• The exhibition

    See how our ancestors developed over the past few million years

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  • WHAT'S ON

    Check out the latest exhibits and events at Maropeng

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  • Conferencing

    Our state-of-the-art conference centre is perfect for a getaway conference close to the city

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  • Maropeng Hotel

    The Maropeng Hotel is the epitome of luxury accommodation in the Cradle of Humankind

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  • School visits

    You will never forget your school trip to the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Sterkfontein Caves

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Welcome home!

Welcome to Maropeng (the official visitor centre of the Cradle of Humankind) and the Sterkfontein Caves. Maropeng means “returning to the place of origin” in Setswana, the main indigenous language in this area of South Africa. The Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site is an easy drive of about an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria. Our ancestors have lived in this area for more than 3-million years. By coming here, you are coming to the birthplace of humanity. Welcome home!

Before you visit us, take a look at our introductory video. 

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Dear Guest,
Please note that as of 01 April 2016 the Maropeng visitors centre tour together with the Sterkfontein caves tour and facilities will no longer operate on Mondays (except for Public Holidays and school holidays when we will remain open for your edutainment).

Things to do

News

15 September

Sterkfontein Caves inspire young learners to new scientific heights

Earlier this year, the Sterkfontein Caves welcomed learners from Meridian Cosmo City primary school. The tour was much like the many other school tours that Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves… Read more

15 August

Leave your mark: Maropeng launches Isivivane

On Monday, 15 August, Maropeng launched its isivivane programme, which provides visitors with the opportunity to have their names, or the name of a loved one, engraved on a stone… Read more

12 August

New debates surface about Homo naledi's chamber

In recent weeks, Homo naledi has once again been the subject of academic debate. This time, paleoanthropological and geological experts have been discussing whether the Dinaledi Chamber was indeed a… Read more

29 July

Celebrate this Women's Day at Maropeng

We’re celebrating women this Women’s Day by serving up an exquisite sparkling-wine tasting and fine-dining lunch.

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