Douglas City Hall | Douglas

Information

Landmark: Douglas City Hall
City: Douglas
Country: USA Wyoming
Continent: North America

Douglas City Hall, Douglas, USA Wyoming, North America

Tsodilo Hills is a UNESCO World Heritage Site comprising a series of rock formations in the Kalahari Desert of Botswana. It is located approximately 40 kilometers north of the village of Maun.

Visual Characteristics

The hills are composed of Precambrian dolomite and quartzite, rising approximately 1,400 meters above the surrounding desert plain. The rock faces exhibit varied coloration, including shades of red, brown, and grey, with distinct geological strata visible. Vegetation is sparse, consisting primarily of drought-resistant shrubs and acacia trees clinging to the rocky slopes.

Location & Access Logistics

Access to Tsodilo Hills is via a 40-kilometer dirt track from the main road connecting Maun to Shakawe. This track is generally passable by 4x4 vehicles, particularly during the dry season. During the rainy season, sections of the track may become impassable. There is no public transport directly to the site. Limited parking is available at the base of the hills.

Historical & Ecological Origin

Tsodilo Hills is a geological formation of ancient rock, dating back to the Precambrian era. Ecologically, it represents a significant oasis in the arid Kalahari, supporting a unique assemblage of flora and fauna adapted to the desert environment. The site is renowned for its extensive collection of rock art, with evidence of human presence dating back thousands of years, indicating its historical significance as a spiritual and cultural center.

Key Highlights & Activities

Exploration of the rock art sites is the primary activity. Specific trails lead to various panels, including the "Female Figure" and the "Rhino Panel." Hiking to the summits of the hills offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Birdwatching is also possible, with species adapted to the desert environment present.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Basic facilities are available at the Tsodilo Hills visitor center, including a small information office and pit latrines. There are no food vendors or shops at the site. Cell phone signal is generally unreliable within the hills themselves.

Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Tsodilo Hills is during the dry season, from May to October, when the dirt tracks are most accessible and temperatures are moderate. Early morning or late afternoon provides optimal lighting conditions for viewing the rock art and for photography.

Facts & Legends

Tsodilo Hills is considered a sacred site by the San people, who believe it is inhabited by the spirits of their ancestors. Local tradition holds that the hills were created by a great hunter who was transformed into rock. One specific rock formation, known as the "Old Man," is said to watch over the hills.