Farwa Island

Farwa is a low sandy island around thirteen kilometres long lying parallel to the coast in Libya's far northwestern corner, separated from the mainland by a shallow lagoon with seagrass and salt flats. Sea turtles nest on the seaward beaches and the lagoon is important for waterbirds. Fishermen work from it and there is a small settlement, but the island is otherwise undeveloped and the water on the outer side is clear. The island takes its name from the settlement on it, and the channel separating it from the mainland is shallow enough to wade in places at low water.

What you actually see

• The barrier island - a low sand strip running parallel to the coast.
• The lagoon - the shallow water and seagrass between island and mainland.
• The turtle nesting - the seaward beaches used by sea turtles.
• The birdlife - the waterbirds using the lagoon and salt flats.

When to go

April to June and September to October are the comfortable months. Summer is very hot. Winter storms make crossings rough.

Honest expectations

There are no facilities on the island beyond fishermen's huts. Boat crossings are informal arrangements. Travel in Libya requires arrangements through a licensed operator.

Nearby

Zuwara is east, and the Tunisian border is west.