Kimberley, South Africa Travel Guide

Discover Kimberley, South Africa's Diamond City, where history, culture, and natural beauty converge, offering a unique and enriching travel experience.

Kimberley, located in the Northern Cape province of South Africa, is a city with a glittering past and a rich history. Known as the Diamond City, Kimberley was the epicenter of a diamond rush in the late 19th century, attracting thousands of prospectors and fortune hunters. Today, it stands as a testament to the enduring allure of these precious gems, with its historic sites and museums offering a glimpse into this fascinating period. One of Kimberley's most iconic landmarks is the Big Hole, an enormous hand-dug crater that was once a thriving diamond mine. Visitors can explore the adjacent Kimberley Mine Museum, which features well-preserved buildings from the era, as well as exhibits showcasing the tools and techniques used by miners. For a more immersive experience, the underground tour takes you into the depths of a real mine, providing a firsthand look at the challenging conditions faced by the early miners. Beyond its diamond heritage, Kimberley boasts a vibrant cultural scene. The William Humphreys Art Gallery houses an impressive collection of South African and international art, while the McGregor Museum offers insights into the region's natural history and diverse cultures. Stroll through the historic streets of the city, where Victorian-era architecture stands side by side with modern developments, creating a unique blend of old and new. Kimberley is also a gateway to the scenic landscapes of the Northern Cape. The nearby Mokala National Park is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot rhinos, zebras, and various antelope species. The park's tranquil surroundings and diverse flora make it a perfect destination for nature lovers seeking a peaceful retreat.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Kimberley.

Visit the Big Hole early in the morning to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photos.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours, as many historic sites are best explored on foot.
Check local schedules for possible guided tours at the McGregor Museum for deeper insights.
Make sure to bring water and sun protection when visiting Mokala National Park.
Try local cuisine at the eateries around the city center for a taste of authentic South African flavors.

Explore Kimberley: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Kimberley

Top-rated picks

Best Attractions

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The Big Hole viewing platform

Discover The Big Hole in Kimberley, a monumental site that showcases the history of diamond mining and offers breathtaking views of the world's largest hand-dug excavation.

4.3

The Big Hole Museum

Discover the rich history of diamond mining and the world's largest hand-dug excavation at The Big Hole Museum in Kimberley, South Africa.

4.3

McGregor Museum

Explore the captivating history and natural wonders at the McGregor Museum in Kimberley, a top tourist attraction in South Africa.

4.2

Oppenheimer Gardens

Explore the serene beauty and rich history of Oppenheimer Gardens, a tranquil oasis in the heart of Kimberley, South Africa.

3.5

Best landmarks in Kimberley

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North Cape Mall

Experience the best shopping and entertainment at North Cape Mall in Kimberley, South Africa—a hub of retail and leisure activities for tourists.

4.2

The Big Hole viewing platform

Explore The Big Hole Viewing Platform in Kimberley, South Africa - an awe-inspiring historical site showcasing the world's largest hand-dug excavation.

4.3

Garden Court Kimberley

Discover the charm of Kimberley while enjoying a comfortable stay at Garden Court Kimberley, where modern amenities meet local hospitality.

4.1

Tourist Information Centre Kimberley

Discover Kimberley with ease at the Tourist Information Centre, your gateway to local attractions, history, and culture.

4.0

Best restaurants in Kimberley

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Choctaw Spur Steak Ranch

Discover Choctaw Spur Steak Ranch: A family-friendly steakhouse in Kimberley offering delicious breakfasts and hearty meals perfect for all ages.

4.1

RocoMamas Kimberley

Experience delicious hamburgers and fast food delights at RocoMamas Kimberley - your perfect stop for tasty takeout in South Africa.

4.6

Nando's Kimberley

Experience the vibrant flavors of flame-grilled peri-peri chicken at Nando's Kimberley - where South African meets Portuguese cuisine.

4.0

Burger King Kimberley Drive-Thru (Halaal)

Savor delicious halal fast food at Burger King Kimberley Drive-Thru – where flavor meets convenience in South Africa.

3.8

Best bars in Kimberley

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Occidental Bar

Savor the flavors of Kimberley at Occidental Bar, where grilled perfection meets a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.

4.4

Cheers Pub & Grill

Experience the vibrant flavors of South African cuisine at Cheers Pub & Grill in Kimberley, where every meal is a celebration of local hospitality.

4.4

Black Diamond Chesa Nyama

Discover the vibrant culinary scene at Black Diamond Chesa Nyama, a must-visit restaurant in Kimberley known for its delicious grilled meats and lively atmosphere.

4.0

Long Street Lounge

Experience the vibrant atmosphere and delicious cuisine at Long Street Lounge, Kimberley's premier dining and social destination.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Kimberley

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Long Street Lounge

Experience Kimberley's vibrant dining scene at Long Street Lounge, where delicious cuisine meets a lively lounge atmosphere.

