The Cradle of Humankind is one of eight World Heritage Sites in South Africa, and the only one in Gauteng. It is widely recognised as the place from which all of humankind originated.
The drive to Maropeng is so beautiful, that I stopped a few times to get a few shots of the landscape. On every road trip I take, whether it is a short or long one, I am always taken aback by how beautiful South Africa is.
As you near Maropeng you will notice the tall concrete columns, which reminded me a lot of the concrete columns outside the Apartheid Museum.
Maropeng is an incredible and a one of a kind place that should be on your bucket list, because it is here that you will better understand the evolution of mankind. The centre is well thought out and the architecture lends itself to the subject and also blends in perfectly with the landscape.
I was impress by how interactive the museum is, but what I loved most was the little boat ride at the beginning. Sorry, I could not take any photos of it as it was very dark, so you will just have to go for yourself. The boat ride treated all your senses: parts of it was cold and you could feel ice on the walls, whereas one part was hot and windy.
When you come to the end of the museum displays you will exit out into the open and what greets you there is the spectacular views of the veld. You can climb up the steps to the viewing deck to take in the 360 degree views. And it is so quiet and peaceful.
There are regular guided tours of the museum.
They have a restaurant on site as well as a hotel for those wanting to stay a little bit longer in order to fully experience this World Heritage Site. You can also buy a combination ticket and visit the Sterkfontein Caves which is situated nearby. This is a must do for those you are not claustrophobic like I am.
General telephone number (Maropeng and Sterkfontein Caves) : +27 (0)14 577 9000
The Maropeng Visitor Centre, Market Place and Tumulus restaurants, as well as the Maropeng Hotel, can be found just off the R563 Hekpoort Road, Sterkfontein, 1911, South Africa.
No Comments