Tsodilo Hills
Botswana’s Ancient Rock Art Gallery
Overview
Welcome to Tsodilo Hills, a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty. The Tsodilo Hills are located in the northwestern region of Botswana and are one of the most important rock art sites in the world. The history of the Tsodilo Hills dates back, with evidence of human habitation and cultural activity throughout the area. The hills are home to over 4,500 rock paintings, some of which are believed to be over 20,000 years old. In addition to its rich history and cultural significance, the Tsodilo Hills are also known for their unique climate and geography. The hills are located in a semi-arid region, with hot and dry conditions prevailing throughout much of the year. Despite this challenging environment, the area is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plant species, many of which are endemic to the region. Visitors to the Tsodilo Hills can expect to see a range of animals, from large mammals like elephants and giraffes to smaller creatures like hyenas and mongooses. The plant life in the area is equally diverse, with over 450 species of plants recorded in the hills. With its stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage, the Tsodilo Hills are a must-see destination for anyone interested in African history and culture. Whether you are interested in exploring the ancient rock art sites, hiking the hills and taking in the natural beauty, or simply enjoying the unique flora and fauna of the region, the Tsodilo Hills offer something for everyone.
Things to Do
Visit the rock art sites: Tsodilo Hills is home to over 4,500 rock paintings, some of which are believed to be over 20,000 years old. These paintings offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history and are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area.
Hike the hills: With its stunning natural beauty and unique geography, the Tsodilo Hills are a hiker’s paradise. There are a number of hiking trails throughout the area that offer breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
Explore the wildlife: Tsodilo Hills is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, hyenas, and mongooses. Visitors can take a guided safari tour to see these animals up close and learn more about the region’s ecosystem.Â
Learn about the local culture: The people of Tsodilo Hills have a rich cultural heritage, and visitors can learn more about their traditions and way of life by visiting local villages and attending cultural events.
Take in the natural beauty: The Tsodilo Hills are renowned for their stunning landscapes and unique rock formations. Visitors can simply take a leisurely stroll through the hills and take in the natural beauty of the area.
What to See
The rock art sites: Tsodilo Hills is home to over 4,500 rock paintings, which are considered to be some of the finest examples of San rock art in the world. These paintings offer a glimpse into the region’s rich cultural history and are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting the area.Â
The Rhino Trail: This hiking trail takes visitors through the heart of the Tsodilo Hills, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape and providing an opportunity to see a range of wildlife, including elephants, giraffes, and wildebeest.Â
The Lion Trail: This hiking trail takes visitors to a number of rock art sites, including the famous Lion Painting, which is believed to be over 2,000 years old. The trail also offers a chance to see a variety of wildlife, including hyenas, leopards, and lions.
The Living Museum: This outdoor museum provides an insight into the traditional way of life of the San people, with exhibits showcasing hunting and gathering techniques, traditional dances and songs, and San crafts and tools.
The Tsodilo Hills Museum: This museum provides an overview of the history and culture of the Tsodilo Hills, with exhibits on the geology and ecology of the area, as well as displays on the rock art and cultural traditions of the San people.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Tsodilo Hills is during the winter months between May and September. During this time, temperatures are cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities, and there is less chance of rainfall. This is also the peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.
If you prefer to avoid the crowds and don’t mind the heat, visiting during the summer months between October and April can be a good option. However, temperatures can be extremely hot during this time, with daytime temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). There is also a higher chance of rainfall, which can make some outdoor activities more challenging.
Getting there
By Road:Â Tsodilo Hills is located in the northwestern region of Botswana, and is accessible by car or bus. The nearest town to Tsodilo Hills is Shakawe, which is about 40 kilometers away. From Shakawe, visitors can hire a car or take a taxi to Tsodilo Hills. It is recommended that visitors hire a 4×4 vehicle, as the roads in the area can be rough and challenging.
By Air:Â The nearest airport to Tsodilo Hills is Maun International Airport, which is located about 400 kilometers away. From Maun, visitors can hire a car or take a taxi to Tsodilo Hills. Alternatively, visitors can take a domestic flight to Shakawe Airport, which is located about 40 kilometers away from the hills.
Where to Stay
Mid-Range Accommodation:
Dqae Qare San LodgeÂ
Located near Tsodilo Hills, Dqae Qare San Lodge offers comfortable mid-range accommodation. The lodge features traditional thatched-roof chalets with en-suite bathrooms, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a communal area for relaxation. Guests can enjoy guided tours to Tsodilo Hills and cultural experiences with the local San people.
Gcwihaba Caves CampÂ
Gcwihaba Caves Camp offers mid-range accommodation near Tsodilo Hills. The camp features tented rooms with shared bathroom facilities, a dining area serving home-cooked meals, and a campfire area for evening gatherings. Guests can explore the Gcwihaba Caves and enjoy guided hikes and cultural interactions with the local communities.
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Luxury Accommodation:
Other Attractions in Botswana
Okavango Delta
Chobe National Park
Moremi Game Reserve
Makgadikgadi Pans
Central Kalahari Game Reserve
Nxai Pan National Park
Tuli Block
Linyanti Wildlife Reserve
Khama Rhino Sanctuary
General Knowledge Base
General information about Tsodilo Hills, Botswana.
Tsodilo Hills are a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Botswana, consisting of a series of four hills made up of ancient rock art and religious sites.
The rock paintings in Tsodilo Hills are estimated to be between 800 and 1,300 years old.
There are over 4,500 rock paintings across the four hills of Tsodilo.
The rock paintings in Tsodilo Hills depict a variety of animals including giraffes, elephants, rhinoceroses, and lions.
The San people, who are indigenous to the area, consider the Tsodilo Hills to be a sacred site and believe that they are the resting place of their ancestors.
The name “Tsodilo” means “the place of the rock hyrax” in the local language, as the hills are home to a large population of these small mammals.
The tallest hill in Tsodilo Hills is the Male Hill, which stands at 1,400 meters above sea level.
The nearby village of Shakawe is home to a number of cultural sites, including the Shakawe Cultural Museum and the Shakawe Craft Center.
