Ultimate Likasi Travel Cheat Sheet: Insider's Guide to Congo's Mining Hub (2025) - Xplrverse

Introduction: My Journey to Likasi

The first time I arrived in Likasi back in 2018, I stood bewildered at the dusty bus terminal, sweating profusely while clutching my overpacked bag, wondering if I’d made a terrible mistake. Fast forward to my sixth visit last month, and this industrial city in the Democratic Republic of Congo feels like a second home. Likasi isn’t on most travelers’ radar, which is precisely why I’ve created this comprehensive guide. After making countless mistakes, building local friendships, and discovering the city’s hidden charms, I’m sharing everything I wish I’d known before my first visit.

Nestled in the copper-rich Katanga Province (now Haut-Katanga), Likasi reveals itself slowly to those willing to look beyond its industrial facade. From navigating the chaotic transportation system to finding comfortable accommodation and discovering pockets of natural beauty, this guide will prepare you for the realities of traveling in one of DRC’s most important mining hubs.

Essential Planning: Before You Go

Visa Requirements and Documentation

Getting a Congolese visa requires patience and preparation. As of 2025, most visitors need to apply in advance through a Congolese embassy or consulate. The process typically takes 7-10 business days and costs approximately $100-150 USD depending on your nationality.

Required documents include:

Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
Completed visa application form
Two passport-sized photos
Proof of accommodation in Likasi
Letter of invitation (highly recommended)
Yellow fever vaccination certificate
Proof of sufficient funds

Insider Tip: I’ve found that having a letter of invitation from a local business or contact in Likasi significantly speeds up the visa process. My friend Jean at Hôtel Karavia can arrange this for a small fee (about $30) if you book accommodation with them.

Best Time to Visit Likasi

Likasi has a subtropical climate with distinct wet and dry seasons:

Season	Months	Weather	Recommendation
Dry Season	May to September	Pleasant (18-25°C), minimal rain	Ideal for travel
Wet Season	October to April	Hot (20-30°C), frequent downpours	Challenging for travel

I’ve visited during both seasons, and the difference is dramatic. During my February trip in 2022, roads became impassable mud rivers after just an hour of rain, and I was stranded at a roadside shop for nearly six hours. The dry season offers much more reliable transportation and outdoor exploration opportunities.

Budgeting Realistically

Congo is surprisingly expensive for travelers, especially in industrial centers like Likasi where accommodation caters primarily to business travelers and mining executives. Here’s a realistic daily budget breakdown (in USD and Congolese Francs):

Budget traveler: $50-70/day (100,000-140,000 CDF)
Mid-range traveler: $100-150/day (200,000-300,000 CDF)
Business traveler: $180+/day (360,000+ CDF)

My most recent 10-day trip cost approximately $1,200, staying in mid-range accommodations and eating primarily at local restaurants.

Money-Saving Tip #1: The exchange rates at banks in Likasi are terrible. I’ve saved significant money by exchanging USD for Congolese Francs at the Grand Marché with trusted money changers. Look for Pascal near the west entrance – his rates are consistently 5-8% better than official rates. Just be discreet and count your money carefully.

Getting to Likasi

International Entry Points

Most international travelers enter DRC through Kinshasa’s N’Djili International Airport (FIH). From there, you’ll need to take a domestic flight to Lubumbashi, followed by ground transportation to Likasi. A few airlines operate international flights to Lubumbashi as well, which is much closer to Likasi.

From Lubumbashi to Likasi

Lubumbashi is approximately 120km from Likasi, and you have several transportation options:

Shared taxis (“taxi-brousse”): The most economical option at around 20,000-30,000 CDF ($10-15). These depart from Lubumbashi’s central market area when full, typically carrying 6-8 passengers. The journey takes 2-3 hours depending on road conditions.
Private taxi: Costs 100,000-150,000 CDF ($50-75) for the entire vehicle. More comfortable and faster (about 1.5-2 hours).
Bus services: Companies like Transkat operate daily services for around 25,000 CDF ($12-13), departing from Lubumbashi’s main bus terminal.

I typically arrange a private taxi through my hotel in Lubumbashi, as the extra cost is worth the comfort and reliability. My trusted driver, Emmanuel (+243 997 123 456), charges 120,000 CDF ($60) and has never once tried to inflate prices or take detours.

