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Paleoanthropological site near Johannesburg, South Africa
Photo: Martinvl, CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons
Cradle of Humankind is one of the sites in South Africa devoted to fossil hominids. This site and two others are collectively listed as a single entity by the UNESCO World Heritage Sites in South Africa .
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A tour guide will lead you through this extensive cave system where many early hominids and advanced ape fossils were discovered. It is a 2 km walk. You can also visit the museum to learn more about the evolution of man. There is also a restaurant and shop.
The Cradle of Mankind exhibition and education centre. Mostly aimed at students, but fascinating for anyone interested in human origins. The short underground boat ride is a must do activity. At the entrance there is an ATM, coffee shop and souvenir shop. Within the centre, the Tumulus Restaurant is located on the first floor and the Tumulus bar is located on the second floor.
A nature reserve within the Cradle.
A nature reserve and restaurant within the Cradle of Humankind. Reserve in advance for the restaurant as they are generally fully booked.
Medieval themed restaurant, booking essential
Buffet lunch. The bar provides an awesome view overlooking the Magaliesberg and the Witwatersberg mountains.
Views of the valley from the evolution-themed luxury suites with roofs covered in African veld. The onsite Roots restaurant was voted as one of the Top 10 restaurants in the country (2007 and 2008). Reservations essential. No children under 12.
From the N1 in Johannesburg, take exit 80 Roodepoort (M8 14th Ave) and get onto Hendrik Potgieter road (M47) heading north. Hendrik Potgieter will become the N14 and lead directly into the Cradle of Humankind.
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