Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay
Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay
The Point of Human Origins at Pinnacle Point near Mossel Bay is an internationally significant archaeological site that provides fascinating insights into the early history of modern humans. This site is part of the larger Pinnacle Point complex, which consists of a series of caves overlooking the Indian Ocean. The area is renowned for its well-preserved archaeological deposits that have yielded crucial evidence about the behavior, diet, and cognitive abilities of early Homo sapiens.
Significance of the Site: The Pinnacle Point caves, particularly Cave 13B, are some of the earliest known sites where evidence of modern human behavior has been discovered. Excavations led by Professor Curtis Marean from Arizona State University in the early 2000s uncovered evidence that dates back approximately 164,000 years. This includes the earliest known use of fire to heat stone for tool production, the use of ochre pigments likely for symbolic purposes, and the consumption of marine resources such as shellfish, which was vital for survival during periods of environmental stress.
These discoveries suggest that the inhabitants of Pinnacle Point were among the first groups of modern humans to exhibit behaviors that are considered fundamental to what it means to be human. The evidence also supports the "Out of Africa" theory, which posits that modern humans originated in Africa before migrating to other parts of the world.
The Experience: Visitors to the Point of Human Origins can embark on guided tours led by Dr. Peter Nilssen, who was part of the original research team. These tours offer a unique opportunity to explore the caves, learn about the archaeological findings, and gain a deeper understanding of our ancestors' lives. The tour is not just an exploration of the caves but a journey into the origins of human cognition and culture, set against the stunning backdrop of the South African coastline.
The Caves:
Pinnacle Point Cave 13B: The most famous of the caves, where much of the groundbreaking research has taken place.
Other Caves: The site includes other caves that have also provided valuable archaeological material, helping to build a comprehensive picture of early human life in the region.
Importance for Global Heritage: The site is a candidate for UNESCO World Heritage status, reflecting its global importance in the study of human evolution. The findings from Pinnacle Point have reshaped our understanding of early human history, particularly in the context of how early humans adapted to changing environments.
Contact details for Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point:
Location: Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay, Western Cape, South Africa
Phone Number: +27 (0)79 640 0004 (Dr. Peter Nilssen)
Email: see website
Website: https://www.humanorigin.co.za
Accommodation Near Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay
Pinnacle Point Lodges 31 & 79 - La Best
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
0.3km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BayPinnacle Point Lodges provides self catering accommodation at the pristine Pinnacle Point Golf Estate, Mossel Bay in the Garden Route. Pinnacle Point Golf Estate is listed as one of the top 10 golf courses in South Africa. The estate offers a wide... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
206 Pinnacle Point
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
1.3km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay206 Pinnacle is a 4-bedroom self-catering house located inside the prestigious Pinnacle Point Golf Estate near Mossel Bay. It features uninterrupted views of the Pinnacle Point golf course and the Indian Ocean. (Sleeps 9). …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Cabannas @ Dana
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Dana Bay
4.6km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BayCabannas @ Dana is a 15-sleeper consisting of 3 self catering units and 1 semi self catering unit in Dana Bay and conveniently situated near beaches and attractions. George airport is 45 kms away while the centre of Mossel Bay is less than a 10 min drive. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
84 Estoril Villas
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
4.9km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BayEstoril Villas (security complex), modern, self-catering apartment at the popular Diaz Strand, Mossel Bay. This six sleeper is a mere 200m from the beach. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
55 Vista Bonita
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Diaz Beach, Mossel Bay
5.2km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel Bay55 Vista Bonita is a 2 bedroom,1 bathroom, beachfront self-catering apartment with direct access to the beach and views over the ocean and Mossel Bay. direct access to the beach and superb views over the ocean as well as Mossel Bay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Diaz Beach Apartment
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
5.3km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BayDiaz Beach Apartment offers self catering accommodation in Mossel Bay in the Garden Route, Western Cape. Diaz Beach Apartment is an absolute beachfront 3 bedroom self-catering apartment with amazing views over the ocean and Mossel Bay. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
La Palma Villa C12
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
5.4km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BayLa Palma Villa C12 is a self catering apartment in Diaz Beach, Mossel Bay in the Garden Route. This self catering accommodation is located in a secure complex. There is an elevator in the apartment block as well as full access control and security... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Santos Beach Flat no.26
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
5.4km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BaySantos Beach Flat No 26 offers self catering beachfront accommodation in in Mossel Bay Town, Garden Route, Western Cape. Situated right in front of the famous Santos Beach, in the coastal town of Mossel Bay. Activities right on your doorstep includes... …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Sea Breeze 65
Self Catering Apartment, Flatlet Accommodation in Diaz Beach, Mossel Bay
5.5km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BaySea Breeze 65 is a self-catering apartment in a security complex located in Diaz Strand in Mossel Bay in the Garden Route. It is a short walk across the road to the beach. (Sleeps 5 in 2 bedrooms). …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
Delta Sea Cottage
Self Catering House, Cottage, Chalet Accommodation in Mossel Bay
5.7km from Point of Human Origins, Pinnacle Point, Mossel BayDelta Sea Cottage is three bedroom duplex in security complex on the beach front of Diaz Beach between Hartenbos and Mosselbay. (Sleeps 8). Controlled access to the beach about 40m away, no need to drive. Controlled access to sparkling swimming pool. …see more for bookings / enquiries and info.
- Pinnacle Point Golf Course - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (0.88km)
- Garden Route Casino and Spa - Mossel Bay (1.15km)
- Mossel Bay Hospital - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (4.34km)
- Mossel Bay Golf Club - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (4.47km)
- Bay View Hospital - Mossel Bay (4.87km)
- Cape St. Blaize - Mossel Bay (5.52km)
- The Old Power Station Building (5.53km)
- The Santos Pavilion (5.56km)
- Post Office Tree - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (5.77km)
- Ethno Botanical Garden and Braille Trail - Mossel Bay (5.88km)
- Bartholomeu Dias Museum - Mossel Bay, Western Cape (5.93km)
- Cape St. Blaize Hiking Trail - Mossel Bay (5.93km)
- Langeberg Mall - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (6.02km)
- Romonza Boat Trips - Mossel Bay Harbour (6.25km)
- Seal Island - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (6.39km)
- Shark Cage Diving - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (6.40km)
- Mossel Bay Harbour - Mossel Bay, Garden Route (6.46km)
- Cape St. Blaize Lighthouse Complex - Mossel Bay (6.95km)
- Cape St Blaize Cave - Mossel Bay (7.02km)
- The Tidal Pool and Blougat (7.11km)
