Lubumbashi Travel Tips. Money, Safety, Culture

DRC immense natural wealth, but also faces significant environmental challenges. Your travel choices mitigate negative impacts.

Protected Areas: Kundelungu and Upemba National Parks important for biodiversity. Visit Ecobnb for eco-agreeable stays.
Waste Management: Infrastructure basic, recycling not prevalent. Minimize waste, use reusable water bottles. Consider Package Free Shop for reusables.
Water Conservation: Scarcity an issue. Mindful of water usage, shorter showers, turn off taps.

Your environmental choices extend to transportation and accommodation.

Carbon Offset: No local programs. Use international programs to mitigate flight impact. Consider Terrapass.
Eco-Pleasant Lodging: Few certified. Look for establishments reducing waste, conserving energy, sourcing local produce, employing local staff.
Ethical Tours: G Adventures for ethical tour options globally.

Engaging respectfully with local culture remains significant for a constructive journey.

Cultural Preservation: Musée National de Lubumbashi preserves traditional cultures. Maison de la Culture promotes local arts. Support these institutions. The Rainforest Site (GreaterGood) aids conservation.
Interaction: Learn basic French or Swahili greetings. Take time for polite exchanges.
Photography Ethics: Always ask permission before photos of people. Respect refusal. Avoid sensitive sites (government, military, airport).

Be respectful when visiting sacred spaces.

Modest Dress: Dress modestly, shoulders and knees covered, visiting churches or other religious sites.
Remove Shoes: Remove what you wear on your feet if needed, especially in mosques.
Speak Softly: Speak softly, maintain respectful demeanor, especially during prayers or services. Avoid disturbance.

Community-Based Tourism: Limited. If opportunities arise through trusted local contacts to visit a village, ensure direct benefits to the community.
Fair Trade: Purchase directly from local artisans at markets or workshops. More money goes to producers.
Bargain Fairly: Bargain respectfully. Small amount for you substantial for a local vendor.
Local Businesses: Prioritize locally-owned businesses: local restaurants, street food, taxi services (trusted sources), local guesthouses. Employ local guides and drivers.

Child Labor: Do not support activities involving child labor. Vigilant in markets or informal mining areas.
Bribery: Resist demands for bribes. Politely but firmly decline. Insist on receipt for official fees. Report incidents safely.
Avoid involvement, illegal and exploitative.
Charitable Giving: Donate to established, reputable local NGOs or charities for the local community development, education, or health. Avoid direct handouts.

Conscious spending in Lubumbashi meaningfully benefits local communities.