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The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site

The fascinating discoveries enriching our knowledge of early humans.

 
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Gauteng South Africa South Africa private tour, personal tour
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Sterkfontein Caves and the surrounding area is one of the richest sites for fossil hominids in the world. Walk down into these caves and see why the fossils here are so intact and how they got here. The ongoing excavations in this cave yielded 'Mrs Ples' in 1947, and 'Little Foot' in 1998, both Australopithecus africanus. Nearby, a whole new species, Australopithecus sediba, was discovered in 2010.

The walk around the site has vantage points showing the location of other caves in the Cradle, altogether about 150. New ones are still being located. The natural vegetation of the area is varied and interesting, easily examined while walking.

Maropeng visitor centre explains the forces shaping the earth and evolution, and has a display of fossils. The walk outside has beautiful views across the Cradle.
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  Itinerary:
You are collected from your place of accommodation and we proceed to the caves. We descend on a guided tour of the caves themselves, and spend some time in the museum. After the tour, we walk around the diggings where Mrs Ples was found, and along the boardwalk, where other caves in the Cradle are pointed out.

From Sterkfontein, we proceed to Maropeng Visitor Centre. Here, we enjoy the exhibits, and examine the fossils in the fossil museum.

Depending on the time available, and the guest's requirements, we can take the scenic route back. This is longer, and goes through the Cradle via the Witwatersberg mountains, providing a glimpse of the beauty of this area.

This is a full day tour, and all refreshments are provided. If anything extra is required, there is a restaurant/coffee shop at both locations, as well as gift shops.
  Where and When:
Meet up location: Your accommodation in the Nothern areas of Johannesburg. Pickup can be arranged further afield, at an extra cost.
End location: Your accommodation.
Duration: 7 hours
This tour is not weather-dependant. The departure time is flexible, as is the end time.
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  Pricing:
Currency: USD     AUD  CAD  EUR  GBP  JPY 
TOUR PRICE:  (duration 7 hours)
(max 7 people)
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  What's Included:
Transport to and from your place of accommodation in the Northern areas of Johannesburg, all entry fees, all soft drinks and snacks in the vehicle.
  What's Extra:
Items of a personal nature, such as souvenirs. If a sit-down meal is wanted, it will be to your own cost.
  Details:
Tour #: 15964
Tour Type: Nature & Wildlife, Cultural
Transportation Method: Comfortable Volkswagen Microbus with airconditioning and excellent visibility.
Activity Level: Moderate
Friendly: No.
Kid Friendly: Yes. This tour is particularly suited to children.
Language(s): English (fluent) explanation
Maximum travelers: 7
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  TESTIMONIALS
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Tour in Johannesburg, South Africa:
"Lesley is quite knowledgeable and interesting. I would definitely recommend her and use her again as a guide next trip ,..." [more]
Mj Hill - Feb, 2012   [view guide page]
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