About Place
- Heart of the Copperbelt
- Gateway to the Wild
- It's known for its rich mining history, especially in copper
Reasons to Visit
- Mining Heritage : Lubumbashi is the epicenter of the DRC's vast mining industry, particularly copper and cobalt. This has made it a key economic hub, not just for the country but for the entire region. Visiting Lubumbashi offers insight into the mining processes that fuel the global economy, with several opportunities to tour mining sites and learn about this critical industry.
- Cultural Fusion : The city reflects a blend of Congolese and European influences, visible in its architecture, cuisine, and arts. The fusion of local traditions with colonial heritage makes it a fascinating place for cultural exploration. The National Museum of Lubumbashi and numerous galleries provide a deep dive into the region's history and contemporary culture.
- Proximity to Nature : While Lubumbashi is an urban center, it is also a gateway to the natural wonders of the DRC. The Upemba National Park, just a few hours away, is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering stunning landscapes, rare species, and the opportunity to experience the untamed beauty of Central Africa.
Visa
- Visa Required : Most travelers need a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), including Lubumbashi.
- Exceptions : Citizens of neighboring African countries may have more lenient visa requirements.
- Mandatory for Others : Travelers from Europe, North America, Asia, and other regions must obtain a visa in advance.
- Passport Validity : A valid passport with at least six months of validity is required.
- Yellow Fever Vaccination : Proof of yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry.
- Application Process : The visa application process can be lengthy, so it’s recommended to apply well in advance.
Travel Expenses
1. Travel to & from Lubumbashi : Flights from major metro cities like Johannesburg, Nairobi, or Addis Ababa to Lubumbashi cost around $400-$700 per person for a round trip.
2. Hotel Cost : Mid-range hotels cost about $80-$150 per night, so a 4-night stay would be around $640-$1200 for a couple.
3. Food Cost : Daily food expenses can range from $30-$50 per person, leading to a total of $240-$400 for the trip.
4. Activity Cost : Guided tours, including the mining tour and the national park visit, could total around $200-$400 for the couple.
5. Near Destination Travel Cost : Car rental for local travel can cost around $50-$100 per day, totaling $200-$400 for four days.
Best Itinerary
Day 1 : Arrival and Exploration After arriving in Lubumbashi, spend the day acclimatizing and exploring the city. Start with a visit to the Lubumbashi National Museum, which provides a comprehensive overview of the region's history, including its role in the mining industry. For lunch, enjoy a traditional Congolese meal at "La Brioche," a popular local eatery. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the city's historic center, admiring colonial-era buildings such as the Cathedral of St. Pierre and Paul. For dinner, head to "La Plage" for a blend of European and African cuisine, and then relax with an evening walk along Avenue Mobutu, which offers a taste of local nightlife.
Day 2 : Mining Tour and Cultural Immersion Begin your day with a guided tour of one of the copper mines near Lubumbashi, such as the Tenke Fungurume Mine. This will give you a firsthand look at the industry that drives the region's economy. For lunch, try "Le Chalet," known for its delicious Congolese dishes. In the afternoon, visit local art galleries, such as the Atelier de l'Artiste or the Centre d'Art Picha, to discover contemporary Congolese art. Dinner at "Restaurant Hellenique" offers Greek cuisine with a Congolese twist, and you can end the day with a visit to a local music venue to experience Congolese rumba.
Day 3 : Excursion to Upemba National Park Take an early morning drive to Upemba National Park, located about 3-4 hours from Lubumbashi. This park is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, zebras, and various bird species. Spend the day exploring the park, with a picnic lunch in the scenic surroundings. The day can end with a return to Lubumbashi for a relaxed dinner at "Grand Karavia," a luxurious restaurant offering international cuisine.
Day 4 : Cultural and Shopping Experience Dedicate your last day to exploring the local markets, such as the Marché M'zee, where you can shop for souvenirs, including traditional crafts and textiles. Have lunch at "Belvédère," which offers panoramic views of the city. Spend the afternoon visiting more local sights, such as the botanical gardens or the University of Lubumbashi. For dinner, enjoy a farewell meal at "Pyramide," known for its fine dining experience with a fusion of international and Congolese flavors.
Safety Tips
- Always carry copies of your passport and visa.
- Avoid traveling alone at night, especially in unfamiliar areas.
