The Nyero Rock Paintings are one of the places you can visit in Uganda if you’ve exhausted all of the national parks and are looking for something different.
A must-see in Uganda is the Nyero Rock Paintings. If you’ve exhausted all the national parks in the country and are looking for something new, you must see them.
The ‘Nyero Rock Paintings’ are hidden deep within the Kumi district in eastern Uganda. Wondering what these paintings look like? They are six panels of the earliest rock art in Uganda.
They feature a lot of geometric and abstract patterns. Between 3,000 and 12,000 years old, the rock art is painted in red and black pigment on six granite rock shelters.
They are a nice place to relax and take in the beauty of nature. And, the cold air at this location is simply fantastic!
Who structured these paintings?
Some people believe that the Karamojong tribe, semi-nomadic livestock herders who were endemic to this area of Uganda, invented them.
Others believe that it’s the extinct Batwa clan that was responsible. The district of Kumi today however is inhabited by the Itesots.
Most of the paintings must be viewed on foot so come prepared. The walks involve passing by interesting rock formations, and beautiful landscapes and viewing locals go about their daily lives.
The Nyero Rock Shelters
There are 3 categories of Nyero Rock Shelters that tourists can visit at the location. These include Nyero 1, Nyero 2, and Nyero 3.
Each has a unique painting on its surface, but they are distinct from one another. Generally, each of them offers a unique viewing experience.
Nyero One is renowned for its sparse and faint paintings, which are easily visible as one approaches the rock’s surface. Nyero Two is the most well-known and captivating rock.
They have painted clear images of people, boats, and animals on the rock within a ring of red circles. Due to the artwork’ poor clarity and difficulty being viewed without getting too close, Nyero Rock 3 isn’t that interesting.
According to historical myth and facts, the Nyero rock paintings were created during the stone era to show the similarities between that time’s way of life. They also show the way of life that prevails today.
There are several rock paintings in Uganda’s eastern region, but Nyero is the greatest of the bunch compared to the others, such as Mukongoro in the Kumi district, therefore it’s worth a visit.
While on a safari in Uganda, travellers should stop at the Nyero rock paintings as they offer an amazing and incredibly unique experience. A guide is available to give you a tour of the rock paintings.
During the tour, the guide will also tell you the fascinating, little-known history of Nyero Rock Painting, which you can listen to while admiring the beauty of these rock paintings that are enclosed in a cave.
When visiting this location, take precautions
While walking around as you view the art is fun, it’s also important to be careful. During rainy seasons the rocks become slippery and one can easily trip and fall.
Tourist Activities at Nyero Rock Paintings
The Nyero rock painting safari can be combined with other safaris, including the visit to Mount Elgon, Jinja adventure safaris, and the Sipi Fall Safari among others.
These can serve as an en-route layover spot despite the distance from the different locations. You’ll have an opportunity to discover The Pearl of Africa’s hidden beauty, which is dispersed throughout her nation.
Gorilla Trekking
It is possible to combine a gorilla trekking safari in Uganda with a visit to the Nyero rock paintings in the Kumi district. In Uganda, Bwindi Impenetrable National Park and Mgahinga Gorilla National Park both offer gorilla trekking experiences.
Every day at 8 am, groups of no more than eight individuals begin gorilla trekking in the national parks of Bwindi Impenetrable and Mgahinga Gorilla.
A gorilla permit in Uganda costs $700 for foreign tourists, $600 for foreign residents, and UGX 250,000 for citizens of East Africa.
Chimpanzee Trekking
A safari in Uganda that includes chimpanzee trekking is among the best primate safaris you will ever take.
In addition to Kyambura Gorge in Queen Elizabeth National Park, Uganda also provides chimpanzee trekking tours in Kalinzu Forest, Budongo Forest near Murchison Falls National Park, and Kibale National Park.
Golden Monkey Trekking
In the south-western region of Uganda, in the Kisoro district, there is a national park called Mgahinga Gorilla National Park. It is where golden monkey trekking is done.
It is typical to combine a Batwa trail adventure in the Albertine Rift montane forest with golden monkey trekking in Mgahinga Gorilla National Park.
Other activities to do when visiting Uganda include escorted nature walks, hot air balloon safaris at Murchison Falls National Park, bird watching, and local cultural tours.
Make an effort to get in touch with your trip operator to find the finest possibilities for your price range.
The best time to visit the Nyero rock painting site
The best time to visit Nyero rock paintings is from December to February, and June to October. During these seasons, there is little chance of rain and the rocks are easier to climb than they are during the rainy season.
Rainy seasons include the months of March, April, May, and November when there is a lot of precipitation.
With a 4×4 vehicle, it is possible to travel to the location by road. It will take around 6-7 hours to complete the 250 km through the Jinja Road, via Iganga-Mbale, and link to the Kumi district.
Images for nyero rock paintings
Conclusion
Visiting the Nyero Rock Paintings in the Kumi district is one of those places that will make a difference. It’s a place that’s unique. Everything from the history of the paintings to the conclusion of who painted them will have your brain working.
Do not forget to carry your camera because the rocks provide one of the best backdrops you’ll ever find. You may also want to take pictures and make your discoveries when you arrive at your destination.
The Nyero rock paintings are a significant component of Ugandan tourism and are probably going to be one of the stops on your safari across Uganda.