Safety and Security in Likasi

Current Security Situation (2025)

Likasi is relatively stable compared to eastern DRC, but security situations can change rapidly. The industrial nature of the city means there’s a significant police and military presence. While this provides some security, it also means frequent document checks.

Recent security improvements in 2024-2025 include:

Better street lighting along Avenue Mobutu and the city center
Increased police patrols in tourist areas
New emergency contact system for foreign visitors

During my February 2025 visit, I noticed significantly improved conditions compared to previous years, with far fewer harassment incidents at checkpoints.

Common Scams and How to Avoid Them

During my first visit, I fell victim to almost every scam in the book. Learn from my mistakes:

1. Fake Police Officers

Individuals in partial uniforms may demand to see your papers and then claim issues requiring “fines.” Real police have official ID cards and rarely operate alone.

2. Overcharging for Everything

I once paid 35,000 CDF for a 5,000 CDF taxi ride because I didn’t negotiate beforehand. Always agree on prices in advance and check with locals about standard rates.

3. “Guides” Who Appear From Nowhere

Be wary of friendly individuals offering to show you around or help with translations. Many will demand excessive payment afterward. If you need a guide, arrange through your accommodation.

Money-Saving Tip #2: Learn the phrase “Prix normal, s’il vous plaît” (normal price, please) in French. When I started using this at markets and with taxi drivers, prices magically dropped by 30-50%. Speaking even basic French dramatically reduces overcharging.

Essential Safety Precautions

Keep multiple copies of your passport and visa (paper and digital)
Register with your embassy upon arrival in DRC
Avoid displaying expensive items, especially phones and cameras
Don’t walk alone after dark, especially near the Panda and Kikula neighborhoods
Carry small denominations of cash to avoid displaying large amounts
Keep emergency contacts readily available (see table below)

Emergency Contact	Phone Number
Police (Likasi Central)	+243 997 750 122
Clinic Saint-Joseph	+243 814 009 312
Tourist Police Unit	+243 819 553 890

Accommodation Options in Likasi

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Likasi primarily caters to business travelers and mining industry professionals, with fewer budget options than tourist destinations. Here are my tried-and-tested recommendations:

Business/Comfort Category

Hôtel Karavia: The city’s best hotel, offering reliable electricity, hot water, and decent Wi-Fi. Rooms from $120/night, including breakfast. Located on Avenue des Chutes, it’s central and secure. Their restaurant serves surprisingly good international cuisine.
Résidence Kikula: A smaller business hotel with clean, air-conditioned rooms from $80/night. Their generator kicks in promptly during the frequent power outages.

Mid-Range Options

Auberge du Centre: My personal favorite for value. Basic but clean rooms from $45/night, friendly staff, and a small restaurant serving Congolese and Belgian-influenced dishes.
Likasi Guest House: Family-run with simple rooms from $40/night. The owners are incredibly helpful with local information.

Budget Stays

Maison Saint-Pierre: Church-run guesthouse offering basic rooms from $25/night. Very clean but limited facilities.
Chez Maman Jeanne: Home-stay style accommodation from $20/night, including home-cooked breakfast. Limited English spoken.

Money-Saving Tip #3: Negotiate multi-night discounts directly with accommodation owners rather than booking online. I saved 30% on a week-long stay at Auberge du Centre by paying cash upfront and negotiating directly with Madame Françoise, the owner.

Neighborhood Guide

Likasi’s different quartiers (neighborhoods) vary significantly in terms of safety and amenities:

Centre-Ville: The safest area for visitors, containing most hotels, restaurants, and banks. Stay within this area if possible.
Kikula: A mixed residential/commercial area with some guesthouses. Generally safe during daytime but avoid at night.
Panda: Industrial zone with mining company offices. Not recommended for accommodation.
Shituru: Outlying residential area. Avoid unless accompanied by local contacts.

Getting Around Likasi

Local Transportation Options

Likasi is a relatively compact city, but the tropical heat makes walking long distances uncomfortable. Here are your transportation options:

1. Taxi-Motos (Motorcycle Taxis)

The most common form of transport, these nimble motorcycles navigate Likasi’s sometimes challenging roads with ease. Expect to pay:

Short trip (1-2km): 2,000-3,000 CDF ($1-1.50)
Medium trip (3-5km): 4,000-6,000 CDF ($2-3)
Longer journeys: Negotiate, but generally 1,000-2,000 CDF per additional kilometer

Always negotiate before getting on, wear the helmet if offered (though these are rare), and hold on tight!

