Matsieng Footprints

Location: Rasesa

The Matsieng Footprints are a significant archaeological and cultural site located near the village of Rasesa, just north of Gaborone, Botswana. This National Monument features a sandstone slab marked by two deep holes and numerous engravings, believed to date back between 3,000 to 10,000 years. The site contains up to 117 engravings, including human and animal footprints, which are thought to have been created by ancient peoples, possibly ancestors of the San or Basarwa.

According to local legend, Matsieng, the first ancestor of the Batswana people and a giant with one leg, emerged from one of these holes, followed by his people and animals. As they ascended, they left footprints in the soft earth, which have since hardened into the rock.

Visitors to the site can observe these ancient engravings and learn about the rich folklore associated with Matsieng. The area has been used historically as a watering hole, and the engravings have endured natural weathering and human activity over millennia.

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