Hotel Pickup Included
Collection available from Any Hotel, Guesthouse, Residence, or Airport in Johannesburg and Pretoria
About this experience
This comprehensive 1-day tour explores the Cradle of Humankind, a fossil-rich paleoanthropological site northwest of Johannesburg. The itinerary centers on a guided exploration of the Sterkfontein Caves, where some of the most significant hominid discoveries were made, including the iconic Mrs. Ples and the nearly complete Little Foot skeleton. The experience is complemented by a visit to the Maropeng Visitor Centre, housed in the symbolic Tumulus building. Visitors engage with interactive exhibitions that detail the 14-billion-year history of the universe and take an underground boat ride through the four elemental forces of nature — earth, fire, water, and ice — to reach the core exhibition area focused on human evolution.
What is included
- Expert guide specializing in palaeoanthropology
- Comfortable air-conditioned transport with collection and drop-off
- Entrance fee and guided tour of the Sterkfontein Caves
- Entry to the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Tumulus exhibitions
- Symbolic underground boat ride experience
- Bottled mineral water provided on board
- Free onboard Wi-Fi for transfers
Not included
- Lunch (guests can purchase meals at the Maropeng restaurant or café)
- Personal expenses such as snacks or souvenirs
- Optional activities not listed in the itinerary
- Gratuities for the guide or driver
- Travel insurance
Itinerary
Morning Pickup
Collection from your provided address in Johannesburg or Pretoria between 08:00 and 09:00 for the scenic drive to the Cradle.
Sterkfontein Caves Tour
Explore the limestone caverns and excavation sites with a specialist guide to see where humanity’s ancestors once walked.
Maropeng Visitor Centre
Journey through the interactive Tumulus exhibits and take the boat ride through the birth of our planet.
Return Transfer
Depart the heritage site for a relaxing drive back to the city with drop-off scheduled between 14:30 and 15:30.
Things to know
- •Address Required: Please provide the full street address for your door-to-door pickup.
- •Cave Access: The tour involves navigating stairs and some confined spaces; it is not recommended for guests with claustrophobia or limited mobility.
- •Closures: Sterkfontein Caves are strictly closed on Mondays and selected public holidays.
- •Footwear: Comfortable and non-slip walking shoes are required for safety inside the caves.
- •Flight Advice: If flying out on the day of the tour, domestic flights should depart after 19:30 and international after 21:00.
- •Cancellation Policy: 30-day notice forfeits 25% | 20-day notice forfeits 50% | 7-day notice forfeits 100%.