Cradle of Humankind, Lesedi Cultural Village & Lion's Park

Johannesburg , South Africa

Cradle of Humankind, Lesedi Cultural Village & Lion's Park

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About this experience

All entry fees are on VBS Tours and Travel

At Cradle of Human Kind Maropeng The Site guide will take over and we will enter Cradle via a prehistoric mound and after a boat ride that will take us through a journey of creation of life on the planet and mankind's evolution, to exit into the 21st century.

Lesedi Cultural Village offers a cultural dance performance as part of its two-hour cultural tours. The tours are held daily from 11:30 AM Visitors are welcomed with a traditional dance and song. The village also offers beside cultural tours, homestays.

The Lion & Safari Park is home to over 80 lions including the rare white lions and many other carnivores such as South African cheetah, Cape wild dog, brown hyena and spotted hyena, black-backed jackal, and a wide variety of antelope which roam freely in the antelope area.

You can enjoy: Self Drives, Guided Safaris, Horseback Safaris, Quad Bikes, Special Tours, Trails. Little Rangers. VBS includes 1 h guided Safari.

Available options

Cradle of Humankind, Lesedi Cultural Village & Lion's Park

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

Depart from Johannesburg / Pretoria at 07h45, and our professional and experienced tour guide will pick you from your hotel lobby, he will be there at least 15 minute before departure, he will have a sign bord with your name on it.
We will travel for approximately 60 minutes from the hotel / Sandton to the Cradle of Humankind / Maropeng.

On your way, our tour guider will give you an insight of the history of South Africa: earlier history, the union of South Africa, the apartheid era and the today's South Africa.

Our first will be Cradle of Human Kind (Maropeng) The Site guide will take over as per the new regulations, and we will enter the Maropeng Visitor Centre via a prehistoric mound (the Tumulus building), You will see fossils, learn about how humankind was born, view stone tools that are up to one million years old, and much more. This self-guided, interactive tour allows you to take all the time you need to ponder humanity's fascinating origin story. You will have an exciting underground boat ride that will take you through a journey of creation of life on the planet and mankind's evolution, to exit into the 21st century! At approximately 10h15 we must be done and will be heading to Lesedi cultural village, so that we can be part of the 11h30 warm cultural dance performance session welcome.

At Lesedi Cultural Village, after the 11h30 warm welcome session you will visit five traditional villages including Xhosa, Zulu, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele. You will have the opportunity to listen to traditional music being played, and the fascinating stories told by the people of Lesedi. Enjoy a traditional South African tribal get-together, whilst experiencing some traditional dancing.
After the traditional dance, you will head to the Nyama Choma restaurant. Nyama Choma stands for "Great African Feast", and that is exactly what you will experience! There is an extensive choice of African dishes, including crocodile and ostrich. The restaurant is divided into three different themed areas consisting of North Africa, East Africa and South Africa. You will have a lot to talk about after a cultural and fun day in Lesedi.
At approximately 13h30 we will be heading to Lion Park.

The adventure continues after lunch as we will make our way to the Lion and Safari Park. Here you will enjoy exhilarating 1hour safari drives, observe lions in their natural environment and see how they interact with each other and other animals. See giraffes, cheetahs, and much more. You will also have the opportunity to feed the giraffe (Optional=Clients buying Girafe's foods to feed it20).
Your tour comes to an end at 15:30 PM with a return journey to your accommodation.

What's not included

Lunch

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

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2★

1★

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

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