There is no place on Earth like it.
This is the biggest proven impact crater on our planet. You can drive it, hike, raft, canoe or even cycle to see this amazing landscape with its great river for yourself. Frequently Asked Questions.
The Vredefort Dome Unesco World Heritage Site marks the centre of the largest asteroid or comet impact scar on our planet. It was up to 300 km across when it was formed two billion years ago by an explosion equal to millions of atomic bombs.
Named after the town of Vredefort, the Dome and its surrounding Bergland are a spectacular feature of the Free State and North West provinces of South Africa. The impact brought gold to the surface, exposing the richest deposits Earth. The gold has subsequently shaped the modern history of South Africa. Embedded in this wild terrain of shattered rocks and African wildlife is the story of how our planet was made and the history of a complex and exciting country.
Don’t miss it for the world!
Prof Graeme Addison is a prolific writer on popular science and a Professor of Communication. His books include the 3-volume Edge Series on innovations in South African Science, Engineering, Technology and the Arts, and another work on Fruits of Democracy: Science since Apartheid. He has written on the philosophy of Ubuntu in African business, and authored two books on whitewater rafting and the rivers of the world. Graeme pioneered rafting on SA river by establishing several now-popular routes and designing the famous Croc 2-seater inflatable. He is also keen mountain biker and hiker, ready to do the Dome with you by water, on two wheels, or by foot.
Karen Addison qualified is a teacher of the deaf. Her love of children took her to several schools throughout the country bringing fun and activity to those who could not hear. She took up trail running and completed numerous endurance marathons such as the Sky Run, War Trail, Mweni loop, and Hermanus to Paarl. After she married Graeme she took up canoeing and was SA Women’s slalom champion. She is a keen birdwatcher and takes school groups on ecology walks along the banks of the Vaal. Karen is a qualified Dome Guide and Hiking Guide, focusing on geology, nature and wildlife. Karen will happily hike with you Dome viewpoints and lead you on longer trails.
