Upgrade for Sterkfontein World Heritage Site

A MAJOR upgrading project is under way to bring the facilities at the Cradle of Humankind world heritage site into line with international tourism standards.

The first phase involves an extensive revamp of the current facilities and the building of new facilities at the Sterkfontein Caves, in which some of the earliest human fossil remains have been found.

These are nearing completion and some of the facilities will be ready for the Easter holidays.

The importance of the caves' fossil finds attracts tourists from across the globe.

The new facilities will house a scientific exhibition, due to be opened in August this year, as well as a 130-seater conference centre, a family restaurant and a retail specialist shop.

The shop will be run by Tigers Eye, part of the Tourvest Group.

The conference facility and restaurant will be managed by Afritour Management Services, a joint venture between Leswikeng Minerals & Energy and GBD Investments & Consultants.