Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains
Location: Barberton, North East South Africa
Year of Inscription: 2018
Criteria: (viii) to be outstanding examples representing major stages of Earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features.
Overview: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains, also known as the Barberton Greenstone Belt, is a mountain range located in northeastern South Africa. The mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their geological significance, as they are one of the best-preserved and most accessible examples of early Earth history. The mountains are home to some of the oldest and best-exposed rocks on Earth, dating back over 3.5 billion years.
Prominent Features: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are home to a number of geological features that are of interest to scientists and visitors alike, including:
History: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are a product of Earth's early history, and are believed to have formed around 3.5 billion years ago. The mountains have been shaped by numerous geological processes over the millennia, including volcanic activity, sedimentation, erosion, and tectonic movements. The mountains were once home to a thriving gold-mining industry, which played an important role in the development of the region.
Fun Fact: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are sometimes referred to as the "Genesis of Life," as they provide a glimpse into the earliest stages of Earth's history and the emergence of life on our planet.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the mountains and learn about the geology and history of the region, visit the waterfalls and other scenic spots, and go on guided tours to learn more about the gold-mining industry.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains, although there may be fees for guided tours and other activities.
Where to Stay: There are a number of accommodation options in and around the town of Barberton, including guesthouses, lodges, and self-catering units. Some popular options include the Barberton Manor Guest House, the Makhonjwa Mountain View Guest House, and the Humala River Lodge.
Next Stop: Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa
Year of Inscription: 2018
Criteria: (viii) to be outstanding examples representing major stages of Earth's history, including the record of life, significant on-going geological processes in the development of landforms, or significant geomorphic or physiographic features.
Overview: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains, also known as the Barberton Greenstone Belt, is a mountain range located in northeastern South Africa. The mountains are a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their geological significance, as they are one of the best-preserved and most accessible examples of early Earth history. The mountains are home to some of the oldest and best-exposed rocks on Earth, dating back over 3.5 billion years.
Prominent Features: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are home to a number of geological features that are of interest to scientists and visitors alike, including:
- Rock formations: The mountains are home to a number of different rock formations, including volcanic and sedimentary rocks, that provide a record of early Earth history.
- Fossil evidence: The mountains contain fossil evidence of some of the earliest life forms on Earth, including stromatolites, which are layered structures formed by the growth of microbial mats.
- Gold deposits: The mountains are rich in gold deposits, and the town of Barberton was once a major gold-mining center.
- Waterfalls: The mountains are home to a number of beautiful waterfalls, including the Lone Creek Falls and the Berlin Falls.
History: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are a product of Earth's early history, and are believed to have formed around 3.5 billion years ago. The mountains have been shaped by numerous geological processes over the millennia, including volcanic activity, sedimentation, erosion, and tectonic movements. The mountains were once home to a thriving gold-mining industry, which played an important role in the development of the region.
Fun Fact: The Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains are sometimes referred to as the "Genesis of Life," as they provide a glimpse into the earliest stages of Earth's history and the emergence of life on our planet.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can explore the mountains and learn about the geology and history of the region, visit the waterfalls and other scenic spots, and go on guided tours to learn more about the gold-mining industry.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee to visit the Barberton Makhonjwa Mountains, although there may be fees for guided tours and other activities.
Where to Stay: There are a number of accommodation options in and around the town of Barberton, including guesthouses, lodges, and self-catering units. Some popular options include the Barberton Manor Guest House, the Makhonjwa Mountain View Guest House, and the Humala River Lodge.
Next Stop: Fossil Hominid Sites of South Africa