Sterkfontein Caves

Nature preserve · West Rand ·

Sterkfontein Caves

Nature preserve · West Rand ·

Fossil-rich caves explore ancient waterways and Australopithecus finds.

Information

Kromdraai Rd, Johannesburg, South Africa Get directions

@silverkris

9,761 Postcards · 2,256 Cities

9 of the world’s most underrated archaeological sites - SilverKris

"Part of a region known as the Cradle of Humankind, these fossil-rich caves have yielded remains dating back millions of years, including an Australopithecus skeleton and ancient stone tools. Exhibits at the museum explain how discoveries from ongoing excavations helped reinforce the idea that human life began in Africa; visitors can also explore the dramatic, cathedral-like caves themselves to see the geological and archaeological context of these landmark finds." - Tamara Hinson

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/nature-adventure/off-beaten-path/9-of-the-worlds-most-underrated-archaeological-sites/

Sterkfontein Caves

@silverkris

9,761 Postcards · 2,256 Cities

10 of the world’s most amazing caves to explore - SilverKris

"About a 45-minute drive from Johannesburg, these caves are notable in paleo-anthropology (part of the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site), featuring beautiful caverns and an impressive underwater lake as well as a vast number of fossils; the caves are open daily from 9am to 5pm with tours costing R165 for adults, and a combo ticket (R190) gives access to both the caves and the Maropeng visitors’ centre and museum." - SilverKris

https://silverkris.singaporeair.com/inspiration/nature-adventure/ecotourism/worlds-most-amazing-caves-to-explore/

Sterkfontein Caves

Wan Lin Q.

Google

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.

Juanita van der M.

Google

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!

Michael Van R.

Google

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

Liza-Mari C.

Google

Sterkfontein Caves is a fascinating experience for almost all ages. There’s quite a bit of walking and stairs, but it’s absolutely worth it — the caves are rich in history and very interesting to explore. The guided tour lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 30 minutes, and the guides are excellent: knowledgeable, professional, and with just the right touch of humour to keep everyone engaged. The premises are well organised, with plenty of parking and a strong focus on safety. There’s also a small shop for coffee, tea, and snacks, as well as a museum to explore before or after your tour. Tickets can be purchased at the entrance, but it’s best to book online in advance, especially over weekends when slots fill quickly. Group sizes are limited, which makes for a more personal and enjoyable experience. Highly recommended for a family outing or anyone interested in South Africa’s incredible natural and archaeological heritage.

cheryl T.

Google

Very educational. Requires a bit of crouching and squatting, even a short bear crawl for me during a segment of the tour.. but doable if you have some level of basic fitness. if you are not mobile or flexible dont do it.

Vicky N.

Google

Tour was a blast. There should be better information regarding cave tour as we had elderly people in the group. Some battled during exit of cave. Be prepared to squat, bend, drag on your bottom, don't go with your party suit as not going to be same color when you're done. Hard hats was a blessing. Also should you be an asthma patient please carry your inhaler. Air and steep inclines are what you look forward to. All in all, great experience.

Nicolas R.

Google

Atmospheric and hands-on, helmet on, duck low, and follow the cool air into deep time. Guides balance safety with engaging stories. Some passages are tight; comfy shoes help. Pair with Maropeng for a satisfying full day.

Clement C.

Google

The cave itself was unremarkable. It is the story behind the discovery of the 3.67 million years old skull of Ms Ples that makes this cave fascinating. We joined a tour that we found on TripAdvisor but the tour company really just provided transportation, the actual guide was from organization that manages the cave.