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Let's do the time warp again
The Maropeng Visitor Centre, Gauteng
The Maropeng Visitor Centre's Tumulus building
© Maropeng
Did you know?
Maropeng is a word in Setswana, one of South Africa's 11 offical languages.
The Maropeng Visitor Centre exhibition facility, together with the heritage tourism developments at Sterkfontein Caves, form a world-class flagship initiative within the Cradle of Humankind.
Maropeng, a Setswana word meaning ‘return to the place of origin', is just 10-minutes from the Sterkfontein Caves. At the heart of this Cradle of Humankind centre is the circular Tumulus, a grassed-over, state-of-the-art visitor's centre designed to resemble an ancient burial ground - symbolising the voyage of humankind from its beginnings into an uncertain future.
Features of the Maropeng Visitor Centre include the Diversity Ramp, which leads to a man-made lake and a boat ride from the dawn of time to a look at what is to come.
Amidst the extraordinary exhibits are an educational resource centre, conference facilities and a restaurant. On the grounds are a shopping area, amphitheatre, and a luxury boutique hotel.
The magnificently appointed four-star Maropeng Hotel offers dramatic views across the Cradle of Humankind. The décor incorporates images related to the cultural evolution of humans, including rock art, ancient totems and sculptures. It has 14 suites, conference rooms and wedding facilities.
In September 2002 the World Summit on Sustainable Development was launched at the Maropeng Visitor Centre. This was attended by 85 000 delegates, including 140 heads of state.
In 2005 this Gauteng historical centre won the British Guild of Travel Writers award for the best new tourism project worldwide. It has subsequently won the Sustainable Tourism Investment of the Year at the Africa Investor Tourism Awards.
Travel tips & Planning info
Who to contact
How to get here
The Maropeng Visitor Centre is part of the Cradle of Humankind, in the Gauteng and North West provinces, and is easily accessible by road from either Johannesburg or Pretoria.
Around the area
There are various activities in the area including balloon safaris, elephant sanctuary, horse riding trails, and nature and game Reserves.
Get around
By car is best as there is plenty to see and do in the area.
What will it cost
R95 for adults; R55 for children aged 4-14; R65 for pensioners and students. Children under 4 enter free of charge.
Length of stay
The centre itself can be visited in a day but a weekend or longer is better if you want to fully explore the area.
What to pack
During the summer months, pack a hat, sunscreen and light summer clothing. Winters are generally mild but it can be chilly in the evenings.
Where to stay
The four-star Maropeng Hotel. There are also various accommodation establishments in the regions, such as B&Bs, guesthouses, self-catering chalets and hotels.
What to eat
The Maropeng Visitor Centre has two restaurants that offer meals: the Tumulus Restaurant and the Market Place Restaurant. The Maropeng Hotel has its own restaurant.
What's happening
The Maropeng Visitor Centre offers an exciting tour showing man's development from the earliest years to the present.