Petroglyphs

Petroglyphs

(Updated July 2024)
On the cliffs about 1.3 kilometers northeast of Ohoi Dertawun (look at the map page for the exact location with the start and end points) there are some interesting petroglyphs of unknown origin.  While they are good to see, they are mostly notable because they are mysterious and without tourists.  These aren’t the Ajanta Caves in India!  They do however, compare quite favorably to other petroglyphs I have seen in other parts of the world, and with considerably less tourists (ie: none).  The cliffs and setting are beautiful too; particularly near sunset.  I’ve been to see them at least 5 times now and enjoyed each outing.

Kei petroglyphs
Kei petroglyphs
Kei petroglyph
Kei petroglyph

There are a few separate petroglyph sites spread amongst the cliffs; look 5-10 meters above ground level.  As mentioned, the cliffs are quite attractive too:

Kei cliffs and petroglyphs
Kei cliffs near Ohoi Dertawun

For a lot more information on the petroglyphs and a more enthusiastic take, please check out the excellent post at Following the Sun

Practicalities:

Walking here is further and more difficult that in looks, and only possible at low tide.  The walk is great until you get near the cliffs, but after that there is a small channel to cross and the area near the petroglyphs is muddy, and not nice to walk in. There is also a risk of stepping on something and hurting your feet–as happened to one tourist I met.  However, walking does give you more time to soak in the atmosphere and properly inspect the petroglyphs.  When I’ve taken a boat, the experience feels a bit too fast and is over quickly.

If you are walking from Ohoi Dertawun, allow 2-3 hours for the trip; it is further and more difficult than it appears. I only go with bare feet and in some areas it is too muddy for sandals.

Note: I haven’t explored north of the end point on the map. It seems like the end of the petroglyphs but it’s certainly possible that there are more.