South Africa reopens famous caves holding secrets of human origin

For two and a half years, the "Cradle of Humankind" has been closed. Now, the caves deemed by scientists to hold the key to understanding where humans came from, are open again to anyone visiting South Africa.

The Sterkfontein Caves yielded numerous fossil discoveries significant to understanding human evolution, but were closed to tourists in December 2022 due to flood damage.

Visitors will now gain an even closer insight into the scientific work that has shaped this UNESCO world heritage site for nearly 100 years, according to Wits University, which is responsible for managing the caves.

More than 700 fossils of hominins, apes and human ancestors have been found in the cave system, of which around 2.5 kilometres have been mapped, according to the university.

Among the most famous discoveries was the nearly complete skeleton of an early human ancestor. The fossil, nicknamed Little Foot, was excavated between 1994 and 1998 and is believed to be 3.67 million years old.

The so-called Cradle of Humankind is located about 50 kilometres north-west of Johannesburg. In addition to the Sterkfontein Caves, it includes other fossil sites and features a large interactive museum.

A tour lasts approximately 60 to 90 minutes, and tickets can be purchased online in advance. Adults pay 150 rand (around $8 or €7), while children aged six to 18 pay 125 rand (around $7 or €6). Further information is available at sterkfonteincaves.wits.ac.za, where you can also book tickets.