Windhoek Travel Guide

Twyfelfontein

Translated as 'Uncertain Fountain', Twyfelfontein was so named by a farmer who doubted the ability of the spring to sustain his cattle for a long time. The spring is still there, but Twyfelfontein is famous for its prehistoric rock paintings and engravings rather than its water supply. It boasts the largest concentration of ancient rock art in the country (about 2,500 designs), and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The petroglyphs primarily depict game animals such as giraffe, antelope, elephant and lion, and are believed to be around 3,000 years old. Visitors are no longer allowed to enter the site without a guide, due to previous vandalism. The uniquely-designed visitor information centre features an exhibition, kiosk and souvenir shop. There are a few other stunning sights in the area around Twyfelfontein, including a unique rock formation called the Organ Pipes, the Doros crater, and the Petrified Forest.