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Manyana Rock Paintings, Chobe District Travel Guide

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Explore ancient rock art at Manyana, a window into Botswana's cultural heritage and the traditions of the San and Khoikhoi people.

Discover ancient rock art at Manyana, created by the Khoikhoi or San people between 1100 and 1700 AD. These paintings, depicting animals, plants, and abstract shapes, offer a glimpse into Botswana's rich cultural heritage. The site is a protected National Monument near Manyana village.

A brief summary to Manyana Rock Paintings

  • 6HPR+5G6, Mmankgodi, BW
Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Manyana Rock Paintings.

  • Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and optimal lighting for photography.
  • Consider hiring a local guide to learn more about the history and significance of the 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 help preserve them.

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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    To reach Manyana Rock Paintings via public transport, take a bus or shared taxi from Gaborone to Mmankgodi. Buses leave regularly from the Gaborone bus rank, with fares around 20-30 BWP. From Mmankgodi, you can walk to the rock paintings (approximately 20 minutes from the village center) or hire a local taxi. Confirm the fare before starting your journey. Cost: Bus fare from Gaborone to Mmankgodi is approximately 20-30 BWP.

  • Walking

    If you are in Mmankgodi, you can walk to the Manyana Rock Paintings. Head northeast from the village center towards the coordinates 6HPR+5G6. The walk takes about 20 minutes. Wear comfortable shoes and bring water. Cost: Free

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Gaborone to Mmankgodi is another option. The journey is about 38.5 km and takes approximately 38 minutes. Cost: The taxi fare is estimated to be between $95 and $120. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.

Discover more about Manyana Rock Paintings

The Manyana Rock Paintings, located near the village of Manyana in Botswana's Southern District, offer a captivating journey into the past. This collection of rock art is believed to have been created by the Khoikhoi or San people between 1100 AD and 1700 AD. The paintings are spread across five cliff areas along the base of the Kolobeng hills.The artworks feature a variety of designs, including mammals, plants, and abstract shapes. The mammals are typically portrayed sideways with only two legs, while human figures often face forward. It is believed that the paintings were created by witch doctors as part of religious activities, possibly incorporating dancing to connect with ancestral spirits. The pigments used were derived from mixing soft rocks like bauxite with animal body fluids.Today, the Manyana Rock Paintings are protected as a National Monument. Although some of the paintings have faded due to natural weathering, the site remains a significant cultural and historical landmark. Visitors can explore the area and admire the ancient art, gaining insights into the beliefs and daily lives of the people who created them. The site is fenced, and entry is gained through the custodian. Also, near the village is Livingstone's Tree, where the explorer David Livingstone is said to have preached.

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