Safari to Early Humans

Explore, discover and experience the history of humanity

Safari is a Swahili word meaning ‘expedition’ – and starting on 11th November 2011, the Senckenberg Naturhistorischen Sammlungen Dresden want to take you on a very special trip to the very beginnings of mankind. The ‘Safari To Early Humans’ is a highly accessible exhibition. It introduces you to the excavation sites in Africa where scientists from Senckenberg Forschungsinstitut are conducting research into the origins of mankind. The safari then continues with a journey through time, going back seven million years to sahelanthropus tchadensis and tracing the numerous developmental stages of man to culminate with modern-day homo sapiens.

A thought process everyone will enjoy
The journey outlines the current state of research and illustrates the work being carried out by scientists. At first hand, you will become familiar with the current projects of the Senckenberg researchers. Every step in the scientific process is clearly explained, showing exactly how conclusions are reached. The exhibition is truly an experience for young and old, families, school groups and experts alike.

Experience research first-hand
There is little doubt that Africa is the cradle of humanity: this is where the most ancient remains of our ancestors were unearthed. The day-to-day work of researchers into prehistoric man can now be experienced as you enter an authentically recreated excavation site. Interactive information displays explain how archaeological sites are located and fossils are uncovered, what researchers must look out for when digging and recovering items, how data is gathered and documented and how finds are packaged and safely transported back to the research laboratory.

Looking over the shoulders of our researchers at work
Fossils are scientifically examined in the laboratories of the Senckenberg Research Institute. In a series of displays, you will see how scientists extract data and draw conclusions. You will be introduced to the everyday routines of researchers, a world of preparatory procedures and modern methods such as satellite image analysis, computer tomography and dating procedures. One display features a state-of-the-art 3D surface scanner that visitors can use to digitally process an artefact.

Tangible milestones in the evolution of man
The journey in time that follows takes you through the key stages in early human development in chronological order: the emergence of the upright posture, the production of tools, the evolution of the brain, the use of fire, the geographical dispersion of people and the formation of language and culture. Spectacular finds, replica moulds and other exhibits will be on display to illustrate these themes, including the oldest known spears (400,000 years old).

The homo sapiens ancestral gallery
The ancestral gallery is a core element of the exhibition. Modern-day humans meet prehistoric and early humans, coming face to face with sahelanthropus tchadensis, australopithecus, paranthropus and homo neanderthalensis. Original finds from Africa, Asia and Europe were used in the creation of 27 model heads. Using forensic anthropological methods, the various hominids were recreated not as characteristic ideals, but as individuals. Each one tells its own story: where they lived, what they ate, their likely cause of death and much more.

Please do touch!
Visitors are welcome to touch many of the artefacts, which makes the exhibition particularly appealing to the blind and partially sighted. Information is provided in Braille, and audio guides in German and English are available.

Supporting programme
A full supporting programme will be organised for the duration of the special exhibition. This will include discussion sessions and presentations featuring experts from around the globe, special attractions for children, guided tours, a glimpse behind the scenes and much more.