Overview:

: Gcwihaba Caves, located in Botswana near the village of Tsodilo, are a spectacular network of caves that have been carved into a sandstone hill over the course of thousands of years. The network consists of approximately 100 caves, shafts, and passageways that wind and twist through a spectacular maze of caves and tunnels. In 2005, the caves were declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its ecological, cultural, and archaeological significance. Gcwihaba is home to various wildlife, including bats, lizards, and the occasional crocodile. Gcwihaba is also renowned for its ancient rock art, which ranges from 6,000 to 40,000 years old. These caves are one of the most popular tourist attractions in Botswana and offer visitors a unique experience that they won’t find anywhere else in the country. Guided tours are available that allow visitors to explore the site and learn more about its ancient history. Visitors can also explore independently or be accompanied by a guide. Whether exploring alone or in a guided tour, Gcwihaba Caves promises visitors a truly unique experience. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Botswana
Prominent Features:

1. Limestone formations: Gcwihaba Caves contain unique and spectacular limestone formations like stalagmites and stalactites. 2. Animals: The caves are inhabited by many different species of animals such as bats, porcupines, and snakes. 3. Ancient paintings: The caves contain many ancient San or Bushmen paintings depicting hunting scenes and cultural beliefs. 4. Archaeological treasures: Gcwihaba Caves hold ancient archaeological treasures such as iron and stone tools. 5. Remoteness: Gcwihaba Caves are located in one of the most remote places in Botswana. 6. Photogenic: The caves are very photogenic and are a well-known destination for photographers. 7. Nature Reserve: The caves are part of the Gcwihaba Nature Reserve which is home to many endangered species of wildlife. This national monument of Botswana portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

The Gcwihaba Caves located in Botswana are amongst the oldest caves in the world. The caves were discovered in the 1960s by the Botswana Geology Department. The area is now known for its extensive networks of underground rooms and passageways. The Gcwihaba Caves are believed to have been formed approximately 35,000 years ago. They are also the archeological site where Paleolithic era artifacts have been found by archeologists. The presence of humans in this area dates back to the Late Stone Age around 3500BC to 900BC. Presently, the Gcwihaba Caves are of great archaeological, historical, and cultural importance, as they contain evidence of early human activities. They are now an important part of the Botswana tourism industry. The Gcwihaba Caves are famous for their magnificent stalactites and the huge chambers. They contain breathtaking features such as the 800-meter high Devessi Gallery which is known to be the longest in the whole of Africa. The George Pit, another main attraction, is estimated to be a bottomless pit. Tourists flock to the Gcwihaba Caves to explore its exotic beauty and the unique cave features. Activities such as guided tours, bird watching, and camping are popular in the area. The Gcwihaba Caves are now part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and are protected by laws from any type of disruption. You must visit one of these historical places in Botswana on your Botswana tour

Interesting facts:

1. Gcwihaba Caves is the largest cave system in Botswana. 2. They are the third-longest known cave system in the entire African continent. 3. The caves consist of several chambers with the longest chamber measuring 4.8 kilometers in length. 4. Gcwihaba is thought to have been originally used as a shelter by San people who lived in the area thousands of years ago. 5. Parts of the caves have only been explored in the last 30 years, but they were first recognized by an English explorer in 1929. 6. The temperatures inside the caves can drop to almost freezing in winter. 7. Gcwihaba is home to thousands of bat species including the Angola horseshoe bat, a rare species only found within this cave system. 8. The caves feature some unique rock formations as well as some ancient San paintings. 9. Gcwihaba is located in the Kalahari Desert, where the climate can be incredibly harsh, but the caves provide a cool and sheltered home for the bat population. 10. Gcwihaba Caves are now a national monument and are considered an important archaeological site as they have been naturally preserved by the dried desert air. Visit one of the famous monuments of Botswana with your friends and family.