Vredefort Dome
Location: Free State, South Africa
Year of Inscription: 2005
Criteria: (viii) 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 Vredefort Dome is the site of the world's largest and oldest meteorite impact crater, formed over 2 billion years ago when a meteorite approximately 10 km in diameter struck the earth's surface. The site is significant for its geological and scientific importance, as well as its cultural and spiritual significance to the indigenous people of the area.
Prominent Features: The Vredefort Dome is characterized by its unique circular shape and the evidence of the meteorite impact, including shatter cones, breccias, and impact melt rocks. The landscape also features numerous waterfalls, rivers, and natural hot springs.
History: The Vredefort Dome was formed over 2 billion years ago when a meteorite approximately 10 km in diameter struck the earth's surface, causing a massive explosion and creating a crater over 300 km in diameter. The area has been inhabited by various indigenous groups for thousands of years, who have recognized the spiritual significance of the site.
Fun Fact: The Vredefort Dome is so large that it can only be seen from space, and its size and impact have been compared to the collision that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can visit the Vredefort Dome Visitors Center, which provides information on the geology and history of the area. Visitors can also go hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding in the area, and can enjoy swimming in natural hot springs or exploring the waterfalls and rivers.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting the Vredefort Dome, but fees may apply for guided tours or specific activities.
How to Reach It: The Vredefort Dome is located in the Free State province of South Africa, approximately 120 km southwest of Johannesburg. , there is public transport available from Johannesburg to the Vredefort Dome. Visitors can take a bus or taxi to Parys, a town located near the dome. From Parys, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the Vredefort Dome. It's also possible to join a guided tour from Johannesburg that includes transportation to the Vredefort Dome.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the area, including camping sites, guesthouses, and lodges. Some of the recommended places to stay include the Vaal de Vue Guesthouse, the Stonehenge River Lodge, and the Eagle Nest Luxury Accommodation.
Next Stop: Maloti-Drakensberg Park
Year of Inscription: 2005
Criteria: (viii) 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 Vredefort Dome is the site of the world's largest and oldest meteorite impact crater, formed over 2 billion years ago when a meteorite approximately 10 km in diameter struck the earth's surface. The site is significant for its geological and scientific importance, as well as its cultural and spiritual significance to the indigenous people of the area.
Prominent Features: The Vredefort Dome is characterized by its unique circular shape and the evidence of the meteorite impact, including shatter cones, breccias, and impact melt rocks. The landscape also features numerous waterfalls, rivers, and natural hot springs.
History: The Vredefort Dome was formed over 2 billion years ago when a meteorite approximately 10 km in diameter struck the earth's surface, causing a massive explosion and creating a crater over 300 km in diameter. The area has been inhabited by various indigenous groups for thousands of years, who have recognized the spiritual significance of the site.
Fun Fact: The Vredefort Dome is so large that it can only be seen from space, and its size and impact have been compared to the collision that led to the extinction of the dinosaurs.
Family-Friendly Activities: Families can visit the Vredefort Dome Visitors Center, which provides information on the geology and history of the area. Visitors can also go hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding in the area, and can enjoy swimming in natural hot springs or exploring the waterfalls and rivers.
Entry Fees: There is no entry fee for visiting the Vredefort Dome, but fees may apply for guided tours or specific activities.
How to Reach It: The Vredefort Dome is located in the Free State province of South Africa, approximately 120 km southwest of Johannesburg. , there is public transport available from Johannesburg to the Vredefort Dome. Visitors can take a bus or taxi to Parys, a town located near the dome. From Parys, visitors can take a taxi or hire a car to reach the Vredefort Dome. It's also possible to join a guided tour from Johannesburg that includes transportation to the Vredefort Dome.
Where to Stay: There are several accommodation options in the area, including camping sites, guesthouses, and lodges. Some of the recommended places to stay include the Vaal de Vue Guesthouse, the Stonehenge River Lodge, and the Eagle Nest Luxury Accommodation.
Next Stop: Maloti-Drakensberg Park