4.2

Pirates Club

Experience the vibrant nightlife at Pirates Club in Kimberley, where drinks flow and friends gather in a lively atmosphere.

3.9

Lucid Lounge

Discover the electrifying nightlife at Lucid Lounge in Kimberley, where great drinks, live music, and dancing await.

4.3

Rio

Discover Kimberley's nightlife at Rio, a vibrant night club where rhythm and energy come alive under the colorful lights.

4.2

Best shops in Kimberley

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North Cape Mall

Discover North Cape Mall in Kimberley - a premier shopping destination with diverse retail, dining, and entertainment options for everyone.

4.2

Diamond Pavilion Shopping Centre

Explore the Diamond Pavilion Shopping Centre in Kimberley—your ultimate shopping destination for fashion, food, and family fun.

4.3

New Park Shopping Centre Kimberley

Explore New Park Shopping Centre in Kimberley, a premier shopping destination offering a blend of local and international brands and delightful dining options.

4.0

Exact - Diamond Pavilion

Discover the vibrant shopping experience at Diamond Pavilion, Kimberley's fashion hub for clothing and accessories for all ages.

4.0

Explore Kimberley on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Kimberley, mapped for you.

Kimberley Essentials

Kimberley is accessible via Kimberley Airport (KIM), which offers flights from major South African cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. From the airport, you can take a taxi or arrange for a rental car. Alternatively, Kimberley is well-connected by road and can be reached via the N12 national route from Johannesburg or the N8 from Bloemfontein. Long-distance buses also service Kimberley from various locations around South Africa.
Within Kimberley, transportation options include taxis, ride-sharing services, and rental cars. Public buses and minibuses (known locally as 'taxis') are available for local travel but may not always run on a strict schedule. Walking is feasible in the city center, where many of the main attractions are located. For a unique experience, consider taking a ride on the historic tram that tours the city.
The official currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are readily available throughout Kimberley. It's advisable to carry some cash, especially when visiting local markets or smaller businesses that may not accept cards.
Kimberley is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to exercise standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night, particularly in less crowded areas. The Central Business District (CBD) is generally safe during the day but can be less so after dark. Be cautious in neighborhoods like Galeshewe, which have higher crime rates. Always keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places.
In case of an emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance and 10177 for medical emergencies. Kimberley has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the Kimberley Hospital Complex. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, there are numerous pharmacies throughout the city where you can purchase over-the-counter medications.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and practically. Lightweight clothing is recommended during summer, while warmer layers are necessary in winter. Avoid flashy jewelry and expensive accessories. Religion: Do respect local customs and religious practices. Dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Public Transport: Do be patient and courteous on public transportation. Don’t discuss sensitive topics like politics or religion openly. Greetings: Do greet people with a firm handshake and smile. It’s polite to greet everyone when entering a room. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like bobotie and bunny chow. Don’t tip less than 10% in restaurants, as it's considered impolite.
To experience Kimberley like a local, visit the Big Hole and Kimberley Mine Museum, which provide a deep dive into the city’s diamond mining history. Take a stroll around the historical suburbs of Belgravia and Du Toitspan. Engage with locals at the Kimberley Club, a historical club frequented by notable figures. Don’t miss the Wildebeest Kuil Rock Art Centre for a glimpse into ancient San rock art.

When is the best time to visit Kimberley?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Kimberley

