Nyero Rock Paintings – Kumi, Uganda - Atlas Obscura
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Nyero Rock Paintings

Kumi, Uganda

Six rock shelters covered in abstract art created by ancient Ugandan tribes. 

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The rock paintings seen on the 1000 Ugandan shilling note. Daan Kok (Atlas Obscura User)
The rock paintings seen on the 1000 Ugandan shilling note. Daan Kok (Atlas Obscura User)
Rock paintings on a large wall. Daan Kok (Atlas Obscura User)
Rock painting depicting a Sun. Daan Kok (Atlas Obscura User)
Rock formations at the site. Daan Kok (Atlas Obscura User)
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The Neyro Rock Paintings, the oldest rock art in Uganda, consists of six panels of prehistoric art, including many geometric and abstract patterns. Painted in red and black pigment on six granite rock shelters, estimates put the rock art anywhere between 3,000 and 12,000 years old. Researchers believe they may have been created by the Karamojong tribe, semi-nomadic animal herders native to this region of Uganda. Visitors will have to hike to see most of the paintings, exploring some wonderful landscapes and weird rock formations along the way, as well as people living the local way of life.

Know Before You Go

There are no tour buses are going here; you will have to hire a car and drive up yourself. A guided tour is mandatory, which will cost 30,000 UGX ($1 USD is equal to about 3,800 Ugandan Shillings). You will also have to pay for your camera and/or video equipment, but this costs only a few dollars.

pictograms cave paintings rock formations ancient archaeology art
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Daan Kok
Published
May 30, 2019
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Nearby
Kitum Cave
69.91 miles
Jinja War Cemetery
84.48 miles
Source of the Nile at Jinja
85.32 miles
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