Diamond Fields Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide to Diamond Fields, a region in Northern Cape, South Africa, covering attractions, activities, culture, safety, transportation, and more.


Introduction to Diamond Fields

Diamond Fields is a region located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, and it is renowned for its diamond reserves, which have been extracted since the late 1800s. Apart from its diamond industry, the region boasts a rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning natural scenery. It is an ideal destination for travelers who are interested in South African history, outdoor adventures, and unique experiences.

List of Places to Visit in Diamond Fields

Below is a list of top attractions and places to visit in Diamond Fields:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Big Hole: One of the most famous tourist attractions in Kimberley, The Big Hole is a former diamond mine that has been turned into an open-air museum. Visitors can take a guided tour and learn about the region’s diamond history.
  • Magersfontein Battlefield Museum: This museum commemorates the Battle of Magersfontein, which took place during the Second Boer War. It features exhibits and artifacts from the war and gives visitors an insight into the conflict’s impact on the region.
  • Duggan-Cronin Gallery: A photography gallery that showcases the works of Alfred Duggan-Cronin, a British-born photographer who documented the lives and culture of the indigenous people of South Africa during the early 1900s.

Natural Attractions of Diamond Fields: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mokala National Park: A 70,000-hectare park that boasts breathtaking landscapes with Kalahari sandveld vegetation and granite hills. Visitors can enjoy activities such as game drives, guided walks, and birdwatching.
  • Kamfers Dam: A wetland area outside of Kimberley that provides a haven for flamingos. Bird enthusiasts can take a guided tour of the area and see thousands of flamingos roosting on the lake.
  • Modder River Reserve: A nature reserve that boasts unique flora and fauna, including the white rhino.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Diamond Fields

Diamond Fields offers great hiking and biking routes that allow visitors to explore the region’s natural beauty. Some popular routes are:

  • The Mokala Meander: A circular, self-guided hiking route that takes visitors through Mokala National Park’s various landscapes, including open savannah and thorny bushveld.
  • The Riemvasmaak MTB Trail: A mountain bike trail that spans across 75km of rugged terrain, showcasing the natural beauty of the Riemvasmaak Conservancy.

Best Things to Do in Diamond Fields: Activities and Tours

There’s a wealth of activities and tours available to visitors in Diamond Fields. Some top options include:

  • A Diamond Mine Tour: Take a guided tour of one of the many diamond mines in the area and learn about the diamond industry’s fascinating history and current methods of extraction.
  • A Pub Crawl Through Kimberley: Experience Kimberley’s vibrant nightlife scene by participating in a pub crawl, which will take you to some of the best bars in the city.
  • A Cultural Township Tour: Get an insight into the region’s diverse cultures by taking a guided tour of one of Kimberley’s townships. Interact with locals, sample traditional cuisine, and learn about the area’s heritage.

Week-Long Itinerary for Diamond Fields

Here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip to Diamond Fields:

Day Activity
1 Visit The Big Hole Museum and see Kimberley’s diamond history.
2 Take a guided tour of Kamfers Dam and see flamingos in their natural habitat.
3 Go on a game drive at the Mokala National Park and see wild animals in a natural setting.
4 Explore the Riemvasmaak Conservancy and enjoy a scenic mountain bike ride.
5 Visit the Duggan-Cronin Gallery and discover early 1900s photography of indigenous South Africans.
6 Take a cultural township tour and learn about the region’s diverse cultures.
7 Relax and enjoy a night out at one of Kimberley’s vibrant bars or restaurants.

Food and Drink Scene of Diamond Fields

Diamond Fields offers a diverse food and drink scene, with traditional South African cuisine and international options. Below are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Braai: A traditional South African barbecue that involves cooking various meats over open flames.
  • Bunny chow: A curry dish that is served in a hollowed-out loaf of bread.
  • Mealie pap: A maize-based dish that is served as a side dish to various meat dishes.

Local Beverages

  • Rooibos tea: A caffeine-free tea that comes from a native South African plant.
  • Pinotage: A red wine grape that is grown almost exclusively in South Africa.
  • Amarula: A cream liqueur that is made from the fruit of the marula tree.

Where to Stay in Diamond Fields: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Diamond Fields has a range of accommodation options, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Some top choices include:

  • Protea Hotel by Marriott Kimberley: A 4-star hotel located in the heart of Kimberley.
  • Hadida Guest House: A guesthouse that offers rooms with kitchenettes and communal areas for socializing.
  • Kimberley Backpackers: A hostel that provides both private and dormitory-style rooms for budget travelers.

