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Cradle of Humankind Tour Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng
- Duration5 hours
- Max Travelers8 people
- Free CancellationUp to 24 hrs
- CategoryBus Tours, Car Tours
Overview
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.
Gallery
What's included
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
What's Not included
Lunch (available for purchase at Maropengu2019s Tumulus restaurant)
Gratuities
Alcoholic drinks (available for purchase)
Personal expenses (e.g., souvenirs)
Itinerary
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 2500mu00b2 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 centreu2019s modern design, shaped like a grassy tumulus, blends seamlessly with the landscape, offering stunning views. Optional: Relax at the Tumulus restaurant.
Step into the heart of human history with a guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, one of the worldu2019s 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 cavesu2019 role in uncovering humanityu2019s 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.
Located within the nature reserve, this cafu00e9 offers delicious food with stunning views of the surrounding wildlife. Itu2019s 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.
Good to know
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
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.