Cradle of Humankind
South Africa · Gauteng · 1480 m
Description
The Cradle of Humankind is one of South Africa’s most significant fossil sites and forms part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The region is renowned for its extensive cave systems and exceptional wealth of early hominin fossils, offering valuable insights into human evolution. Among the most famous discoveries from the Sterkfontein Caves are the “Mrs Ples” skull and the remarkably complete “Little Foot” skeleton. As one of the world’s most important centres of palaeoanthropology, the Cradle of Humankind provides fascinating insights into the origins and evolution of our early ancestors.
Length of stay
Recommended length of stay: 1 day
Travel season
Best time to visit: June – July
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
Highlights
- Maropeng Visitor Centre
- Sterkfontein Caves (currently closed)
- 'Mrs Ples' & 'Little Foot' Fossil Discoveries
- Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Maropeng Underground Boat Ride
- Bothongo WonderCave
- Swartkrans Fossil Site
- Kromdraai Fossil Site
- Drimolen Palaeocave
- Malapa Fossil Site
- Cradle of Humankind Fossil Landscape
- Cradle of Humankind Scenic Drive