What to Buy in Diamond Fields: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Visitors to Diamond Fields can bring home unique souvenirs and local products as a reminder of their trip. Some top choices include:

  • Diamonds: While it may not be within everyone’s budget, purchasing a diamond from one of the many diamond shops in the area is a memorable souvenir.
  • Amarula: As previously mentioned, this cream liqueur is a staple in South African households and makes for a great gift for friends and family.
  • Handwoven baskets: Local artisans create beautiful, handwoven baskets using traditional techniques and materials.

Local Culture and Customs of Diamond Fields

Diamond Fields is a region with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors should respect local customs and be aware of cultural sensitivities. Some helpful tips include:

  • Greeting locals: It is customary to greet people when entering a shop or public space. A simple hello or “howzit” is appropriate.
  • Dress code: While casual dress is widely accepted, remember to cover up when visiting places of religious significance.
  • Language: South Africa has 11 official languages. English, Afrikaans and local dialects such as Tswana are widely spoken.

Best Time to Visit Diamond Fields

The best time to visit Diamond Fields is during the winter months (May to August) when the weather is mild, and the wildlife is abundant. However, if you are diamond hunting, the summer months (November to February) are when the odds of finding a diamond are greatest.

Do’s and Don’ts of Diamond Fields

Here are some helpful do’s and don’ts for visitors to Diamond Fields:

Do:

  • Do take necessary precautions: Make sure you shut the car windows and lock the doors when driving to avoid being hijacked.
  • Do buy travel insurance: Travel insurance can protect against any unexpected incidents during your travels.
  • Do visit the local tourism office: The local tourism office can provide information on worthwhile attractions and connect visitors with quality guides.

Don’t:

  • Don’t flash your valuables: It is not recommended to wear expensive jewelry or flash valuable electronics to avoid drawing attention to yourself.
  • Don’t hitchhike or travel alone at night: For safety reasons, it is best not to hitchhike or travel alone at night.
  • Don’t swim in uncertified locations: Only swim in designated areas and locations that are certified safe for swimming.

Safety and Health

Before visiting Diamond Fields, it is essential to be aware of any potential health and safety risks. Below are some important points to keep in mind:

Safety in Diamond Fields

  • Crime: Diamond Fields has a relatively high crime rate. Visitors should exercise caution, particularly when carrying valuables or traveling alone after dark.
  • Road conditions: The roads in and around Diamond Fields can be treacherous and are not always well maintained. Drive cautiously and stay alert.
  • Wildlife: While wildlife sightings are a popular attraction at Mokala National Park, visitors should respect the wild animals and not try to approach them.

Health in Diamond Fields

  • Vaccinations: Visitors should ensure that all standard vaccinations, including Yellow Fever, are up to date before traveling to South Africa.
  • Malaria: Malaria is present in the Northern Cape region, and visitors should take appropriate precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Getting to Diamond Fields: Transportation Options and Logistics

Diamond Fields is accessible by road and air. Below are some transportation options:

Airports Near Diamond Fields

  • Kimberley Airport: This airport is located in Kimberley and serves numerous domestic destinations.

Bus Stations Near Diamond Fields

  • Kimberley Bus Station: The bus station is located in Kimberley and offers bus services to various destinations around South Africa.

Other Options

  • Car rentals: Many car rental companies operate in South Africa and provide affordable and reliable car rental services.

How to Get Around in Diamond Fields

To get around Diamond Fields, renting a car is the most convenient and flexible option. Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Uber are also available but can be more expensive.

Where to Go Next from Diamond Fields: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Diamond Fields is located in close proximity to several other popular South African destinations. Visitors can consider the following excursions:

  • Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park: A wildlife reserve that spans across South Africa and Botswana and is renowned for its predator sightings.
  • Namaqualand: A region in the Northern Cape that boasts stunning desert landscapes and vibrant wildflowers during the spring months.
  • Bloemfontein: The capital city of the Free State province, which is located approximately 2.5 hours’ drive from Kimberley.

Conclusion

Diamond Fields is a fascinating destination that offers visitors a myriad of attractions and experiences. From its diamond mining history to its natural beauty and cultural heritage, there is something for everyone in this unique South African region. By following some basic safety precautions and respecting local customs, visitors can ensure a memorable and enjoyable trip.



    Kimberley