Makapansgat, Nature reserve in Mogalakwena, South Africa.
Vallée de Makapan is a nature reserve in Mogalakwena with caves, limestone formations, and open grasslands. The valley contains multiple vegetation zones and supports diverse animal populations across its different habitats.
The valley was archaeologically investigated in the 1940s and revealed fossils of Australopithecus africanus millions of years old. These discoveries made the site crucial for understanding human evolution and early hominid development.
The rock surfaces display engravings left by early inhabitants, offering glimpses into their daily routines and beliefs. These artworks tell stories of hunting, rituals, and family life in ancient times.
Wear sturdy footwear since trails are uneven and cave floors can be slippery in spots. Morning hours offer the best light for exploring, as the sun angles directly into the rock chambers.
A discovery known as the Makapansgat pebble demonstrates that early human ancestors intentionally shaped and used stones as tools. This pebble ranks among the oldest known examples of deliberate tool-making and hints at the origins of human thought.
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