Ras Lanuf.
• Drive the coastal highway along the Gulf of Sidra.

Much of the district was affected by conflict. Check current conditions before travelling.

The settlement is walkable. Local taxis are available for longer trips.

Walk through the local area and experience daily life in Surt.

Basic supplies are available at local shops. For a wider selection, visit the district capital.

Simple Libyan dishes are available at local eateries.

Tea and coffee are available at local cafés. Bottled water is recommended.