Send us a photoSend us a photo

Sterkfontein Caves, part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, are no ordinary caverns. Discovered by an Italian gold prospector in 1896 and widely known for its fossil finds - the most significant of which are a pre-human skull commonly called Mrs Ples dated 2.3 million years old and an almost complete hominid skeleton known as Little Foot more than 3 million years ancient - Sterkfontein is the world's oldest and most continuous paleaontological dig site. Tour dolomite caves with expert paleontologists. Take in a scientific exhibit. View stalactite and calcite formations. See an active dig site. Observe scientists at work. Discover old bone facts.

Travel Planning Essentials
Trip Planner

Getting There

Sterkfontein Caves are located in Gauteng province and are situated 10km from the Maropeng Visitor Center and roughly 12 km from Krugersdorp. The cave entrance is accessible from R563 and is 1-hour drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Map It!
Google Maps

Hours & Times

The caves are open daily 9:00 - 17:00. Tours run every half hour. The last tour departs at 16:00.

General Information
Maropeng

Admission & Fees

Admission charged. A reduced rate is available for children aged 4-14 as well as students and seniors with a valid ID card. Children under 4 years of age are free charge. A combined ticket - Maropeng and Sterkfontein Caves - is also available and is sold until 13:00.

General Information
Maropeng

Things to Keep in Mind

Wear walking shoes. All cave tours involve negotiating roughly 200 stairs and may not be appropriate for adults and children suffering from claustrophobia as there are several extremely tight passageways. No wheelchair and stroller accessibility. No pets allowed.