Johannesburg , South Africa

Half Day Cradle of Humankind Tour

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

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About this experience

Explore this UNESCO world heritage site which has produced the first adult Australopithecus, found by Dr Robert Broom.

Learn about our earliest known ancestors at Sterkfontein Caves.

Rewind back in time with the story of humankind at Maropeng Visitor Centre.

Let our accredited Tour Guide collect you from your hotel, enjoy a scenic drive to the outskirts of the city of Johannesburg and return.

Available options

Half Day Cradle of Humankind Tour

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Bottled water

WiFi on board

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Our accredited Tour Guide will collect you from your pickup point, in a private air-conditioned minivan and drive for +/- 45 minutes to the Cradle of Humankind sites.

Sterkfontein Caves (UNESCO world heritage site) will be our first stop. There are scheduled Guided Tours on an hourly interval into the caves. Your Tour Guide will get you tickets and usher you into the small exhibition / waiting room where a local Site Guide will start the tour of the caves from.

The tour involves walking up and down stairs into the caves and bending over at some sections. Comfortable, non-slippery walking shoes are recommended.

There site has a coffee shop, bathroom facilities and free Wi-Fi for your convenience.

After exploring the Sterkfontein Caves, your Tour Guide will take you on a short drive +/- 15 minutes to the next site, Maropeng Visitor Centre.

Once again, you will get tickets and be handed over to a local Site Guide who will take you on a tour of the center on an hourly interval.

At the Visitor Centre, there's also an option of taking a self-guided tour of the exhibitions with your accompanying Tour Guide facilitating that.

The site also has a restaurant, clean bathrooms, free WIFI and curio shops for your convenience.

What's not included

Lunch

Coffee and/or Tea

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Johannesburg

Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa, is a vibrant metropolis known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and bustling urban energy. The city's nickname, 'City of Gold,' originates from its roots in the gold-mining industry, and it offers a unique blend of modern attractions and historical landmarks.

Top Attractions

Apartheid Museum

The Apartheid Museum is a powerful and moving experience that chronicles the history of apartheid in South Africa. It's a must-visit for understanding the country's past.

Historical 2-3 hours R95 (Adults), R75 (Children)

Gold Reef City

Gold Reef City is a theme park built on the site of a former gold mine. It offers a mix of thrilling rides, historical exhibits, and entertainment.

Entertainment Full day R350-R500 (Adults), R250-R350 (Children)

Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including some of the oldest hominid fossils.

Historical Half day to full day R200-R300 (Adults), R150-R200 (Children)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bunny Chow

A hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry, originally created by Indian immigrants. It's a popular street food in Johannesburg.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available

Braai (BBQ)

A traditional South African BBQ, featuring grilled meats like boerewors (sausage), lamb chops, and chicken.

Dinner Meat-based, vegetarian options limited

Bobotie

A Cape Malay dish made with spiced minced meat and topped with an egg custard. It's a unique and flavorful South African specialty.

Dinner Meat-based, vegetarian options available

Popular Activities

Hiking in the Cradle of Humankind Game drives in Pilanesberg National Park Hot air ballooning over the Magaliesberg Spa treatments in Sandton Picnicking at Zoo Lake Wine tasting in the nearby wine regions Visiting the Apartheid Museum Exploring Soweto

Best Time to Visit

September to November and March to May

These months offer the most pleasant weather, with mild temperatures and lower rainfall. It's an ideal time for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

15°C to 28°C 59°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, Zulu, Afrikaans, Sotho, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Ndebele, Southern Sotho
Widely spoken: English, Zulu, Afrikaans
English: Widely spoken

Currency

South African Rand (ZAR)

Time Zone

GMT+2

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution

Johannesburg has a reputation for high crime rates, but many visitors enjoy safe and rewarding experiences by taking necessary precautions. Stick to well-populated areas, avoid walking alone at night, and be cautious with valuables.

Important Precautions:

• Avoid walking alone at night
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing services
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

OR Tambo International Airport • 22 km from city center
Lanseria International Airport • 35 km from city center

By train

Park Station, Johannesburg Station

By bus

Park Station, Ellis Park

Getting around

Public transport

Rea Vaya is the city's public bus system, offering affordable and efficient transport. It has dedicated bus lanes to avoid traffic.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Bolt

Rentals

Car, Bike

Neighborhoods

Sandbox Rosebank Braamfontein

Day trips

Pilanesberg National Park

250 km from Johannesburg • Full day

Pilanesberg National Park is a malaria-free game reserve offering excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo).

Soweto

20 km from Johannesburg • Half day

Soweto is a historic township known for its role in the anti-apartheid movement. It offers a unique glimpse into South Africa's past and present.

Cradle of Humankind

50 km from Johannesburg • Half day to full day

The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its significant paleontological and archaeological discoveries, including some of the oldest hominid fossils.

Festivals

Johannesburg International Film Festival • Late October to early November Johannesburg International Motor Show • Even years, typically in October Africa Day Celebrations • May 25