Sterkfontein Caves

This falls under the Maropeng Tourism experience. Nestled within the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sterkfontein Caves are one of South Africa’s most significant archaeological and paleontological sites. Renowned for their rich fossil deposits, these limestone caves have provided some of the most important discoveries in human evolution, including the famous fossils of Mrs. Ples and Little Foot.

These caves have been closed due to flooding according to news 2022

Why Visit?

Explore one of the world’s richest hominid fossil sites.
Learn about the origins of humankind through engaging guided tours.
Witness active excavation sites where groundbreaking discoveries continue.
Enjoy breathtaking underground cave formations and passages.
Combine your visit with other Cradle of Humankind attractions like the Maropeng Visitor Centre.

Highlights

Guided Tours: Expert-led tours take visitors deep into the caves, offering insights into their geological and historical significance.
Fossil Discoveries: See where Mrs. Ples, a 2.1-million-year-old Australopithecus skull, was found, and learn about Little Foot, a nearly complete Australopithecus skeleton dating back over 3 million years.
Underground Wonders: Experience stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and chambers that have been forming for millions of years.
Educational Experience: Learn about the excavation process and how fossils are preserved and studied.

Visitor Information

Location: The caves are situated near Krugersdorp in Gauteng, about 50 km from Johannesburg.
Opening Hours: Open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, with the last tour starting at 4:00 PM.
Ticket Prices: Entry fees vary based on age and group size. Special rates are available for school groups and educational tours.
Facilities: A visitor center, restaurant, and souvenir shop are available on-site.
Accessibility: Due to uneven terrain and narrow passages, the caves are not wheelchair accessible.

How to Get There

Visitors can drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria, following well-marked routes leading to the Cradle of Humankind. Guided tours often include transportation options for those without private vehicles.

Contact

Website 
Phone: +27 (0)14 577 9000
Email: info@sterkfonteincaves.co.za

Photos taken from Sterkfontein FB 

Gauteng.coms visit

Interesting visit and informative museum. The caves can be cold, so take something warm, and you are walking, so good walking shoes is important. The research, the history and the landscape together make for a very interesting trip!