Selebi-Phikwe, Botswana Travel Guide

Explore Selebi-Phikwe's unique blend of mining heritage, natural beauty, and culinary delights in Botswana's hidden gem.

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Selebi-Phikwe

Nestled in the eastern part of Botswana, Selebi-Phikwe is a town with a rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its copper and nickel mines, this city offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and natural beauty. Tourists can explore the remnants of the mining operations that once drove the town's economy and learn about the local mining history at the Selebi-Phikwe Museum. Nature enthusiasts will find Selebi-Phikwe a delightful escape. The town is surrounded by stunning landscapes, including the nearby Tswapong Hills and the serene Letsibogo Dam. The dam is a popular spot for fishing, bird watching, and picnicking, providing a perfect retreat for those looking to unwind in nature. The local markets and eateries in Selebi-Phikwe offer a taste of Botswana's culinary delights. From traditional dishes to fresh produce, visitors can indulge in a variety of flavors while mingling with friendly locals. Whether you're an adventure seeker or simply looking to relax, Selebi-Phikwe has something for everyone.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Selebi-Phikwe.

Visit the Selebi-Phikwe Museum to understand the town's mining history.
Take a trip to Letsibogo Dam for fishing, bird watching, or a relaxing picnic.
Explore the Tswapong Hills for hiking and stunning views.
Try local dishes at the markets and eateries for an authentic taste of Botswana.
Interact with locals to learn about their culture and traditions.

Explore Selebi-Phikwe: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Selebi-Phikwe

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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Letshibogo Adventure Campsite

Reconnect with nature at Letshibogo Adventure Campsite, your gateway to exploring the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Botswana.

FatherTime Baobab Tree

Discover the majestic FatherTime Baobab Tree in Selebi Phikwe, a symbol of Botswana's enduring natural heritage and cultural significance.

5.0

Nickel Park

Escape to Nickel Park in Selebi Phikwe: A tranquil haven with green spaces, walking trails, and a glimpse into the town's mining history.

4.3

L’Amour Gardens

Discover tranquility at L'Amour Gardens in Selebi Phikwe: a serene escape into nature's beauty, perfect for relaxation and local culture immersion.

Best landmarks in Selebi-Phikwe

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Limpopo-Lipadi Wildlife and Wilderness Reserve

Experience Botswana's untamed beauty at Limpopo-Lipadi: a premier wildlife reserve in the Tuli Block, offering immersive safaris and conservation.

4.6

Lepokole Hills Nature Reserve

Discover Botswana's hidden gem: Lepokole Hills Nature Reserve. Hike through ancient landscapes, explore San rock art, and witness diverse wildlife.

4.7

Letsibogo DAM

Escape to Letsibogo Dam for serene waters, abundant birdlife, and outdoor adventures in the heart of Botswana.

4.4

Stevensford Game Reserve

Discover untamed beauty at Stevensford Game Reserve in Botswana's Tuli Block: wildlife encounters, birding, and tranquil escapes on the Limpopo River.

4.3

Best restaurants in Selebi-Phikwe

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Cresta Bosele

Discover comfort and hospitality at Cresta Bosele Hotel in Selebi Phikwe – perfect for exploring Botswana's vibrant culture.

3.9

The Mall

Explore diverse shops, dining options, and vibrant culture at The Mall in Selebi Phikwe - your ultimate shopping destination.

3.5

Hotel Selebi

Discover comfort at Hotel Selebi in Newstands – your ideal base for exploring local culture and attractions.

3.6

Phokoje Bush Lodge

Discover tranquility at Phokoje Bush Lodge in Mmadinare - your gateway to Botswana's breathtaking landscapes and unforgettable adventures.

3.8

Best bars in Selebi-Phikwe

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Chicken Licken

Experience the vibrant local flavors at Chicken Licken in Selebi Phikwe, Botswana, where delicious fried chicken awaits every visitor.

3.8

Bull and Bush Express

Discover the flavors of Botswana at Bull and Bush Express, a cozy restaurant offering a range of local and international dishes in Selebi Phikwe.

3.7

BROWNS EXEC PUB

Discover the lively charm of Browns Exec Pub in Selebi Phikwe, a perfect blend of local culture, delicious drinks, and vibrant nightlife.

4.0

Syringa Spur

Discover a family-friendly dining experience at Syringa Spur, where delicious steaks and vibrant flavors meet in Selebi Phikwe.

