Krugersdorp

Krugersdorp is a city west of Johannesburg, in the Mogale City Local Municipality. Founded in 1887 after gold was discovered on the Witwatersrand, it was named after Paul Kruger, the President of the South African Republic. The city grew as a mining centre and later diversified into industry and services.

Krugersdorp's most famous attraction is its location at the gateway to the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site containing the Sterkfontein Caves, where some of the oldest hominid fossils ever found were discovered. The city is also near the Magaliesberg mountain range, making it a starting point for outdoor adventures. The climate is highveld, with warm, rainy summers and cool, dry winters.

By Plane

O. R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) is 55 km east, about a 45-minute drive via the N12 and N1. Lanseria Airport (HLA) is 35 km north, a 30-minute drive. Ride-hailing fare from JNB is ZAR 500–800.

By Train

Krugersdorp has a Metrorail station on the Johannesburg–Randfontein line, with services to Johannesburg Park Station (about 1 hour).

By Car / Road

Krugersdorp is 30 km west of Johannesburg (30 minutes via the N12 and R28) and 60 km southwest of Pretoria (50 minutes via the N1 and R28). The R24 and R28 connect the city to the greater highway network.

A car is recommended. Minibus taxis serve the main routes. Uber and Bolt are available but coverage is less dense than in Johannesburg.

• Sterkfontein Caves — A UNESCO World Heritage Site within the Cradle of Humankind. Guided tours through the cave system where "Mrs Ples" and "Little Foot" were discovered. Tours ZAR 200.

• Maropeng Visitor Centre — The official interpretation centre of the Cradle of Humankind, with interactive exhibits on human evolution. Entry ZAR 180.

• Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden — A 300-hectare garden with trails, waterfalls, and black eagles nesting on the cliffs. Located in nearby Roodepoort. Entry ZAR 70.

• Krugersdorp Game Reserve — A 1,400-hectare reserve with zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, and antelope. Self-drive safaris and picnic spots. Entry ZAR 50.

• Cradle of Humankind tours — Combine Sterkfontein Caves with Maropeng for a full day of human-origins exploration.

• Hiking in the Magaliesberg — Numerous trails for all fitness levels, including the Magaliesberg Canopy Tour (zip-lining).

• Skiing at Mystic Boon — A snow sports centre on the Magaliesberg with artificial snow — skiing and tubing year-round.

• Golf — Krugersdorp Golf Club has an 18-hole course; green fees around ZAR 250.

• Krugersdorp Spur — The family-friendly South African grill chain.
• Café 366 — A casual eatery on the R28 serving burgers, wraps, and salads. Mains ZAR 80–150.
• Antojitos — Authentic Mexican food with a South African twist. Mains ZAR 100–180.
• Die Bosvelder — A game-farm restaurant outside town, known for venison steaks and boerewors. Mains ZAR 140–250.

• Craft beer at The Whistling Tortoise — A brewpub in the Magaliesburg area, a short drive north.
• Café 366 Bar — A full-service bar with local beers and wines.
• Water safety: Tap water is potable.

• Budget: Cradle of Humankind Backpackers — Dorm beds from ZAR 200 near the Sterkfontein entrance.
• Mid-range: Krugersdorp Guest Lodge — En-suite rooms with swimming pool from ZAR 700.
• Upscale: Forum Homini Boutique Hotel — A five-star hotel within the Cradle of Humankind, with gourmet restaurant. Doubles from ZAR 2,500.

• Key West Mall — The main shopping centre in Krugersdorp with over 100 stores.
• Cradle of Humankind craft outlets — Curio shops at Maropeng selling African crafts, fossils and books.

• Magaliesburg (25 km north) — A mountain town with hiking, zip-lining, and weekend retreats.
• Johannesburg (30 km east) — South Africa's largest city with museums, nightlife, and shopping.
• Pretoria (60 km northeast) — The administrative capital with Union Buildings and Freedom Park.
• Hartbeespoort Dam (45 km north) — A scenic resort area with cable car, water sports, and the Elephant Sanctuary.