Nswatugi Cave
Nestled within the stunning Matobo National Park, just outside Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, lies Nswatugi Cave, containing one of the most beautiful and colourful rock art in the Matobo. Dominated by walking giraffe, lines of kudu and other antelope, and human figures some “asleep under blankets” the artwork in this cave is well worth a visit.
This natural wonder offers visitors a unique opportunity to delve into the country’s rich history and marvel at the ancient artistry of its early inhabitants.
Nswatugi Cave and Its Surroundings
Nswatugi Cave is situated amidst a landscape of towering granite domes, known locally as “matobo.” These formations, sculpted by wind and water over millennia, create a dramatic backdrop for the cave’s entrance. The cave itself is a relatively small, natural chamber, a short walk from the car park and small informative display. This is probably one of the most visited caves in the Matobo due to the wonderful artwork adorning the walls
The Cave Paintings
The paintings on the walls of Nswatugi Cave provide a glimpse into the lives of the Khoisan people, who inhabited the region thousands of years ago. These hunter-gatherers used ochre pigment to create intricate depictions of animals, human figures, and abstract symbols.
The paintings are believed to have been created over a long period, with some possibly dating back as early as 8,000 years ago.
Who Painted Them? When Were They Drawn?
The Khoisan people are generally credited with creating the cave paintings. They employed a variety of techniques, including blowing pigment through hollow reeds or using their fingers to apply the colour. While the exact dates of the paintings can be difficult to determine, evidence suggests that they were drawn over several centuries.
Artefacts Found There
In addition to the paintings, an early excavation in 1932 and again in 1975 revealed Late Stone Age tools and deposits dating from between 4,500 and 8,000 years ago, and within these deposits were the skeletal remains of a young woman. There is also a substantial layer of Middle Stone Age deposits, and in more recent times the cave appears to have been used to store grain.
How to Get To Nswatugi Cave
Nswatugi Cave is easily accessible from Bulawayo, which is the second-largest city in Zimbabwe.
Entry is via Matobo National Park either from the Kezi Road or the loop road from Maleme Dam.
There are various accommodation options available nearby, including lodges, campsites, and self-catering cottages, and many offer tours to the cave.
Nswatugi Cave offers a captivating journey into Zimbabwe’s ancient past. The cave paintings, artifacts, and stunning natural surroundings provide a unique and unforgettable experience for visitors.
