Pomongwe Cave
Imagine stepping back in time, into a huge open ground level cave. This place has fascinated explorers and archaeologists for years. Pomongwe Cave, in Zimbabwe’s Matobo National Park, is a geological marvel with a deep history of human occupation.
Pomongwe Cave and Historical Cave Paintings
It’s part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, visitors can discover the stories hidden in its walls.
Pomongwe Cave is a hidden treasure, showing off Zimbabwe’s cultural and geological beauty. As you explore, you’ll feel like time has stopped. The past and present blend together in a stunning way.
Unravelling the Mysteries of Pomongwe Cave
The cave has a rich history spanning more than 100,000 years, showing us the lives of ancient people. It’s in the heart of Matobo Hills, just outside the second city of Bulawayo in Matabeleland, and has fascinated archaeologists and historians with the first excavation in the 1960’s.
They found many stone, wooden and bone artefacts, as well as the oldest recorded piece of knotted string, which is one of the world’s longest known sequences of occupation and use.
A Brief History
The first people to inhabit the cave were Stone Age hunter-gatherers. They left behind rock art, tools, and settlement remains.
Many cultures came and went, each leaving their mark. This makes the cave’s history very interesting.
Significant Archaeological Discoveries
Archaeologists have found a large cache of artifacts at Pomongwe Cave, and the rock art is said to date from 10,000 years ago. Sadly, very few paintings remain due to early, misguided preservation efforts.
However, there are still visible rock art that shows everyday life and various animals.
The Majestic Landscape Surrounding Pomongwe Cave
Pomongwe Cave is in the stunning Matobo Hills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is known for its magnificent granite landscape, beautiful scenery, rich wildlife and cultural heritage. It’s a key part of Zimbabwe’s natural treasures.
Rock art of Pomongwe Cave
The Khoisan are the first known communities living in the Matobo Hills, including Pomongwe cave. They are responsible for the rock art visible on the walls of this cave and elsewhere in the Matobo hills.
You can see several paintings of giraffe, zebra, eland, two outlines of elephant, and some figurines. Sadly, much of the art has been obliterated due to incorrect conservation efforts in the 1920’s.
There is a site museum explaining the excavations at Pomongwe and a picnic area in the shady valley of the cave.
Exploring the Matobo Hills
The Matobo Hills have towering granite rocks, rolling hills, and dense woodlands. Visitors can explore this beautiful area. They can see the amazing rock formations and the variety of plants and animals.
The area around Pomongwe shows the beauty of Zimbabwe’s nature. The Matobo Hills offer an unforgettable experience for everyone.
Planning Your Visit to Pomongwe Cave
Visiting the cave in Zimbabwe’s Matobo Hills is a must for anyone wanting to dive into the area’s history and beauty.
You can explore this stunning cave and imagine what it must have been like to live here over 100,000 years ago, or climb Pomongwe Hill and take in the amazing views.
When to Visit
The best time to visit is from April to September, during the dry season. The weather is mild and perfect for exploring, with clear skies and nice temperatures.
There is a Tour Guide on site to help you get the most out of your visit.
Conservation Efforts and Sustainable Tourism
Keeping Pomongwe Cave and the Matobo Hills protected is very important. The site is managed by National Museums and Monuments and is a National Monument.
Please do not touch the rock painting and take all your litter home with you. Do not build a fire or picnic with the cave. Together, let’s conserve and protect this heritage for future generations.
If you love history, nature, or unique adventures, Pomongwe Cave is perfect for you. It’s a visit that will leave you with lasting memories. Thanks to efforts to preserve it, this incredible site will keep teaching and inspiring people for years ahead.
How To Get There
The cave is easily accessed off the Maleme Dam Road, in the Matobo National Park, approximately 2.5 km from Maleme Rest Camp.
Opening Hours
09:00 – 16:00 daily