Cradle of Humankind

Located just northwest of Johannesburg this area became a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to the large number of humanoid fossils that has been found here. 13 well explored fossil sites and over 200 caves are located within the cradle. The site covers an area of around 47 000 hectares and offers a variety of tourist attractions.

From the N1 in Johannesburg, take exit 80 Roodepoort (M8 14th Ave) and get onto Hendrik Potgieter road (M47) heading north. Hendrik Potgieter will become the N14 and lead directly into the Cradle of Humankind.

• Living Jewels

  phone: +27 11 956-6444
  address: R563
  Home to the South African Carnivorous Plant Society.

• Sterkfontein Caves

  phone: +27 11 956-6342
  A tour guide will lead you through this extensive cave system where many early hominids and advanced ape fossils were discovered. It is a 2 km walk. You can also visit the museum to learn more about the evolution of man. There is also a restaurant and shop.

• Maropeng

  phone: +27 14 577-9000
  address: On the D400
  The Cradle of Mankind exhibition and education centre. Mostly aimed at students, but fascinating for anyone interested in human origins. The short underground boat ride is a must do activity. At the entrance there is an ATM, coffee shop and souvenir shop. Within the centre, the Tumulus Restaurant is located on the first floor and the Tumulus bar is located on the second floor.

• Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve (including the Wonder Caves)

  phone: +27 11 957-0109
  A nature reserve within the Cradle.

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• The Cradle

  phone: +27 11 659-1622
  A nature reserve and restaurant within the Cradle of Humankind. Reserve in advance for the restaurant as they are generally fully booked.

• Greensleeves

  phone: +27 82 602-2958
  address: Off the R563
  Medieval themed restaurant, booking essential

• Tumulus

  phone: +27 14 577-9000
  address: First floor of the Tumulus at Maropeng
  Buffet lunch. The bar provides an awesome view overlooking the Magaliesberg and the Witwatersberg mountains.

• Maropeng Hotel

  phone: +27 14 577-9017
  address: At the On the D400 at the Maropeng visitors centre

• Forum Homini Boutique Hotel

  phone: +27 11 668-7000
  address: Letamo Game Farm, Bartlett Road, Kromdraai
  Views of the valley from the evolution-themed luxury suites with roofs covered in African veld. The onsite Roots restaurant was voted as one of the Top 10 restaurants in the country (2007 and 2008). Reservations essential. No children under 12.