How to Get to Likasi. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel to Likasi & Lubumbashi

Likasi Airport LIQ

Likasi Airport (FZQA/LIQ) is a small domestic airport. Domestic flights are irregular and often charter-based. Very limited scheduled domestic flights might connect to Lubumbashi, mainly by Congo Airways or smaller operators.

Considerations

Expect extremely simple facilities and restricted services.
Airline timetables can be unreliable; confirm well in advance.
Transfers to Likasi city require pre-arranged taxis or pickups.

Lubumbashi International Airport FBM

Lubumbashi International Airport (FBM/FZQA) serves as the main international gateway for Haut-Katanga. The majority of foreign visitors arrive here, approximately 120 kilometers (75 miles) southeast of Likasi.

International Hub

Domestic flights from Kinshasa (Congo Airways, CAA).
International connections from The Capital of ethiopia (Ethiopian Airlines), Nairobi (Kenya Airways), Johannesburg (SAA/Airlink).
Flights from Brussels (Brussels Airlines) usually include a stop in Kinshasa.

Direct Flight Options

No direct international flights reach Likasi. Lubumbashi has direct connections from The Capital of ethiopia, Nairobi, and Johannesburg.

Seasonal Price Trends

Domestic flights can see cancellations and delays. Prices often rise around holidays or political events. International prices follow global trends. Utilize Dollar Flight Club for deals or Skyscanner for comparisons.

Airport Facilities

Lubumbashi International Airport offers basic international facilities, including immigration, customs, shops, currency exchange, and car rental desks. ATM access may be scarce or unreliable.

Transfers from Lubumbashi Airport to Likasi

Private Car / Taxi

The most common option for the 1.5-2.5 hour journey.
Arrange in advance with your lodging or a trusted local contact.
Cost approximately $100-150 USD, depending on negotiation and conditions.
Consider road conditions and travel time when planning.

Shared Taxi / Minibus

Less common for direct airport transfers.
You are more likely to change vehicles in Lubumbashi city.
A more budget-friendly option, but less convenient and potentially slower.
Space for luggage may be limited; factor this into your decision.

Airport to City Transfers

Likasi Airport to City

Upon arrival, use area cabs or pre-arranged pick-ups to reach your accommodation in Likasi city. Haggle over prices beforehand.

Pre-Booked Transfers

For peace of mind, arrange transfers with your accommodation or a trusted local contact, especially when arriving late at night or with significant luggage.

Travel Planning

Factor in potential delays for domestic flights and the travel time between Lubumbashi and Likasi as you plan your itinerary.

Land Transportation Options

Border Crossing Information

The nearest international land borders are with Zambia (e.g., Kasumbalesa border post, south of Lubumbashi) and Angola.

Requirements for Crossing

Valid passport, DRC visa, and Yellow Fever certificate.
Vehicle documentation is essential if driving your own car.
Border crossings can be slow and complex. Be prepared for delays.

Train Connections & Services

The Société Nationale des Chemins de fer du Congo (SNCC) operates a rail network. Likasi lies on the main railway line connecting Lubumbashi to Kindu/Kamina.

Rail Travel Experience

Passenger trains provide infrequent, slow, often delayed, and can be overcrowded.
Generally not recommended for travelers seeking reliable transport.
They offer an unique, rugged experience for adventurous travelers.

Long-Distance Bus Options

Long-distance coaches and minibuses (Hiaces) connect Likasi with Lubumbashi and other cities in Haut-Katanga.

Bus Travel Details

Various private operators exist; no key national bus lines with fixed schedules.
Vehicles can be old, overcrowded, and uncomfortable.
Roads can be poor, especially during the wet season.

Self-Driving Considerations

Self-driving for tourists is generally not recommended in the DRC. Most "rentals" include a driver. For vehicle rentals with vehicle pilots, consult DiscoverCars.com.

Challenges of Self-Driving

Poor road conditions, lack of clear signage, challenging traffic.
Security risks like carjacking; avoid driving at night.
Complex legal procedures in case of accidents.

Road Conditions & Safety Concerns

Main road between Lubumbashi and Likasi (N1/N3) is generally paved but can have chuckholes.
Rural roads and those within Likasi (away from main thoroughfares) are often unpaved.
Unpaved roads are dusty when there is no rain and muddy or impassable in the wet season.

Accidents occur due to poor road conditions, overloaded vehicles, and aggressive road behavior.
Banditry and robbery present a risk on isolated roads, notably at night.
Frequent police and military checkpoints exist; some may request unofficial "fees."

Departure Information

Exit Fees & Taxes

International flights departing from DRC airports, like Lubumbashi, typically include a departure tax in the ticket price. It is wise to confirm this with your airline or travel agent.

Departure Costs

Departure tax usually integrated into international flight tickets.
Some specific charges might be levied locally at the airport; be prepared with small denominations.
Reconfirm all potential fees with your airline or local contacts before departure.

Departure Procedures & Timing

Plan your departure from Likasi with sufficient time, especially for flights abroad from Lubumbashi, to ensure a stress-free exit.

Airport Protocol

Arrive at Lubumbashi International Airport at least 3 hours before an international flight.
Procedures include check-in, immigration control, and security screening.
Ensure all documents, including passport, visa, and boarding pass, are readily available.

Lubumbashi Facilities

Lubumbashi Airport offers limited duty-free shopping and a few cafes. Expect basic comfort rather than extensive amenities.

Likasi Airport Status

Likasi Airport facilities remain very minimal. Departures from here mainly serve domestic or charter flights with minimal amenities.

General Advice

Verify all flight details, departure times, and any specific airport instructions with your airline or local contacts before heading to the airport.

Transportation Tips & Warnings

Pre-Booking Transfers

Arranging airport transfers in advance, particularly from Lubumbashi to Likasi, removes stress upon arrival.

Pre-Arranged Logistics

Confirm with the place you are staying or a trusted local agent.
Have contact numbers for the person driving and accommodation readily available.
Agree on the price in advance to avoid surprises.

Local Navigation Advice

When navigating locally, using trusted services and being aware of your surroundings are crucial.

On-the-Ground Transportation

Use reputable taxi services. Ask your hotel for recommendations.
For communal taxis/moto-taxis, observe local practices and consistently haggle fares.
Avoid public transport and walking alone after dark.

Travel Considerations

Documentation Readiness

Always hold your passport, visa, and Yellow Fever certificate accessible yet secure, both for arrival and departure.

Safety Awareness

Keep up-to-date on local security situations and follow advice from your embassy and local contacts.

Smooth Travel Strategy

Planning for unpredictable factors in travel to and from Likasi, specifically with air and land transport, makes for an easier trip. Flexibility and patience are valuable assets.

How to Get to Likasi