- Stay informed about the local security situation, as the DRC can be politically unstable.
- Be cautious with your belongings, particularly in crowded places.
- Drink only bottled or purified water to avoid waterborne diseases.
- Get all necessary vaccinations, including yellow fever.
- Use reliable transportation services; avoid unofficial taxis.
- Respect local customs and traditions to avoid misunderstandings.
- Keep emergency contacts handy at all times.
- Stay connected with your country's embassy for updates and assistance.
Flights
- Airlines like Ethiopian Airlines
- Kenya Airways
- South African Airways offer flights to Lubumbashi. The journey typically takes 3-6 hours, depending on the route, with prices ranging from $400 to $700 round-trip.
Hotels
- Hotel Pullman Grand Karavia - Known for its luxurious amenities and lakeside views.
- Gloria Inn - A more budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms.
- Hotel Lubumbashi - Offers good service and central location.
- Hotel Cosmopolite - Renowned for its modern facilities.
- Hotel Katebi - A good mix of affordability and comfort.
Contacts
- Indian Embassy in Kinshasa : +243 81 700 5115
- Police : 117
- Ambulance : 112
- Firefighters : 118
Closet Airport
- Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM)
Nearest City
- Kinshasa
Heritage Sites
- No UNESCO World Heritage Sites, but the city has several significant colonial-era buildings.
Airlines
- Ethiopian Airlines
- Kenya Airways
- South African Airways
Currency
- Congolese Franc (CDF)
- US Dollar (widely accepted)
Languages Spoken
- French (official)
- Swahili (local)
Real Story
The Role of Lubumbashi in the Congo Crisis (1960-1965)
Lubumbashi, then known as Élisabethville, was at the heart of one of the most turbulent periods in the Democratic Republic of the Congo's history – the Congo Crisis. This crisis, spanning from 1960 to 1965, was marked by political upheaval, secessionist movements, and foreign intervention, following the country’s independence from Belgium in June 1960.
The Katanga Secession
The province of Katanga, where Lubumbashi is located, was rich in mineral resources, particularly copper and cobalt. This wealth made it a highly strategic area during the Congo Crisis. Moise Tshombe, the leader of Katanga, declared the province’s independence from the newly formed Congolese state in July 1960, just weeks after independence. Lubumbashi (Élisabethville) became the capital of the self-proclaimed State of Katanga.
Tshombe’s secessionist move was motivated by a desire to retain control over the lucrative mining industry, which he feared would be nationalized by the central government under Prime Minister Patrice Lumumba. The secession was supported by Belgian mining interests and mercenaries, who had a vested interest in maintaining the status quo. As a result, Lubumbashi became a battleground for control over the region’s resources, with significant international implications.
UN Intervention and Conflict
The secession of Katanga was met with resistance from the central Congolese government, leading to a prolonged conflict. The United Nations deployed peacekeeping forces to the Congo (ONUC) in an attempt to stabilize the situation. However, the UN forces initially faced stiff resistance from Katangese forces and their foreign allies.
Lubumbashi witnessed intense fighting during this period, as UN forces sought to reintegrate Katanga into the Congo. The city’s streets and infrastructure were heavily affected by the conflict, with numerous skirmishes between UN troops and Katangese forces. The conflict in Lubumbashi reached its peak in December 1962, when the UN launched Operation Grandslam, a military offensive aimed at ending the secession. The operation succeeded in forcing Tshombe to negotiate, leading to the eventual reintegration of Katanga into the Congo in January 1963.
Aftermath and Legacy
The Congo Crisis and the secession of Katanga had long-lasting effects on Lubumbashi and the broader region. The city emerged from the crisis as a critical industrial hub, but it also bore the scars of conflict. The crisis deepened the political divisions within the Congo and set the stage for future instability, including the rise of Mobutu Sese Seko, who would later rule the country as a dictator for over three decades.
Lubumbashi’s role in the Congo Crisis remains a significant chapter in the history of the DRC. The events of this period continue to influence the city’s identity, as well as its political and economic landscape. Today, Lubumbashi stands as a symbol of both the potential and the challenges that the DRC faces as it continues to navigate its complex post-colonial legacy.
