Manyana Rock Paintings: Echoes of the Past
Explore ancient rock art and discover Botswana's rich cultural heritage at Manyana Rock Paintings, a window into the lives of the San people.
The Manyana Rock Paintings, situated near the village of Manyana, represent a significant cultural and historical site in Botswana. These paintings are spread across five separate rock surfaces at the base of the Kolobeng hills. Believed to have been created by the Khoikhoi or San people between 1100 and 1700 AD, the artworks offer insights into their daily lives, beliefs, and interactions with the environment. The paintings feature a variety of motifs, including mammals, plants, human figures, and abstract designs. Animals are typically depicted sideways with two legs, while human figures often face forward. It is believed that witch doctors created these paintings as part of religious rituals, incorporating dancing to connect with ancestral spirits. The pigments were made from mixing soft rocks like bauxite with animal fluids like blood. Archaeological excavations at the site have revealed artifacts dating back to the Later Stone Age (1st to 8th century AD) and Iron Age pottery, indicating contact with Iron Age herders between the 10th and 13th centuries. The site is fenced and protected as a National Monument, though access requires contacting the custodian. Nearby, visitors can also find Livingstone's Tree, where the explorer David Livingstone is said to have preached.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
- Hire a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the rock paintings.
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
- Bring water and snacks, as amenities are limited at the site.
- Respect the site by avoiding touching the rock paintings to preserve them.
A brief summary to Manyana Rock Paintings
- 6HPR+5G6, Mmankgodi, BW
Getting There
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Driving
If driving from Gaborone, head west on the A12 highway. After approximately 30km, turn off towards Mmankgodi and follow the signs to the village, roughly 15km from the highway. Once in Mmankgodi, use GPS coordinates 6HPR+5G6 to navigate to the rock paintings. There is no entry fee to visit the site.
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Public Transport
From Gaborone, take a bus or shared taxi to Mmankgodi. Buses regularly depart from the Gaborone bus rank, with fares typically ranging from 20-30 BWP. Upon arrival in Mmankgodi, you can walk to the rock paintings (approximately 20 minutes from the village center) or hire a local taxi for a small fee. Confirm the fare before starting your taxi journey.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Gaborone to Mmankgodi. The journey takes approximately 38 minutes and costs between $95 and $120. From Mmankgodi village center, a local taxi can take you to the site. Confirm the price before starting your journey.
