Cradle of Humankind, South Africa: What to pack, what to wear, and when to go [2024]

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Ready to pack for Cradle of Humankind, South Africa? If you're planning to go to Cradle of Humankind, we have some important information about when to go, what to wear, and what to pack.

Contents

When to go to Cradle of Humankind, South Africa

Based on the climate and weather in Cradle of Humankind, South Africa, the best time to go is September. See below for details.

What to wear/what to pack for Cradle of Humankind, South Africa

Already know when you're traveling?

Here are some general tips on what to wear in Cradle of Humankind, as well as several items to remember to pack when traveling there.

What to wear/what to pack for Cradle of Humankind, South Africa by month

January

If you go to Cradle of Humankind in January, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports always losing luggage nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to choose the correct type. A lot of adapters currently available are just plug changers and require your devices to convert the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most countries.

February

If you are traveling to Cradle of Humankind in February, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain regularly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (low 20s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines always losing luggage recently, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the right kind. The vast majority of adapters available are simply plugs and require your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

March

Traveling to Cradle of Humankind in March, you will notice that it is a perfect temperature. Expect it to rain a bit less than half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing things nowadays, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Be sure to choose the right type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most locations.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

April

April in this region is balmy. Temperatures average in the low 60s F (mid 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains a bit less than half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags nowadays, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the correct type. A lot of adapters on sale are simply plug changers and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get destroyed. This one should be sufficient for most places.

May

Traveling to Cradle of Humankind in May, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you choose the right kind. A lot of adapters currently sold are simply plugs and expect your electronics to change the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could get fried. This one should be sufficient for most areas.

  • Travel neck pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

June

If you go to Cradle of Humankind in June, you will notice that it can be chilly. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 40s F (single digits C). There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines frequently losing luggage recently, an AirTag can locate it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge huge penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid penalties with this

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel pillow

    A good option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Check that you get the correct kind. A lot of adapters for sale now are just plugs and expect your electronics to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most locations.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

July

July in this region is cool. Temperatures average in the high 40s F (single digits C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. There is frost about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airlines repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can help you find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the necessary type. The vast majority of adapters on sale are just plug changers and require your electronics to convert the voltage themselves. If your electronics can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel neck pillow

    A top rated pillow is this one

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

August

Traveling to Cradle of Humankind in August, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the 50s F (low 10s C). There is frost 5-10 days this month.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports frequently losing bags recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel pillow

    An excellent option is this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Take care to get the necessary type. A lot of adapters available online are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could get fried. This one should work in most places.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

September

Traveling to Cradle of Humankind in September, you will notice that it dry with little rain. Expect it to rain once in a while. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the low 60s F (mid 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing bags these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a bit of peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your stuff.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive prices for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A great choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. It's important that you pick the correct kind. The vast majority of adapters currently being sold are just plugs and require your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If yours can't do that they could burn up. This one works in most countries.

October

October here is balmy. Temperatures average in the 60s F (high 10s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains regularly.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing luggage recently, an AirTag can find it anywhere anywhere: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your things.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Plug adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Ensure that you find the right type. The vast majority of adapters currently available are just plugs and expect your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could get fried. This one works in most countries.

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

November

Traveling to Cradle of Humankind in November, you will notice that it is warm. Expect it to rain about half of the time. Average temperatures (including nighttime) are in the high 60s F (high 10s C).

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little peace of mind, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports constantly losing luggage these days, an AirTag can help you locate it anywhere in the world: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge excessive penalties for overweight luggage. Save money with this

  • Travel neck pillow

    What we like is this one

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the correct kind. Most adapters that you can buy are simply plug changers and require your devices to change the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one is sufficent for most areas.

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

December

December here is a perfect temperature. Temperatures average in the high 60s F (low 20s C), with daytime temperatures significantly higher. It rains about half of the time.

What to wear/what to pack:

Clothes + Footwear
Health
Safety + Security

    Given current world events, South Africa has travel concerns that you should consider before going. Click for more information.

