Heritage

Here are five places to visit to commemorate Heritage Day on 24 September. Image via Twitter @ArmyBombRSA

Heritage Day 2022: 5 places to commemorate the day [photos]

Cradle of Humankind, Robben Island and more: Here are five Heritage Sites in South Africa to visit this Heritage Day.

Heritage

Here are five places to visit to commemorate Heritage Day on 24 September. Image via Twitter @ArmyBombRSA

Heritage Day is only one day away and if you’re still looking for something to do, you’re in the right place! Mzansi has a number of Heritage sites where you can learn about the country’s incredible history and heritage. Here are a few sites you can visit to commemorate Saturday 24 September.

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1. CRADLE OF HUMANKIND (GAUTENG)

In 1999, the Cradle of Humankind was declared a United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) World Heritage Site. The Cradle of Humankind is home to more than 500 hominid fossils including the Homo Naledi, which was discovered in 2013. 

Cradle of Humankind will be open between 09:00 and 17:00 on Heritage Day. 

Bookings can be made here

2. ROBBEN ISLAND (WESTERN CAPE)

Between 1961 and 1990 (the end of apartheid), Robben Island was used as a prison for criminals and political prisoners. Former president Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of his 27-year sentence on Robben Island alongside Ahmed Kathrada, Walter Sisulu, Andrew Mlangeni and Goven Mbeki. 

There are ferries from V&A Waterfront to Robben Island three times a day. 

Bookings can be made here

3. ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK (KWAZULU-NATAL)

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park on the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal  is the second largest protected area in South Africa after the Kruger National Park. The park connects 10 beaches including Lake St Lucia, Sodwana Bay and Kosi Bay, which sits on the Mozambique border. 

Tickets to visit the iSimangaliso Wetland Park are available here 

4. BATTLEFIELDS ROUTE (KWAZULU-NATAL)

The Battlefields Route in KwaZulu-Natal  is described as a “rich experience”. It is also the largest concentration of significant battlefields in South African history. The route includes wildlife, heritage sites and stunning dams. 

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5. VREDEFORT DOME CRATER (FREE STATE)

According to SouthAfrica.co.za, about two billion years ago, a meteorite approximately the size of Table Mountain hit Vredefort, a small town in the Free State. Following this historical event, a 380 km crater was left in the town. 

Bookings can be made here