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Fri May 30 2003 (Hartbeespoort Dam & Sterkfontein)

Slept like a log, up really late. Asked John about cradle of humanity attractions. He suggested Sterkfontein caves, where his girlfriend works (she is an anthropologist). She wasn't around but I made some lunch and set off. Got straight in on a tour. Was mined for limestone, then first fossilised human bones discovered in 1920's, first full skeleton in 1930's, dated to around 2.5 milllion years ago. Must have fallen in through small opening to outside. Since then vast numbers of human bones discovered. In recent years, new much older adult skeleton discovered, dated to 4.5 million years, very small, named 'little foot', oldest human found in South Africa. Will take 7 years to excavate. Took a look at dig site from above, divided into grid with walkways and ladders. Lunch in car, then slow drive back along dirt roads, past all kids returning from school. Back in Spar again, got 8L of Windhoek for R85. Ordered mossie killer from chemist. Checked opening times for De Wildt cheetah centre. Tried calling hotel in Gabarone and lodge in panhandle, but couldn't get either number to work. Phoned and booked Pilanesburg game drive, 10am, be there by 9.45. Small fire, only a bit of wood. Photos from today