Things To Do
in Selibe Phikwe
Selibe Phikwe is a mining town in central Botswana that grew up around copper-nickel operations and a riverine backdrop. It sits along the Motloutse River, with a practical, no-frills vibe and a close-knit community. The town blends industrial heritage with access to nature and straightforward Botswana hospitality.
Visitors can sample hearty local cuisine, explore nearby landscapes, and experience a pace of life that is welcoming and easy to navigate.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive in Selibe Phikwe and settle into your accommodation. After unpacking, enjoy a relaxing breakfast at a local café, sampling traditional Botswana dishes. Take a leisurely stroll around the town to familiarize yourself with the surroundings.
Explore the Selibe Phikwe mining town, visiting the museum to learn about its rich history and culture. Grab lunch at one of the local eateries, where you can try vegetarian delights made from fresh, local produce. Spend the afternoon visiting nearby craft shops to pick up unique handcrafted souvenirs.
Indulge in dinner at a popular local restaurant, savoring traditional meals while engaging with friendly locals. After dinner, enjoy a peaceful walk through the town, taking in the local nightlife and perhaps stopping at a bar for a taste of Botswana beer. End the evening with a stargazing session to admire the clear southern skies.
Start your day with breakfast and prepare for a hiking adventure in the Matsiloje Hills. After a quick drive to the hills, embark on a guided trek to experience breathtaking views of the landscape while getting in touch with nature. Keep an eye out for local wildlife, including a variety of bird species.
Post-hike, enjoy a packed picnic lunch amidst the beautiful scenery. Spend the afternoon exploring the surrounding areas or engage in some birdwatching, capturing the rich avian life of the region. Take photographs of the stunning views and share stories with fellow explorers.
Return to Selibe Phikwe to freshen up before heading to dinner. Choose a restaurant that serves traditional Botswana cuisine, perhaps trying Seswaa (shredded beef) or a hearty stew. As the evening winds down, visit a local gathering spot to experience the vibrant community atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $5-10 |
| 🥤Bottle of water (1.5L) | $1-2 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel per night | $60-120 |
| 🚖Taxi ride within town (short trip) | $3-7 |
| 🛍️Groceries for a week | $40-120 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Friendly people and a welcoming atmosphere
- Accessible base for exploring central Botswana
- Limited high-end dining and nightlife compared to major cities
- Nearby nature areas require some travel to reach
- "Dumela" - Hello
- "O kae?" - How are you?
- "Rea leboga" - Thank you
- "Ke kopa metsi" - I would like water
- "Tsamae ka tlhlapisi" - Please, go slowly
Places to Visit in Selibe Phikwe
Visit one of these nice places.
Outline vantage points around the mine outskirts where the industrial landscape contrasts with the blue sky, especially at sunrise or sunset.
Shorelines and gentle wetlands along the Motloutse provide reflective water scenes and birdlife—great for nature photography.
A shot of the skyline and market activity from elevated or open areas in the town center during golden hours.
Rustic equipment, old machinery, and industrial textures that tell a story of the town’s mining past.
Colorful stalls, fabrics, produce, and people starting their day—vivid street photography opportunities.
Food in Selibe Phikwe
Selibe Phikwe Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Shredded, slow-cooked beef served with pap (maize meal); a Botswana staple found at local meat markets and family-style restaurants.
Must-Try!
Pap with morogo (wild spinach) or greens; a common pairing found in homes and casual eateries.
Dried or fried mopane worms, a traditional protein that many locals enjoy as a snack or side dish.
Fried dough bread often served with minced meat or chutney; a popular street-food option in markets and casual spots.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market where you can sample fresh produce, handmade snacks, and simple, filling meals at modest prices.
Street stalls offering quick bites such as vetkoek, maize-based dishes, and grilled meats—great for an inexpensive, local experience.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A warm greeting with a handshake is customary. Use ‘Dumela’ to say hello and ask about someone’s well-being; eye contact is respectful, and loud behavior is best avoided in public spaces.
Dress modestly, especially in markets and places of worship. Seek permission before taking photos of people, particularly in rural areas.
Safety
Tipping in Selibe Phikwe
Ensure a smooth experience
A small tip of 5–10% at restaurants is appreciated if service is good; many establishments include service charges, so check your bill. For informal services or guided tours, a modest tip is customary if you’re satisfied.
Cash (Botswana pula) is widely accepted locally; many larger businesses accept cards, but rural outlets may prefer cash. ATMs are available in town, and mobile money options are increasingly common for smaller purchases.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot days with the chance of thunderstorms; carry water, sun protection, and light, breathable clothing. Outdoor activities are best in the early morning or late afternoon.
Mild to cool days with cooler nights; good conditions for outdoor exploration and photography, especially in the mornings.
Nov–Mar brings heavier rainfall and higher humidity; trails may be slippery; plan for shade, rain gear, and flexible schedules.
Selibe Phikwe at Night
Hiking in Selibe Phikwe
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hike along the river with viewpoints and opportunity to observe birds and local flora.
A moderate climb offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and mining outskirts.
A gentle to moderate loop near mining relics with industrial textures and open horizons.
Airports
How to reach Selibe Phikwe by plane.
The nearest major regional airport with regular connections to Gaborone and other Botswana hubs; significant for quick onward travel.
Botswana’s main international gateway with broader connections and services; typically used for longer trips and international arrivals.
A regional gateway further afield, useful for broader Botswana exploration and access to northern wildlife regions.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant cultural group in the area with Setswana as the common language; locals are known for hospitality and community-centered values.
Minorities and other Botswanan communities living in towns and nearby settlements, contributing to cultural diversity.
Some foreign professionals and seasonal workers connected to local industry and services.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
The most popular sport in Botswana and widely played in the community and schools.
A growing sport at local clubs and schools, with occasional matches and community events.
Played by some community teams and schools, especially during school and weekend events.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Selibe Phikwe.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ask for morogo (greens) or vegetable stews with pap or rice. Many eateries can prepare vegetarian-friendly options; request dishes without meat or with extra vegetables and legumes.