Taung Skull Heritage Site

In the heart of the Bophirima region of the North West Province of South Africa, amidst the farmlands and sprawling landscapes, is the Taung Skull Heritage Site. South Africa has long been considered to be the Cradle of Humankind by a number of archaeologists, historians and anthropologists, thanks to some of the fossilised remains that appear to support this claim. Of these, the Taung Skull is one of the most significant finds.

This is a child’s skull that was found at the Buxton Quarry in 1924, and is believed to be about 2.5 million years old, killed by a large prehistoric bird of prey. Today, it is part of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, as deemed by UNESCO. Visitors will be plunged into an archaeological wonder world that is full of fascinating insights into an ancient world. Any site has to fulfil a number of strict criteria to qualify as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, testifying to the value of this attraction.

Blue Pools

A popular picnic site at the Buxton quarry at the Taung Heritage Site. In a picturesque valley with caves, streams and rock pools which lies close to the site where the skull was discovered. Barbecue facilities, set alongside a pristine spring winding through an ancient limestone valley.

Boipelo Game Reserve

Boipelo is a small reserve forming part of the Tusk Hotel complex, consisting of 150 hectare of bushveld. This bushveld reserve supports seven different species of wildlife and more than 100 bird species. Visitors may enjoy game viewing either on mountain bikes (provided by the hotel), or along hiking trails of varying length.

Dinkgwaneng

Some excellent examples of San Bushman engravings can be viewed at the Dinkgwaneng site situated approximately 20km from the centre of Taung, near the Manthe village.

Taung Dam

A perfect picnic spot, 17km out of town on the Kolong River.

Mmabana Cultural Centre

A modern social and educational centre offering locally produced arts and crafts. A short distance east of the village.