We love Maropeng!

Maropeng is just a stone’s throw away from Johannesburg and Pretoria, and is one of Gauteng’s “must-visit” destinations.

This is what visitors had to say about Maropeng on TripAdvisor, a leading travel website:

Michelle L raved about “the interesting and very large object at the entrance”, which happens to resemble a burial mound, stating how “from the outside the building looks like a hill, but from the back you can see it’s a building”.

This happy client has also advised others to start their tour off by enjoying the underground boat ride that highlights the four elements, saying that “that’s where the fun starts”.

This trip is recommended as it is entertaining, but an awesome learning experience at the same time. Robin Holton, of Johannesburg, comments: “A great way to get the message of evolution across to all generations.”

“Very interesting, many things to see and learn,” says Marianne, of St Petersburg.

The Maropeng has been rated as super-child friendly, as your kids can enjoy a fun day out and at the same time have a learning experience.

“My family and I had a wonderful time at Maropeng. The quality of the exhibits and guides is second to none. Hands down it was the best place we visited in 3 weeks in South Africa,” says Gee Cee, of the United Kingdom.

Joek, also of the United Kingdom, comments: “What an interesting attraction this is for the family. If you link it with a visit to the caves which are just around the corner, it becomes a very interesting and thoughtful journey of the evolution of man on this planet of ours.”

And it’s fun for adults, too, says Bretty, of Johannesburg: “Interactive, informative, interesting, this museum is aimed mainly at kids but makes any adult feel like a child again.”

“Although this is targeted at schoolchildren, it is well worth a visit for anyone interested in the latest Australopithecus uncoveries. A first class constructed visitor centre,” says Jono Regan, also of Johannesburg.

Time Travellers, who lives in Johannesburg, also comments on this: “Learn about our past, present and future in well laid-out exhibitions that are both educational and fun for children. Adults will find a lot to think about too!”

Additionally, visitors say all the information, presentations and summaries provided are helpful and absorbing, helping one gain a better understanding of the origins of humankind.

“The material is fascinating. It provides a good summary of the current state of knowledge of the history of man. They have a beautiful building and some good information,” says Lester Pearce, all the way from Texas.

Dawn, of the United Kingdom, also says: “The museum was an excellent experience and very well presented.”

Apart from the Maropeng Visitor Centre you can also perhaps enjoy a night or two at the 4-star Maropeng Hotel, with its beautiful, African-inspired decor. The one thing most people commented about on TripAdvisor was the incredible views they enjoyed.

Sean Vaderwalker, of Johannesburg, says: “We stayed 1 night, got there for sundowners, amazing views.”

“The hotel is in a stunning location in the Cradle of Humankind, and is well designed so every room looks out over the veld through wall-to-ceiling windows,” says S Mac, of London.

This hotel is also perfectly located, as it possesses a serene and relaxed environment, away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

“My girlfriend and I spent a weekend at the hotel and found it to be a nice little place just outside of Johannesburg. It is definitely worth checking if you are looking for a peaceful place to recharge your batteries,” says Vido, of Johannesburg.

The rooms have also said to be comfortable and are beautifully decorated. They are also spacious and extremely clean.

Stephan Judge, of the United Kingdom, comments: “Hotel is located directly next to UN Heritage Site ‘Cradle of Mankind’ – superb rooms, very clean, friendly staff, good food in restaurant, and stunning views of area from rooms as well as restaurant … We would very much recommend this place.”

“The hotel has stunning views and it’s wheelchair accessible! My room was nice and big and came with 2 three quarter beds,” says KaAngel, of Cape Town.

The staff are also very helpful, very hands-on and attentive.

Francois comments: “Stayed 1 night as part of a tour. Nice hotel. Friendly staff. Service with a smile. Good food. Nice room.”

The food has also garnered favourable reviews. The restaurant offers a tasty menu and the service is first-rate. Gabby of Johannesburg also comments on the food, saying: “We had dinner and breakfast in the Restaurant and it was simply delicious.”

Maropeng managing director Tony Rubin says he sees the value of the comments posted on TripAdvisor, and takes them seriously.

“I believe that TripAdvisor is a very important tool, as it provides unsolicited reviews from guests and visitors, both good and bad. This gives us an opportunity to ensure service excellence and follow-up. It really is a monitoring mechanism, as well as a great marketing opportunity,” he adds.