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Quthing Dinosaur Tracks
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The Quthing Dinosaur Tracks, located near Moyeni, are a world-renowned paleontological site offering a vivid snapshot of life approximately 200 million years ago. The site features one of the most concentrated collections of dinosaur trackways in southern Africa, perfectly preserved on a sandstone surface that was tilted by geological forces over eons. Most of the prints were left by small, bipedal dinosaurs during the Early Jurassic period when the region was a vast floodplain. Scientifically documented in the 1960s, the site is now housed under a protective building to shield the delicate fossils from erosion. The exceptional clarity of the tracks allows visitors to visualize the stride and movement of these prehistoric creatures across the ancient mud. This site is not only a highlight for paleontologists but also a profound destination for anyone interested in the deep geological history and the evolution of life on the African continent.
- Location: Lesotho
- Top sights: Liphakoe FC · Quthing
- Nearby: Alwynskop (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 21 | 20 | 18 | 13 | 10 | 6 | 6 | 8 | 13 | 16 | 18 | 20 |
| Rain mm | 94 | 85 | 72 | 52 | 19 | 21 | 16 | 25 | 20 | 57 | 71 | 82 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The dinosaur tracks are located outdoors on a tilted rock surface and can be viewed freely. No entrance fee is required, but hiring a local guide is advisable to locate the exact trackways. The site is accessible at any time, though visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
Typical hours
As an open-air site, there are no set opening hours. Visitors typically explore the tracks during daylight, from sunrise to sunset. During the rainy season, the rock surface may become slippery, so caution is advised.
Photography
Photography is allowed without restrictions as the tracks are outdoors. A wide-angle lens is recommended to capture the entire rock slab with its many footprints. Low-angle sunlight enhances the visibility of the impressions.
Time needed
Allow about one to one and a half hours to view the dinosaur tracks thoroughly. If you also want to explore the surrounding area, plan for two hours or more. The time depends on how closely you examine the footprints.
Combine with
Near Moyeni, other attractions include the Ha Kome rock paintings. A visit to the historic missions in the Quthing district is also worthwhile. Combine the tracks with a hike through the surrounding landscape.
Getting there
The site is about 15 kilometers from Moyeni and accessible only by four-wheel-drive vehicle. Follow the gravel road southwards; a local guide can show the exact route. Public transport does not directly reach the tracks.
Insider tip
Wear sturdy footwear with good grip as the rock surface can be slippery. Bring plenty of water and sun protection since shade is scarce. Visit the tracks early in the morning or late afternoon for the best soft lighting.
Geography
Facts
- Age: approximately 190 million years.
- Contains 12 well-preserved tracks.
- Average footprint length: 40 cm.
- Sauropod tracks.
- Discovered in 1965.
- Protected since 1984.
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Notable places around
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Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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Sights in the town Quthing Dinosaur Tracks (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How do I reach the Quthing tracks?
The site is located right next to the Moyeni Mission near the town of Quthing.
Are the tracks covered?
Yes, the most significant tracks are protected from erosion by a small building.
What makes this site special?
Hundreds of tracks are visible here, concentrated in a relatively small area.
Are there sanitary facilities?
There are simple facilities near the mission, but usually none right at the tracks.
Is it allowed to touch the tracks?
To protect the ancient relics, you should not step on or touch the tracks unnecessarily.
Quthing Dinosaur Tracks: where is it located?
Quthing Dinosaur Tracks is located in Lesotho.
Quthing Dinosaur Tracks: what is there to see?
Highlights include Liphakoe FC, Quthing.
Quthing Dinosaur Tracks: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Dec.
Quthing Dinosaur Tracks: why is it worth visiting?
The Quthing Dinosaur Tracks, located near Moyeni, are a world-renowned paleontological site offering a vivid snapshot of life approximately 200 million years ago.
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