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The Cradle of Humankind

HIGHLIGHT
Visitors to the Cradle of Humankind can explore ancient caves, discover fossils, visit the Maropeng Visitor Centre, and experience scenic landscapes and rich archaeological history.

the cradle of humankind

Explore The Cradle of Humankind

Adventure seekers to the Cradle of Humankind can explore Sterkfontein Caves, enjoy hiking trails, go on safaris, engage in abseiling, and experience thrilling archaeological tours and discoveries.

The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site has become a key international tourism destination, with a total of 387 tourist attractions, including 91 graded establishments. There are 175 places to stay and 113 restaurants in and around the area from which to choose, offering plenty of accommodation in Gauteng for whatever type of trip you’re planning.

The Cradle of Humankind, one of eight World Heritage Sites in South Africa, and the only one in Gauteng, is renowned as the place where humankind originated. It is here that the first hominid, Australopithecus, was found in 1924 at Taung in the North West Province by Professor Raymond Dart of the University of the Witwatersrand.

For those wanting to experience the birthplace of humankind firsthand, the official visitor centres for the Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves, are within an easy hour’s drive from Johannesburg.

What's the weather like?

When to visit

The best time to visit the Cradle of Humankind is during the dry winter months, from May to September, for comfortable temperatures, clear skies, and optimal conditions for exploring caves and outdoor activities.

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Spring

March to May

Summer

June to August

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Autumn

September to November

Winter

December to February

Spring

September to November

Summer

December to February

Autumn

March to May

Winter

June to August

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Escape the Ordinary

Our Stories

5 Exceptional Places to stay in The Cradle

The Cradle – Joburg’s Adventure Playground

"Best Customer Service"

Planning a surprise anniversary trip for my parents was daunting until I contacted The Cradle Concierge They took care of all the details, crafting a romantic getaway to Misty Hills that my parents will never forget. The thoughtful touches, like a private boat cruise and a dinner reservation at a fancy restaurant, made it extra special.

Lita

"Tailored Perfection!"

Our travel concierge listened attentively to our preferences and crafted a bespoke itinerary that exceeded our wildest dreams. From securing coveted reservations to arranging private tours, they went above and beyond to ensure our satisfaction. Thanks to their dedication and expertise, we enjoyed a seamless and truly unforgettable journey. We can't wait to plan our next adventure with them!

Dave from USA

"A Dream Come True!"

Booking our vacation through Andree was the best decision we made! From start to finish, they took care of every detail, ensuring our trip was stress-free and unforgettable. Thanks to their expertise, we experienced destinations we never would have discovered on our own. We're already planning our next adventure with them!