Sterkfontein Geological Wonders on outskirts of Johannesburg:
Cradle of Humankind - World Heritage Site
The Cradle of Humankind:
Declared a World Heritage Site in December 1999. The area is approximately 48 000 hectares, housing the caves of Sterkfontein, Driemolen, Swartkrans and the Wonder Caves. Many other fossil sites exist in this area but only 13 have been excavated to date. The Cradle of Humankind is of universal value, providing a crucial insight into the early stages of human development including the environment in which our remote ancestors hunted and lived.
Daily Sterkfontein cave tours available - 7 days a week.
Sterkfontein Cave:
Sterkfontein Cave is situated 35km to the North-West of Johannesburg (within the The Cradle of Humankind). It is the richest hominid site in South Africa accounting for 40% of the world's hominid fossils.
The Tour/Sterkfontein:
There are two levels in the cave, the upper section that was open at the surface for millions of years and contains the fossils. The lower section is open to the public with spectacular shapes, eroded from the dolomite. A complex near the entrance includes a virtual reality auditorium, exhibition spaces, lecture theatre, restaurant and shop. From here tours are conducted through the iconic caves, which reveal the unfolding journey of humankind.
The Exhibition/Sterkfontein:
Professionally created, interesting and easy to understand displays provide information and life like illustrations of the evolution of human kind; covering Hominid illustrations from the 7 million year old Chad Toumai fossil through to modern humans. Fossil finds such as Mrs Ples, Little foot and the Taung Child are discussed in detail.
Maropeng - Cradle of Humankind :
Setswana word "returning to the place of origin". Intriguing interactive journey through the history of life on earth. Humankind's origins and its continuing journey into the future. Go back in time in a boat ride The site overlooks the magnificent Magaliesberg and Witwatersberg mountain ranges.
Wonder Cave:
2.2 million years old with a 45 000 cubic meter chamber accommodating stalactite and stalagmite formations of up to 15 meters. It was opened to the public in 1991. Early lime mining fortunately did not damage this natural wonder. Access to the cave is via 88 steps to a lift that will take you down into the cave. Pathways are well lit and no crawling is necessary. This allows easy public access.
Ekala Eco Tours use qualified and registered guides - not drivers only.
Components of the Cradle of Humankind:
Please Note: Only the Sterkfontein caves and the Wonder Caves are open to the general public. Tours to the other sites can be arranged and are conducted by specialist paleontologists. Prior notice is required and extra costs are applicable.
Different tour options are available - with different prices. Please enquire - info@ekala.co.za
Perfect tour options to include with the Cradle of Humankind to create a full day tour:
Lion Park or Rhino and Lion Reserve or Elephant Sanctuary or DeWildt Cheetah Sanctuary
Ekala Eco Tours - Personalised attention to your needs. We look forward to hearing from you.
Please Contact Ekala Eco Tours - info@ekala.co.za - for - tour details - Personalised attention - Bookings
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For further information on the Cradle of Humankind please Contact Ekala Eco Tours. We look forward to hearing from you - info@ekala.co.za