Sterkfontein Caves
Early Discoveries: The caves’ scientific importance was recognized in the late 19th century when miners uncovered fossils. Systematic excavations began in the 1930s.Key Fossil Finds: “Mrs. Ples,” a nearly complete Australopithecus africanus skull, was discovered in 1947 by Dr. Robert Broom.
“Little Foot,” a nearly complete Australopithecus skeleton, was found in the 1990s by Ronald J. Clarke.
Ongoing Significance: Sterkfontein is one of the richest sites for early hominin fossils, providing crucial evidence for understanding human evolution.
Management: The University of the Witwatersrand has been instrumental in managing and conducting research at the Sterkfontein Caves since 1966.
Recent Developments: The caves were closed in 2022 due to flooding and reopened to the public on April 15, 2025.
Maropeng
Purpose: Maropeng, meaning “returning to the place of origin” in Setswana, is the official visitor center for the Cradle of Humankind.
Included/Exclude
Cost Includes
- Sterkfontein Caves
- Maropeng Centre
- Bottled Water
- Pick up & Drop off
- Qualified Guide
- Aircon-Vehicle.
Cost Excludes
- Alcohol Beverages
- Lunch
- Soft Drinks
Trip Info
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Availability
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Guided
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English,
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VISA, Master Card
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Any Address in Johannesburg / Pretoria Morning Tour Starts at 08h30 /10h30 am
Why go?
Early Discoveries: The caves’ scientific importance was recognized in the late 19th century when miners uncovered fossils. Systematic excavations began in the 1930s.Key Fossil Finds: “Mrs. Ples,” a nearly complete Australopithecus africanus skull, was discovered in 1947 by Dr. Robert Broom. “Little Foot,” a nearly complete Australopithecus skeleton, was found in the 1990s by Ronald J. Clarke.
Tour Highlights
- Cradle of Humankind-Sterkfontein Caves
- Maropeng Centre
- Learn About Different Rock Types
- Learn About Fossil's
We always stay at here when in town. The location is great, staff is wonderful and we love the overall feel. Beautiful view from the here.
It is a great place to shop not too far from Europe. We took the bus from Port Authority and traveled through the countryside to get there.