Is Lubumbashi safe to visit right now? (November 2026)

Travel advisories for Democratic Republic of the Congo

What the advice says

• The US Department of State advisory is Level 4 - Do Not Travel, dated 2026-07-15; this is a country-level advisory, not specific to Lubumbashi.
• The UK FCDO advice, last updated October 8, 2026, is also issued at the country level for the Democratic Republic of the Congo and includes guidance applicable to Lubumbashi as an urban center.
• The FCDO notes that foreign nationals are at particular risk of street robbery in Kinshasa, Lubumbashi, and other urban centers, especially near hotels and supermarkets in the center of town, and warns that organized gangs use tricks such as children, fake cut-price gold or diamonds, or people posing as police or security personnel to lure victims.
• Travelers are advised to avoid walking in the streets alone at any time, especially at night, to not display valuables and cash, and to use a hotel safe when possible while keeping copies of documents, including passports, separately.
• For transport, the FCDO recommends using transport arranged by a hotel or tour operator, and if a taxi must be taken, to use a privately booked one rather than hailing one on the street.
• The advice also highlights that transport and accommodation are extremely limited outside Kinshasa and major towns, so arrangements should be made in advance and travel undertaken with experienced people or organizations.
• The FCDO warns of a general risk of robbery and kidnapping targeting foreign nationals across the country, including so-called express kidnaps where victims are taken to ATMs to withdraw money before being released, so solo travelers should remain especially cautious after dark and in unfamiliar areas.