The Chongoni Rock Art Area, in the forested hills around Dedza, holds 127 recorded sites — the densest cluster of rock art anywhere in Central Africa. UNESCO inscribed it as a World Heritage Site in 2006.
What makes it unusual is that it is not only ancient. The older red paintings were made by the BaTwa hunter-gatherers thousands of years ago, but the later white figures are the work of Chewa farmers, and they connect directly to Nyau and to the women's initiation traditions that are still practised in these villages today. The rock art is not a closed chapter.
Dedza sits on the high road between Lilongwe and Blantyre, which makes it an easy day out from the capital, and Dedza Pottery at the foot of the hills is the standard and very good lunch stop.
Best time to visit Dedza & Chongoni Rock Art
Year round, best April to October
Dedza is high and noticeably cooler than the lakeshore, which makes it comfortable even in the hot months. The walking paths to the shelters are easiest in the dry season from April to October.
Getting there
Around an hour and a half south of Lilongwe on the main road toward Blantyre. It works well as a full day trip from the capital.