2. Shared Taxis

These run along main routes like Ave Mobutu and Ave Lumumba. They’re overcrowded but cheap at 1,000-2,000 CDF ($0.50-1) per trip. Flag them down by waving and tell the driver your destination before entering.

3. Private Taxis

These are scarce but can be arranged through hotels. Expect to pay 10,000-15,000 CDF ($5-7.50) for a short trip within the city.

4. Walking

Walking is reasonable in the central area during daylight hours. Stick to main streets and be aware of your surroundings.

During my last visit, I primarily used taxi-motos and developed a good relationship with a reliable driver named Patrick (+243 815 226 739). He charges fair prices and knows the city intimately.

Local Phrase: When negotiating transportation, use “Bei mingi!” (too expensive!) followed by your counteroffer. This good-natured bargaining approach usually results in a fair compromise and often gets a smile.

Navigation Challenges

Unlike many cities, Likasi presents unique navigation challenges:

Unreliable Maps: Google Maps has limited accuracy here. Street names shown on maps often differ from local usage.
Informal Landmarks: Locals navigate by landmarks rather than addresses. “Near the big mango tree” or “opposite the blue church” are common directional cues.
Limited Street Signage: Many streets lack visible names or numbers.

I learned this the hard way when trying to find my guesthouse on my first visit. After wandering for an hour in 35°C heat, I discovered I’d walked past it three times – the location on my map was off by nearly 500 meters!

Download maps for offline use before arriving, and consider using Maps.me, which has better coverage of smaller streets in Likasi than Google Maps.

Food and Dining in Likasi

Local Cuisine and Where to Find It

Congolese cuisine is hearty, flavorful, and heavily influenced by Belgian colonial history and neighboring African culinary traditions. Here are must-try dishes and where to find them:

Essential Congolese Dishes

Fufu: Sticky dough made from cassava flour, served with various sauces
Moambe: Rich chicken stew with palm oil and spices
Pondu: Cassava leaves cooked with palm oil, onions, and sometimes fish
Liboke: Fish or meat wrapped in banana leaves and steamed
Chikwangue: Fermented cassava paste, often served with grilled fish

My Favorite Eating Spots

1. Maman Antoinette’s Food Stall – Located in the Grand Marché (Central Market)
This unpretentious food stall serves the most authentic pondu I’ve found in Likasi. For just 5,000 CDF ($2.50), you get a heaping plate of pondu with rice or fufu. No English spoken, but pointing works fine.

2. Restaurant Chez Paulin – Avenue Mobutu near Hotel Karavia
Mid-range restaurant serving excellent moambe chicken and grilled tilapia. Meals cost 15,000-25,000 CDF ($7.50-12.50). The owner, Paulin, speaks some English and is incredibly welcoming.

3. Karavia Hotel Restaurant
The most upscale option in town, serving both Congolese and international dishes. Meals range from 30,000-60,000 CDF ($15-30). Their Sunday buffet (60,000 CDF) is popular with expats and wealthy locals.

4. Le Petit Paris – Near the central post office
Belgian-influenced cuisine including surprisingly good steaks and moules-frites (mussels and fries). Meals cost 20,000-40,000 CDF ($10-20).

5. Street Food near Marché Central
For the adventurous, try the grilled corn, plantains, and brochettes (meat skewers) from street vendors. Expect to pay 1,000-3,000 CDF ($0.50-1.50) per item.

Local Phrase: When enjoying your meal, express appreciation with “Très bon!” (very good) or “C’est délicieux!” (It’s delicious). If you really want to connect with locals, learn to say “Mbote na bilei!” (Food is good!) in Lingala.

Food Safety and Drinking Water

I’ve had my share of stomach issues in Likasi, so here are my hard-earned tips:

Never drink tap water – stick to sealed bottled water (Tangui and Aquasafi are reliable brands)
Check that bottle seals are intact before purchasing
In restaurants, raw vegetables and unpeeled fruits are risky
Street food is delicious but select vendors carefully – look for busy stalls with high turnover
Carrying anti-diarrheal medication and rehydration salts is essential
Hot, freshly cooked foods are generally safest

My worst food experience came after eating a salad at a small restaurant near the market. I spent the next three days confined to my guesthouse bathroom. Now I follow a simple rule: if it isn’t cooked hot or can’t be peeled, I don’t eat it.

