Reserves

Located east of Tripoli, Algharabolli is relatively close to the city. This 20,000-acre area has been protected since 1992. It features coastal zones along the Mediterranean Sea, famous for its sand dunes, beaches, and cliffs. Over 100 bird species have been documented, making it a sanctuary for birds. Historically, many African mammals lived in this region. It is densely forested with naturally growing trees like sidr, broom, and gundelia. Future policies aim to focus on vegetation conservation while promoting eco-friendly projects such as beekeeping and bird breeding.

Bir Ayad Nature Reserve covers 12,000 hectares and is located in the Nafusa Mountains, 120 km southwest of Tripoli and 15 km northwest of Yefren. Initially an agricultural project, it was declared a reserve in 1992. The semi-arid climate receives 100–150 mm of rain annually. Vegetation includes around 300 species of trees, shrubs, and herbs, with dominant species like acacia, sidr, and broom.

Elnaggaza National Park is west of Al Khums, 98 km east of Tripoli. Established in 1992, it spans 4,000 hectares, with 600 hectares strictly protected. It features pine forests, wetlands, sandy beaches, and rocky shores. Seasonal reforestation by students and scouts created the pine forests. However, lack of management has led to wildfires and local encroachment, especially in coastal areas.

One of the first national parks in Libya, Kouf was established in 1975 and is one of the seven national parks in the country. Located 150 km northeast of Benghazi near the city of Al Bayda, it features both marine and terrestrial biodiversity. Covering a total conservation area of 100,000 hectares, Kouf boasts various natural formations such as caves, land cavities, valleys, mountains, cliffs, plains, natural lakes, salt flats, and coastal zones. The terrain is rugged, with elevations reaching 880 meters in Sidi Al Hamri.

The park is home to diverse wildlife, including golden eagles, Egyptian vultures, storks, flamingos, and quails. Mammals include striped hyenas, Arabian wolves, wild boars, African wildcats, and foxes. The marine area adjacent to the park is home to bottlenose dolphins, short-beaked common dolphins, and loggerhead turtles that lay eggs along the coastline. Around 90% of Libya’s native plant species can be found in Kouf due to its significant biodiversity.

The Shuafiyin Reserve, or Msalata Natural Reserve, is the first biosphere reserve in Libya to be recognized by UNESCO as a Man and Biosphere (MAB) Reserve on September 15, 2021. Located in Al Murqub Municipality west of Msalata, the reserve is part of the Nafusa Mountain range and spans 83,060 hectares. It transitions from lush forests and grass steppes in the north to arid desert regions in the south. It is home to rare and endangered species, including medicinal and aromatic plants and animals listed on the IUCN Red List, such as striped hyenas, terrestrial tortoises, and bustards.

Located in the Nalout Municipality, approximately 275 km southwest of Tripoli, this reserve was established in 1998. The area features palm groves and shrubs on hill slopes leading to a dry valley. Recently, parts of the reserve have been repurposed for recreation, including cafes, restaurants, and playgrounds. However, the area faces challenges like neglect, pollution, and deterioration of protective facilities.

The Sabrata National Park was established in 1995 and spans 500 hectares in the coastal area of Sabrata. It includes planted pine forests and eucalyptus and acacia trees in the northern part of the park. Some animal species, such as gazelles, oryxes, and ostriches, were introduced to the park. However, the proximity to limestone quarries and high population density has led to environmental challenges.

The Surman Park, established in 1992, is located near the ancient ruins of Sabrata, 50 km west of Tripoli. Spanning a total area of 1,100 hectares, 400 hectares are actively utilized. Surman is known for its sand dunes and vegetation, including casuarina, eucalyptus, acacia, Christ’s thorn, and broom shrubs. Parts of Surman are arid, with common sightings of rodents and snakes.

Zulton Nature Reserve is one of the protected natural areas in Libya. It was established to preserve biodiversity and natural habitats. Located in the western part of Libya, 140 km west of Tripoli, it represents a protected natural area. Established in 1998, it consists of an artificial forest planted with eucalyptus and acacia trees over the past three decades. The reserve also includes a coastal salt marsh area. The region attracts many species of migratory birds during their journey to Africa or during the winter season in Libya.

Abughylan was established as a protected area in 1992. The park, covering an area of 4,000 hectares, is located in the Western Mountain region, south of the Al-Marqab and Tripoli areas. It is a recently forested area with Aleppo pine trees, and naturally grows trees such as acacia, jujube, and juniper, along with other perennial plants like thyme and esparto grass. Dominant species also include artemisia, broom, and thyme.

Abughylan is known for its mountainous terrain and hosts wildlife such as lizards, snakes, and rodents. In the past, desert mammals like hyenas, wildcats, and gazelles were found there. The area is also famous for its fig and olive trees, as well as the beloved Libyan palm trees.

The Zwara Mankoob Salt Marsh Reserve spans an area of 110 hectares and holds environmental and cultural value of national and international importance, representing a vital part of its identity. It is situated in a dry coastal environment that blends uniquely within one of the most stunning landscapes in the western region. The reserve, along with its accompanying market, occupies a strategic location as the eastern gateway to the city of Zwara.

The reserve features a rich diversity of bird species, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates, plants, and breathtakingly varied landscapes. It lies within the administrative boundaries of Zwara and represents a coastal, saline wetland ecosystem. It is one of the most important bird aggregation areas (both resident and migratory) in the western coastal region. The reserve is bordered by the Mediterranean Sea to the north, the coastal road to the south, the port of Zwara to the west, and sabkhas (salt flats) and private properties to the east.

To this day, the salt marsh remains an important economic resource for local residents and is integral to the region’s Amazigh identity and heritage, which dates back to prehistory. The local economy is largely based on the extraction of salt, salt oil, and limestone.