Cradle of Humankind

Cradle of Humankind is located in the north-west province of Gauteng. It is a UNESCO proclaimed heritage site where the richest depositories of hominid fossils are found. The Maropeng Visitor Centre has been built here to provide information to visitors.

Around the cradle, there are 15 major fossil sites, including the Sterkfontein Caves. Accompanied by a tour guide or on their own, tourists can take a journey of 60 metres in an underground cave. Just 8 km away from the cradle lies the Wonder Caves, which also attracts a large number of tourists year-round.

One can reach Maropeng by taking a 45 minute drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria. Tourists can seek accommodation at the Maropeng Hotel, which is built on the site, or at the numerous guest houses and lodges, and bed & breakfasts. Each year, the National Heritage Day of South Africa is celebrated with a new theme on September 24th at Maropeng.

Timing: 9am – 5 pm (Daily)

Admission Fees: 641.40 INR (Adults)
                            371.34 INR (Children 4 - 14 years)
                            Free (Children under 4 years)
                            438.85 INR (Pensioners)
                           Combine Tickets for Maropeng and Sterkfontein Caves
                           1,012.73 INR (Adults)
                           607.64 INR (Children 4 - 14 years)
                           Free (Children under 4 years, till 1 pm)