Experience the Day
Your guided tour begins with a scenic drive through the lush landscapes of Kilifi County, leading you to the Dzitsoni limestone hills. Upon arrival at Panga ya Saidi, you'll embark on a journey through time as you explore the cave's chambers, where archaeologists have unearthed a wealth of artifacts, including:
- Stone tools from the Middle and Later Stone Ages
- Personal ornaments such as beads made from ostrich eggshell and marine shells
Engraved ochre pieces and worked bone artifacts
Remnants of ancient hearths and food remains. A highlight of the site is the burial of a child, affectionately named "Mtoto," dating back approximately 78,000 years. This discovery represents the earliest known human burial in Africa, offering invaluable information about early human mortuary practices and emotional capacities.
As you navigate the cave, your guide will share insights into the site's stratigraphy, the various cultural layers, and the significance of the findings in understanding human history. The surrounding environment, a mosaic of coastal forest and savannah, provides a serene backdrop, reflecting the diverse habitats that early humans adapted to over millennia.