Maropeng Visitor Centre
Maropeng
The official visitor centre for the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, housed in a mound-shaped building where a boat ride through an underground river opens the story of Earth and human evolution.
Maropeng means “returning to the place we came from” in Setswana. The building resembles an ancient burial mound. The visit begins with a small boat ride through an underground waterway that simulates the formation of the Earth. It continues with replicas of early human fossils, interactive exhibits on evolution and temporary exhibitions, making it well suited to families. Admission is about R190, and a combined ticket with Sterkfontein Caves is available. It is open roughly from 9:00 to 17:00 and is about 10 km by car from Sterkfontein Caves. The two sites are usually visited on the same day, and the whole visit takes about half a day.
Opening hours
About 09:00–17:00
Nearby sights
- Cradle of Humankind – Sterkfontein Caves
- Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve
- Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden
- Lion & Safari Park
- Hartbeespoort Dam & Aerial Cableway
- Montecasino
- Hector Pieterson Memorial & Museum
- Vilakazi Street & Mandela House