December is finally here, and we hope you’re ready to spend a few weeks resting, relaxing and making memories.

If you’re looking for good places to visit, Maropeng in the Cradle of Humankind should definitely be on your list. Here’s why:

1. The world-famous Homo naledi exhibition

(1) Homo Naledi  Cc John Hawks Wits University 1
The Homo naledi exhibition is in The Gallery at Maropeng. (Image: Image: Wits University/​John Hawks)

The original Homo naledi fossils made world news in 2015 when the discovery was announced, and again in 2017 when the Almost Human exhibition opened its doors. The exhibition in The Gallery is not a permanent one, and while we can’t confirm dates at this stage, we can say your chance to view these historic finds is drawing to a close.

Come find out what made Homo naledi one of the most significant hominin finds in recent years. Read about it here.

2. There are some great discounts you can take advantage of

Maropeng Voucher
(Image: Image: cradleofhumankind.net)

We have teamed up with partners to bring you these great offers that will give you a 20% discount on the cost of your ticket to Maropeng. Here they are:

  • 20% discount voucher in this month’s copy of Hello Joburg
  • #LiveSummer – download your 20% discount voucher at www.thecradleofhumankind.net for various offerings and activities in the Cradle of Humankind

In order to make use of the discount on the Cradle of Humankind website, scroll through the discount vouchers on the home page until you find the discounts for Maropeng. Print out the voucher, and present it at the ticket office at Maropeng to claim your discount when buying your ticket. This offer is limited to one voucher per customer.

3. A trip to Maropeng is fun and educational

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Yes, we know that you’re on a break from school, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t look for holiday activities that stimulate young minds. Maropeng’s interactive exhibition will take you on a journey through time, letting you play games along the way to ensure you’re entertained.

Check out our exhibition guide here.

4. It’s a top-rated attraction

Don’t take our word for it. Visitors from around the world have rated Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves as the top attractions in the Cradle of Humankind.

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(Image: TripAdvisor)

5. The Sterkfontein Caves are a great place to beat the heat this summer

If you’re looking for a place to cool down this summer, there are few more interesting places than the Sterkfontein Caves.

The caves are owned by the Uni­ver­si­ty of the Wit­wa­ter­srand, whose sci­en­tists have been respon­si­ble for the main exca­va­tions at this World Her­itage Site. They are cred­it­ed with many of the most notable dis­cov­er­ies in the caves, includ­ing the world-famous fos­sils of Mrs Ples and Lit­tle Foot.

These underground caves are always lovely and cool, even on a blistering summer day. Just remember to wear comfortable shoes!

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