Matobo National Park

About this place

Matobo National Park is the core of the Matobo Hills south of Bulawayo, a land of smooth granite domes, balancing boulders and wooded valleys. UNESCO listed the hills in 2003. They combine three rare things: strange scenery, rich rock art and wildlife including the white rhino. The hills formed over two billion years ago when granite was forced to the surface, then eroded. San people lived here about 2,000 years ago and left hundreds of paintings, and more than 3,000 rock art sites are registered. King Mzilikazi is said to have named the hills half in jest, for bald heads. Early settlers including Cecil Rhodes are buried on the summit of Malindidzimu, the hill of the spirits. You climb a broad rock dome and endless granite hills appear around you, topped with balanced blocks. Caves such as Silozwane and Pomongwe hold old paintings in red of people and animals, with the most extensive at Inanke, after a three-hour walk. Part of the park is a fenced game area with rhino. It is known for the world's highest concentration of black eagles and for its many leopards. The park is 45.9 km in a straight line south of Bulawayo. Take a guide in the game area and do not walk alone near rhino. Do not touch the paintings, some of which were damaged by oil applied to preserve them. Many local people hold the hills sacred, so keep quiet. Rocks grow very hot at midday, so start early and bring plenty of water.