The Big Hole - Historic Diamond Mine And Museum

The Big Hole in Kimberley, Northern Cape, is one of South Africa's most iconic landmarks. It is a massive man-made excavation that was created during the diamond rush of the late 19th century. Known as the Kimberley Mine, the hole was once the largest hand-dug excavation in the world. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors a chance to explore the rich history of South Africa’s diamond mining industry.

Visitor Fee (if applicable):

• Entry to the Kimberley Mine Museum and the surrounding area typically costs around R100 - R150 for adults.
• Special tours or packages may have additional costs, so it’s best to check for updates on the official website or at the entrance.

Transportation:

• By Car: The Big Hole is located in Kimberley, which is accessible by road from major cities such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Pretoria. It is about a 6-hour drive from Johannesburg.
• Public Transport: Kimberley is accessible by bus and train, but traveling by car or arranged transport is often the most convenient way to visit the site.
• Guided Tours: Guided tours are available, offering insights into the history of the Big Hole and the city of Kimberley, with knowledgeable guides leading you through the site.

Things to Do:

1. Explore the Kimberley Mine Museum: Learn about the history of diamond mining in the region, the development of Kimberley, and the people involved in the diamond rush. The museum houses a variety of artifacts and historical exhibits.
2. View the Big Hole: Stand at the viewing platform and take in the vastness of the hole. The site offers great photo opportunities and a chance to marvel at the scale of the excavation.
3. Take a Guided Tour: Guided tours provide a detailed history of the mine and the impact it had on Kimberley and the country. You’ll hear fascinating stories about the diamond rush era and the people who worked at the mine.
4. Visit the Diamond Display: The museum includes a display of diamonds found in the region, including some of the largest stones ever discovered.
5. Explore the Surrounding Area: Walk around the historical area, including old mining equipment and restored buildings, which give visitors a glimpse of what life was like during the diamond rush.

Why People Enjoy Coming Here:

• Historical Significance: The Big Hole is a major part of South African history, being the site of the diamond rush that helped shape the country’s economy and culture.
• Unique Attraction: The Big Hole itself is a massive, awe-inspiring sight, and visitors enjoy standing at the edge of the excavation, which is over 1,000 meters in circumference and 463 meters deep.
• Insight Into the Diamond Industry: It provides a chance to learn about the diamond mining industry and its impact on the region, including the wealth, challenges, and injustices that came with it.
• Photography: The site is incredibly photogenic, with the vast hole, surrounding mining structures, and historic architecture offering great opportunities for photography.

How Old Is This Place: The Big Hole was started in 1871 during the diamond rush, when diamonds were first discovered in Kimberley. Over time, it became one of the most famous diamond mines in the world. The hole continued to be mined until the 1910s, and the site has been preserved as a museum and tourist attraction since the 1970s.

List of Activities:

1. Explore the Kimberley Mine Museum: Discover exhibits on the history of diamond mining, including artifacts and historical displays.
2. View the Big Hole: Stand at the observation platforms and get a sense of the scale of the mine.
3. Take a Guided Tour: Learn about the history of Kimberley and the people involved in the diamond rush.
4. Visit the Diamond Display: View some of the most significant diamonds found in the region.
5. Explore Historical Mining Equipment: See old mining tools and machinery used during the diamond rush era.
6. Photography: Capture the impressive views of the Big Hole and the surrounding area.

Additional Nearby Attractions:

1. Williamson’s Diamond Mine: Located near the Big Hole, this diamond mine offers insight into the modern-day mining process and the legacy of Kimberley’s historical diamond rush.
2. Magersfontein Battlefield: A short drive from Kimberley, this site marks the location of an important battle during the Second Anglo-Boer War in 1899.
3. The Kimberley Ghost Tours: For a more mysterious experience, visitors can join guided ghost tours to explore Kimberley’s haunted history and hear tales from the city’s past.
4. The Kimberley Big Hole and Ghost Tour: Another unique way to explore Kimberley’s history and local legends through a guided ghost tour.
5. Kimberley’s Old De Beers Mine: A historic site where visitors can see the remaining structures of one of the most famous mining companies in South Africa.

The Big Hole is a must-see landmark for those interested in the history of South Africa, the diamond industry, and the legacy of Kimberley. The impressive scale of the hole itself, combined with the educational exhibits and guided tours, makes it an intriguing destination for history buffs and tourists alike.