Cradle of Humankind★★★
The Cradle of Humankind is located 50 km northwest of Johannesburg and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has revolutionized the understanding of human evolution. In an area of 47,000 hectares, more hominid fossils have been found than anywhere else in the world.
Highlights
- Maropeng Visitor Centre: The spectacular visitor center (the shape reminiscent of a burial mound) tells the story of human evolution interactively and family-friendly. An underground boat ride through the "ages" is the highlight. 220 ZAR.
- Sterkfontein Caves: The most famous caves of the complex. Here "Mrs. Ples" was found in 1947—a 2.3 million-year-old Australopithecus africanus skull. And in 1998 "Little Foot"—an almost complete skeleton, 3.67 million years old. Guided tours through the caves (45 min, tight spots!). 200 ZAR.
- Homo naledi: In 2013, fossils of a previously unknown human species were discovered in the Rising Star Cave—Homo naledi. The findings suggest that this species buried their dead, revolutionizing our understanding of consciousness and culture in early humans.
Combination ticket Maropeng + Sterkfontein: 290 ZAR (15€). Daily 9–17.
