The Cradle of Humankind Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Kromdraai, Swartkrans and environment. Location: South Africa North West Province, Gauteng.

Charles Darwin in his theory of evolution stated: "it is probable that our early progenitors lived on the African continent". His prediction was made at a time when no hominoid fossils had been discovered in Africa. The theory was vindicated in 1924 when Raymond dart and his team made a remarkable discovery at the Sterkfontein excavation site in the Northern Province of Gauteng. They discovered Plesianthropus transvaalensis, nicknamed “Mrs Ples” the skull, which provides the most valuable clues to the origin of mankind. It was also found to be of the same species as the Tuang child.

Today the Sterkfontein area contains a large and scientifically significant group of sites that provide critical information on the earliest ancestors of humankind, including information on the evolution of  man over the past 3.5 million years. More info..

Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape. Location South Africa Northern Province.

The Mapungubwe remains are a remarkable testimony to the growth and eventual decline of a civilization that thrived as a sophisticated trading center from around 1200 to 1300 AD. Mapungubwe is situated in the Northern Province on the border of South Africa, joining Zimbabwe and Botswana. It is an open, expansive savannah landscape at the confluence of the Limpopo and Shashe rivers. The people at that time traded gold and ivory with China, India and Egypt. Mapungubwe developed into the largest kingdom in the sub-continent before it was abandoned in the 14th century. More info..

The Greater St Lucia Wetland Park

Robben Island