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Tsodilo Hills

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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The Tsodilo Hills in northwestern Botswana are a sacred site of immense spiritual and historical significance, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001. Rising abruptly from the flat Kalahari landscape, the four main hills are known by the San people as the 'Male', 'Female', 'Child', and a smaller, unnamed hill. Hosting over 4,500 rock paintings at more than 400 individual sites, Tsodilo is often referred to as the 'Louvre of the Desert'. These artworks span various eras, with the oldest estimated to be thousands of years old, depicting animals, humans, and abstract geometric patterns. The hills have served as a settlement for early humans for over 100,000 years, making them one of the oldest continuously inhabited sites in the world. For the local San and Hambukushu communities, the hills are the dwelling place of ancestral spirits and remain a site for religious ceremonies. The raw beauty of the quartzite rock formations and the deeply rooted myths provide the location with a mystical atmosphere. Archaeological excavations have revealed Middle Stone Age tools and evidence of early pastoralism and metalwork in the region.

Location: Botswana
Top sights: Whale and Penguin · Rhino · Tsodilo

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	25	24	21	18	17	21	25	29	28	27
Rain mm	156	100	96	32	2	1	0	0	1	7	54	110

📋 Practical info

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Getting there

Accessible via a long drive from Shakawe or Maun, often requiring a high-clearance vehicle to navigate the sandy roads leading to this remote part of the Kalahari.

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Best season

The cooler winter months from May to August are good for visiting, as summer temperatures in the Kalahari can be extremely high, making hiking difficult.

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Terrain & paths

The site consists of four main quartzite ridges rising dramatically from the flat desert, with rocky slopes that require careful footing during the ascent.

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What to bring

Light, sun-protective clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, and plenty of water are vital, along with sturdy boots for traversing the sharp quartzite rock formations.

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Parking

Designated parking areas are located near the main entrance and the museum, providing a base for visitors before they head out to explore the various ridges.

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Safety

It is essential to carry a map of the rock art sites and stay hydrated; hiring a local guide is highly recommended to learn about the cultural significance.

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Time needed

Exploring the main trails across the four ridges typically takes a full day, or around six to eight hours, to appreciate the scale and history of the hills.

Geography

Coordinates

-18.70000, 21.70000

Facts

Tsodilo contains the highest concentration of rock art in Southern Africa.
The highest point of the hills reaches approximately 1,400 meters above sea level.
Some rock paintings depict whales and penguins, suggesting early long-distance trade.
Rhino Cave has provided evidence of ritualistic behavior dating back 70,000 years.
The 'Female' hill covers an expansive area of approximately 10 square kilometers.
There are two permanent water springs in the hills that have been used for millennia.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Bwabwata National Park80 km · NEExplore →

Goma Sand Ridge126 km · NWExplore →

Okavango Delta132 km · NExplore →

Xudum Delta138 km · NWExplore →

Gcwihaba Caves142 km · WExplore →

Okavango Wetlands146 km · NExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Tsodilo Hills (4)

Whale and Penguin📍 landmark

The intriguing Whale and Penguin rock painting is one of the most enigmatic artworks found among the ancient shelters of the Tsodilo Hills.

Rhino📍 landmark

The Rhino rock art panel features visitors a glimpse into prehistoric times with its red ochre painting of a rhinoceros on the stony outcrops of Tsodilo.

Tsodilo🏺 historical

Tsodilo is a UNESCO World Heritage archaeological site featuring over 4,500 rock paintings scattered across isolated quartzite hills in the Kalahari Desert.

Elenantilopen 📍 landmark

The Elenantilopen rock painting captures a lively herd of eland antelopes, a frequent and culturally significant motif for the ancient San artists.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Why are the Tsodilo Hills sacred?

Local San and Hambukushu peoples consider them the home of spirits.

How many rock paintings are there?

Over 4,500 drawings have been discovered at about 400 sites.

Do I need a guide for the visit?

A local guide is mandatory and helps in understanding the paintings.

How strenuous is hiking in the hills?

Some paths are steep and rocky; good fitness and sturdy footwear are needed.

How do you reach Tsodilo?

It is remotely located in the northwest; a 4x4 is necessary for the drive.

Tsodilo Hills: where is it located?

Tsodilo Hills is located in Botswana.

Tsodilo Hills: what is there to see?

Highlights include Whale and Penguin, Rhino, Tsodilo.

Tsodilo Hills: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Aug.

Tsodilo Hills: why is it worth visiting?

The Tsodilo Hills in northwestern Botswana are a sacred site of immense spiritual and historical significance, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2001.

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