Flights from London to Lubumbashi

Passport & Visas

Check the passport and visa requirements for the countries you are visiting / transiting in on your planned journey - make sure you apply for them well in advance of your date of travel. Check the legitimacy of your Passport and Visas. Don't forget your passport and visa on the day of travel. If you misplace your passport or visa please speak to the embassy or consulate immediately in the country you are traveling in.

Security Precautions

Put a luggage strap around your case for easy credentials and superfluous securely. If you misplace your passport or visa please contact the embassy or consulate immediately in the country you are traveling in. Never carry packages on behalf of anyone else, however genuinely they seem to be. Never go away luggage unattended at airports, this creates a high security risk.

Health Precautions

Check the inoculation and health requirements for all of the countries you are visiting on your journey. Please be aware some vaccinations need to be administered 4-6 weeks before travel. If you are carrying medicines or medications with you please keep a note of your condition and the medication you require somewhere handy e.g. a piece of paper inside the cover of your passport, where it can be easily found in an emergency. Ensure you take extra supplies of medication in case you get delayed abroad.

Air Tickets

Check the ticket for Flight(s) details & accuracy as soon as you recieve it. Keep your tickets with your passport and visas and do not forget them on the day you travel.

Baggage Packing

Pack the night before you travel, to save rushing and being late for your flight. Check the weather forecast at your destination before travelling to avoid taking unnecessary luggage. Roll clothes instead of folding them, it creates less creases. Honest! Pack travel sizes of all of the lotions and potions you require to save space.

Baggage Allowance

Check with the airline you are traveling with on the stipulated baggage allowances. Ensure that your hand baggage allowance does not exceed the level enforced by the airline you are traveling with. This ensures unnecessary embarrassment at the check-in desk, having to move luggage from your hand baggage to your suitcase.

Getting To & From The Airport

Check timetables for public transport in advance to ensure you arrive at the airport in plenty of time. If taking your car pre-book parking wherever possible or get someone to give you a lift in order to save time. Wherever possible use only metered taxis around the airport.

Foriegn Currency

Make sure you have enough foreign currency for your immediate arrival into a foreign country, particularly if your flight arrives at an odd hour. Always make a list of the Credit / Debit Card numbers and travelers cheques you are carrying along with the suppliers contact numbers in case they get lost.

Special Requests

Give airlines plenty of notice for special meal requirements or seating requests.

Jetlag

Try to drink plenty of water whilst on the aircraft as this helps to counter dehydration. Check in flight magazines, for gentle exercises to do whilst on board to stop stiffness and tiredness of joints. Cleanse and moisturize skin regularly whilst on board again to counter dehydration. Eat a light meal onboard as easier to digest, avoid excessive carbohydrates and fats.

Flight Options from London to Lubumbashi

There are no direct flights from London to Lubumbashi, but several airlines offer connecting flights with one or more layovers. Airlines such as Ethiopian Airlines, Kenya Airways, and Air France provide routes from London Heathrow (LHR) to Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM). Layovers may occur in cities such as Addis Ababa, Nairobi, or Paris. The total travel time, including layovers, can range from 13 to 20 hours, depending on the route and connection times.

Best Time to Book London to Lubumbashi Flights

For the best deals on flights from London to Lubumbashi, consider booking your tickets several months in advance. Prices may vary depending on the season, with higher prices typically seen during peak travel times, such as the winter holidays (December to January). Traveling during the off-peak seasons, such as late spring (April to June) or early fall (September to October), can offer more affordable fares and a quieter travel experience.

London to Lubumbashi: What to Expect Upon Arrival

Lubumbashi, the second-largest city in the DRC, is a key industrial and mining hub, with a rich cultural heritage. Upon arrival at Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM), you’ll have various transportation options, including taxis, private transfers, and rental cars, to take you to your destination. The airport is located just a short drive from the city center, making it easy to start exploring Lubumbashi right away.

Exploring Lubumbashi

Once in Lubumbashi, there are plenty of sights and activities to enjoy. Visit the National Museum of Lubumbashi to learn about the history and culture of the region. Take a walk in the lush Lubumbashi Zoo and Botanical Gardens, or explore the bustling local markets for a taste of Congolese life. The city is also a gateway to the Katanga region, known for its mining operations and natural beauty.

Travel Tips for London to Lubumbashi

UK passport holders traveling to the DRC will need a visa. It’s important to apply for your visa in advance and ensure all travel documents are in order before departure. The local currency is the Congolese Franc (CDF). While credit cards are accepted in some places, it's advisable to have cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases. Travelers to the DRC should have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical expenses. Yellow fever vaccination is required for entry, and it’s recommended to be up-to-date on other vaccinations. Always check the latest health advisories before traveling.

Conclusion

Traveling from London to Lubumbashi offers a gateway to exploring the industrial and cultural heart of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Whether your visit is for business or leisure, the journey from London to Lubumbashi connects you to a region rich in history and economic significance. Book your flight today and prepare to discover the unique experiences that await in Lubumbashi!