Sterkfontein Caves
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Sterkfontein Caves Johannesburg

Explore the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO site with 3-million-year-old hominid fossils. An adventurous journey into our ancient past.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better for tours

CrowdLow
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Sterkfontein Caves

Sterkfontein Caves Johannesburg

Best Time

Weekdays, mornings

Fewer crowds, better for tours

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO site with 3-million-year-old hominid fossils. An adventurous journey into our ancient past.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"An adventurous exploration into our ancient past, uncovering fossils that tell the story of human evolution."

Vertical photo
TIP

Confirm Opening Status

Caves can close due to rain. Check official sources before visiting! :warning:

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be crawling and ducking. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind

Sterkfontein Valley

Discover ancient hominid fossils, including a 3-million-year-old Australopithecus skeleton. A UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Underground Cave Tour

Underground Cave Tour

Inside the caves

Navigate narrow passages and chambers, marveling at geological formations and the site of significant paleoanthropological finds.

Paleoanthropological Significance

Paleoanthropological Significance

Sterkfontein Valley

Learn about the ongoing research and discoveries that have made this site crucial for understanding human evolution.

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Planning Your Visit

Check Opening Status Before You Go

Sterkfontein Caves have experienced closures due to heavy rain and flooding. Always verify their operational status before planning your visit to avoid disappointment. Recent updates indicate reopening, but it's wise to confirm.

Prepare for an Active Exploration

Exploring the Sterkfontein Caves involves crawling, ducking, and kneeling. Wear comfortable clothing and sturdy shoes suitable for uneven terrain. This isn't a passive viewing experience; it's an adventure!

Best Times

When
Weekdays, mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, better for tours
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon, post-lunch
Why
Tour groups thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Please be careful when hiking🙏🏾🥺. Sterkfontein Heritage Lodge has entrances that trespassers can use to access to the facility. There is a cemetery close by and we suspect that’s where these heartless evil doers had a clear view of us💔. Thank God for our lives because things could have turned ugly really quickly🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾 #Hiking #sterkfonteinheritagelodge #krugersdorp #johannesburg #southafrica #awa...
@thedivazee
21K likes • 283.3K views

Confirm Opening Status

Caves can close due to rain. Check official sources before visiting! :warning: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be crawling and ducking. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Day 3 Johannesburg, South Africa We spent the day at the Sterkfontein Caves and the Cradle of Humankind Museum. We had a wonderful time in the caves! Be prepared to crawl and duck and kneel. At the caves we had a very lite snack and coffee and head to the caves. After the caves we headed to the museum. If you like museums then you should visit, if you are not a museum person, I would skip. I be...
katrinainstride
15 likes • 323 views
reddit.com

Are the Sterkfontein Caves open?

Dress for Adventure

Wear clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty. It's an active exploration! :shirt:

Book Tours in Advance

Especially during peak season, secure your spot for cave tours. :ticket:

reddit.com

Visiting Cradle of Humankind!

Tips

from all over the internet

Confirm Opening Status

Caves can close due to rain. Check official sources before visiting! :warning: Reddit

Wear Comfortable Shoes

You'll be crawling and ducking. Sturdy, closed-toe shoes are a must! :athletic_shoe:

Dress for Adventure

Wear clothes you don't mind getting a little dirty. It's an active exploration! :shirt:

Book Tours in Advance

Especially during peak season, secure your spot for cave tours. :ticket:

Consider a Combo Ticket

Often includes access to nearby attractions like the Maropeng Centre. :moneybag:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Sterkfontein Caves for its profound paleoanthropological significance and the unique, adventurous nature of the underground tours. The opportunity to explore a UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about human evolution is a major draw. However, potential visitors should be aware of the physical demands of the tour and the possibility of weather-related closures.

"A very cool experience walking into the depths of an ancient cave and old limestone mine, with the expertise of a guide. Be mindful there are stretches with uneven grounds and crawl spaces. I really enjoyed the visit with an underground lake, grottos, and bits of nature and history in the Cradle of Humankind."

Wan Lin Qin

"I visited the caves today with my Grade 5 robotics group as part of a research project and WOW, we were blown away. The staff and management were fantastic and so accommodating, they went above and beyond to make our experience super special and memorable. I would like to thank Job, Boiki, Thobeka and Andrew for this amazing experience. If I could give you 100 stars I would! Proudly South African! P.S. the tour and facilities are of the highest quality!"

