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Travel back more than 5 million years at the West Coast Fossil Park near Langebaan. Families can explore the museum and exhibitions, join a guided tour of the fossil dig site and discover the fascinating extinct animals that once roamed the West Coast. There are also walking and cycling trails and family-friendly activities to make this an educational and fun day out for kids.
Our Take
A short 1.5 hours drive north of Cape Town will lead you to the fossil site of Langebaanweg which is located in the West Coast Fossil Park (WCFP). It is a National Heritage Site and forms part of the Cradle of Human Culture Artist’s Route.
The fossil park is a haven for national and international scientists, enthusiasts, and curious visitors alike. Spanning over 100 acres of land, this park offers a glimpse into a distant past, dating back over 5 million years. What sets this fossil park apart is its unique geological composition, which preserves a snapshot of ancient ecosystems from the late Miocene epoch, approximately 5.2 to 2.6 million years ago. During this period, the West Coast region was vastly different from its present-day landscape, characterised by lush forests, expansive wetlands, and a diverse array of flora and fauna.
Among the most notable finds are the well-preserved skeletons of extinct creatures such as sabre-toothed cats, short-necked giraffes, and ancient elephants, providing invaluable insights into their biology, behaviour, and evolutionary history.
The West Coast Fossil Park is not only a repository of ancient relics but also a center for research and education. Guided tours led by knowledgeable experts offer visitors the opportunity to learn about the processes of fossilization, the significance of paleontological discoveries, and the ongoing efforts to unravel the mysteries of the past. Make sure to visit the Fossil Park during times where you can book and attend a guided tour to make the most of your stay. The Fossil Park welcomes visitors all year around and guided tours take place weekdays and during the weekend at dedicated times.
Restaurant & Gift Shop
They also have a lovely restaurant on site that serves hearty meals for those hungry explorers. They also feature a kiddies menu and serve delicious milk shakes for young and old. Attached to the restaurant is also a small jungle gym with monkey bars to stay busy while you wait for the food or the start of your tour.
If you’re keen, you can also take home a little souvenir from your visit to the Fossil Park. Many items that are on sale have been produced within the local region and each purchase directly supports projects happening in the Fossil Park.
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1 Review on “West Coast Fossil Park”
Judith (@cptwithkids)
We visited the museum after a weekend trip to the West Coast on a Sunday and really enjoyed the exhibition of the museum. Unfortunately, we were too late to book a tour, so we will have to come back to actually visit the fossil site as the kids were super interested to see “real” fossils. But the displays were quite exciting, too, and they loved exploring the space inside. We also had a late lunch at the restaurant which was absolutely delicious and filling and they serve the most amazing milkshakes for children and adults alike! It’s really worth a visit of you are interested in long-dead animals.