  • AirTag to track your luggage

    With airports repeatedly losing things these days, an AirTag can find it anywhere on earth: AirTag for iPhones.

  • Money/passport pouch

    A money pouch is vital for protecting your passport and credit cards.

  • Anti-theft backpack

    For a little protection, an anti-theft backpack protects your belongings.

  • Emergency phone

    For this area, we suggest a good satellite phone. We recommend this satellite phoneHowever, in cities, a SIM card that works in Cradle of Humankind may be sufficient. A good global SIM card is this one, but check the details before buying.

Comfort + Essentials

  • Travel neck support pillow

    A versatile choice is this one

  • Airplane phone mount

    Make your flight more comfortable with an airplane phone mount

  • Travel voltage adapter

    A plug adapter that supports outlet types C, M and N. Make sure to choose the necessary kind. Most adapters on sale are just plugs and expect your devices to adjust the voltage themselves. If your devices can't do that they could burn up. This one should work in most locations.

  • Luggage scale to avoid fees

    Airlines charge large amounts for overweight luggage. Avoid surcharges with this

  • Power bank for devices

    A portable power bank, like this one

What to do in Cradle of Humankind, South Africa

Cradle of Humankind is an incredible destination situated in the Gauteng province of South Africa. It is a site of immense historical, cultural and scientific importance, which draws countless visitors from all around the globe. The Cradle of Humankind is distinguished as a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has a fascinating story and an exciting array of adventures for all ages to enjoy. In this article, we examine the top tourist attractions you should not miss when you visit the Cradle of Humankind.

Sterkfontein Caves

The Sterkfontein Caves, located in the heart of Cradle of Humankind, is renowned globally for its significant contribution to the study of human evolution. The cave system has yielded several hominid fossils that have helped shed light on the history of the earliest ancestors of humankind. Visitors can explore the stunning caves in a guided tour and witness the impressive underground tunnels, chambers, and cavities that make up this extraordinary geologic structure. The Sterkfontein Caves is an absolute must-visit for anyone interested in history, geology, or anthropology.

Maropeng Visitor Centre

The Maropeng Visitor Centre, situated in the Cradle of Humankind, is the official visitor centre of the area. Visitors can discover the ancient history of humankind and the unearthing of fossils in the region from four million years ago through engaging multimedia offerings such as interactive exhibits and a 4D theater. The centre features several archaeology-themed galleries, including the Tumulus Building, which showcases interactive exhibits that are informative and educational.

Cradle of Humankind Hot Air Balloon Safari

For an adventurous and inspiring experience, take a hot air balloon ride over the Cradle of Humankind. Soar above the picturesque landscape and admire the beautiful views of the natural surroundings while gaining a new appreciation for South Africa's natural beauty. The balloon ride provides an entirely new perspective on the stunning landscapes of Cradle of Humankind, while the peaceful flight is both exhilarating and serene.

Wonder Cave

The Wonder Cave is one of the largest caves in the Cradle of Humankind and an extraordinary natural wonder, for nature lovers. Visitors can explore the remarkable underground chamber that has an incomparable scale of caves, stalactites, and stalagmites. Guided tours are available, and visitors can witness mesmerizing formations, including the Crystal Palace, a beautiful room adorned with various crystal formations.

Conclusion

The Cradle of Humankind is a destination like no other, offering unparalleled experiences to its numerous visitors. The above attractions make it clear why this location is so special, and they provide just a small glimpse of the amazing offerings available. Whether you are looking for an adventure-filled experience or wish to delve into the geological and historical aspect of South Africa, Cradle of Humankind is an excellent choice that guarantees satisfaction. A visit to this destination will give you an unforgettable experience that you will cherish forever.

About your travel guide

Hi! I'm Dev. I've traveled all over the world and in my travels, I have made many packing lists. In this series, my team and I have compiled the most useful information, as well as things we couldn't live without, to help you plan your trip.

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