Plan Your Visit

Welcome to the Wits Sterkfontein Caves – a gateway to ancient secrets and unforgettable experiences in the heart of the Cradle of Humankind. While you're journeying into the origins of life on Earth, why not elevate your adventure with a curated selection of unique experiences, art, culture, and culinary excellence nearby?

Whether you're planning a private group tour or looking to go deeper with a specialised experience, we’ve got you covered.

Our Location

The caves are situated approximately 40 kilometers northwest of Johannesburg, near Krugersdorp, in the Gauteng province.

Operating Hours

Tuesday - Sunday (Closed Mondays)
09:00 - 16:00 (Last tour departs at 16:00)

Tours: Every hour, 09:00 – 16:00
Capacity: 30 people per tour

Tour Duration

Each guided tour lasts about 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes.

Admission Fees

Bookings

Tickets can be purchased online at Webtickets or on-site. It's advisable to call ahead on the day of your visit to confirm tour availability, especially during holidays.

Tour Details

Visitors will explore the caves' impressive limestone formations and view excavation sites where significant fossils were discovered. The tour includes navigating steps and confined spaces; therefore, it's not recommended for individuals with mobility challenges or claustrophobia

Comfortable, non-slip footwear is recommended due to uneven surfaces within the caves. Children should be supervised at all times.

Private & Specialised Tours

Contact our expert guides to create a tour tailored just for you:

Email: info.sterkfonteincaves@wits.ac.za and Cc’ Martiena and Thobeka

Martiena Van Adrichem – martiena.vanadrichem@wits.ac.za

Thobeka Hadebe – thobeka.hadebe@wits.ac.za

Accessibility

The Museum, Fossil Preparation labs, and the "Timeline Walk" are accessible by wheelchair.
Caves are not wheelchair accessible and includes stairs and tight spaces.
Not recommended for visitors with mobility issues or claustrophobia.

Nearby Attractions

Art & Creative Encounters: Immerse yourself in world-class contemporary art and sculpture in a serene natural setting at NIROX Sculpture Park. This tranquil space blends creativity, landscape, and meaning — perfect for reflection after your cave exploration.

Stay in Style: Turn your day trip into a retreat. Unwind at 58 on the Cradle – a luxurious eco-lodge that offers breathtaking views, immersive nature experiences, and thoughtful design that connects deeply with its environment.

A Taste of Discovery: Refuel with exceptional cuisine nearby:

Curious Café – Located at the Sterkfontein Caves site, this café offers quick bites and scenic views for the perfect pit stop.

And Then There Was Fire – A wood-fired culinary experience that brings together global flavours, fine wine, and the warmth of fire in the heart of the Cradle.

Dive Deeper Into Our Origins: Just a short drive away, the iconic Maropeng Visitor Centre offers interactive exhibitions and insights into human evolution — a perfect companion destination to your Sterkfontein journey.

Make it a Day. Or a Weekend: Wits Sterkfontein Caves is more than a destination — it’s the beginning of a journey through time, culture, and creativity. Whether you're an adventurer, artist, foodie, or philosopher, there’s something here to spark your curiosity.

GENERAL AND IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Wear sensible footwear and light clothing. 

The temperature in the Caves remains a constant 20°C (60 °F ).

The Caves are closed on Christmas Day, December 25 and December 31.

Carry a bottle of water or purchase water (optional) at our shop.

IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE

Always listen to your tour guide and follow their instructions.

There are a number of stairs and narrow passages to negotiate in the caves, so be prepared to crouch down and walk to gain access and exit the caves.

Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes as it can be wet and slippery in places.

Avoid dresses or loose clothing, as the tour involves stairs and some tight spots.

Always wear a helmet to protect against low ceilings and falling rocks.

Do not touch or damage stalactites, stalagmites, or other formations.

Leave the cave as you found it, without littering or making marks.

Do not disturb or remove anything without permission.

Avoid disturbing cave wildlife, especially bats.

Stay within your abilities and experience level to avoid injuring yourself and to avoid damaging the cave.

Bring gloves and kneepads if necessary.

Leave your handbags and other luggage behind.

The tour may not be suitable for individuals with claustrophobia, acute asthma, or mobility issues.

The caves are not wheelchair friendly.