Pretoria/Sandton: Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Caves
Highveld, Johannesburg
Explore the UNESO-listed Cradle of Humankind, visit the third-largest cave chamber in the country, and learn about ancestral remains.
Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein Caves Tour near Johannesburg
The Cradle of Humankind, located about 50 km northwest of Johannesburg in Gauteng province, is a paleoanthropological site ideal for history and fossil enthusiasts.
Overview
Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, the Cradle of Humankind covers 47,000 hectares and contains a complex system of limestone caves. It holds the largest concentration of human ancestral remains globally. The Maropeng Visitor Centre, located on site, features an award-winning exhibition on human evolution and the planet’s development over millions of years.
Sterkfontein Caves, approximately 40 km northwest of Johannesburg near Krugersdorp, are part of the Cradle of Humankind. These caves are a South African National Heritage Site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2000. The area also includes archaeological sites like Swartkrans and Kromdraai. Wildlife such as the wasp species Belonogaster petiolata inhabits the caves.
Highlights
- History
- Knowledge
- Fossils
Includes
- Guided tour
- Entry tickets to Maropeng Visitor Centre and Sterkfontein Caves
Excludes
- Food
- Tips or gratuities
Important Information
- All visitors must pass through airport-style security
- The tour operates rain or shine
Cancellation Policy
Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
Book in advance to secure your spot. Wear comfortable footwear and bring a light jacket as cave temperatures can be cool. Morning visits are recommended for cooler conditions and fewer crowds.
