Things To Do
in Selibe Phikwe

Selibe Phikwe is a town located in the eastern region of Botswana, known for its rich mining history and vibrant community. Once a thriving center for copper and nickel mining, it has transitioned into a more diversified economy while retaining its cultural heritage. The town is surrounded by beautiful landscapes, making it a unique blend of urban and rural experiences.

Selibe Phikwe is also known for its warm hospitality and community-driven initiatives.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Discovering Selibe Phikwe
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Phikwe Golf Club for a round of golf or a leisurely walk in the lush greenery.

afternoon
:

Explore the local markets, where you can find handmade crafts and taste local delicacies.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at one of the popular local restaurants, followed by a nightcap at a local bar.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Selibe Phikwe Museum to learn about the town's mining history and cultural significance.

afternoon
:

Take a hike in the nearby hills or visit the local nature reserves for bird watching.

evening
:

Experience traditional Botswanan cuisine at a cultural dinner event or local eatery.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍽️Meal at a local restaurant$8
Coffee$2
🚕Taxi ride (short distance)$5
🍺Local beer$2
🏨Budget hotel per night$40

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and friendly locals.
  • Beautiful natural surroundings and outdoor activities.
  • Affordable cost of living.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Fewer international dining options.
  • Less developed public transportation system.
  • "Dumela" - Hello
  • "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
  • "O kae?" - How are you?
  • "Tsamaya sentle" - Safe travels
  • "A re etse" - Let's go

Places to Visit in Selibe Phikwe

Visit one of these nice places.

Phikwe Golf Club

A picturesque golf course with stunning views of the surrounding hills, perfect for landscape photography.

Selibe Phikwe Museum

A charming museum that offers insight into the town's history, with beautiful architecture for photography.

Nature Reserves

The nearby nature reserves are great for capturing wildlife and scenic landscapes.

Culinary Guide

Food in Selibe Phikwe

Selibe Phikwe offers a delightful culinary experience that highlights the flavors of Botswana, with a focus on local ingredients and traditional cooking methods.

Selibe Phikwe Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seswaa

A slow-cooked meat dish, traditionally made with beef or goat, served with maize porridge.

Must-Try!

Pap

A staple dish made from maize meal, often eaten with meat or vegetables.

Biltong

Dried, cured meat that is a popular snack throughout Botswana.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Selibe Phikwe Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and street food.

Street Vendors

Various vendors offer local snacks like biltong, and fried dough known as 'fat cakes'.

Climate Guide

Weather

Selibe Phikwe experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are cooler, averaging around 15°C (59°F) during the day. The rainy season typically occurs from January to March, bringing refreshing showers, while the dry season lasts from May to September.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Greetings

A handshake is a common greeting; it's polite to greet everyone in a group.

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to elders, addressing them with titles and standing when they enter a room.

Dress Modestly

Dress conservatively, especially in rural areas and during cultural events.

Safety Guide

Safety

Selibe Phikwe is generally a safe town, but standard precautions should be taken. Avoid walking alone at night, keep your belongings secure, and be aware of your surroundings. It is advisable to consult local residents for tips on safe areas and any current safety issues.

Tipping in Selibe Phikwe

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

It is customary to tip around 10% in restaurants if service is not included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used at larger establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Summer (November - March)

Expect hot temperatures and occasional rain; ideal for outdoor activities but stay hydrated.

Winter (May - August)

Cooler temperatures and dry weather; perfect for hiking and exploring the outdoors.

Spring (September - October)

Mild temperatures with blooming flora; a great time for photography and nature walks.

Rainy Season (January - March)

Frequent rain showers; the landscape is lush, but some outdoor activities may be limited.

Nightlife Guide

Selibe Phikwe at Night

Selibe Phikwe has a modest nightlife scene, primarily centered around local bars and pubs. Many establishments offer live music, particularly on weekends, showcasing local artists. While there are limited options compared to larger cities, you can enjoy a relaxed evening with friends over drinks and local cuisine.

Hiking in Selibe Phikwe

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Selibe Phikwe Nature Reserve Trails

Offers scenic trails through diverse landscapes, ideal for bird watching and hiking.

Kgala Hills

A popular hiking destination with trails that provide panoramic views of the surrounding area.

Airports

How to reach Selibe Phikwe by plane.

Francistown Airport

Located approximately 60 km from Selibe Phikwe, this airport offers domestic flights to major cities in Botswana.

Getting Around

Walkability

Selibe Phikwe is moderately walkable, with a compact town center that allows for easy exploration on foot. Sidewalks are available in most areas, but some streets may be uneven. Most local amenities, including shops and restaurants, are within walking distance.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Batswana

The majority ethnic group in Botswana, known for their rich cultural traditions and hospitality.

Expats

There is a small community of expatriates, primarily involved in mining and business sectors.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Football

Football (soccer) is the most popular sport in the region, with local teams and leagues actively engaging the community.

Rugby

Rugby is also popular, with many schools and clubs promoting the sport among the youth.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Selibe Phikwe is generally light, with most residents relying on personal vehicles or taxis for transportation. Public transportation options are limited, but local taxis are available and affordable for getting around town.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Selibe Phikwe.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to check with the staff.

Halal Food

Some establishments cater to halal dietary needs, but it's best to confirm in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Selibe Phikwe is provided by a mix of public and private facilities. The town has a government hospital and several clinics offering basic medical services. For specialized care, residents may need to travel to larger cities like Francistown.

Discover Botswana

Read more in our Botswana 2025 Travel Guide.

Botswana Travel Guide