“I value not what I have done. I set much greater store by the fact that because I have done it, others following where I shall have been forced to leave off, may, in their turn, advance the science of palaeontology even further and to much greater heights of scientific achievement.” – Sidney H. Rubidge, 1956
Exploring the Past to Understand the Future
Get ready to journey back in time! The world-famous Rubidge Fossil Collection, gathered right here in the Karoo nearly a century ago, is on display at Karoo Origins – The Fossil Centre in Graaff-Reinet.
The Karoo is a giant storybook of the past, holding the longest fossil timeline in the world! It was home to incredible creatures that lived long before the dinosaurs, including the ancestors of tortoises, lizards, mammals and even us!
At Karoo Origins, you won’t just be able to marvel at the real fossils on display, you’ll step into a world millions of years old.
Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to uncover the secrets of ancient life, and see how dinosaurs, mammals and humans all trace their roots back to this remarkable place in time.
Timeless charm meets relaxed indulgence
Karoo Origins – The Fossil Centre is more than just a step back in time.
It is a place where you can relax with family and friends at our cosy coffee shop and shaded outdoor area.
Enjoy a light meal, a cup of coffee or tea and if you enjoy a glass of wine, you can indulge in a variety of locally produced wines.
A trip to Karoo Origins in Graaff-Reinet will leave an indelible and lasting memory.
THE FAMOUS FOSSIL FIND
We are delighted to share that a very special new children’s book, The Famous Fossil Find, is now available in the Karoo Origins gift shop!
Written by the Torr siblings, the book tells the remarkable story of the famous Wellwood fossil discovery made by their mother, Peggy Torr, when she was a young girl exploring with her father in the Karoo veld. What began as a chance discovery grew into one of South Africa’s most celebrated fossil stories, helping to shape our understanding of life in the ancient Karoo.
Beautifully illustrated and thoughtfully written, the book brings to life a story that is deeply woven into the palaeontological heritage of our region.
These beautiful books are sold for R190 per copy in the Karoo Origins gift shop.
Make sure to buy your copy soon!
where to find us
- 30 Parsonage Street, Graaff-Reinet, 6280
CONTACT US:
| OPENING TIMES: | |
|---|---|
|
MONDAY – FRIDAY |
8h30 – 16h30 |
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SATURDAY |
8h30 – 15h30 |
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SUNDAY |
9h00 – 14h00 |
|
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS |
9h00 – 14h00 |
|
CLOSED ON |
CHRISTMAS DAY, NEW YEARS DAY AND EASTER SUNDAY |
| ADVENTURE FEES: | |
|---|---|
|
Adults |
R100 |
|
Under 18 |
R50 (children under five enter for free) |
|
Pensioners |
R70 |
|
Family of 4 |
R270 (thereafter R50 per extra child) |
|
Group of 10 |
R800 |
|
Annual Pass |
R400 |
|
One Hour Guided Tour |
R50 per person (in addition to entry fee). Minimum of 4 people. Pre-booking ESSENTIAL. |
|
School Groups |
contact li*****@*************co.za |