Cuisine
Lubumbashi's Culinary Scene
Lubumbashi offers a diverse and flavorful culinary scene that reflects its multicultural influences and rich local traditions. The cuisine here is a delightful fusion of traditional Congolese dishes and European, particularly Belgian, flavors. This blend results from the city’s history as a colonial center and its continued role as a hub for people from different parts of the world.
Traditional Congolese Dishes
One of the staples of Lubumbashi’s cuisine is fufu, a dough-like dish made from cassava or maize flour. It is typically served with a variety of stews, such as pondu, a dish made from cassava leaves, or moambe chicken, which is chicken cooked in a rich and creamy palm nut sauce. These dishes are integral to the local diet and are often accompanied by grilled meats, fish, or beans.
Another popular dish is makayabu, which consists of salted fish, usually served with rice, plantains, or fufu. Street food is also prevalent in Lubumbashi, with grilled corn, meat skewers, and sambaza (small fried fish) being common snacks. Ndakala (dried, salted fish) is another local delicacy, often eaten as a snack or added to stews.
European Influences
The European, particularly Belgian, influence is evident in the use of ingredients like butter, cream, and cheese in various dishes. French-style pastries, croissants, and baguettes are readily available in the city’s bakeries, reflecting the lasting legacy of Belgian colonization. Restaurants in Lubumbashi often serve a mix of European and African dishes, such as steak au poivre (pepper steak) with a side of fufu, illustrating this culinary fusion.
Unique Beverages
Lubumbashi also has a unique selection of beverages. Chibuku, a traditional African beer made from maize or sorghum, is popular among locals. For those preferring something non-alcoholic, ginger beer and tamarind juice are widely enjoyed. Tea and coffee, particularly robusta coffee grown in the DRC, are commonly served, often with a sweet pastry.
Dining in Lubumbashi offers an opportunity to explore both traditional Congolese flavors and the more cosmopolitan influences that have shaped the city’s culinary identity. Whether you're enjoying a hearty meal of moambe chicken with fufu at a local eatery or savoring a French-inspired dish at a fine dining restaurant, Lubumbashi’s cuisine is a testament to its rich cultural heritage.
Culture and History
Culture of Lubumbashi
Lubumbashi, as the second-largest city in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), is a cultural melting pot shaped by its diverse population and historical significance as a mining hub. The city's culture is a unique blend of indigenous Congolese traditions and European, particularly Belgian, influences.
Indigenous Traditions
The local population largely consists of the Luba people, who have a rich cultural heritage that includes traditional music, dance, and art. The Luba are known for their intricate carvings, especially wooden figures and masks that play a significant role in their rituals and ceremonies. Music and dance are central to Luba culture, with rhythmic drumming and chanting being common at communal gatherings. Lubumbashi also celebrates various traditional festivals, where these cultural expressions are on full display.
Colonial Legacy
Lubumbashi was founded in 1910 by the Belgians as a center for copper mining, and it was originally named Élisabethville after the Belgian queen. The city's layout, architecture, and some of its institutions reflect this colonial past. The presence of grand colonial buildings, such as the Cathedral of St. Pierre and Paul, is a reminder of the European influence. The blend of Belgian and Congolese cultures is evident in the city’s cuisine, language, and arts. French is the official language, and many people also speak Swahili, a lingua franca in Eastern DRC.
Modern Cultural Scene
Today, Lubumbashi is a thriving urban center with a vibrant cultural scene. It is home to several museums, including the National Museum of Lubumbashi, which houses artifacts from the region’s past, offering insights into the pre-colonial, colonial, and post-colonial eras. The city is also a hub for contemporary Congolese art, with galleries such as Centre d’Art Waza and Atelier Picha promoting local artists. These spaces often explore themes related to identity, post-colonialism, and the socio-political landscape of the DRC.
Religious and Social Practices
Religion plays a significant role in the daily lives of the people in Lubumbashi. Christianity, particularly Roman Catholicism, is the dominant religion, a legacy of Belgian colonization. However, indigenous beliefs and practices are still prevalent, often blending with Christian rituals. The city also has a significant Muslim minority, reflecting the diverse religious landscape of the region.
Cultural Challenges and Growth
Lubumbashi, like much of the DRC, faces challenges related to political instability, economic hardship, and social inequality. These issues have influenced the city’s cultural life, often reflected in the arts and literature. However, the resilience of its people is evident in the ongoing cultural revival, with increasing efforts to preserve and promote traditional arts, while also embracing modernity.