Juanita van der Merwe

"Amazing tour and experience. Gift was an amazing tour guide with a lot of knowledge and information. Definitely recommend this to anyone l who likes to do unique experiences but bare in mind it would be a 5 in activity rating as there are a lot of stairs and small spaces but definitely going to book the extended tour"

Michael Van Rooyen

What People Like

Fossil discoveries
Adventurous cave tours
Historical significance

What People Dislike

Physical demands of tour
Weather closures

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Sterkfontein Caves are located in the Cradle of Humankind, about an hour's drive from Johannesburg. While driving is the most convenient, Uber is an option, though it can be costly (around R500 each way). Public transport is limited, so consider organized tours or car rental for easier access. Reddit

Yes, but it requires planning. Many visitors opt for guided tours from Johannesburg that include transportation. If you're staying nearby, Uber is an option, but confirm availability and pricing beforehand. Reddit

These two key sites within the Cradle of Humankind are relatively close. If you have your own transport, it's a short drive. If relying on tours, check if your package covers transport between them. Otherwise, Uber or a pre-arranged taxi service would be necessary. Reddit

While generally safe, one TikTok video mentioned concerns about trespassing near the Sterkfontein Heritage Lodge, suggesting caution. It's always advisable to stick to designated paths and be aware of your surroundings. TikTok

The Sterkfontein Caves are located off Kromdraai Road. From Johannesburg, take the N14 highway towards Krugersdorp, then follow signs for the Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein Caves. [^SEO keyword: sterkfontein caves kromdraai rd johannesburg]

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The Sterkfontein Caves have experienced closures due to heavy rain and flooding. While they have announced reopenings, it's crucial to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information before your visit. Reddit

A combination ticket for both Maropeng and Sterkfontein Caves is approximately 190 ZAR, offering good value. Prices can vary, so it's best to check the official Cradle of Humankind website for current admission fees. Reddit

It is highly recommended to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak season or on weekends. This helps secure your spot for the cave tours and avoids potential disappointment. TikTok

Opening hours can vary, and it's essential to check the official Cradle of Humankind website for the most current times. Historically, they have been open daily, but closures due to weather can affect this. Reddit

There are no specific age restrictions mentioned for visiting the Sterkfontein Caves. However, due to the physical nature of the tour (crawling, ducking), it may be challenging for very young children or individuals with mobility issues. Instagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The tour involves navigating through narrow passages, crawling, ducking, and kneeling. It's an active exploration of the cave system where significant fossil discoveries have been made. Wear appropriate clothing and footwear! Instagram

Comfortable, sturdy shoes are essential. Wear clothes that you don't mind getting a bit dirty, as the tour involves crawling and can be dusty. Layers are also a good idea as cave temperatures can be cooler. Instagram

The nature of the cave tour, which requires crawling and ducking, makes it challenging for individuals with significant mobility issues. It's best to inquire directly with the site about accessibility options or alternative viewing experiences. Instagram

You'll see impressive geological formations and learn about the paleoanthropological significance of the site, including the discovery of ancient hominid fossils like Australopithecus. [^SEO keyword: johannesburg caves]

The cave tour itself typically lasts around 45 minutes to an hour. However, factor in time for arrival, waiting for tours, and exploring any associated visitor centers or exhibits. TikTok

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there are usually light snack and coffee options available at the Sterkfontein Caves visitor area. For more substantial meals, consider dining at the nearby Maropeng Centre or one of the lodges in the Cradle of Humankind. Instagram

While not explicitly stated, it's generally acceptable to bring your own water. For full meals, it's best to consume them in designated picnic areas if available, or at nearby restaurants. TikTok

The Maropeng Boutique Hotel and Glenburn Lodge & Spa offer dining experiences. There are also various restaurants and lodges within the Cradle of Humankind area catering to different tastes and budgets. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally allowed inside the Sterkfontein Caves, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on the day of your visit. Be mindful of other visitors and the delicate environment. TikTok

The unique rock formations within the caves offer dramatic photographic opportunities. The entrance area and surrounding landscape also provide scenic backdrops for memorable shots. TikTok

Bring a camera with good low-light capabilities or use your phone's night mode. Be prepared for potentially uneven lighting. Avoid using flash if it's disruptive to the environment or other visitors. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Sterkfontein Caves offer a unique educational adventure for families. While the physical nature of the tour (crawling, ducking) might be challenging for very young children or those with mobility issues, older kids often find it incredibly exciting. It's a chance to spark their curiosity about human evolution in a hands-on way. Instagram

