History
Krugersdorp was established in 1887, one year after gold was discovered on the Witwatersrand, and named after Paul Kruger, President of the South African Republic. The Jameson Raid — a failed coup attempt against the Boer government in 1895–96 — ended at Doornkop near Krugersdorp where the raiding party surrendered. The town was a significant military target during the Anglo-Boer War. The discovery of hominid fossils at Sterkfontein in the 1930s and subsequent decades of excavation transformed the area into a site of global palaeontological significance.
What Krugersdorp is Known For
Krugersdorp is widely known as the gateway to the Cradle of Humankind, where Sterkfontein Caves have yielded fossils including Mrs Ples, a 2.5 million-year-old Australopithecus africanus skull, and Little Foot, the most complete Australopithecus skeleton ever found. The Lion and Safari Park between Krugersdorp and Fourways is one of Gauteng's most popular family destinations. Krugersdorp Game Reserve within the town boundary is one of the few urban game reserves in South Africa where visitors can see white rhino.
Key Areas & Neighbourhoods
The Krugersdorp CBD has an old-fashioned town centre character with a main street commercial strip and municipal buildings. Mindalore and West Krugersdorp are working-class residential areas with older housing stock. Munsieville is the main township adjacent to the town. The Chamdor and Factoria industrial areas on the town's eastern edge house light manufacturing, warehousing, and automotive workshops.
Economy & Industry
Krugersdorp's economy was historically dependent on gold mining but most major mines have closed or reduced operations, leaving a legacy of unemployment and derelict mining infrastructure including acid mine drainage. The town's economy now runs on retail services for the West Rand residential population, light industry, and tourism related to the Cradle of Humankind. The West Rand district has struggled with economic stagnation relative to Johannesburg's north.
Tips for Visitors & New Residents
The R28 and R24 are the main arterials connecting Krugersdorp to Johannesburg — the commute during peak hours can take 45–60 minutes. The Cradle of Humankind and Sterkfontein Caves are best visited on weekdays when less crowded; the caves require a guided tour so check opening times before visiting. The West Rand has fewer dining and entertainment options than the northern suburbs, so residents typically travel to Fourways or Randburg for those needs.