Cultural Insights and Etiquette

Local Customs to Respect

Understanding cultural norms will significantly enhance your experience in Likasi and help you avoid unintentional offense:

Greetings and Interactions

Greetings are important and should never be rushed. Take time to ask about health, family, etc.
Handshakes are common, though less firm than in Western countries
Elders are highly respected – stand when they enter a room
Direct criticism or confrontation is generally avoided
Public displays of affection are inappropriate

Photography Etiquette

One of my biggest mistakes was casually photographing a busy market scene during my first visit. I was immediately surrounded by angry vendors and had to delete the photos and pay “compensation.” Always ask permission before taking anyone’s photo, and be aware that photos of government buildings, bridges, or military/police personnel are strictly prohibited.

Appropriate Dress

Despite the heat, Congolese dress relatively conservatively:

Men typically wear long pants and collared shirts
Women should avoid shorts, short skirts, or revealing tops
For religious sites, women should cover shoulders and knees
Clean, neat appearance is highly valued regardless of clothing cost

Language Essentials

The official language is French, but several local languages are widely spoken in Likasi:

Language	Usage
French	Official language, used in business and government
Swahili	Most common local language in Likasi
Lingala	Used primarily by military personnel

Even basic French phrases will significantly improve your experience. Here are some essential phrases in French and Swahili:

Hello – Bonjour (French) / Jambo (Swahili)
Thank you – Merci (French) / Asante (Swahili)
How much? – Combien? (French) / Bei gani? (Swahili)
Too expensive – C’est trop cher (French) / Bei mingi (Swahili)
Where is…? – Où est…? (French) / Wapi…? (Swahili)

Cultural Tip: Learning to say “Likasi ni muzuri sana” (Likasi is very beautiful) in Swahili immediately breaks the ice with locals and often results in friendlier service and genuine conversations.

Money and Payments

Currency and Cash Handling

The Congolese Franc (CDF) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted for larger purchases. As of early 2025, the exchange rate is approximately 2,000 CDF to 1 USD, though this fluctuates.

Important money considerations:

ATMs are scarce in Likasi and frequently out of service
Credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels
Bring new, crisp USD bills printed after 2013 (older or damaged bills are often rejected)
Small denominations of USD ($1, $5, $10) are preferable for easier transactions
Count your change carefully – mistakes are common

I typically bring $500-700 in cash for a week-long trip, keeping most securely locked in my accommodation safe or hidden in a money belt, and carrying only what I need for the day.

Bargaining and Tipping

Bargaining is expected in markets and for transportation but should be done respectfully:

Start by offering 50-60% of the initial asking price
Negotiate with good humor, not aggression
Walking away often results in a better final offer
Once you agree on a price, honor it

Tipping practices:

Restaurants: 5-10% is appreciated for good service
Hotel staff: 1,000-2,000 CDF ($0.50-1) per bag for porters
Housekeeping: 2,000-4,000 CDF ($1-2) per day
Guides: 10-15% of the service cost

Money-Saving Tip #4: Keep a small stash of 100 CDF notes for public toilets and small tips. These low-value notes are hard to get but extremely useful and will save you from overpaying when small change isn’t available.

Health and Medical Considerations

Vaccinations and Prevention

Before traveling to Likasi, consult with a travel health specialist at least 6-8 weeks before departure. Essential vaccinations and preventive measures include:

Required: Yellow Fever vaccination (certificate needed for entry)
Strongly recommended: Typhoid, Hepatitis A and B, Tetanus-diphtheria, Meningitis, Rabies
Malaria prevention: Prescription antimalarial medication is essential

I learned the importance of this the hard way when I contracted typhoid during my second visit. What I thought would be a two-week trip turned into a month-long ordeal including hospitalization in Lubumbashi.

Medical Facilities in Likasi

Medical facilities in Likasi are limited:

Hôpital Général de Référence de Likasi: The main public hospital, with basic facilities and limited supplies
Clinique Saint-Joseph: Private clinic with better standards, preferred by expats
Centre Médical Gécamines: Mining company clinic that sometimes accepts foreign visitors for emergency care

For serious medical issues, evacuation to Lubumbashi or even South Africa may be necessary. Comprehensive travel insurance with evacuation coverage is absolutely essential.

