MileHacker Logo
Likasi Travel Tips

Likasi Travel Tips

Likasi Haut-katanga, Democratic Republic Of The Congo Travel Guide

Local SIM Cards

Vodacom, Airtel, Orange, and Africell are the main mobile providers in the region.

Details

  • Purchase SIM cards at official stores in Likasi or Lubumbashi.
  • Passport registration is mandatory for activation.
  • Calls and mobile data packages are generally affordable.

Internet & Wi-Fi

Wi-Fi is available in some mid-range to higher-end hotels, but often untrustworthy and slow.

Access Methods

  • Mobile data through a local SIM card offers the most consistent internet access.
  • Internet cafes may exist but are becoming less common in urban areas.

Postal Services

The national postal service (OCPT) exists but is generally unreliable for international mail.

Courier Options

  • For urgent needs, international courier services like DHL operate in Lubumbashi.
  • Access these services from Likasi by arranging transport to Lubumbashi.

Language Barriers

French is the official language. Swahili is widely spoken in Haut-Katanga as a lingua franca.

Language Tips

  • Basic French communication is beneficial for everyday interactions.
  • Learning a few Swahili phrases will greatly aid communication with locals.
  • Google Translate with offline language packs for French and Swahili can be an useful tool.

Essential Phrases

Greetings & Politeness

  • Hello (Bonjour / Jambo)
  • Goodbye (Au revoir / Kwaheri)
  • Please (S'il vous plaît / Tafadhali)
  • Thank you (Merci / Asante)

Practical Phrases

  • Yes/No (Oui/Non / Ndiyo/Hapana)
  • How much? (Combien? / Ngapi?)
  • Excuse me (Pardon / Samahani)
  • Help! (Au secours! / Saidia!)

Communication Tip

Local SIM cards with data are the most consistent way to stay connected. Airalo eSIMs and Solis Wi-Fi devices offer alternative connectivity options for travelers.

Operating Hours & Services

Understand typical schedules for businesses and amenities in Likasi to better plan your activities.

Government Offices

Generally open Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM.

Shops & Markets

Typically open from early morning (7:00-8:00 AM) to late afternoon or early evening (5:00-7:00 PM). Some operate on Saturdays, smaller shops on Sundays.

Banks

Typically open Monday-Friday, from 8:00 AM to 3:00 PM.

Banking & ATMs

A limited number of banks operate in Likasi, and ATMs are rare and often unreliable.

Advice

  • Always carry enough cash in the two USD and CDF (Congolese Francs).
  • Exchange currency at official bureaus or banks in bigger cities such as Lubumbashi.
  • Credit and debit card acceptance is rare outside large hotels in Lubumbashi.

Public Holidays

The DRC observes several public holidays throughout the year, impacting business operations.

Impact on Services

  • Businesses and government offices is set to be closed on official holidays.
  • Major public holidays include Independence Day (June 30), Christmas, New Year, and Martyrs' Day.
  • Local religious holidays, both Christian and Muslim, may also lead to service adjustments.

Seasonal Schedules

General Closures

  • No specific seasonal closures affect businesses in Likasi.

Limited Services

  • Some services may be reduced during major holidays or election periods.

Planning Ahead

Always verify business hours, especially during holiday periods, to avoid inconvenience. For more comfortable airport experiences, consider a Priority Pass. If you experience flight disruptions, Compensair assists with compensation claims.

Cultural Etiquette

Respectful interactions with area traditions and norms enhance your visit to Likasi.

Greeting Customs

Greetings are considered very important in Congolese culture. Always acknowledge people upon arrival.

Practices

  • Handshakes are common, sometimes prolonged. Always use your right hand.
  • For elders or those in authority, a brief inclination of the head or more formal greeting shows respect.
  • Initiate greetings verbally before conducting any business or conversation.

Appropriate Attire

Modest dress is generally recommended in public settings throughout Likasi.

Settings

  • Avoid overly revealing clothing to show cultural deference.
  • For formal meetings or business, appropriate attire like suits or smart wear is fitting.
  • Longer skirts or trousers and covered shoulders are generally preferred for women.

Dining & Tipping

When eating, use your right hand if not using cutlery, as the left hand is often considered unclean.

Tipping Customs

  • Tipping is not commonly required but is always appreciated for good service.
  • A small gratuity for restaurant staff or guides is a kind gesture.
  • There are no fixed percentages for tipping; use your discretion.

Photography Ethics

Always ask permission before photographing people, especially children, to show respect for their privacy.

Restrictions

  • Do not photograph government buildings, military installations, or airports.
  • Avoid anything that could be perceived as sensitive or strategic by local authorities.
  • Be discreet with your camera and avoid drawing unnecessary attention.

Sensitive Topics & Social Norms

Public Behavior

  • Be discreet with affection in public, as this is generally frowned upon.
  • Do not give money directly to begging children; donate to reputable charities instead.
  • Consider supporting local schools or community projects rather than direct handouts.

Conversation Topics

  • Refrain from talking about on politics or ethnic tensions unless a trusted local initiates the conversation.
  • These can be highly sensitive areas; exercise caution and listen more than you speak.

Gender & LGBTQ+ Information

Gender Considerations

  • The Democratic Republic of Congo is a patriarchal society.
  • Women should generally dress modestly and expect different social expectations.
  • Adhering to local dress codes can aid in positive interactions.

LGBTQ+ Information

  • Homosexuality is not illegal but is highly stigmatized in the DRC.
  • There is no legal recognition for same-sex relationships.
  • Public displays of affection by LGBTQ+ individuals are strongly not advised.

Respectful Travel

Embracing local customs deepens your travel and builds positive connections. Consider language learning with Rosetta Stone to enrich your interactions.

Accessibility in Likasi

Likasi's infrastructure has significant limitations for travelers with mobility needs.

Infrastructure Challenges

Likasi's infrastructure is generally not designed for universal accessibility.

Details

  • Pavements, public buildings, and transportation systems lack accessibility features.
  • Uneven terrain and a lack of ramps are common obstacles.
  • Few, if any, establishments offer facilities for guests with limited mobility.

Accessible Services

No attractions are specifically designated as accessible for travelers with physical limitations.

Transportation

  • Public transportation options are not wheelchair-friendly.
  • Private taxis may provide some flexibility but are not adapted for accessibility needs.
  • Specialized accessible transportation services are not available for travelers.

Sensory Impairments

Formal services for travelers with visual or hearing impairments are not readily available in Likasi.

Resources

  • No dedicated guides or audio aids for visual impairments.
  • Limited support for hearing impairments, like sign language interpreters.
  • Travelers with sensory impairments should plan for self-sufficiency or bring personal assistance.

Support & Information

Resources and organizations providing accessibility information for travelers are limited to non-existent.

Finding Aid

  • Independent research and local inquiry are the main means of gathering information.
  • Consider reaching out to local expatriate communities for practical advice.

Important Accessibility Note

Travelers with mobility challenges should anticipate significant difficulties and plan accordingly, potentially bringing specialized equipment or personal support.

Next Up: Sustainable Travel in Likasi. Eco-Friendly, Responsible Tourism, Conservation