Cryptid Vault
Tokoloshe

Tokoloshe

Also known as: Tikoloshe, Hili

Millions of South Africans still raise their beds on bricks to stay out of reach of this invisible dwarf.

First Reported

Ancient Zulu and Xhosa tradition

Origin Area

South Africa

Size

2-3 feet tall

Temperament

Malicious, serves a summoner

Status

Folklore

Folklore onlyMedium DangerAfricaUrbanRiver

The Lore

The Tokoloshe is a small, malicious water sprite from Zulu and Xhosa mythology in South Africa. Described as a hairy, dwarf-like humanoid, it is said to become invisible by swallowing a pebble. Summoned by a witch doctor to harm enemies, it attacks people in their sleep. The practice of raising beds on bricks to avoid the Tokoloshe remains common across South Africa, even in modern urban areas.

Body Type

Humanoid

Folklore Origin

Indigenous traditionRegional folklore

Media Appearances

  • Tokoloshe (2018 film)

Similar Real Animals

Baboon (misidentification theory)