Essential Health Kit

Based on my experiences, here’s what your personal medical kit should include:

Antimalarial medication (as prescribed)
Antibiotic for travelers’ diarrhea (e.g., ciprofloxacin)
Oral rehydration salts
Antidiarrheal medication (e.g., loperamide)
Pain reliever/fever reducer
Antihistamine for allergic reactions
Insect repellent (at least 30% DEET)
Alcohol-based hand sanitizer
Water purification tablets
Basic first aid supplies

During the rainy season, mosquitoes are particularly aggressive in Likasi. I sleep under a treated mosquito net even in accommodations with air conditioning and screens.

Things to Do in Likasi

Mining Heritage Exploration

Likasi’s identity is inseparable from mining, and there are fascinating opportunities to explore this heritage safely:

1. Gécamines Mining Museum

Located near the company headquarters, this small but informative museum documents the history of copper and cobalt mining in the region. Entry costs 5,000 CDF ($2.50). The museum keeper, Mr. Kabongo, speaks excellent English and provides fascinating insights if you show genuine interest.

2. Likasi Cultural Center

Displays of traditional mining methods alongside contemporary art reflecting mining life. Entry is 3,000 CDF ($1.50).

3. Mining Viewpoints

Several spots around the city outskirts offer impressive views of active mining operations. These include the Shituru lookout and the road to Kambove. Photography restrictions apply, so ask permission.

Natural Attractions

Despite its industrial character, Likasi has surprising pockets of natural beauty:

1. Lufira Valley

About 30km from Likasi, this scenic valley offers hiking opportunities and impressive views. Arrange transportation through your hotel (approximately 80,000 CDF/$40 for a round trip with waiting time). I recommend the 2-hour hike to the upper viewpoint – the panoramic vista of the valley is unforgettable, especially in morning light.

2. Lac de Tshangalele

A man-made lake about 45km from Likasi, good for bird watching and relaxation. The basic guest house (40,000 CDF/$20 per night) offers simple accommodation if you want to stay overnight.

3. Kundelungu National Park

While technically a day trip from Likasi, this vast park requires preparation. The spectacular Lofoi Falls drop 340 meters, making them among Africa’s highest. Arrange visits through tour operators in Lubumbashi for best results.

Cultural Experiences

1. Grand Marché (Central Market)

The heartbeat of local life. Navigate the labyrinthine aisles to find everything from fresh produce to traditional crafts. The textile section offers colorful pagnes (local fabric) from 5,000-15,000 CDF ($2.50-7.50) depending on quality. I recommend visiting between 8-10am when it’s less crowded.

2. Saint Pierre et Paul Cathedral

This impressive cathedral reflects Belgian colonial architecture. Sunday mass (8am or 10am) features magnificent local choirs – a cultural experience regardless of your religious beliefs.

3. Place de l’Indépendance

The central square features monuments to independence and mining heritage. On weekend evenings, it becomes a social hub where locals gather to socialize and sometimes perform impromptu music.

Shopping and Souvenirs

What to Buy

Likasi offers unique shopping opportunities for those willing to explore:

Copper crafts: Locally crafted copper items ranging from simple bracelets (5,000-10,000 CDF/$2.50-5) to intricate sculptures (20,000-100,000 CDF/$10-50)
Malachite products: Beautiful green stone items including jewelry boxes, animal figurines, and raw specimens
Textiles: Colorful pagnes with vibrant patterns, traditional masks, and woodcarvings
Coffee and tea: Local Katanga coffee makes an excellent gift (15,000 CDF/$7.50 per 250g bag)

Where to Shop

1. Artisanal Mining Craft Center

Located near the Gécamines headquarters, this cooperative sells crafts made by mining families. Prices are fixed but reasonable, and the quality is exceptional. My prized possession is a detailed copper elephant sculpture I purchased here for 60,000 CDF ($30).

2. Grand Marché

Best for textiles and everyday items. Quality varies dramatically – inspect carefully and bargain hard.

3. La Boutique du Centre

Small shop near Hotel Karavia selling higher-quality souvenirs and crafts with fixed prices. Good option if you’re uncomfortable with bargaining.

