Cradle of Humankind Tour Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng
Discover the origins of humanity on a 5 hour tour to the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind. Begin at the interactive Maropeng Visitor Centre, where fascinating exhibits bring human evolution to life. Continue your journey to the Sterkfontein Caves, home to famous fossils like Mrs. Ples and Little Foot, guided by experts who share insights into Africa's rich history. This tour is ideal for history buffs and families alike, featuring comfortable hotel pickup and scenic views of the Magaliesberg. Conclude with optional lunch at Maropeng’s Tumulus restaurant or nearby café.
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Cradle of Humankind Tour Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng
Pickup included
What's included in Cradle of Humankind Tour Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng
(Subject to Option Inclusions)Itinerary
Maropeng Visitor Centre
Begin your journey into human origins at the Maropeng Visitor Centre, the official gateway to the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind. Nestled in the scenic Magaliesberg foothills, this award-winning museum offers an immersive exploration of our shared ancestry. Start with a captivating underground boat ride through an artificial cave, simulating the formation of Earth from its fiery origins to the dawn of life. Inside the 2500m² interactive exhibition, discover the story of human evolution through engaging displays on fossils, early tools, and hominids like Australopithecus africanus. Highlights include hands-on activities, such as crafting stone tools, and short films detailing major fossil discoveries, including the famous Mrs. Ples and Little Foot. The centre’s modern design, shaped like a grassy tumulus, blends seamlessly with the landscape, offering stunning views. Optional: Relax at the Tumulus restaurant.
Sterkfontein Cave
Step into the heart of human history with a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, one of the world’s most significant paleoanthropological sites. Located in the Cradle of Humankind, these limestone caves have yielded iconic fossils like Mrs. Ples (Australopithecus africanus, ~2.5 million years old) and Little Foot (~3.67 million years old), offering a window into our ancient ancestors. Equipped with a provided hardhat, follow an expert guide through a network of underground chambers, navigating stairs and narrow passages adorned with stalactites and stalagmites. Learn about the caves’ role in uncovering humanity’s origins and ongoing research by Wits University scientists. A small on-site exhibition complements the tour, showcasing fossil replicas and the science behind the discoveries.
The Cradle of Humankind
Located within the nature reserve, this café offers delicious food with stunning views of the surrounding wildlife. It’s a great stop for those combining the Cradle tour with a visit to the reserve. The menu includes casual fare like burgers, sandwiches, and light meals, with a focus on a relaxed, nature-inspired dining experience. Reservations are recommended due to high demand.
Inclusions
- Hotel/airport pickup and drop-off
- Bottled water
- All transport in air-conditioned vehicle
- Professional driver/guide
- Entry to Maropeng Visitor Centre
- Guided tour of Sterkfontein Caves
- Lunch (available for purchase at Maropeng’s Tumulus restaurant)
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic drinks (available for purchase)
- Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs)
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meet
Pickup and Dropoff
Choose to be picked up from a list of locations
Please arrive at the pick up point 60 minutes before departure time.
Additional Information
Your friendly driver/guide collects you from your hotel or O.R. Tambo International Airport. Relax in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle as you head ~50 km northwest to the Cradle of Humankind. Learn about South Africa’s history and culture en route.
