Twyfelfontein, /Ui-//aes
Location: Kunene Region, Namibia
Year of Inscription: 2007
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: Twyfelfontein, also known as /Ui-//aes, is a site of ancient rock engravings in the Kunene Region of Namibia. It is believed to have been created over a period of several thousand years by the San people, who used the engravings for religious and ritual purposes. The site is considered one of the most important examples of rock art in Africa, and offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of one of the continent's oldest civilizations.
Prominent Features: The rock engravings at Twyfelfontein are characterized by their intricate detail and depictions of animals, people, and spiritual symbols. Some of the most notable features include:
The Organ Pipes: A series of tall, cylindrical rock formations that resemble the pipes of a giant organ.
The Burnt Mountain: A large, blackened mountain made of volcanic rock.
The Petrified Forest: A collection of fossilized trees that date back millions of years.
History: The engravings at Twyfelfontein were created over a period of several thousand years by the San people, who used them for religious and ritual purposes. The site was rediscovered by European explorers in the 1920s, and was declared a national monument by the South African government in 1952.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the site and view the rock engravings, as well as hike through the nearby mountains and desert landscapes. Local guides are available to provide additional information and insight into the history and culture of the region.
Entry Fees: Foreign Visitors:Adults: NAD 100 (approximately USD 7)
Children (6-16 years old): NAD 30 (approximately USD 2)
How to Reach It: Twyfelfontein is located in a remote area of Namibia, and can be reached by car or organized tour from the nearest town of Khorixas. There is no public transportation to the site.
From Windhoek to Khorixas:
Bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services between Windhoek and Khorixas. These include Intercape, Eagle Liner, and Transnamib. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Minibus taxi: Minibus taxis are a popular and affordable mode of transport in Namibia. They operate on fixed routes and can be found at designated taxi ranks throughout Windhoek. Taxis traveling to Khorixas can be found at the Okuryangava Taxi Rank. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours and may make several stops along the way to pick up and drop off passengers.
Where to Stay: There are several lodges and campsites located in the nearby town of Khorixas, as well as in the surrounding desert areas. Some popular options include Twyfelfontein Country Lodge, Camp Kipwe, and Madisa Camp.
Next Stop: Namib Sand Sea
Year of Inscription: 2007
Criteria: (iii) bear a unique or at least exceptional testimony to a cultural tradition or to a civilization which is living or which has disappeared;
(v)to be an outstanding example of a traditional human settlement, land-use, or sea-use which is representative of a culture (or cultures), or human interaction with the environment especially when it has become vulnerable under the impact of irreversible change;
Overview: Twyfelfontein, also known as /Ui-//aes, is a site of ancient rock engravings in the Kunene Region of Namibia. It is believed to have been created over a period of several thousand years by the San people, who used the engravings for religious and ritual purposes. The site is considered one of the most important examples of rock art in Africa, and offers a rare glimpse into the spiritual and cultural practices of one of the continent's oldest civilizations.
Prominent Features: The rock engravings at Twyfelfontein are characterized by their intricate detail and depictions of animals, people, and spiritual symbols. Some of the most notable features include:
The Organ Pipes: A series of tall, cylindrical rock formations that resemble the pipes of a giant organ.
The Burnt Mountain: A large, blackened mountain made of volcanic rock.
The Petrified Forest: A collection of fossilized trees that date back millions of years.
History: The engravings at Twyfelfontein were created over a period of several thousand years by the San people, who used them for religious and ritual purposes. The site was rediscovered by European explorers in the 1920s, and was declared a national monument by the South African government in 1952.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the site and view the rock engravings, as well as hike through the nearby mountains and desert landscapes. Local guides are available to provide additional information and insight into the history and culture of the region.
Entry Fees: Foreign Visitors:Adults: NAD 100 (approximately USD 7)
Children (6-16 years old): NAD 30 (approximately USD 2)
How to Reach It: Twyfelfontein is located in a remote area of Namibia, and can be reached by car or organized tour from the nearest town of Khorixas. There is no public transportation to the site.
From Windhoek to Khorixas:
Bus: There are several bus companies that operate daily services between Windhoek and Khorixas. These include Intercape, Eagle Liner, and Transnamib. The journey takes approximately 6-7 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
Minibus taxi: Minibus taxis are a popular and affordable mode of transport in Namibia. They operate on fixed routes and can be found at designated taxi ranks throughout Windhoek. Taxis traveling to Khorixas can be found at the Okuryangava Taxi Rank. The journey takes approximately 7-8 hours and may make several stops along the way to pick up and drop off passengers.
Where to Stay: There are several lodges and campsites located in the nearby town of Khorixas, as well as in the surrounding desert areas. Some popular options include Twyfelfontein Country Lodge, Camp Kipwe, and Madisa Camp.
Next Stop: Namib Sand Sea