Selibe Phikwe

CityCentral, Botswana

Selibe Phikwe is a CITY in Central, Botswana.

Selebi-Phikwe is a fascinating study in resilience, transforming from a booming mining town to a cultural hotspot after the closure of its copper-nickel mines. This eastern Botswana gem surprises visitors with its vibrant arts scene, industrial heritage, and warm community spirit. The town's heartbeat is the annual Phikwe Arts Festival, where the streets come alive with music, dance and crafts. History buffs will appreciate the mining artifacts at the local museum, while nature lovers can explore the stunning Moremi Gorge in the nearby Tswapong Hills. Food here tells its own story - don't miss the miners' favorite 'seswaa' (pounded beef) or the unique 'phane' (mopane worm) dishes. With its mix of urban energy and traditional Setswana culture, Selebi-Phikwe offers an authentic Botswana experience that few tourists get to discover.

Best time to visit Selibe Phikwe

May to October (dry season) for pleasant weather. July is perfect for the Phikwe Arts Festival.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather
Hot 23-33°C, dry start

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Hot, start of rainy season late month

Know before you go

Getting there

PKW

Selibe Phikwe Airport

Domestic

5 km away

FRW

Francistown Airport

Domestic

160 km away

Getting around

"Combis (shared minibuses) are the local lifeline - routes are color-coded. Taxis available but negotiate fares first. Walking is fine in town center."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

15 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and some cafes

Local SIM

Local SIM available at shops from $3

Stay safe

Overall

8/10

Generally safe; exercise normal precautions.

Night safety

7/10

Generally safe; exercise normal precautions.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

6/10

"Avoid abandoned mine areas. Keep valuables secure in crowds. Watch for wildlife near gorge. Heed all warning signs - they're serious."

Entry and health

Health information

"Malaria low risk in town but prophylaxis advised for surrounding areas. Tap water safe but bottled widely available. Mine hospital offers good emergency care."

Culture

Local customs

"Always greet elders first ('Dumela Rra/Mma'). Remove shoes at homes. Mining history is sacred here. Dress modestly - shoulders/knees covered in town."
SetswanaEnglishKalanga

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5 | a cheap local meal costs ~$5

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Selibe Phikwe is affordable for budget travelers.

Timezone

Africa/Gaborone +02:00 (GMT+2)

More facts

Population

Approximately 49,000

Area

50 km²

ISO code

BW-SP

Type

City

Frequently Asked Questions

HistoricFamily-FriendlyHikingOff-the-Beaten-Path