July happenings at Maropeng

There are some fabulous offerings at Maropeng this July – from discovering hidden underground gems to viewing the mysteries of the sky above.

Here’s what to look forward to at Maropeng this month:

Swartkrans: 5 July

One of the Cradle’s richest fossil sites, Swartkrans, which is usually closed to the public, is offering visitors a one-off opportunity to witness an active palaeontological dig guided by scientist Morris Sutton, who is currently excavating there.

Among many discoveries, Swartkrans is known for yielding the largest sample of Paranthropus robustus, and also for the discovery of the earliest evidence of the use of controlled fire in Southern Africa, dating back 1-million years.

Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes and bring a hat and sunblock. Please note that the tour will only go ahead if there is a minimum of seven people booked. An itinerary will be sent the day before the event.

Ages: The tour is strictly for adults only
Time: 9am
Venue: Sterkfontein Caves
Costs: R375 per adult, which includes a light picnic lunch

Why not combine your Swartkrans adventure with a luxurious overnight stay at the Maropeng Hotel? For more information, please email Mmathabo Maine or call +27 (0)14 577 9000. Click here to book now.

Stargazing: Full Moon special, 12 July

Maropeng’s resident astronomer, Vincent Nettmann, will demonstrate how the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (Nasa) made its first successful journey to the Moon. Guests will also be treated to video content showing original Nasa Apollo film clips from this historic event.

A laser-guided binocular tour and large-aperture telescopic stargazing afterwards are subject to weather conditions.

Please note that although the stargazing event is subject to weather conditions, the talks and dinner will take place.

Guests will receive the itinerary via SMS the day before the event. Guests are strongly advised to dress warmly.

Cost: R350 per person
Age: Adults only
Time: 6pm, with welcome drinks
Venue: Maropeng Hotel

Should you wish to combine this event with a stay at the Maropeng Hotel, please email Mmathabo Maine or call +27 (0)14 577 9000. Click here to book now

Bone Detectives: 26 July

Brendon Billings has hosted a series of themed walking tours at Maropeng over the past two years. These have been highly successful and he has some new and exciting offerings.

His new research is around neuroscience. “The brain and its behaviour has been a popular topic globally, and I believe that this has definitely added a new twist to my discussion,” he explains.

Guests will have the opportunity to get to grips with some amazing fossil and bone casts, and also have an active discussion with Brendon.

Age: Adults only
Time: 6pm
Venue: Maropeng Hotel
Cost: R375 per person

There’s no need to rush home after the discussion. Book an overnight stay at the Maropeng Hotel; please email Mmathabo Maine or call +27 (0)14 577 9000. Click here to book now

Kiddies’ birthday parties: ongoing

Let Maropeng organise your kid’s birthday party while you take time out to explore our many offerings.

For kids’ parties, Maropeng offers guided tours around the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng Visitor Centre, followed by supervised party games. Party extras such as a birthday cake, lunch packs, jumping castles and child minders are available.

Age: All ages
Time: To be confirmed with the booking
Venue: Either at Sterkfontein Caves or Maropeng; to be confirmed with the booking

Please note that bookings close at noon on the Friday before an event.
For more information on the carvery, costs, events, bookings and essential requirements, call us on +27 (0)14 577 9000 or explore the Maropeng website.