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Kimberley. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloDumela
  [doo-MEH-lah]
- GoodbyeTotsiens
  [TOHT-see-ens]
- YesEwe
  [EH-weh]
- NoNnyaa
  [NYAA]
- Please/You're welcomeKe kopa
  [keh-KOH-pah]
- Thank youKe a leboga
  [keh ah leh-BOH-gah]
- Excuse me/SorryKe kopa tshwarelo
  [keh-KOH-pah chwah-REH-loh]
- How are you?O kae?
  [oh kah-eh]
- Fine. And you?Ke teng. Le wena?
  [keh tehng. leh WEH-nah]
- Do you speak English?O bua Seisimane?
  [oh BOO-ah say-see-MAH-neh]
- I don't understandGa ke utlwe
  [hah keh oot-lweh]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseKe batla ho bona menu, kopa
  [keh baht-lah hoh boh-nah MEH-noo, koh-pah]
- I don't eat meatGa ke batle nyama
  [hah keh baht-leh nyah-mah]
- Cheers!Tjoe!
  [choo-eh]
- I would like to pay, pleaseKe batla ho fumana, kopa
  [keh baht-lah hoh foo-MAH-nah, koh-pah]
- Help!Boitumelo!
  [boy-too-MEH-loh]
- Go away!Sala go
  [SAH-lah goh]
- Call the Police!Bula pulane!
  [BOO-lah poo-LAH-neh]
- Call a doctor!Bula mohlokomeli!
  [BOO-lah moh-kloh-koh-MEH-lee]
- I'm lostKe ile ka tshwara
  [keh EE-leh kah chwah-RAH]
- I'm illKe tshwerele
  [keh chwah-REH-leh]
- I'd like to buy...Ke batla ho rekisa...
  [keh baht-lah hoh REH-kee-sah]
- I'm just lookingKe seka se tla
  [keh seh-kah seh tlah]
- How much is it?Ke bokae?
  [keh boh-kah-eh]
- That's too expensiveKe tla fiwa
  [keh tlah FEE-wah]
- Can you lower the price?O ka kopa ho lefa sepe?
  [oh kah koh-pah hoh LEH-fah seh-peh]
- What time is it?Ke nako mang?
  [keh NAH-koh mahng]
- It's one o'clockKe nako ya nngwe
  [keh NAH-koh yah nngweh]
- Half past (10)Nako e supa (le tse 10)
  [NAH-koh eh soo-PAH (leh tseh 10)]
- MorningMosese
  [moh-SEH-seh]
- AfternoonMaitsebeng
  [myt-seh-BEHNG]
- EveningMetsi
  [MEH-tsee]
- YesterdayNako e fetang
  [NAH-koh eh feh-TAHNG]
- TodayNamane
  [NAH-mah-neh]
- TomorrowNako e tla
  [NAH-koh eh tlah]
- 1Ngwe
  [ngweh]
- 2Pedi
  [PEH-dee]
- 3Tharo
  [TAH-roh]
- 4Nne
  [nneh]
- 5Tlhano
  [tla-NOH]
- 6Tlhare
  [tla-REH]
- 7Supa
  [soo-PAH]
- 8Robona
  [roh-BOH-nah]
- 9Rararo
  [rah-RAH-roh]
- 10Lesome
  [leh-SOH-meh]
- Where's a/the...?Kae...
  [kah-eh]
- What's the address?Ke kae aterese?
  [keh kah-eh ah-teh-REH-seh]
- Can you show me (on the map)?O ka kopa ho bona (ka maping)?
  [oh kah koh-pah hoh boh-nah (kah mah-PEENG)]
- When's the next (bus)?Ke nako efe (basi)?
  [keh NAH-koh EH-feh (bah-see)]
- A ticket (to ....)Tikete (ho ....)
  [tee-KEH-teh (hoh)]

History of Kimberley

In 1866, a young boy named Erasmus Jacobs discovered a shiny pebble near the Orange River, which turned out to be a 21.25-carat diamond. This event marked the beginning of the diamond rush in Kimberley, attracting thousands of prospectors from around the world.
The Big Hole, also known as the Kimberley Mine, is one of the largest hand-dug excavations in the world. Between 1871 and 1914, miners extracted over 14.5 million carats of diamonds from the site, leaving a massive crater that is now a major tourist attraction.
In 1888, Cecil Rhodes and Barney Barnato, two of the most prominent mining entrepreneurs of the time, merged their companies to form De Beers Consolidated Mines. This company came to dominate the diamond industry and played a crucial role in the economic development of Kimberley.
During the Second Anglo-Boer War (1899-1902), the town of Kimberley was besieged by Boer forces for four months. The siege ended in February 1900 when British forces, led by General John French, broke through the Boer lines and relieved the town.
Founded in 1881, the Kimberley Club became a social hub for the town's elite, including prominent figures such as Cecil Rhodes and Barney Barnato. The club is still operational today and offers a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of Kimberley's diamond magnates.
Kimberley played a significant role during the apartheid era in South Africa. The town was heavily segregated, with different areas designated for different racial groups. The effects of apartheid policies are still visible in the socio-economic landscape of Kimberley.
Named after the prominent South African intellectual and politician Sol Plaatje, the Sol Plaatje Municipality encompasses Kimberley and its surrounding areas. Plaatje was a key figure in the early 20th century, advocating for the rights of black South Africans.
Initiated in 2000, the Kimberley Process is an international certification scheme aimed at preventing 'conflict diamonds' from entering the mainstream diamond market. The process is named after the town due to its historical significance in the diamond industry.
Kimberley hosts several cultural festivals and events throughout the year, including the Kimberley Diamond Cup skateboarding competition and the Gariep Kunstefees, a cultural festival showcasing local art, music, and cuisine.
The McGregor Museum, established in 1907, is one of the key cultural institutions in Kimberley. It houses extensive collections related to the natural and cultural history of the region, including exhibits on the San people, early hominids, and the diamond mining industry.