Maropeng

Visit this anthropological site to discover fascinating artifacts that tell the story of the birth and evolution of humankind. 

Take a captivating journey through the history of humankind at Maropeng, an educational center and paleoanthropology site. Travel on a subterranean lake then spot millennia-old fossils, stone tools and interactive exhibits. Maropeng is the focal point of South Africa’s Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and collection of 15 paleontology sites. Its name means “returning to the place of origin” in Setswana, one of the country’s 11 official languages.

Upon arrival you’ll notice the huge grass-covered tumulus, which represents an ancient burial mound. Step inside and join a boat ride along an underground artificial lake. Pass through cave structures and an ice tunnel as you travel back 4 billion years to the creation of Earth.

Enter the exhibition area at the end of the boat ride, home to hundreds of interactive displays. Trace the evolution of life from single-celled organisms to today’s advanced technological developments. Find displays of ancient hominid fossils, handcrafted stone tools and models of the earliest Homo sapiens. Learn about the progression of languages, living as families and eating habits.

Round out your visit by enjoying unrivaled views of the Magaliesberg mountain range from the rear of the tumulus. Look back to see an ultramodern glass and steel façade, a stark contrast to the tumulus’ grass-covered front. It serves as a symbol of how far humankind has developed since its simple beginnings.

Situated in the northwest of South Africa’s Gauteng province, Maropeng is about a 1-hour drive from both Johannesburg and Pretoria. A convenient way to arrive is to rent a car. Low-cost parking is available. Combine your visit with a tour of the nearby Sterkfontein Caves. Discover fossils that date back over 4 million years then travel deep into a magnificent cave system.

The center is open daily. The last boat ride is one hour before closing. If you want to visit Maropeng and Sterkfontein Caves then it’s worth purchasing the combined entrance ticket. Find admission fees, the complete opening hours and full tour details on the attraction’s official website.