Things To Do
in Selibe Phikwe
Selibe Phikwe is a mining town located in the Central District of Botswana. It was established in the 1970s around the copper-nickel mine, which has been a major economic driver for the town. The town has a diverse population made up of workers from different parts of Botswana and neighboring countries.
Selibe Phikwe has a range of amenities including schools, hospitals, shopping centers, and recreational facilities for its residents.
- "Dumelang" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Ke a leboga" - Thank you
- "Tsamaya sentle" - Goodbye
- "O eng?" - What is it?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $15 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $2
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $50
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $10 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the beautiful Phikwe Golf Course for a relaxing round of golf. Enjoy the fresh morning air and stunning views as you tee off.
Head to the local craft market in town for a chance to find unique souvenirs and handmade goods. Enjoy lunch at one of the nearby restaurants and experience authentic Botswana cuisine.
Wind down your day with a stroll around the Selibe Phikwe lakeside. Enjoy a picnic dinner while watching the sunset over the water.
Visit the Selibe Phikwe Museum to learn about the local culture and history. Engage with friendly locals who are eager to share their stories.
Take part in a traditional cooking class and learn how to make popular Batswana dishes. Savor the delicious food you've prepared for lunch.
Join a local dance group for an evening of traditional dances. Experience the vibrant music and energetic rhythms that capture the spirit of Botswana.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich in minerals, particularly copper and nickel, providing economic opportunities.
- Beautiful landscapes and proximity to natural attractions.
- Strong sense of community and cultural heritage.
- Affordable cost of living compared to larger cities in Botswana.
- Access to basic amenities and services.
- Limited job opportunities outside of mining sector.
- Economic fluctuations heavily tied to global commodity prices.
- Infrastructure may be underdeveloped in certain areas.
- Challenges related to environmental impact from mining activities.
- Limited entertainment and social activities compared to urban centers.
Best Activities in Selibe Phikwe
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy a serene ride in a traditional dugout canoe through the Okavango Delta and explore the breathtaking nature and wildlife.
Selibe Phikwe is home to a variety of bird species, making it an ideal location for birdwatching enthusiasts to indulge in their hobby.
Experience the beauty of Selibe Phikwe's outdoor landscapes by camping amidst its natural surroundings and under its starry night sky.
Places to Visit in Selibe Phikwe
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding area, perfect for capturing the cityscape.
Provides opportunities to capture wildlife and natural landscapes, including scenic viewpoints.
Boasts stunning views of the dam and its surroundings, ideal for photography enthusiasts.
Food in Selibe Phikwe
Selibe Phikwe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional Batswana dish made from slow-cooked, spiced beef, goat, or lamb, shredded and served with pap (maize porridge). It's best enjoyed at local family-owned restaurants like Tlhako and Gobe in Selibe Phikwe.
Must-Try!
A popular side dish made from wild African spinach, onions, and tomatoes. It can be found at many local eateries in Selibe Phikwe, such as Koko's Kitchen and Thuto's Place.
A hearty dish made from dried corn kernels and beans, often flavored with traditional spices. It is a staple at most local eateries and is a must-try for visitors.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is a paradise for food lovers, offering an array of fresh produce, spices, and street food stalls. Visitors can savor local snacks like vetkoek (fried dough filled with mince or jam), boerewors rolls, and grilled corn on the cob.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Selibe Phikwe, greeting others with a handshake and a warm smile is a common cultural norm. It is important to show respect by using formal titles and addressing people with courtesy.
Respecting elders is highly valued in the community. It is customary to show deference to older individuals, listen attentively to their advice, and address them with proper respect.
Communication in Selibe Phikwe is often indirect and polite. It is important to be mindful of language and tone to ensure courtesy and respect in interactions with others.
Safety
Tipping in Selibe Phikwe
Ensure a smooth experience
In Selibe Phikwe, tipping is not a common practice. It is generally not expected in restaurants, hotels, or taxis. However, if you receive exceptional service, a small tip as a token of appreciation is always welcome.
Payment in Selibe Phikwe is mainly done in the local currency, Botswana Pula (BWP). Cash is widely used for transactions, especially in smaller establishments and local markets. However, major credit and debit cards are accepted in larger businesses. It's advisable to carry cash for smaller purchases and to inquire about accepted payment methods before making a transaction.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Selibe Phikwe as the weather is cooler and wildlife viewing is excellent. You can expect clear skies and minimal rainfall during this period.
During this season, the landscape is lush and green, and bird watching is exceptional. However, there may be occasional heavy rainfall.
This period can be quite hot, with temperatures rising. Wildlife viewing is still good, but the weather can be less predictable.
Selibe Phikwe at Night
Hiking in Selibe Phikwe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking area located near Selibe Phikwe, featuring scenic views and diverse wildlife.
A picturesque trail that follows the Dikoloti River, offering opportunities for nature observation and relaxation.
Located a bit further away, it features well-marked trails and is known for its beautiful landscapes and birdwatching.
A hike to the Tswapong Hills provides challenging terrain and spectacular views, suitable for more experienced hikers.
Situated near Gaborone, this might require a trip but rewards hikers with panoramic views from the summit.
Aiports
How to reach Selibe Phikwe by plane.
The main airport serving Gaborone, Botswana, located approximately 365 km southwest of Selibe Phikwe. It serves as an international gateway with various airlines operating.
Located about 100 km southwest of Selibe Phikwe, this airport primarily serves domestic flights but also connects to some international destinations.
Approximately 500 km northwest of Selibe Phikwe, it is the main airport for the Okavango Delta area and has some international flights, primarily linking to other African countries.
Located about 835 km north of Selibe Phikwe, this airport serves the Chobe National Park area, with flights to various international and regional destinations.
Situated approximately 700 km northeast of Selibe Phikwe in Zimbabwe, this is one of the largest international airports in the region, providing access to numerous global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Botswana, including those specifically residing in Selibe Phikwe, primarily comprising Tswana-speaking people.
Includes ethnic groups such as Kalanga, Basarwa, and others who may reside in Selibe Phikwe.
Comprises individuals from neighboring countries and other regions who come to Selibe Phikwe for employment, particularly in the mining sector.
Includes foreign nationals living in Selibe Phikwe, often associated with expatriate work, mainly from countries with mining interests.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A widely popular team sport in Selibe Phikwe, played at both amateur and professional levels.
A popular women's sport, often played in schools and local leagues.
Gaining popularity among the youth, with local courts available for play.
Played at both school and club levels, contributing to community engagement and competition.
Includes track and field events, with local competitions held regularly.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Selibe Phikwe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While meat is prominent in local cuisine, many restaurants and eateries in Selibe Phikwe offer vegetarian and vegan dishes, often featuring locally sourced vegetables and legumes.
Visitors with gluten intolerance can find accommodating options at various establishments in Selibe Phikwe, with some restaurants offering gluten-free versions of traditional dishes.