The Maropeng Visitor Centre is an award-winning attraction, as well as the official Visitor Centre of the Cradle of Humankind, one of South Africa’s eight World Heritage Sites. The exhibition centre takes visitors on a journey of discovery to learn more about the origins of humankind, and is housed in the Tumulus, a unique architectural structure resembling an ancient burial mound. An underground boat ride starts the adventure, taking visitors through the various stages of Earth’s creation. The exhibition then tracks the evolution of humankind through interactive displays and games.
The Maropeng exhibition also inspires visitors to be more aware of threats to the environment. The sustainability wall, which runs across the main exhibition room, highlights important facts about modern humans and our consumption of rapidly decreasing natural resources.
The Visitor Centre provides visitors with a rare opportunity to view original hominid and dinosaur fossils, as well as ancient artifacts housed in the fossil display room. The collections on display change throughout the year, ensuring there is always something new to see at Maropeng.
Other facilities include a conference and event venue, as well as three restaurants and The Maropeng Boutique Hotel, a luxury hotel situated within walking distance of the Visitor Centre.
Maropeng is also a short drive from the fossil-rich Sterkfontein Caves and visitors can choose to combine the two attractions for a discounted price.
Venue: The Maropeng Visitor Centre, R563 Hekpoort Road, Sterkfontein
Time: Various
Cost: R100pp
Tel: 014 577 9000
Email: website@maropeng.co.za
Website: www.maropeng.co.za
Facebook: Maropeng Cradle of Humankind
Twitter: @MaropengSA | @harrythehominid
