West Coast Fossil Park

Located just outside of Langebaan, the West Coast Fossil Park is a must-do experience and a brilliant opportunity for families to bond over a shared history.



The park has one of the world’s richest concentration of fossils dating back to the early Pliocene era some five million years ago, and its recent refurbishment has only added to what is on offer here.


Some five million years ago, the arid Cape West Coast of South Africa looked very different to the way it does today. Believe it or not, the mighty Berg River once flowed here, and the animals of the time were every bit as different as the land they roamed. 


Kids and adults alike will be enthralled by stories of the animals that once walked this land, with evidence of everything from sabre-toothed cats and short-necked giraffes to four-tusked elephants and strange, three-toed horses having been found here.

Today, the West Coast Fossil Park can showcase the fossils of these animals, with guided tours offering visitors a riveting experience, including a visit to the ongoing live dig at the site, and wonderfully recreated scenes from the Pliocene era some five-million years ago. The visit to the dig site is undoubtedly a highlight of a visit to the park, with the scene cut right out of a Hollywood movie.



There is also an interactive kids area to keep the little ones occupied (kids under 5 get in for free) and a recently-established restaurant for you to enjoy some of the Weskus’ favourite meals, including the always-welcome fish and chips.

The West Coast Fossil Park is constantly looking for new ways to highlight the rich history found here and the recently opened Visitors Centre continues to add new elements to its offerings. A must-visit on the Cape West Coast.

Website: www.fossilpark.org.za