Lubumbashi Airport serves the capital of the mining region of Katanga, in southern Democratic Republic of Congo, geographically distant from the conflict areas of the east.
It is an important hub for the mining sector (copper, cobalt) and professional connections related to this industry.
How to get to Lubumbashi International Airport
By Car
By Train
By Bus
Average travel time to FBM
Parking near Lubumbashi International Airport
Practical information on parking and support services should be verified directly with your relevant organization.
How to get to Lubumbashi from FBM
By Train
By Bus
By Taxi
Need an airport transfer?
Compare taxis and shuttles on Booking.com
Car rental at Lubumbashi International Airport
Self-drive car rental is generally not advisable: travel arrangements should be made through your organization of reference, generally with a dedicated driver and vehicle.
Hotels near Lubumbashi International Airport
Golf district and Lake Kipopo
About 13 km and 20-25 minutes by car from the airport; both properties overlook Lake Kipopo and the adjoining golf course, just minutes from downtown.
Best for: Travellers after the city's top tier, with a pool and well-kept grounds, who don't mind staying a little outside downtown.
- The city's only two 5-star properties, with a pool, several restaurants and event spaces
- Quiet residential neighbourhood on Lake Kipopo, minutes from the golf course and downtown
- About 13 km from the airport, further out than the downtown alternatives
- High price bracket by Lubumbashi standards
Recommended hotels
- Pullman Lubumbashi Grand Karavia 197 rooms overlooking Lake Kipopo or a tropical garden, an adjoining 18-hole golf course, an outdoor pool and two bars; about 13 km and 25 minutes from the airport. View availability
- Novotel Lubumbashi 120 rooms in the Golf district, with panoramic views over Lubumbashi or Lake Kipopo and a rooftop bar with a pool; opened in 2024 as the country's second Novotel. View availability
City centre
About 10 km and 30 minutes by taxi from the airport to downtown, where the hotel can also arrange a transfer on request.
Best for: For those who want to stay in the heart of the city, among shops and offices, on a tighter budget than the Golf district.
- Right in the business district, handy for meetings and getting around town
- More affordable rates than the Golf district properties
- Lower overall score than the city's other properties, with rooms described as dated
- 10 km from the airport, so you'll still need a taxi or the hotel's transfer
Recommended hotels
Airport services
Shopping & Duty Free
Lounges & relaxation
Connectivity & Wi-Fi
Families & Children
Terminal guide
The terminal is compact in size compared to Kinshasa, consistent with the airport's regional role.
Checks may require extra time: allow a margin above average, at least 3 hours for international flights.
Map of Lubumbashi International Airport
Frequently asked questions
Q. Is Lubumbashi as safe as Kinshasa?
It's geographically far from the conflict in the east of the country and generally described as more stable, but the entire country remains classified as Level 4 by the United States: always check the current situation with your organization or embassy.
Q. Why is Lubumbashi important for the mining sector?
It's the main hub of the Katanga region, among the world's largest areas for copper and cobalt extraction, with heavy air traffic linked to this industry.
Q. Do you need a visa for the DR Congo arriving in Lubumbashi?
The same rules apply to all entries into the country: a visa is mandatory for all nationalities, to be requested in advance.
Q. Is yellow fever vaccination required for Lubumbashi?
Yes, the certificate is mandatory for entry throughout the country, not just for the areas affected by the Ebola emergency.
Flight board
Real-time status of arriving and departing flights