TSODILO HILLS

Embark on an unforgettable day trip to the majestic Tsodilo Hills,

 A UNESCO World Heritage site celebrated for its deep cultural and historical importance. With us, you have the unique opportunity to choose your preferred mode of transport: opt for a scenic journey by boat and road, or soar above the landscape with a breathtaking helicopter ride, offering you a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding terrain.

Upon arrival, you’ll be taken on a guided tour by a professional expert, who will share their knowledge of the area’s fascinating history, including the ancient rock paintings and sacred archaeological sites that have made Tsodilo a place of spiritual significance for centuries.

To make your experience even more memorable, you will be treated to a delightful brunch, served with refreshing drinks to keep you energized as you explore this remarkable site. This day trip is the perfect combination of adventure, history, and natural beauty, ensuring you not only gain a deeper understanding of the region’s heritage but also create lasting memories in one of Africa’s most iconic locations.

 

Tsodilo Hills © James Hughes

WHY VISIT TSODILO HILLS?

Your trip includes a professionally guided tour of the Hills, after which you can enjoy a delicious picnic under the trees.

WALKING TRAILS

WALKING TRAILS

Pick from one of numerous walking trails – the Rhino Trail, Lion Trail, Cliff Trail, and others. Explore the three main Hills – Male, Female, and Child – in a journey into antiquity. Archaeologists estimate that Tsodilo has been inhabited for the past 100,000 years, making this one of the world’s oldest historical sites. Digs have revealed pottery, iron, glass beads, shell beads, carved bone, and stone tools dating back 90,000 years.

ROCK ART

ROCK ART

Rock paintings are nearly everywhere at Tsodilo Hills. Representing thousands of years of human inhabitation, they are amongst the region’s finest and most important. Two of the most famous images are the rhino polychrome and the Eland panel. The latter image is situated on a soaring cliff that overlooks the African wilderness. It is thought that the inaccessibility of many of the paintings may be linked to their religious significance.

WILDLIFE

WILDLIFE

Although the closest you’ll get to a large mammal at Tsodilo Hills are the rock paintings, there is still plenty to see on your trip. For birders, there are Yellow-Billed Hornbills, Grey Louries, and Melba Finches. You may also see the Tsodilo Gecko, which is unique to this area, along with Kudu, Steenbok, and Duiker Antelopes. As with most of Botswana, there are always a few monkeys and baboons around to keep you entertained!

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Sunrise Boat Cruise © Albert Froneman

BOAT TOURS

Enjoy the splendour of seasonal water lilies and the heady smell of papyrus beds rising out of crystal delta waters on our unmissable boat tours. With crocodiles and hippos along the way, there is always something special to see.

Bush Walk with Elephant Tracks © James Hughes

WALKING SAFARIS

Back at the Lodge, take a bush walk around the island with our expert guides and search for rare birds, including the elusive Pel’s Fishing Owl and the beautiful Narina Trogan. Discover why Xaro Lodge is a favourite destination for birders.