Kimberley

Kimberley is synonymous worldwide with diamonds. In 1871, diamonds were found on a small hill that became known as Colesberg Koppie (later Kimberley). The result was a big hole, in fact the largest man-made hole in the world. It was here that the famous Star of Africa was found, a magnificent 83.5 carat diamond, and other giant sparklers far too big for a ring. The big hole, which yielded 14,5 million carats of diamonds from 28 million tons of ‘blue ground’, dominates the city of Kimberley and is quite an awesome sight. It is dormant now, but the Kimberley Mine Museum recreates what it was like in its heyday.
Kimberley was not always peaceful and prosperous and some of the most decisive Anglo-Boer War battles were fought here. In 1899 the Siege of Kimberley lasted 124 days, with the entire town besieged inside.
Kimberley Accommodation

Augrabies Falls National Park

The Augrabies Falls National Park, an hour from Upington, comprises an area of 820 sq km and stretches along the Orange River. The vegetation is suited to the arid desert climate. The Kokerboom, or Quiver Tree grow here.
The Orange River drops 191 metres at the Augrabies Falls. The thundering cascade of water led the original Hottentot residents to believe that evil spirits were active here, and so they named the waterfall Ankoerebis, "place of big noises".The gorge at the Augrabies Falls is 240 m deep and 18 km long. It is a most impressive example of granite erosion.
Augrabies Falls National Park