South Africas Top Attractions – The Cradle of Humanity

Another of the first things people think of when they think of Africa is that it is the birthplace of the human race. In this attraction you will see the collection of fossils, that have accumulated over several million years and that have been collected from this network of caves over the last 60 years.

The Cradle of Humanity
You will find the Cradle of Humanity site located about 50 kms away from Johannesburg. The site of the Cradle of Humanity occupies an area of 474 km² and consists of a vast network of limestone caves which are a perfect environment for finding prehistoric fossils.

In the Sterkfontein Caves, the 2.3-million year-old fossil Australopithecus africanus was found in 1947, one of our earliest ancestors to walk on two legs. Another of the many discoveries found at this site was evidence of the earliest known controlled use of fire, which has been dated to over 1 million years ago. The excavations are continuing to this day which make them the longest continuously running fossil excavations in the world.

When you visit you can get a tour of the Sterkfontein Caves and you can also visit the museum which can explain exactly where Australopithecus africanus comes in our long evolution. The Maropeng, Cradle of Mankind exhibition and education centre, is dedicated to students but is educational for everyone. And don’t forget to pop into the Rhino & Lion Nature reserve also located within the bounds of the Cradle of Humanity site.

That’s the end of our quick overview of what you can expect in the Cradle of Humanity attraction. If you think you will want to get around by car while in South Africa have a look at our Car Rental South Africa page and have a look at our competitive rates. For some more information have a look at our other South Africa Blogs.

If you have any tips about driving in and around the Cradle of Humanity feel free to let us know. Just leave your message in the comment box below.

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