Things To Do
in Kimberley
Kimberley is a historic city in South Africa, known for its diamond mines that played a significant role in the country's economy. The city offers visitors a chance to explore the Big Hole, a massive crater that was created by diamond mining in the late 19th century. Kimberley is also home to various museums and historical sites that provide insight into its diamond mining past.
Additionally, the city boasts charming Victorian architecture and a vibrant cultural scene.
- "Ngiyabonga" - Thank you
- "Unjani?" - How are you?
- "Sawubona" - Hello
- "Kodwa" - But
- "Ngicela" - Please
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $40
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the Big Hole, the largest hand-dug excavation in the world. Enjoy a guided tour to learn about its history and significance.
Head to the Kimberley Mine Museum to explore fascinating exhibits about diamond mining. Take time to enjoy a picnic in the nearby park.
Finish the day at a local restaurant, savoring traditional South African cuisine. Reflect on the day’s discoveries while enjoying the evening atmosphere.
Begin with a nature walk in the nearby Mokala National Park, observing various species of birds and wildlife. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the scenic views.
Continue your exploration with a guided safari tour to see more wildlife in their natural habitat. Capture beautiful photographs of the picturesque landscape.
Wrap up your nature-filled day with a campfire experience at a nearby lodge. Share stories and enjoy some local entertainment under the stars.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including diamond mining history.
- Access to various historical museums and attractions.
- Pleasant climate with warm summers and mild winters.
- Relatively low cost of living compared to major South African cities.
- Close-knit community with a friendly atmosphere.
- Limited job opportunities and economic challenges.
- Safety concerns, including crime rates in certain areas.
- Basic infrastructure and amenities may not meet urban standards.
- Limited entertainment and recreational options.
- Potentially less access to quality healthcare facilities.
Best Activities in Kimberley
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historical battlefield and enjoy the scenic trails.
Observe flamingos and other bird species in their natural habitat.
Enjoy exhilarating bike trails in a picturesque setting.
Tours
Uncover the best of Kimberley with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Kimberley
Visit one of these nice places.
A historical landmark and viewpoint offering a glimpse into Kimberley's diamond mining past
Scenic location offering panoramic views, particularly at sunrise and sunset
Opportunity to capture images of restored mine buildings and vintage mining equipment against the backdrop of the surrounding landscape
Food in Kimberley
Kimberley Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A traditional South African barbecued meat, typically including boerewors (spiced sausage), lamb chops, and steak. The best place to enjoy braaivleis is at local braai spots and informal gatherings.
Must-Try!
A slow-cooked stew that combines various meats, vegetables, and spices, simmered to perfection in a three-legged cast-iron pot over an open flame. Many local eateries and homesteads offer authentic potjiekos experiences.
A popular cured meat snack derived from beef, game, or ostrich meat. It's widely available in markets, supermarkets, and specialty biltong shops throughout Kimberley.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Kimberley better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling food court is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of local and international cuisines. You can savor traditional African dishes, bunny chows, and fusion street food delicacies here.
Located about an hour from Kimberley, this vibrant market is a treasure trove of local produce, homemade jams, artisanal bread, and freshly prepared street food. It's a great opportunity to sample authentic Northern Cape flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is a common practice to greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact while greeting. It is courteous to use formal titles such as Mr., Mrs., or Miss when addressing elders or people in positions of authority.
Respecting elders is an important cultural norm in Kimberley. It is customary to show respect by using respectful language and gestures when interacting with older individuals.
Gift giving is a common practice in Kimberley to show appreciation. It is important to present gifts with both hands and to show gratitude when receiving gifts.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Kimberley with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Kimberley
Ensure a smooth experience
In Kimberley, South Africa, tipping is a common practice in restaurants, hotels, and for other service providers. It is customary to tip around 10-15% of the bill at restaurants, and to tip hotel staff for good service. Tipping is also appreciated for tour guides, drivers, and other service providers.
Payment in Kimberley, South Africa is primarily done in South African Rand (ZAR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most establishments, but it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand, especially when visiting smaller shops or markets. Mobile payment services are also gaining popularity in the region.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Kimberley.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Ideal time to visit Kimberley, with pleasant weather and blooming wildflowers. It's perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the natural beauty of the region.
Warm and sunny weather, the summer season is great for enjoying outdoor adventures, visiting historical sites, and experiencing local festivals and events.
Mild temperatures and beautiful autumn landscapes make this a good time to explore Kimberley's attractions and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking and birdwatching.
Cool and dry weather, winter is suitable for indoor activities like visiting museums, galleries, and exploring the town's history. It's also a good time for stargazing in the clear night skies.
Kimberley at Night
Hiking in Kimberley
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A scenic hiking trail that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape and unique geological formations.
This trail offers a combination of historical significance and natural beauty as it winds through the area of the famous Magersfontein battle.
Experience the unique beauty of the Kalahari with this trail that showcases desert landscapes, wildlife, and stunning sunsets.
A picturesque hike that leads you through diverse flora and fauna, perfect for nature lovers and birdwatchers.
This trail provides a historical journey along the famous Big Hole, allowing hikers to learn about the diamond mining history of Kimberley.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Kimberley through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Kimberley by plane.
The busiest airport in Africa, located in Johannesburg, approximately 490 km from Kimberley.
One of the major international airports in South Africa, located in Cape Town, about 800 km from Kimberley.
An international airport located in Durban, approximately 900 km from Kimberley.
An international airport located in Port Elizabeth, about 770 km from Kimberley.
Located northwest of Johannesburg, approximately 460 km from Kimberley.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Kimberley, representing a significant portion of the population, primarily consisting of various ethnicities and cultural backgrounds within the black community.
This group includes individuals of mixed race heritage, which forms a significant demographic in Kimberley, reflecting a blend of indigenous, European, and Asian ancestry.
Composed mainly of individuals of European descent, this group has historically been influential in the region, particularly during the diamond mining era.
This smaller demographic group includes descendants of Indian and other Asian communities, contributing to the cultural diversity of Kimberley.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is a popular sport in Kimberley, known for its rich history and several local cricket clubs that engage players and enthusiasts.
Rugby has a strong following in Kimberley, with local teams competing at various levels and community events showcasing the sport.
Soccer is widely played in Kimberley, with numerous clubs and schools participating in local leagues and tournaments.
Netball enjoys popularity among women and young girls in Kimberley, with active clubs and school competitions.
Athletics is popular in Kimberley, with various events taking place, promoting fitness and competitive spirit among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Kimberley.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants in Kimberley offer vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes, often showcasing the abundant fresh produce and inventive culinary techniques. Look out for menus that highlight plant-based delights and globally-inspired vegetarian fare.
Visitors with gluten-free dietary needs will find that several eateries in Kimberley accommodate this requirement with gluten-free bread, pasta, and dessert options. Always communicate your dietary preferences to the staff, who are generally accommodating and attentive.