Pack accordingly: ensure kids wear comfortable, durable clothing and sturdy shoes. Bringing water is a good idea. Consider combining the visit with the Maropeng Visitor Centre, which offers a more accessible and interactive experience for younger children, providing a broader understanding of the Cradle of Humankind. Reddit

🎒 Budget Travelers

Visiting Sterkfontein Caves can be budget-friendly, especially if you opt for a combination ticket that includes the Maropeng Centre, which offers good value at around 190 ZAR. Reddit The main cost beyond admission will likely be transportation. If you're not driving, Uber can be expensive, so look into group tours from Johannesburg that might offer a more economical package deal. Reddit

Pack snacks and water to save on on-site purchases. While there are light refreshments available, bringing your own can help keep costs down. Exploring the Cradle of Humankind can be done affordably with smart planning, focusing on the core attractions. Instagram

💑 Couples

Sterkfontein Caves offer a unique and adventurous outing for couples looking for something beyond the typical tourist experience. The shared challenge of navigating the caves can be a fun bonding activity. It's a chance to explore together and marvel at the ancient history. Instagram

Consider making a weekend of it by staying at one of the lodges in the Cradle of Humankind, like Glenburn Lodge & Spa or Maropeng Boutique Hotel, for a more relaxed and romantic experience. Reddit Enjoy the natural beauty and the profound sense of history that permeates the area.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Significance of Sterkfontein Caves

Sterkfontein Caves, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most important paleoanthropological sites in the world. It's part of the Cradle of Humankind, a vast area containing a rich collection of hominid fossil sites. The caves have yielded an astonishing number of fossils, including the famous 'Mrs. Ples' (an Australopithecus africanus skull) and a nearly complete skeleton of an Australopithecus, estimated to be around 3 million years old. These discoveries have been instrumental in understanding early human evolution and our place in the evolutionary tree. [^SEO keyword: sterkfontein johannesburg]

The ongoing research at Sterkfontein continues to uncover new insights. Scientists use advanced techniques to date fossils and analyze ancient environments, piecing together the story of our ancestors. The site offers a unique opportunity for visitors to connect with this deep history, walking through the very landscapes where these ancient beings lived and evolved. It's a tangible link to the past that sparks wonder and curiosity about human origins. [^SEO keyword: sterkfontein caves johannesburg]

Beyond the scientific importance, the caves themselves are a natural wonder. The underground formations, sculpted over millennia by water, create a dramatic and awe-inspiring environment. Exploring these subterranean chambers provides a sense of adventure and discovery, making the visit both educational and exhilarating. [^SEO keyword: caves in johannesburg]

Navigating the Cave Tour Experience

The Sterkfontein Caves tour is not for the faint of heart or those seeking a leisurely stroll. As highlighted by visitors, be prepared to crawl, duck, and kneel your way through the underground passages. This hands-on exploration is what makes the experience so immersive and memorable. It's a physical journey that allows you to truly feel the environment where ancient hominids once roamed. Instagram

To make the most of this adventure, wear comfortable, sturdy shoes that provide good grip. Closed-toe shoes are essential. Also, opt for clothing you don't mind getting a bit dusty or dirty. Think practical adventure gear rather than casual sightseeing attire. The temperature inside the caves can also be cooler than outside, so a light layer might be beneficial. Instagram

While the physical demands are part of the appeal, it's important to note that the tour might be challenging for individuals with significant mobility issues. If you have concerns, it's always best to contact the Sterkfontein Caves directly to inquire about accessibility or any alternative experiences they might offer. Instagram

Understanding Closures and Reopenings

Sterkfontein Caves have a history of temporary closures, primarily due to heavy rains and subsequent flooding. This has caused frustration for some visitors who found the site unexpectedly shut. Recent Reddit discussions indicate that the caves have experienced such closures, with notices remaining up even when there's a possibility of reopening. Reddit

However, there's good news! Wits University has announced the reopening of the Sterkfontein Caves, signaling a return to normal operations. This is a significant development for tourism in the region. Despite the reopening, it's always prudent to verify the current operational status before making travel plans. Websites and social media channels of the Cradle of Humankind are the best sources for the latest updates. Reddit

This pattern of weather-related closures highlights the importance of checking conditions, especially during the rainy season. While the reopening is a positive step, being informed about potential disruptions is key to a smooth visit. Reddit

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