At just about an hour's drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, the Cradle of Humankind is a must-see for all archaeology lovers and anyone curious about the history of mankind. You will get to see the caves that are world-famous for the fossils that were discovered there. A well-informative, amazing discovery and experience not to be missed!
1) Mrs. Ples & Little Foot
In 1947 a scientist found the almost complete skull of an adult female and initially named the skull Plesianthropus transvaalensis (near-man from Transvaal), but it became better known by its nickname, Mrs. Ples. In 1997, a near complete skeleton of a second species of Australopithecus was found in the caves. The skeleton was named Little Foot, since the first parts found (in 1995, in storage) were the bones of a foot.
2) The Caves
Sterkfontein (Afrikaans for Strong Spring) is a set of limestone caves of special interest to paleo-anthropologists located in Gauteng province, about 40 km (23 miles) Northwest of Johannesburg. Sterkfontein is a South African National Heritage Site and was also declared a World Heritage Site in 1999 and the area in which it is situated, was named the Cradle of Humankind.
3) The new scientific exhibition
The new scientific exhibition showcases a reconstruction of a mined cave – formations and geology, early life forms, mammals and hominid fossils, among other topics. It describes in detail important finds, as well as providing information about fossilisation, palaeobotany and landscapes.
Registered tour guide
Food and Drinks