Cradle of Humankind Full Day Tour from Pretoria and Johannesburg

Pretoria , South Africa

Cradle of Humankind Full Day Tour from Pretoria and Johannesburg

Active

(3 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The Cradle of Humankind – declared a World Heritage site in 1999 - is a 47 000-hectare area in the western part of Gauteng Province with around 40 different fossil sites where several of the world's most famous and important fossils have been discovered. It is the world’s richest early hominin site, and is home to around 40% of the world’s known human ancestor fossils.

Available options

Cradle of Humankind Full Day Tour from Pretoria and Johannesburg

Pickup included

What's included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Bottled water

Lunch

Driver/guide

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Situated in a World Heritage Site, The Cradle of Humankind, this 1 200-hectare park is home to over 700 head of game including white rhino, lion, buffalo, cheetah, wild dog, hippo and crocodile. Their newly built breeding centre houses, amongst others, Bengal and Syberian tigers, jaguars and white lions. If your holiday is nearing its end, but you still need to get those photos to impress your friends - this is it! We conduct a driving tour in our closed air-conditioned Ulysses vehicle through the Park and predator camps and the tour is concluded with a walk through their breeding centre and crèche area.

The Wonder Caves are one of the most beautiful naturally decorated caves in South Africa. Since its discovery only 100 years ago, few people have entered the Caves and it is thus relatively well preserved and virtually untouched. The enormous cave chamber with a volume of 46 000 cubic metres is believed to be 2.2 million year old. Hourly tours are conducted on well-lit pathways where no crawling is necessary. Access to the underground cavern is by means of about 90 steps and then a lift. No crawling is necessary

What You Can Expect
• Natural Wonder 5 – 10 million years old
• Cave Pearls
• Formations up to 15m
• Rim Stone pool
• Stalactites & Stalagmites

The main building at Maropeng, called the Tumulus, emulates an ancient burial mound from the front, and in stark contrast, upon exiting, a very modern iconic structure is revealed. The architecture is symbolic of the journey through the evolution of life that is represented underground in the Maropeng Visitors’ Centre and the entire layout of the individual facilities across the site is based on the theme of constant discovery.
An original fossil display and a boat ride on an underground lake through the four life-giving elements that combined to form the earth and shape the world as it is known today, are offered in the Maropeng Visitors’ Centre.

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Child rate applies when sharing with 1 paying adult

Important notes

Hotel pickups commence prior to this time

Times are subject to change due to local traffic conditions.

About Pretoria

Pretoria, known as the Jacaranda City for its beautiful purple-blossomed trees, is the administrative capital of South Africa. It offers a blend of historical significance, cultural richness, and natural beauty, making it a unique destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Union Buildings

The Union Buildings are the official seat of the South African government and a significant historical landmark. The buildings are an excellent example of Edwardian Baroque architecture.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

Pretoria National Botanical Garden

This botanical garden is home to a diverse range of indigenous plants and offers beautiful walking trails, picnic spots, and a variety of wildlife.

Nature 2-3 hours R50 for adults, R25 for children

Voortrekker Monument

This monumental structure commemorates the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony in the 19th century. The monument offers a museum and a tower with panoramic views of Pretoria.

Historical 1-2 hours R30 for adults, R15 for children

Melrose House

Melrose House is a historic home that served as the headquarters of the British military during the Second Anglo-Boer War. Today, it houses a museum and a tea garden.

Historical 1 hour R50 for adults, R25 for children

Pretoria Zoo

The Pretoria Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, including rare and endangered species. The zoo offers educational programs and conservation initiatives.

Nature 2-3 hours R120 for adults, R60 for children

Must-Try Local Dishes

Braai

Braai is a traditional South African barbecue, featuring grilled meats such as boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and steak.

Dinner Contains meat, can be adapted for various dietary preferences

Bobotie

Bobotie is a sweet and spicy minced meat dish topped with an egg-based custard. It is often served with yellow rice and chutney.

Dinner Contains meat and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for vegetarians

Bunny Chow

Bunny Chow is a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, typically made with chicken, beef, or beans.

Lunch Contains meat, can be made with vegetarian or vegan fillings

Melktert

Melktert is a traditional South African milk tart, featuring a sweet pastry crust filled with a creamy, custard-like filling.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs, can be made with alternative ingredients for dietary restrictions

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Game drives Picnicking Tea at Melrose House Visiting botanical gardens Museum visits Historical site tours

Best Time to Visit

Spring (September to November) and Autumn (March to May)

Spring and autumn offer mild weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city is also less crowded during these seasons.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Afrikaans, English, Northern Sotho
Widely spoken: English, Afrikaans
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution

Pretoria is generally safe for travelers, but it is important to exercise caution, especially in certain areas and at night. Be aware of your surroundings, avoid walking alone at night, and keep valuables secure.

Important Precautions:

• Be aware of your surroundings
• Avoid walking alone at night
• Keep valuables secure

Getting there

By air

OR Tambo International Airport • 45 km from city center
Lanzeria Airport • 30 km from city center

By train

Pretoria Station

By bus

Park Station, Pretoria Station

Getting around

Public transport

The PBS offers an affordable and reliable way to get around the city. Buses are frequent and cover most major areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Pretoria Central Hatfield Menlo Park Sunnyside

Day trips

Cullinan Diamond Mine

40 km from Pretoria • Half day to full day

The Cullinan Diamond Mine is famous for being the source of the world's largest diamond, the Cullinan Diamond. Visitors can take a guided tour of the mine and learn about its history and the diamond mining process.

Hartebeestpoort Dam

60 km from Pretoria • Full day

Hartebeestpoort Dam is a popular destination for water sports, fishing, and hiking. The dam is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers a variety of outdoor activities.

Pilanesberg National Park

150 km from Pretoria • Full day to overnight

Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. The park is home to the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo) and a variety of other animals.

Festivals

Pretoria Jazz Festival • September Aardklop National Arts Festival • October Pretoria Open-Air Arts Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit the Pretoria National Botanical Garden in the spring for the best blooms
Explore the city's cultural and historical sites, such as the Union Buildings and the Voortrekker Monument
Experience a traditional South African braai (barbecue) at a local restaurant or with a host family
Take a day trip to the Cullinan Diamond Mine or Pilanesberg National Park for a unique and memorable experience
Attend a local festival or event, such as the Pretoria Jazz Festival or the Aardklop National Arts Festival