Selebi-Phikwe

Selebi-Phikwe is a town in eastern Botswana, approximately 100 km south of Francistown. It was founded in the 1970s as a mining town to support the BCL copper-nickel mine and smelter, which operated for over four decades before closing in 2016. The closure dealt a severe blow to the local economy, leading to population decline and the closure of many businesses. The town's infrastructure — wide roads, schools, hospitals, and a golf course — reflects its prosperous mining-era past. Today Selebi-Phikwe is reinventing itself, with government efforts to attract new industries. For visitors, the town offers a glimpse of Botswana's post-industrial landscape.

By Plane

The nearest airport is Francistown Airport (FRW), approximately 100 km north. Taxis from Francistown take about 1.5 hours.

By Car / Road

Selebi-Phikwe is accessible via a paved road from the A1 highway, about 30 km south of the main Gaborone–Francistown route. Minibus taxis run from Francistown and Gaborone.

The town is spread out and best navigated by car. Taxis are limited. The golf course and main shopping area are the key landmarks.

• BCL Mine site — The former copper-nickel mine and smelter infrastructure (viewing from outside only).
• Selebi-Phikwe Golf Course — A well-maintained 18-hole course from the mining era.

Selebi-Phikwe does not have organised tourist activities. The nearby Tuli Block (100 km south) offers game viewing and lodge stays.

A few basic restaurants and takeaways serve Setswana meals. The golf club restaurant is a popular meeting spot.

Small bars and the golf club bar serve the local community. Bottled water is recommended.

Selebi-Phikwe has a few basic guesthouses. Francistown offers a wider range of accommodation.

A small shopping centre has basic retail stores and a supermarket. For more options, Francistown (100 km north) has larger shopping facilities.

• Francistown — 100 km north, Botswana's second city.
• Tuli Block — 100 km south, a wildlife area along the Limpopo River with game lodges.
• Maitengwe border post — 60 km east, crossing into Zimbabwe's Matabeleland South province.