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    Cradle of Humankind
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    Point of Interest

    South Africa

    Cradle of Humankind

    The Cradle of Humankind northwest of Johannesburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant sites worldwide for early hominins.

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    The Cradle of Humankind northwest of Johannesburg is a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most significant sites worldwide for early hominins. In the Sterkfontein Caves, among other discoveries, “Mrs. Ples” and “Little Foot” were found; the Maropeng Visitor Centre vividly explains human evolution.

    Sights in Cradle of Humankind

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    Sterkfontein Caves
    Attraction

    1Sterkfontein Caves

    In this cave system, researchers discovered the 'Mrs. Ples' skull, an Australopithecus africanus, in 1947, and the nearly complete 'Little Foot' skeleton in the 1990s. Guided tours lead through several chambers and past an underground lake; in parts, you'll need to stoop. A small museum at the entrance explains the finds.
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    Maropeng Visitors Centre
    Museum

    2Maropeng Visitors Centre

    The official World Heritage Visitor Centre is located in a grassy mound, known as the Tumulus. The exhibition vividly explains human evolution and displays casts of important fossils. Easily combined with a tour of the Sterkfontein Caves, about ten kilometres away.
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    Restaurants in Cradle of Humankind

    Discovery Site of Human History

    This 470 sq km region's limestone caves hold more early hominin fossils than almost anywhere else globally. Since 1999, the Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Besides "Mrs. Ples" and "Little Foot", Homo naledi fossils found 2013 in Rising Star Cave were also found here. Ongoing research means many sites are inaccessible to visitors.

    Travel

    The Cradle of Humankind is located approximately 50 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, a journey of about one hour by car. There is no public transport; many operators sell day tours from Johannesburg and Pretoria. Allow half a day for Maropeng and Sterkfontein combined.

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    Nearby

    Soweto

    Soweto

    Soweto, short for South Western Townships, lies approximately 20 kilometers southwest of Johannesburg city center and has well over a million residents. Here began the 1976 student uprising that shook Apartheid. Today, visitors link memorial sites like the Mandela House with street life, Braai spots, and art projects.
    Sandton

    Sandton

    Discover Sandton, the financial heart of Johannesburg, also known as 'Africa's Richest Square Mile,' home to luxury shopping malls, hotels, and Nelson Mandela Square.
    Rosebank

    Rosebank

    Visit Rosebank, an upscale district known for its shopping malls, boutiques, art galleries, and the popular Rosebank Sunday Market.
    Braamfontein

    Braamfontein

    Braamfontein in Johannesburg presents itself as a vibrant district, characterized by its dynamic cultural scene and urban rejuvenation. Here you'll find the renowned University of the Witwatersrand, which gives the neighborhood a distinct student energy. A central attraction is the Saturday Neighbourgoods Market, offering a diverse selection of local foods, crafts, and live music. Historically, Braamfontein has evolved from a former business district into a hub for art and design, reflected in numerous galleries and impressive street art. Visit the Joburg Theatre for performances or explore independent boutiques along Juta Street. A practical tip: The Neighbourgoods Market is most relaxed in the early morning. After dark, it's advisable to stick to the main streets or take a taxi.
    Gauteng

    Gauteng

    Gauteng, South Africa's smallest but most populous province, features Johannesburg and Pretoria, just 50 kilometres apart, forming the country's economic heart. For visitors, the focus is on the history of Apartheid and resistance, a vibrant art and culinary scene, plus the fossil sites of the Cradle of Humankind.