3.4

Best nightclubs in Selebi-Phikwe

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Cresta Bosele

Discover comfort and local charm at Cresta Bosele, the ideal hotel for your Botswana adventure in Selebi Phikwe.

3.9

Hotel Stonehouse

Experience the warmth of Botswana at Hotel Stonehouse, your cozy retreat in Selebi Phikwe, blending comfort with local charm.

3.4

BROWNS EXEC PUB

Discover the vibrant nightlife at Browns Exec Pub, offering a perfect blend of local and international drinks in a lively atmosphere.

4.0

Syringa Spur

Discover a culinary paradise at Syringa Spur, where delicious African cuisine meets a family-friendly atmosphere in Selebi Phikwe.

3.4

Best shops in Selebi-Phikwe

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The Mall

Discover a shopping haven at The Mall in Selebi Phikwe, where diverse stores and dining options await in a vibrant atmosphere.

3.5

Pick n Pay Supermarket

Discover the best of local and international products at the Pick n Pay Supermarket in Selebi Phikwe, Botswana.

3.9

Choppies

Discover local and international flavors at Choppies, the go-to supermarket in Selebi Phikwe for all your shopping needs.

3.6

Daily Needs Hypermarket

Discover the vibrant flavors of Botswana at Daily Needs Hypermarket in Selebi Phikwe, your go-to grocery store for all essentials.

3.7

Explore Selebi-Phikwe on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Selebi-Phikwe, mapped for you.

Selebi-Phikwe Essentials

Selebi-Phikwe is located in the Central District of Botswana. The nearest international airport is Sir Seretse Khama International Airport in Gaborone, approximately 400 kilometers away. From Gaborone, you can take a domestic flight to Francistown, followed by a bus or taxi to Selebi-Phikwe. Alternatively, you can drive from Gaborone to Selebi-Phikwe, which typically takes around 5 to 6 hours by road.
Selebi-Phikwe has a range of transportation options. Local taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. There are also minibus taxis that operate within the town and connect to nearby villages. For those who prefer more flexibility, renting a car can be a convenient option for exploring the surrounding areas at your own pace.
The official currency in Botswana is the Botswana Pula (BWP). Credit cards are accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops, but it is advisable to carry cash for smaller establishments and rural areas. There are several ATMs available in Selebi-Phikwe where you can withdraw cash.
Selebi-Phikwe is generally a safe destination for tourists. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. There are no specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, but it is always best to stay vigilant and aware of your surroundings.
In case of emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance. The local police station and medical facilities are available in Selebi-Phikwe. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are pharmacies in the town where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially in public places. Avoid wearing revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. Always cover your head when entering religious sites. Public Transport: Do be respectful and give up your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake. A smile and a slight nod of the head are also appreciated. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t refuse hospitality, as it is considered impolite.
To experience Selebi-Phikwe like a local, visit the local markets where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Botswanan goods. Engage with locals, as they are often friendly and willing to share stories about the town's history and culture. Don’t miss visiting the Selebi-Phikwe Copper and Nickel Mine, which has played a significant role in the town's development. For a unique experience, take a walk around the Phikwe Dam, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere.

When is the best time to visit Selebi-Phikwe?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Selebi-Phikwe

