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Game Reserve · Central District, Botswana

Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve is a protected wildlife area in Botswana offering visitors opportunities to observe diverse African wildlife and enjoy nature-based activities within a relatively accessible environment.

Game Reserve23,0004+ Trails

Designation

Game Reserve

Total Wilderness Area

23,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve is a protected wildlife area in Botswana offering visitors opportunities to observe diverse African wildlife and enjoy nature-based activities within a relatively accessible environment.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

The Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve is situated in Botswana’s Central District, near the town of Selebi-Phikwe. Covering a mix of savannah woodlands and mopane forests, the reserve provides vital habitat for a variety of native species including impala, kudu, steenbok, and a range of birdlife. The landscape features gently rolling plains interspersed with seasonal water pans that attract wildlife, especially during dry periods. Established to protect local ecosystems and support eco-tourism, the reserve plays a key role in regional conservation efforts. Visitors can engage in activities such as guided game drives, bird watching, and photographic safaris, making it ideal for both casual tourists and dedicated wildlife enthusiasts. While it is not as vast or internationally recognized as Botswana’s larger parks, Selebi-Phikwe offers a more intimate experience with fewer crowds. The reserve also provides insight into the region’s mining history, as the nearby town has traditionally been associated with copper and nickel mining. The area's accessibility from the town facilitates day trips and short stays, supported by local accommodations and guided tours. Overall, Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve is an important conservation and visitor destination that balances wildlife protection with community involvement and outdoor recreation.

Field Guide · Game Reserve
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Discover Northern Tuli Game Reserve★ 8.5⌖ 82 miWildlife Viewing
Northern Tuli Game Reserve

Discover Northern Tuli Game Reserve

Explore Northern Tuli Game Reserve in Botswana. Home to elephants, lions, and more, this wildlife-rich area offers guided safari drives and walking safaris for adventure seekers. Enjoy bird watching with over 350 species. Access via Pont Drift, 6 hours from Gaborone.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Wildlife Adventures at Mashatu Game Reserve★ 8.7⌖ 84 miWildlife Safari
Mashatu Game Reserve

Wildlife Adventures at Mashatu Game Reserve

Experience breathtaking wildlife safaris at the remote Mashatu Game Reserve in Botswana's Tuli Block. This area is home to large elephant herds and predators like lions and leopards. Enjoy game drives, walking safaris, and even mountain biking. Best visited in the dry season.

Wildlife SafariView Details→
Mystical Matobo Hills★ 8.5⌖ 111 miHiking
Matobo Hills

Mystical Matobo Hills

Explore Matobo Hills' captivating trails near Bulawayo, Zimbabwe. This UNESCO site is famous for its unique rock formations and ancient rock art. Enjoy hiking, rock climbing, and bird watching in this serene and spiritually significant landscape.

Makgadikgadi Basin: Endless Horizons in Botswana★ 8.7⌖ 173 miWildlife Viewing
Makadikadi Basin

Makgadikgadi Basin: Endless Horizons in Botswana

Explore the vast and serene Makgadikgadi Basin in Botswana. Spot unique wildlife like flamingos and zebras during the dry season. Ideal for adventure seekers to experience quad biking and camping under expansive skies in a remote, ecological wonder.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Sublime Wilderness at Jack's Camp★ 8.5⌖ 200 miWildlife Viewing
Jack's Camp

Sublime Wilderness at Jack's Camp

Explore the unique cultural and wildlife experiences of Jack's Camp in the Kalahari. Enjoy guided safaris and Bushman cultural tours. Best visited May to September for cooler weather and optimal wildlife viewing.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→
Discover the Wonders of Gaborone★ 8.5⌖ 204 miWildlife Viewing
Botswana

Discover the Wonders of Gaborone

Explore Gaborone's wildlife-rich adventures with key spots like the Gaborone Game Reserve and Kgale Hill. Perfect for photographers and nature enthusiasts, this destination offers both vibrant urban life and serene natural beauty, ideal for wildlife viewing and cultural exploration.

Wildlife ViewingView Details→

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Seasonal water pans that support diverse bird species and attract wildlife✦ Opportunity to see medium-sized antelope such as impala and kudu in their natural habitat✦ Guided game drives offering up-close wildlife viewing experiences✦ Proximity to Selebi-Phikwe town providing easy access and cultural insights
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve
Park Recreation

Guided Game Drives

Available in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve
Park Recreation

Nature Walks

Available in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve
Park Recreation

Cultural Visits

Available in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Entry fees apply; visitors are encouraged to book guided tours in advance. Permits may be required for overnight stays.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve Campground

Basic facilities located inside the reserve offering tent sites with nearby water and sanitation, ideal for short stays.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Selebi-Phikwe
⌖ 0.69 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Selebi-Phikwe, Botswana

A mining town surrounded by diverse wilderness offering accessible outdoor adventures including hiking and birdwatching in nearby natural reserves.

May to SeptemberExplore Town
Palapye
⌖ 59.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Palapye, Central District

A rapidly developing town in Botswana’s heartland offering unique access to Kalahari landscapes, cultural heritage, and outdoor exploration opportunities.

May to SeptemberExplore Town
Palapye
⌖ 59.88 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Palapye, Botswana

A quiet, central Botswana town offering access to unique semi-arid landscapes, cultural heritage sites, and outdoor experiences suited for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

May to September (Dry Season)Explore Town
Francistown
⌖ 60.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Francistown, Botswana

A historic mining town that serves as a gateway to northern Botswana’s dry bushveld and nearby wildlife areas, offering rugged landscape adventures and cultural exploration.

May to September (Dry Season)Explore Town
Francistown
⌖ 69.33 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Francistown, North-East District

A vibrant urban gateway offering access to rich cultural heritage and nearby wilderness, perfect for travelers seeking outdoor exploration combined with local history.

April to OctoberExplore Town
Serowe
⌖ 78.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Serowe, Central District

A culturally rich town offering access to Botswana's semi-arid landscapes with opportunities for walking safaris and cultural exploration amid vast open plains.

May to September (dry season)Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Selebi-Phikwe Game Reserve

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.