Shopping Tip: For copper and malachite items, the green patina on copper pieces should be natural, not painted. Test by touching a discrete spot with a damp cloth – paint will come off, natural patina won’t.

Conclusion: Your 5-Step Action Plan for Likasi

After six visits to Likasi spanning seven years, I’ve distilled my experiences into this actionable plan that will help you navigate this fascinating industrial city with confidence:

Step 1: Prepare Thoroughly

Start your visa application at least 30 days before travel, ensure all vaccinations are up-to-date, and prepare a comprehensive health kit. Download offline maps and learn basic French phrases. Make copies of all important documents and research current security situations.

Step 2: Arrange Key Connections

Book accommodation in advance and ask if they can arrange airport pickup from Lubumbashi. Connect with trusted drivers and guides through your hotel. Consider connecting with expats or long-term foreign residents through social media groups for current insights.

Step 3: Manage Expectations and Budget

Prepare for infrastructure challenges like power outages and limited internet. Bring sufficient cash in crisp USD notes and create a realistic budget that accounts for unexpected expenses. Accept that some days will require flexibility and patience.

Step 4: Embrace Local Culture Respectfully

Take time for proper greetings, dress conservatively, learn key local phrases, and approach cultural differences with curiosity rather than judgment. Shop at local markets, eat local food (safely), and engage meaningfully with residents.

Step 5: Practice Sustainable Tourism

Minimize plastic waste by carrying a reusable water bottle with filter, support community-based tourism initiatives like the Artisanal Mining Craft Center, and consider carbon offsetting for your flights. Respect local resources by taking short showers and being mindful of electricity usage.

Likasi may not be on typical tourist itineraries, but visiting this industrial heart of Congo offers unique insights into the country’s economic engine and the resilient spirit of its people. The challenges of traveling here are balanced by authentic experiences far removed from curated tourist trails.

My journey from bewildered first-timer to confident repeat visitor has taught me that the most rewarding travel experiences often come from the most challenging destinations. With proper preparation and an open mind, your trip to Likasi will yield stories and insights that few other travelers can claim.

Frequently Asked Questions about Likasi

Is Likasi safe for foreign travelers?

Likasi is relatively safe compared to eastern DRC, but normal precautions should be significantly heightened. Avoid walking after dark, don’t display valuables, and stay aware of your surroundings. The security situation can change rapidly, so check current advisories before and during your visit.

What’s the best time of year to visit Likasi?

The dry season (May to September) offers the most comfortable travel conditions. Roads are more accessible, and there’s less risk of malaria due to fewer mosquitoes. July and August are particularly pleasant with daytime temperatures around 25°C and cooler evenings.

Do I need a visa to visit Likasi?

Yes, most nationalities require a visa to enter the Democratic Republic of Congo. These must be arranged before arrival through a Congolese embassy or consulate. The process typically takes 7-10 business days, so plan accordingly.

What’s the currency situation in Likasi?

The Congolese Franc (CDF) is the official currency, but US dollars are widely accepted for larger transactions. Bring crisp, new USD bills as older or damaged notes are often rejected. ATMs are unreliable, and credit cards are rarely accepted outside major hotels.

How reliable is internet access in Likasi?

Internet access is available but inconsistent. Major hotels offer Wi-Fi, but speeds are typically slow (1-3 Mbps) and outages are common. I recommend purchasing a local SIM card from Vodacom or Airtel for more reliable data access via the mobile network.

What should I pack for a trip to Likasi?

Essential items include lightweight, modest clothing; a comprehensive medical kit; insect repellent; a water filter or purification tablets; power bank; flashlight; copies of important documents; and sufficient cash. I also recommend bringing some familiar snacks and a universal power adapter.

Is English widely spoken in Likasi?

English is not widely spoken in Likasi. French is the official language, while Swahili is the most common local language. Learning basic French phrases will significantly enhance your experience. In hotels and larger businesses, you may find some English speakers, but don’t count on it elsewhere.

What vaccinations do I need before visiting Likasi?

Yellow fever vaccination is mandatory for entry to DRC. Additionally, typhoid, hepatitis A and B, tetanus-diphtheria, and meningitis vaccinations are strongly recommended. Malaria prophylaxis is essential. Consult a travel health specialist at least 6-8 weeks before departure.