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Selebi-Phikwe. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloDumela
  [doo-MEH-lah]
- GoodbyeTsamaya sentle
  [tsah-MAH-yah sehn-tleh]
- YesEe
  [ee]
- NoNnyaa
  [nn-yah]
- Please/You're welcomeTsamaya sentle
  [tsah-MAH-yah sehn-tleh]
- Thank youKe a leboga
  [keh ah leh-BOH-gah]
- Excuse me/SorryNke a leboga
  [nn-keh ah leh-BOH-gah]
- How are you?O kae?
  [oh kah-eh]
- Fine. And you?Ke gona. Le wena?
  [keh goh-nah. leh weh-nah]
- Do you speak English?O bua seTswana?
  [oh boo-ah seh-TSWAH-nah]
- I don't understandGa ke itse
  [gah keh eet-seh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe kopa go bona menu, le kamoso
  [keh koh-pah goh boh-nah meh-noo, leh kah-moh-soh]
- I don't eat meatGa ke itse nyama
  [gah keh eet-seh nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Phila
  [pee-lah]
- I would like to pay, pleaseKe kopa go dira dipalo, le kamoso
  [keh koh-pah goh dee-rah dee-pah-loh, leh kah-moh-soh]
- Help!Boitumelo!
  [boy-too-MEH-loh]
- Go away!Tlatsa!
  [tlah-tsah]
- Call the Police!Bula maburu!
  [boo-lah mah-boo-roo]
- Call a doctor!Bula morago!
  [boo-lah moh-rah-goh]
- I'm lostKe a tlhoka
  [keh ah tlhoh-kah]
- I'm illKe itse
  [keh eet-seh]
- I'd like to buy...Ke kopa go rekela...
  [keh koh-pah goh reh-keh-lah]
- I'm just lookingKe rata go bona fela
  [keh rah-tah goh boh-nah feh-lah]
- How much is it?E e leng?
  [eh eh leh-ng]
- That's too expensiveEna e dira nngwe
  [eh-nah eh dee-rah nng-weh]
- Can you lower the price?O ka nnaletsa pampiri?
  [oh kah nnah-leh-tsah pahm-pee-ree]
- What time is it?Ke nako mang?
  [keh nah-koh mah-ng]
- It's one o'clockKe nako ya boraro
  [keh nah-koh yah boh-rah-roh]
- Half past (10)Nako e kete (le letsatsi la mararo)
  [nah-koh eh keh-teh (leh leh-tsaht-see lah mah-rah-roh)]
- MorningNako ya bomme
  [nah-koh yah boh-meh]
- AfternoonNako ya borra
  [nah-koh yah boh-rah]
- EveningNako ya lefatshe
  [nah-koh yah leh-faht-sheh]
- YesterdayNako ya boraro
  [nah-koh yah boh-rah-roh]
- TodayNako yeo
  [nah-koh yeh-oh]
- TomorrowNako e kae
  [nah-koh eh kah-eh]
- 1Motho
  [moh-thoh]
- 2Bobedi
  [boh-beh-dee]
- 3Boraro
  [boh-rah-roh]
- 4Boraro le bobedi
  [boh-rah-roh leh boh-beh-dee]
- 5Boraro le boraro
  [boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh]
- 6Boraro le boraro le motho
  [boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh leh moh-thoh]
- 7Boraro le boraro le bobedi
  [boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh leh boh-beh-dee]
- 8Boraro le boraro le boraro
  [boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh]
- 9Boraro le boraro le boraro le motho
  [boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh leh boh-rah-roh leh moh-thoh]
- 10Lesome
  [leh-soh-me]
- Where's a/the...?Kae...?
  [kah-eh]
- What's the address?E kae gole?
  [eh kah-eh goh-leh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?O ka lebisa ka mepa?
  [oh kah leh-bee-sah kah meh-pah]
- When's the next (bus)?Kae kae (bus) e tlaa?
  [kah-eh kah-eh (bus) eh tlah]
- A ticket (to ....)Sepotikete (go ....)
  [seh-poh-tee-keh-teh goh]

History of Selebi-Phikwe

Selebi-Phikwe, often referred to simply as Phikwe, was established in the early 1970s as a mining town. It was developed around the discovery of substantial copper and nickel deposits in the region. The town derives its name from two villages in the area: Selebi and Phikwe.
The 1970s and 1980s marked a period of rapid growth and development for Selebi-Phikwe, driven by the mining industry. The Bamangwato Concessions Limited (BCL) mine became the centerpiece of the town, attracting workers from all over Botswana and neighboring countries. This influx led to a burgeoning population and the establishment of infrastructure to support the mining operations.
The late 1990s and early 2000s brought economic challenges to Selebi-Phikwe as global commodity prices fluctuated. The town's heavy reliance on the mining sector made it particularly vulnerable to these changes, leading to economic instability and job losses. Efforts were made to diversify the local economy, though the mining sector remained dominant.
In 2016, the BCL mine was officially closed due to financial difficulties and declining global copper and nickel prices. This event had a profound impact on Selebi-Phikwe, leading to significant economic and social challenges for the town's residents. The closure marked the end of an era and prompted a renewed focus on economic diversification and revitalization efforts.
Selebi-Phikwe is home to a diverse community that reflects Botswana's rich cultural heritage. The town hosts various cultural festivals and events, showcasing traditional music, dance, and crafts. The presence of different ethnic groups has fostered a vibrant cultural scene that celebrates the unique traditions and customs of its residents.
In recent years, Selebi-Phikwe has been positioning itself as a gateway to some of Botswana's natural attractions. The nearby Tswapong Hills and the Thune Dam offer opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and water sports. These attractions, along with efforts to promote eco-tourism, are part of the town's strategy to diversify its economy and attract visitors.