Have you ever wondered where it all began? At the Cradle of Humankind, the secrets of our earliest-known ancestors are unearthed. Get lost in the illuminating limestone caves, move to the rhythm of Africa’s heartbeat, and discover who you are at this World Heritage Site.
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A 90-minute drive from Johannesburg, the Cradle of Humankind is made up of 15 major fossil sites containing some of the most valuable evidence of our origins.
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The Maropeng Visitor Centre exudes adventure. Start your journey here with an underground boat ride past melting icebergs and rumbling rocks, a guaranteed favourite with the kids. Inside, authentic fossils, stone tools and interactive exhibitions tell the story of our rich history. At Lesedi Cultural Village, traditional homesteads and dance performances showcase the customs of Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele people.
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Dig deeper into your roots at the Sterkfontein Caves. Here, the world famous fossils of ‘Mrs Ples’ and ‘Little Foot’ were exhumed. Venture below and uncover other-worldly rock formations and evidence of early life. Malapa Cave is in the process of being excavated, and guests can admire the site from the spider-like viewing platform on an exclusive tour with the Cradle Boutique Hotel. Escape the dark caverns and soak up some creativity at the Forum Homini Hotel, where a collection of artworks reflecting our evolution sprout from the highveld. If you’re hungry for more, dine out at the Roots Restaurant and indulge in haute cuisine.
At the Cradle of Humankind, each step reveals tales of our past and promises of the future. Wander here and you’ll find more than just fossils.
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