A UNESCO World Heritage Site covering the limestone cave system north-west of Johannesburg that has produced more hominid fossils than anywhere else on Earth — around 40% of the world's total, including Australopithecus "Mrs. Ples" and Homo naledi. The visitor experience centres on the Maropeng museum (an outstanding introduction to human evolution, aimed at general visitors) and the Sterkfontein Caves next door, where many of the fossils were dug up. About an hour's drive from Joburg; makes a good half-day excursion.
Cradle of Humankind
UNESCO fossil caves with 40% of world's hominid finds
| Address | Sterkfontein, 50 km NW of Johannesburg |
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| Website | maropeng.co.za |