
David Livingstone Tree Manyana
A 250-year-old tree, once David Livingstone's base, offering profound tranquility and historical connection. Requires a guide for access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Best Time
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David Livingstone Tree Manyana
Best Time
To find guides and access
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A 250-year-old tree, once David Livingstone's base, offering profound tranquility and historical connection. Requires a guide for access.
"Coming to stand beneath this tree, one fully understands why Livingstone chose it as his base of operations."

Find Your Guide First
Visit Manyana Rock Paintings to find a guide for tree access. :bustsinsilhouette:
Bee Aware!
Be cautious of bees near the tree. Take precautions if you're sensitive. :bee:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Ancient David Livingstone Tree
Manyana
Stand beneath this 250-year-old tree, a historic base for David Livingstone. A place of profound tranquility.

Manyana Rock Paintings
Adjacent to the tree
Discover ancient rock art, often visited in conjunction with the Livingstone Tree. Guides can be found here.
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Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Access & Guides
Photography & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Find Your Guide First
Visit Manyana Rock Paintings to find a guide for tree access. :bustsinsilhouette:
Bee Aware!
Be cautious of bees near the tree. Take precautions if you're sensitive. :bee:
Photography Permissions
Confirm photography rules with your guide before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:
Combine Your Visit
Easily visit the tree and rock paintings together. :world_map:
Tips
from all over the internet
Find Your Guide First
Visit Manyana Rock Paintings to find a guide for tree access. :bustsinsilhouette:
Bee Aware!
Be cautious of bees near the tree. Take precautions if you're sensitive. :bee:
Photography Permissions
Confirm photography rules with your guide before taking pictures. :camerawithflash:
Combine Your Visit
Easily visit the tree and rock paintings together. :world_map:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the David Livingstone Tree a place of profound tranquility and historical significance, appreciating its age and connection to the explorer. However, access is restricted and requires a guide found at the nearby rock paintings, and visitors should be mindful of potential bee activity.
"What a sacred place this is. Coming to stand beneath this tree, one fully understands why Livingstone chose it as his base of operations. It was such a place of profound tranquillity.
There are two important points to bear in mind. Firstly, Livingstone Tree is enclosed by a fence and cannot be entered without a guide. Please visit the rock paint first; there you will meet a guide who can grant you permission to enter the tree. Secondly, Livingstone Tree has a large number of bees. It would be wise to take precautions."
travel travel
"A tree which is approximately 250 years old.
You can cover this place while visiting the Manyana Rock paintings."
Ravi Kumar
"The gate was locked, no one around, the tree is difficult to see from outside the gate. According to the sign indicating opening hours it should have been open. Someone came up and told me I had no permission to take pictures."
Christian Alexander Gebhard
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The David Livingstone Tree is located in Manyana. It's often visited alongside the Manyana Rock Paintings. Parking is available nearby.
Yes, there is plenty of parking available near the David Livingstone Tree and the Manyana Rock Paintings.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You do not need a ticket, but access to the tree is restricted by a fence. You must have a guide to enter the fenced area.
To gain entry, you need to visit the Manyana Rock Paintings first. There you can find a guide who will grant you permission to enter the fenced tree area.
While signs may indicate opening hours, access is dependent on guide availability. It's best to visit during daytime hours when guides are likely to be present.
No, access to the David Livingstone Tree is restricted by a fence, and a guide is required to enter the enclosed area.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography permissions can be restricted. It's essential to ask your guide for permission before taking any pictures.
The most impactful photos will likely be taken from within the fenced area, showcasing the grandeur of the tree itself. Always ensure you have permission.
🎫 ⚠️ Safety & Wildlife
Visitors are warned about a large number of bees on a branch of the tree. It's advisable to be cautious and take precautions if you are sensitive to bee stings.
The primary wildlife concern mentioned is bees. Be mindful of your surroundings and any potential insect activity.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
History Enthusiasts
Combine your visit with the Manyana Rock Paintings to experience a broader spectrum of the area's rich past, from Livingstone's era to much older indigenous heritage. Ensure you secure a guide to fully appreciate the historical context and access the tree's immediate surroundings.
Nature Lovers & Photographers
Photographers should note that access and permissions for taking pictures can be restricted. It's advisable to confirm with your guide beforehand. The surrounding area, especially when combined with the rock paintings, offers unique photographic opportunities that blend natural beauty with historical elements.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the Significance
Its significance is amplified by its proximity to the Manyana Rock Paintings, suggesting a long-standing human connection to this area. The combination of natural history and ancient human artistry makes this a unique destination for those interested in heritage and natural landmarks.
It's crucial to approach this site with respect for its historical and natural value. Understanding its context as a former operational base for Livingstone adds a layer of depth to the visitor experience, making it more than just a visit to an old tree.
Navigating Access and Guides
This system ensures that the site is managed and that visitors have a knowledgeable person to explain its history and significance. Be prepared for the possibility that the gate might be locked if no guide is immediately available, and that photography might be restricted, as some visitors have noted being told they did not have permission to take pictures.
Always confirm access and photography rules with your guide upon meeting them. This proactive step will prevent any misunderstandings and ensure a smoother visit. The presence of guides also helps in managing the site responsibly and preserving it for future generations.



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