One of the world’s most important paleontological sites – Sterkfontein Caves – has reopened for guided tours after more than two years of closure due to flood damage.
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University), which manages the site, announced that the caves reopened to the public on April 15 following facility and visitor experience enhancements.
Located within the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site near Johannesburg, Sterkfontein Caves has yielded more than 700 early human fossil discoveries, including the iconic Mrs Ples (found in 1947) and Little Foot (1997).
The guided tours – available from 09h00 to 16h00, Tuesday to Sunday – include an exploration of the cave and the excavation sites where significant fossils were discovered along with access to a newly developed exhibition space and museum. Access to a fossil preparation lab – where scientists, researchers and postgraduate students work to document and catalogue fossils – is available at an additional or stand-alone charge.
“The reopening of the Wits Sterkfontein Caves represents an exciting opportunity to bridge the gap between cutting-edge research and the public’s understanding of science. By making science more accessible, we hope to inspire the next generation of researchers while helping everyone connect more deeply with our shared human story,” said Professor Zeblon Vilakazi, Vice-Chancellor and Principal of Wits University.
The site previously hosted between 80 000 and 100 000 tourists per year, making it one of Gauteng’s top attractions.
