Cradle of Humankind & Sterkfontein Caves Tour

3.9
(27 reviews)

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5 hours (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

The Maropeng Visitor Centre is an exciting, world-class exhibition, focusing on the development of humans and our ancestors over the past few million years. Maropeng means “returning to the place of origin” in Setswana, the main indigenous language in this area of South Africa. Our ancestors have lived in this area for more than 3-million years.

The Sterkfontein Caves – about 50km from Johannesburg – is the site of some of the most important discoveries concerning the evolution of man and have been declared a World Heritage Site. If it’s true that Africa is the cradle of all mankind, and most palaeontologists believe this to be so, then Sterkfontein Caves is surely one of the continent’s sacred sites. The Sterkfontein Caves have been described as the ‘anthropological treasure-house of the world’.

What's Included

Expert guide with palaeoanthropology expertise.
Unique keepsake (e.g., mini fossil replica or Cradle of Humankind postcard).
Entry to Maropeng Visitor Centre.
Air-conditioned transport with complimentary pick-up and drop-off from Johannesburg or Pretoria
Guided Sterkfontein Caves tour.
Bottled water.
Food and drinks
Gratuities
Travel insurance.
Personal expenses (e.g., additional snacks or beverages beyond what’s provided).

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Pick-up will be between 8:00 AM and 9:00 AM from any accommodation in Johannesburg or Pretoria.

Itinerary

Duration: 5 hours (approximately)
  • 1
    Maropeng Visitor Centre

    Start your day with a 45-minute scenic drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO site. At 10:00 AM, explore the Sterkfontein Caves, home to fossils like “Mrs. Ples,” with an expert guide. Enjoy exclusive cave access and stunning stalactites. At 12:00 PM, relax with a local snack near the caves. By 12:30 PM, visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre for interactive exhibits and an underground boat ride tracing life’s origins. Optional fossil-hunting demo available. At 2:30 PM, savor a South African lunch with Magaliesberg views. Browse the gift shop at 3:30 PM for unique souvenirs. Return by 5:00-6:00 PM with a keepsake, filled with awe.

    5 hours • Admission ticket included

Additional info

  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Supplied by MoAfrika Tours

Tags

Day Trips
Half-day Tours
Bus Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Archaeology Tours
Small Group
Zombie
Zombie Slice

Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Rating

3.9 Based on 27 27 reviews
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