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Large underground chamber with impressive rock formations at Sterkfontein Caves

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Maropeng Visitor Centre

Explore a 2,500-square-meter interactive museum dedicated to human evolution.

Photo: tour listing on Viator

The Maropeng Visitor Centre serves as the main hub for the Cradle of Humankind. Housed in a massive structure resembling an ancient burial mound, it tracks the origins of the earth and early hominin species.

You can walk through extensive fossil displays and take an underground boat ride. The center is open daily from 09:00 to 16:00, including public holidays. Adult entry costs about R150 per site.

Paved pathway leading towards Maropeng visitor centre at Cradle of Humankind
Photo: tour listing on Viator
01

The Tumulus Building

1-2 hours

This architecturally striking structure houses the main exhibits. It is specifically designed to resemble an ancient burial mound. Walk to the back of the building to see sweeping views of the Magaliesberg mountains.

Mrs Ples skull replica on display with informational plaque at Sterkfontein
Photo: tour listing on Viator
02

Underground Boat Ride

15 minutesSensory ride

Take a sensory ride moving backward in time to the formation of the planet. The route travels through elements of water, ice, earth, and fire. Be aware that loud noises and dark sections might surprise toddlers.

A pack of African wild dogs feeding on a carcass in the grass
Photo: tour listing on Viator
03

Hominid Evolution Exhibition

1-2 hoursInteractive displays

Walk through a sprawling 2,500-square-meter interactive museum. You will find original fossils, stone tools, and evolutionary displays here. Read the informational placards to get essential context for your entire trip.

Book a Maropeng Tour

Interior view of Sterkfontein Caves showing stalactites and stalagmites
Maropeng Cradle of Humankind Museum &Sterkfontein Cave Experience7 h to 8 h 4.7 (248)from $113
maropeng & sterkfontein cavesfrom $113 on Viator
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