A layover in Kufra is one of those happy accidents of air travel. Kufra Airport sits just 40 minutes from the city center by Taxi, and even a short visit can be surprisingly rewarding. This guide covers everything you need to get out of the terminal and back in time for your next boarding call.
What to Know Before Leaving the Terminal
Three things to verify before you walk out of AKF:
- Can you legally enter Libya? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 40-minute journey each way by Taxi, you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the LYD. ATMs near the arrivals area typically offer better rates than the exchange counters.
Airport to City: Your Transport Options
You have two main options for getting from Kufra Airport into town:
- Taxi: About 40 minutes, affordable, and consistent. This is what we recommend for time-conscious travelers.
- Taxi or ride-share: Around 60 minutes in normal traffic. More comfortable for groups or heavy luggage, but pricier and less predictable.
Whichever you choose, keep the return journey in mind. Build in extra time — you do not want to be rushing through security.
What to Budget for Your Kufra Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Kufra layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$8 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$23 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Kufra.
Luggage Storage Options
Specific locker facilities at AKF aren’t well-documented. We recommend checking Bounce before your trip to find a secure storage spot either near the airport or in Kufra itself.
If you’re traveling carry-on only, you might be able to skip storage entirely and bring your bag along.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Kufra:
Start with Kufra Oasis Experience. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit. Then, if time allows, make your way to El Tag Fort Remains. You can see the main features in a short visit.
Staying airside? That’s fine too. Inside AKF, you can spend time at AKF Waiting Area or try Airport Kiosk & Souvenirs. Sometimes the best layover is a calm one.
Best Bites Near AKF
In Kufra
If you make it into town, Oasis Dine-In is a good bet for a proper meal. For something different, try Kufra Guest House Restaurant.
Inside AKF
If you’re staying in the terminal, AKF Snack & Coffee Stop is your main option. Airport Grab & Go works too if you want something quick.
Rest Areas & Lounges
Long overnight layover? Your options at AKF include terminal seating (look for areas away from the main walkways) and, if available, airport lounges with day passes. Some airports in Libya also have transit hotels or sleeping pods — worth checking availability before your trip.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at AKF for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Kufra or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Kufra with time to spare is really an invitation to explore. Kufra may not have been on your original itinerary, but sometimes those surprise stops become the best part of a trip.
Just remember: set an alarm, know your gate, and leave time for security. Everything else is an adventure.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.