BIG HOLE KIMBERLEY

Through an investment by De Beers Consolidated Mines, numerous new attractions had been added to the Big Hole facility in order to provide a world-class tourist destination, providing unique insights into diamonds, diamond mining and the process of recovering rough diamonds right through to the polished gem found in today’s exquisite pieces of jewelry. With the development and ongoing improvements to the N 12 national road, visitors are encouraged to take an alternative route through the breathtaking Northern Cape and to come and explore the wonderful attraction that is the Big Hole in Kimberley. The Big Hole facility also has numerous shops catering for all tastes, whether one wishes to buy a diamond ring, a semi-precious stone, leather goods or even a small memento to remind them of  

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their visit to Kimberley. The are a number of options regarding grabbing a bite to eat, with a coffee shop as well as pub located on the premises. A 4-star guest house is located just meters away from the new visitors centre, with secure private parking. De Beers has been mining in Kimberley for more than 120 years. The recent closure of underground operations at Kimberley Mines marked the end of underground mining in Kimberley, as we know it. De Beers’ presence in Kimberley continues, however, in the processing of the tailings resources through the multi million rand Combined Treatment Plant, as well as the Big Hole Project, a unique and exciting way for De Beers to invest in tourism activities, ultimately supporting the communities that surround Kimberley Mines. The Big Hole tourist attraction could draw tourists from all over the world to the Northern Cape. It has the potential to become a dynamic World Heritage site of unique and lasting value as part of a holistic initiative involving a range of interest groups. It is an asset, which in time, will form the hub in a wheel of tourism initiatives branching out all over the Northern Cape.