Explore the origins of humankind at the Sterkfontein Caves. Find exhibits of millennia-old skeletons and relics then take a guided tour of a spectacular cave system. In the late 19th century miners began to discover the relics while searching the area for limestone. Today the caves form an integral part of the Cradle of Humankind, a set of 15 paleontological sites and a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Start your visit in the exhibition hall, where hands-on displays highlight important paleoanthropology findings. Check out Little Foot, an ape-man skeleton believed to date back some 4 million years. Look for the Mrs. Ples exhibit, which showcases the first skull unearthed at the caves. Follow a hominid family tree to learn about human evolution. See displays of handcrafted stone tools and replicas of cave formations.
Travel deep into the depths of the caves via stairs, pathways and narrow spaces. Admire spectacular limestone rock formations plus large stalagmites and stalactites. See the place where Little Foot was found. Spot a statue of Dr. Robert Broom, who discovered Mrs. Ples. Listen as knowledgeable guides tell stories of the early history of humankind then watch archaeologists dig for new fossils.
Enjoy a light meal at the onsite restaurant while admiring the views toward the Magaliesberg mountain range. Alternatively, bring your own food and visit nearby picnic spots such as Cooper’s Cave.
Located in the northwest of South Africa’s Gauteng province, Sterkfontein Caves are about a 1-hour drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria. A convenient way to arrive is to rent a car. Combine your visit with a tour of nearby Maropeng, the main visitor center of the Cradle of Humankind. Travel through caves and ice tunnels on a subterranean lake then find interactive exhibits that further trace the evolution of humankind.
The caves are open daily. Free guided tours take place every 30 minutes. The last tour begins one hour before closing. Closed shoes are advisable for entering the caves. If you plan to visit the caves and Maropeng then it’s worth purchasing a combined ticket. Details of opening hours, tours and admission fees is available on the caves’ official website.
