Cradle of Humankind and Lion Tour from Johannesburg - Face of a lion and hominid
Cradle of humankind Tour
Giraffe viewing deck at Lion Park Tour
Male Lion at Lion and Safari Park
Guests entering sterkfontein caves
Exploring underground Sterkfontein Caves in Cradle of Humankind UNESCO site
Group on open-vehicle lion safari at Lion and Safari Park near Johannesburg
Maropeng Exhibition Centre
Lion and safari park open trucks
Zack the Giraffe
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Cradle of Humankind Tour from Johannesburg

(3)
, South Africa
Day Trips & ExcursionsBus & Minivan ToursSafari & Wildlife
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About this activity

Explore one of humanity's most significant archaeological sites on a full-day journey from Johannesburg to the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind. This comprehensive tour combines underground cave exploration, interactive museum experience, and open-vehicle wildlife viewing to reveal 2.3 million years of human evolution and South African biodiversity.

Visit the world-renowned Cradle of Humankind. You will experience the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng exhibition centre on this 8-hour adventure. Spend an hour on a guided tour in the underground Sterkfontein caves. This is the site where Mrs Ples a 2.3 Million year old hominid was discovered. Also the site for Little Foot! Learn about local history as you discover why the UNESCO-listed Maropeng is called the Cradle of Humankind. On this tour you also get to experience a Lion Safari and local wildlife from the back of an open truck.

Highlights

  • ✓Guided descent into Sterkfontein Caves, where Mrs Ples and Little Foot fossils were unearthed
  • ✓Maropeng Exhibition Centre: state-of-the-art museum exploring human origins and African heritage
  • ✓Open-truck lion and wildlife safari through protected reserves
  • ✓UNESCO World Heritage Site status and world-class palaeontological significance
  • ✓Knowledgeable local guides providing historical and geological context

Insider tips

  • ★Wear sturdy, closed-toe walking shoes for cave terrain and uneven ground; caves maintain cool temperatures year-round
  • ★Arrive early to beat crowds at Sterkfontein Caves, particularly during school holidays
  • ★Bring a light jacket even in summer—underground caves stay around 17°C (63°F)
  • ★Ask guides about the specific excavation sites where Mrs Ples and Little Foot were discovered for deeper engagement

Good to know

  • •Total duration is 10 hours including return transport from Johannesburg; plan for early morning pickup
  • •Cave tour involves walking down stairs and narrow passages; moderate fitness required
  • •Sun protection (sunscreen, hat) essential for open-vehicle safari portion
  • •Cameras welcome in caves and museum; some photography restrictions may apply in certain exhibition areas

Who it's for

History and archaeology enthusiasts seeking tangible human evolution educationUNESCO World Heritage Site collectors and cultural touristsFamilies with children aged 8+ interested in palaeontology and natural historySafari and wildlife photographers combining game viewing with cultural landmarks

Best time to visit

Visit during cooler months (May–August) for comfortable cave exploration and optimal wildlife viewing. Morning safari segments offer better animal sightings and photography conditions with cooler temperatures.

Frequently asked questions

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