Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo? If you're planning to go to Lubumbashi, I have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Based on the climate and weather in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Lubumbashi, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo by month

January

Traveling to Lubumbashi in January, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you get the correct kind. The majority of adapters currently sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

February

If you go to Lubumbashi in February, you will notice that it is hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you pick the necessary kind. Many adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

March

If you visit Lubumbashi during March, you will probably find that it is extremely warm and somewhat rainy. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 60s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters available online are just plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

April

If you visit Lubumbashi during April, you are likely to notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the high 50s F (mid 10s C). In terms of precipitation, you can expect it to rain occasionally.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    Our favorite is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plug changers and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

May

If you visit Lubumbashi during May, you will probably see that it is extremely warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the low 80s F (high 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 50s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to find the right kind. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most areas.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

June

June is warm and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Be sure to pick the necessary kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

July

If you vacation in Lubumbashi during July, you are likely to see that it is a perfect temperature and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures tend to hover around the high 70s F (mid 20s C) during the day, while at night they can dip into the low 40s F (single digits C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage step down adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you find the necessary kind. The vast majority of adapters currently available are simply plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should be appropriate for most places.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

August

If you go to Lubumbashi in August, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot and very dry with almost no rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you pick the correct kind. Many adapters for sale now are just plug changers and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most countries.

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

September

September for Lubumbashi can be very hot and very dry with almost no rain. Temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C) during the day.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    Our fave is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Ensure that you get the correct kind. Most adapters currently available are simply plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

October

If you are traveling to Lubumbashi in October, you will notice that it is consistently hot and dry with little rain. Daytime temperatures are in the low 90s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing bags recently, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Make sure to choose the correct type. Most adapters available are simply plugs and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one works in most places.

  • Travel pillow

    Our favorite is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

November

November in Lubumbashi is constantly hot and somewhat rainy. The rain can amount to several inches/centimeters. During this time, temperatures average in the high 80s F (low 30s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. Make sure to pick the right kind. The majority of adapters that you can buy are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

December

Traveling to Lubumbashi in December, you will notice that it is pretty consistently hot. Daytime temperatures are in the low 80s F (high 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, Democratic Republic of the Congo has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Lubumbashi may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, D and E. It's important that you get the necessary type. A lot of adapters currently being sold are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be appropriate for most locations.

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

If you plan to see the stunning Cathedral of Saint Pierre and Paul, it's suggested to wear modest clothing:

If you go to Lubumbashi Zoological Garden, you'll probably do a lot of walking. These are a must:

What to do in Lubumbashi, Democratic Republic of the Congo

Located in the southern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Lubumbashi is a city rich in history and culture. Known as the "Copper Capital," it is the second-largest city in the country after Kinshasa. With its diverse cultural heritage and natural wonders, Lubumbashi offers a lot for tourists to explore. Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Lubumbashi.

1. Ruashi Copper and Cobalt Mine

Ruashi Copper and Cobalt Mine is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Lubumbashi. It is an active mine that produces copper and cobalt, which is used to create a variety of products. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine to learn about the mining process, visit the processing plants, and see the raw materials being extracted.

2. Lubumbashi Zoo

Another top attraction in Lubumbashi is the Lubumbashi Zoo, which is situated on the outskirts of the city. It is home to a wide variety of animals, including lions, monkeys, antelopes, crocodiles, and elephants. Visitors can take a guided tour of the zoo and learn about the different species of animals.

3. Lubumbashi Market

The Lubumbashi market is a bustling place where locals and tourists can buy food, clothes, and souvenirs. Visitors can find a variety of goods, including fresh fruits and vegetables, clothing, jewelry, and crafts. The market is also an excellent place to get a sense of the vibrant culture and traditions of the Congolese people.

4. Jadotville Museum

The Jadotville Museum is a must-visit for history buffs. It is dedicated to the brave soldiers who fought during the Congo Crisis of the 1960s, with a particular emphasis on the Battle of Jadotville. The museum features a collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts that tell the story of this pivotal moment in Congolese history.

5. Lake Tshangalele

Lake Tshangalele is an oasis of calm in the middle of the bustling city. It is a perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of sightseeing. Visitors can take a boat tour of the lake, fish or picnic on its shores.

6. Luano City National Park

Luano City National Park, located just outside Lubumbashi, is a vast wilderness area home to a diverse array of flora and fauna. The park is known for its big cats, elephants, and primates and offers a unique opportunity to experience Africa's natural beauty.

In conclusion, Lubumbashi is a great destination for tourists, with many exciting sites to explore. Whether you are interested in wildlife, history, or natural wonders, there is something for everyone. With its vibrant culture and welcoming people, Lubumbashi is an excellent place to experience the rich diversity and history of the Democratic Republic of Congo.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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