Manyana Rock Paintings: Echoes of the San

4.2 (31)

Uncover ancient stories etched in stone at Manyana Rock Paintings, a window into Botswana's cultural heritage.

Home
Botswana
Molepolole
Manyana Rock Paintings

Explore the ancient Manyana Rock Paintings near Mmankgodi, Botswana, a window into the lives and beliefs of the San people between 1100 AD and 1700 AD. Discover depictions of animals, human figures, and abstract symbols etched into the rock face, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural heritage.

A brief summary to Manyana Rock Paintings

6HPR+5G6, Mmankgodi, BW

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 paintings.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
Bring water and snacks, as there are limited amenities at the site.
Respect the site by avoiding touching the rock paintings to help preserve them.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

Bahurutshe Cultural Village

Bahurutshe Cultural Village: A Living Tapestry of Botswana's Heritage

Mmankgodi Sands

Mmankgodi Sands: A Botswana Oasis

The Ark Botanical Garden

The Ark Botanical Garden: A Tranquil Escape in Thamaga

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 typically ranging from 15-30 BWP. Upon arriving in Mmankgodi, you can walk to the rock paintings, approximately a 20-minute walk from the village center, or hire a local taxi for around 10-20 BWP.
Walking

If you are in Mmankgodi, you can walk to Manyana Rock Paintings. From the village center, head northeast towards coordinates 6HPR+5G6. The walk takes about 20 minutes. Ensure you have comfortable shoes and water.

Discover more about Manyana Rock Paintings

The Manyana Rock Paintings, located near the village of Mmankgodi, offer a captivating journey into Botswana's ancient past. This collection of rock art is found on five separate cliff faces along the Kolobeng hills. Created between 1100 AD and 1700 AD, the paintings are attributed to the Khoikhoi or San people, offering insights into their daily lives and spiritual beliefs. The artworks depict a variety of subjects, including mammals, plants, and abstract shapes. Animals are typically portrayed in profile with two legs, while human figures often face forward. It is believed that witch doctors created the paintings as part of religious rituals, incorporating dancing to connect with ancestral spirits. The pigments were made from a mixture of soft rocks like bauxite and animal fluids such as blood. Today, the Manyana Rock Paintings are protected as a National Monument. While some paintings have faded due to natural weathering, the site remains a significant cultural and historical landmark. Visitors can explore the area and appreciate the artistry and symbolism of these ancient works, gaining a deeper understanding of Botswana's heritage. The site is fenced, and entry is gained through the custodian. Nearby, visitors can also see Livingstone's Tree, where the explorer David Livingstone is said to have preached.