Tsodilo Hills - Discovering Botswana

Travelling to Tsodilo Hills

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Tsodilo Hills, a pretty good destination in Botswana (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Tsodilo Hills and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Tsodilo Hills, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Botswana, here's everything to know about Tsodilo Hills for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Tsodilo Hills

Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the northwestern part of Botswana. It is a sacred site for the San people, who have lived in the area for over 100,000 years, and is home to over 4,500 rock paintings. The site is comprised of four main hills, each with a different color and significance, and is considered one of the most important archaeological sites in southern Africa. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the area and learn about the history and culture of the San people.

What to visit in Tsodilo Hills

Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Botswana, known for its unique rock formations, ancient rock art, and spiritual significance to the local San people. Some of the main tourist attractions of Tsodilo Hills are: 1. Main Hill: Standing over 400 meters high, Main Hill is the tallest of the four hills at Tsodilo Hills. It is considered the most important and significant of the hills because of its cultural and spiritual significance to the San people. It is believed to be a dwelling place for the gods and is the location of the most significant rock art in the Tsodilo Hills.
2. Female Hill: Also known as the Hill of the Gods, Female Hill is the second-tallest of the four hills and has a more feminine shape compared to the others. The hill is believed to be the home of the powerful San goddess called Mogwana.
3. Male Hill: Located to the west of the Main Hill, Male Hill is the third-tallest of the four hills and has a more phallic shape. It is believed to be the home of the powerful San god called Nwashi.
4. Child Hill: The smallest of the four hills at Tsodilo, Child Hill is located to the east of Main Hill. It is said to be the offspring of Male and Female Hills and is believed to be the home of the spirits of children.
5. Rock Art: Tsodilo Hills is home to one of the largest concentrations of rock art in the world, with over 4,500 individual paintings spread across the area. The rock art is believed to be between 800 and 1,300 years old and depicts a variety of animals, as well as human figures and abstract shapes.
6. Cultural Significance: The Tsodilo Hills are of great cultural significance to the San people, who consider them a sacred site. The San have lived in the area for tens of thousands of years and believe that the hills are home to powerful spiritual beings. The hills are also an important site for San rituals and ceremonies. Visitors can take guided tours to explore the Tsodilo Hills and learn about their cultural and spiritual significance, as well as view the incredible rock art.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Botswana, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Tsodilo Hills.

When to go on holiday to Tsodilo Hills

The best time to visit Tsodilo Hills in Botswana is during the dry season from May to October. During this time, you can enjoy pleasant temperatures and clear skies perfect for hiking through the hills. The wet season between November and April can make travel more difficult due to flooded roads, and hiking trails may be muddy and slippery. However, the wet season is a good time to see the local birdlife, as many migratory species visit the region to take advantage of the lush vegetation. Ultimately, it depends on your preferences and what you want to experience during your trip.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Tsodilo Hills

To get to Tsodilo Hills in Botswana, you can fly to Maun or Kasane airports, which are the two major airports in Botswana. From there, you will need to take a 4X4 vehicle or hire a local guide to drive you to Tsodilo Hills, which is approximately 350km northwest of Maun and 400km northeast of Kasane. It's important to note that the road to Tsodilo Hills can be rough and difficult to navigate, so it's highly recommended to hire a knowledgeable guide or join an organized tour to make the journey as smooth as possible. Additionally, you'll need to obtain a permit to visit the hills, which you can get from the local authorities in Ghanzi or Maun.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Tsodilo Hills, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Tsodilo Hills

Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage site located in the northwest region of Botswana. The area is home to the traditional San people, who have a unique cuisine influenced by their nomadic lifestyle and the surrounding desert environment. Here are some typical foods of Tsodilo Hills along with a short description for each of them: 1. Seswaa - This is a popular meat dish made from beef, goat, or lamb that has been boiled until it is soft and then shredded or pounded with a pestle. Seswaa is often served with pap (a type of porridge).
2. Morogo - This is a type of spinach that is commonly eaten throughout Botswana. It is usually boiled and then sautéed with onions and tomatoes. Morogo is rich in vitamins and minerals.
3. Pap - This is a type of porridge made from maize meal. It is a staple food in Botswana and is often served with meat or vegetables.
4. Vetkoek - This is a type of fried bread that is popular in southern Africa. It is made from dough that is deep-fried until it is golden brown. Vetkoek is often filled with savory or sweet fillings, such as mince meat, cheese or jam.
5. Biltong - This is a popular snack made from dried, cured beef or game meat. It is similar to jerky, but has a distinct salty and spicy flavor. Biltong is often enjoyed as a snack while on long journeys or during outdoor activities.
6. Mopane worms - These are the caterpillars of the Emperor Moth, which are a delicacy in many parts of Southern Africa. They are usually dried and then cooked in a variety of ways, such as stir-fried with onions and tomatoes or added to stews. Mopane worms are rich in protein and are considered a delicacy in many African cultures.
You can find general info about typical foods in Botswana here.

Is Tsodilo Hills an expensive destination for tourists?

The cost of visiting Tsodilo Hills in Botswana can vary depending on factors such as the level of luxury and the length of the stay. If you are planning to undertake a guided tour, the cost is likely to be more expensive than if you were to visit independently. Additionally, the cost of accommodation and travel in the area can also affect the overall cost of your trip. Overall, visiting Tsodilo Hills can be considered a comparatively expensive destination for tourists, but there are ways to travel on a budget by selecting more affordable accommodation options, choosing public transportation, and being mindful of expenses.

Where to find accomodation in Tsodilo Hills

The most common areas to find accommodation to visit Tsodilo Hills in Botswana are the towns of Maun, Shakawe, Ghanzi, and Tsau. These towns are located within a reasonable driving distance to Tsodilo Hills, and they offer a range of accommodation options such as lodges, campsites, and hotels. Maun is the largest town among these and is often considered as the gateway to the Okavango Delta. Shakawe, on the other hand, is situated close to the Okavango Panhandle, and it serves as a good base for exploring the nearby attractions such as Moremi Game Reserve, Tsodilo Hills, and the Okavango Delta. Ghanzi is located near the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, while Tsau is a small village situated north of Maun.
You can check hotel prices at Tsodilo Hills here:
Booking.com

Is Tsodilo Hills a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, generally Tsodilo Hills in Botswana is considered a safe place for tourists. However, as with any travel destination, visitors should still exercise common sense and take necessary precautions such as not leaving valuables unattended and being aware of their surroundings. It's also recommended to travel with a reputable tour operator or guide when exploring the area.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Botswana here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Tsodilo Hills.

What type of travelers will enjoy Tsodilo Hills the most?

Tsodilo Hills in Botswana is a great destination for anyone who is interested in history, archaeology, and natural beauty. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that offers unique opportunities for learning and exploration. While it can be enjoyed by anyone, it may be of greater interest to adults and families because of its cultural and historical significance. Children may also enjoy the experience, but they may require more supervision and guidance, especially during tours.
Overall, Tsodilo Hills is a unique and fascinating destination that may appeal more to travelers who are interested in cultural experiences rather than those seeking typical tourist attractions.

How to get around Tsodilo Hills

To move around Tsodilo Hills in Botswana, the best transportation option is to use a 4WD vehicle, as the terrain can be quite rugged. You could either hire a vehicle with a driver or opt to self-drive if you have experience with off-road driving. It's important to note that there are no marked roads or signs in the area, so a local guide is highly recommended to ensure you don't get lost.

What to see around Tsodilo Hills

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Tsodilo Hills: 1. Ngamiland Adventure Safaris - This is a great place to book a safari tour and explore the wildlife of Botswana.
2. Okavango Delta - The Okavango Delta is a unique and diverse ecosystem that is home to a wide variety of animals and plants.
3. Maun - Maun is a small town that is a popular starting point for safaris and trips into the Okavango Delta.
4. Moremi Game Reserve - Moremi Game Reserve is a protected area within the Okavango Delta that is home to a large population of wildlife.
5. Shakawe Village - Shakawe Village is located along the Okavango River and is a great place to fish, bird watch, and explore rural Botswana.
6. Tsodilo Hills Rock Art - If you haven't already, spend some time exploring the fascinating rock art at the Tsodilo Hills.
7. Gcwihaba Caves - The Gcwihaba Caves are located about two hours from Tsodilo Hills and are an incredible natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
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