Tsodilo Hills: Ancient Rock Art and Spiritual Significance
Explore Tsodilo Hills: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient rock art, rich culture, and stunning Kalahari landscapes. A must-see Botswana gem.
Tsodilo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Botswana, is renowned for its stunning rock art, geological formations, and spiritual importance to the San people. Rising dramatically from the Kalahari Desert, these hills house over 4,500 ancient rock paintings, some dating back thousands of years, offering a glimpse into the region's rich cultural history.
A brief summary to Tsodilo community Development Trust
- Tsodilo Hills, Tsodilo, BW
- +26773918256
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 7 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Hire a local guide to learn about the history, legends, and personal stories behind the rock paintings.
- Bring plenty of water and sunscreen, as the sun can be harsh.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking the rocky trails.
- Bring cash in Botswana Pula, as it is needed for entry fees, guide fees, and camping.
- Consider staying overnight to experience the mystical atmosphere and see the stars.
Getting There
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Driving
From Shakawe, drive approximately 40 km west on a rough dirt road. A 4x4 vehicle is recommended due to the road conditions. The turning off the main Maun/Shakawe road is just south of Sepupa and is indicated with a National Museum signpost. Follow the track to Tsodilo Hills. The Tsodilo Community Development Trust is located near the visitor center, approximately 2 kilometers from the main entrance. Follow the signs directing you towards the community trust, and you will find the location on your right, just before the parking area. There are no fuel stations or ATMs at Tsodilo Hills, so ensure you have sufficient fuel and cash. Entrance fees are 50 Pula per person. Guided tours for the Rhino Trail cost 120 Pula. Other trails like Lion, Cliff and Male Hill Summit tours cost 175 Pula.
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Public Transport
From Maun, minibus taxis are available to Tsodilo Hills. Inform the driver that you want to stop at the Tsodilo Hills visitor center. From the visitor center, walk approximately 2 kilometers towards the Tsodilo Community Development Trust. Look for signs along the way to guide you. Minibus taxi fares from Maun to Tsodilo Hills vary, but expect to pay around 100-150 Pula. Once at the visitor center, there is no additional cost to walk to the Tsodilo Community Development Trust. However, entrance fees to the Tsodilo Hills site and guided tour fees still apply (50 Pula per person and 120-175 Pula respectively).
Discover more about Tsodilo community Development Trust
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