Sterkfontein Caves - Cradle of Humankind, Gauteng

Situated only an hour away from Johannesburg and Tshwane, the Sterkfontein Caves in the area known as the Cradle of Humankind are the perfect way to spend a day out of the city with the family. Something that is not only fascinating but also educational at the same time. The caves are regarded as the world's richest hominid fossil site, with thousands of discoveries made there since excavation at the location began in the mid 1930's. Sterkfontein itself is a South African National Heritage Site and was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000. The archaeological sites of Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and the Wonder Cave are all in the same area.

A large part of this excavation has been carried out by the University of Witwatersrand (Wits) who own the Sterkfontein Caves and scientists from the university. These are the people responsible for major discoveries there, discoveries that have shed light on the mystery of who lived on Earth before modern humans. These discoveries include Mrs Ples, a 2.1-million-year-old Australopithecus skull and Little Foot, an almost complete Australopithecus skeleton more than three million years old. The Little Foot however remains partially buried in breccia, but it is being patiently exposed by Professor Ron Clarke, a paleoanthropologist from Wits.

Before visitors enter the caves, they are guided through a world-class scientific exhibition centre where they can discover the origins of humankind. Some of the displays in the centre include the different cave formations and geology, early life forms, mammals and hominid fossils such as Mrs Ples, the Taung Child and Little Foot. Visitors can also learn about palaeobotany, which is a branch of palaeontology that deals with the recovery and identification of plant remains from geological contexts, and their use for the biological reconstruction of past environments.

The caves are deep and consist of some narrow pathways. It is advisable that visitors wear comfortable shoes, and leave large handbags or luggage behind. People who suffer from claustrophobia, asthma or chest problems should consider leaving out the cave tour as there are lots of stairs and confined spaces. The tours run every half hour, seven days a week. Unfortunately the caves are not wheelchair-accessible. After each tour of the caves, visitors to Sterkfontein are given the opportunity to stroll along the wooden walkways with views of the Cradle of Humankind, and the excavation site where Wits scientists still work.

After an extensive face-lift in 2005, the Sterkfontein Caves site is now home to a top restaurant, where visitors can enjoy a toasted sandwich, hamburger or light snack, as well as conference facilities.

The Sterkfontein Caves, located in the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site near Johannesburg, South Africa, are one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. These limestone caves have yielded some of the most significant fossil discoveries that have greatly contributed to our understanding of human evolution.

5 Interesting facts about the Sterkfontein Caves:

1. Significant Fossil Discoveries: The Sterkfontein Caves are renowned for their rich fossil deposits, particularly of early hominins. One of the most famous discoveries is "Mrs. Ples," a nearly complete skull of an Australopithecus africanus, dating back about 2.1 million years. Additionally, the caves yielded the almost complete skeleton of "Little Foot," another Australopithecus specimen estimated to be over 3 million years old.

2. Cradle of Humankind: The Sterkfontein Caves are part of the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This area is recognized for its exceptional contribution to our understanding of the origins and evolution of humanity. The site's fossil record spans over 3.5 million years and provides crucial insights into the development of early humans and their ancestors.

3. Underground Tours: Visitors to the Sterkfontein Caves can embark on guided tours that take them deep into the cave system. These tours offer a fascinating journey through the underground chambers, where they can see the excavation sites and learn about the ongoing research and discoveries. The tours provide an educational and immersive experience, bringing the ancient history of human evolution to life.

4. Scientific Research Hub: The Sterkfontein Caves have been a focal point for paleoanthropological research for decades. Scientists and researchers from around the world continue to study the site's fossil deposits, using advanced techniques and technologies to uncover new information about early hominins and their environment. The ongoing research at Sterkfontein contributes significantly to the field of human evolution.

5. Educational and Visitor Facilities: The site is equipped with a visitor center that offers educational exhibits, including life-sized models of hominins, interactive displays, and multimedia presentations. These exhibits provide visitors with a comprehensive understanding of the scientific significance of the caves and the discoveries made there. The center also highlights the broader context of the Cradle of Humankind and its global importance.

Contact details for the Sterkfontein Caves:
Address: Kromdraai Road, Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng, Gauteng, South Africa
Phone: +27 14 577 9000
Email: see website
Website: https://www.maropeng.co.za

The Sterkfontein Caves are a key attraction within the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site.