Selibe Phikwe
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
NowTypical 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
Selibe Phikwe Airport
Domestic
5 km away
Francistown Airport
Domestic
160 km away
Getting around
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
8/10Generally safe; exercise normal precautions.
Night safety
7/10Generally safe; exercise normal precautions.
Transport
9/10Scam risk
6/10Entry and health
Health information
Culture
Local customs
Costs and practicals
Cost level
Meals
Hotels
Local transport
Cost notes
Timezone
More facts
Population
Approximately 49,000
Area
50 km²
ISO code
BW-SP
Type
City




