Text : Karine Rousset
Photos : Jean-Louis Martin
In 2001, the Tsodilo Hills, situated in the north west of Botswana, near the ‘pan-handle’ of the Okavango Delta, became the country’s first site to be recognized internationally as having ‘outstanding universal importance’ and deserving protection under the World Heritage Convention.
An intensive planning process for Tsodilo, the site of 4,500 rock paintings, has just been completed. The plan, which involved the National Museum responsible for the World Heritage Site, as well as the resident community and other stakeholders, aims at maximizing Tsodilo’s tourism, community development and wildlife management potential. Implementation of the plan is due to begin in 2006.
Just under the hills, there is a museum which describes the history of the rock art. Local crafts can be purchased. A community guide is available to take visitors on a walk to discover the treasures on the rocks. There are also camping sites available to enjoy the eerie whooshing of the wind between the hills and the magnificent sunsets. In the future, Tsodilo will have even more to offer. A community-run interpretive centre will offer visitors first hand information about the Ju/’Hoansi San and Hambukushu who live near the hills, and the Khwe, who were the original artists of the paintings. Guides will be better equipped to give guests an informed summary of the paintings. Accommodation options will range from camping sites run by the community to a luxury lodge.
Tsodilo Hills, or ‘mountains of the Gods’ as it is known to the locals, is a place of deep spiritual significance to the people of Ngamiland. A visit to this special spot will reveal to the visitor why it is so special.
Contact
Karine Rousset
TOCaDI, PO Box 472, Shakawe, Botswana
Tel & Fax : +267 687 5084/5
Email : k.rousset@botsnet.bw
Internet : www.kuru.co.bw
Language : English
Other Reservation Possibilities :
National Museum
Tsodilo
Tel : +267 6878025
For general enquiries about the Kuru Family of Organisations, please contact Letloa Trust.
Letloa Trust
Co-ordinator : Braam le Roux
PO Box 472
Shakawe
Botswana
Tel : +267 6875200
Fax : +267 6875084/5
Email : bleroux@botsnet.bw
Co-ordinator : Braam le Roux