Explore the many things to do in Kimberley, a charming former mining town in South Africa’s Northern Cape.
Despite its small size, Kimberley holds a wealth of experiences awaiting discovery.
From captivating galleries showcasing local artistry to remarkable museums narrating some of South Africa’s most important historical figures, this unassuming town offers many attractions for those willing to explore its hidden gems.
Also read: 20 Things to do in Sutherland
1. McGregor Museum
Established on September 24, 1907, the McGregor Museum holds special historical significance.
After many appeals for a Kimberley Museum, Mrs. McGregor, widow of former Kimberley mayor Alexander McGregor, found it in her heart to generously provide much-needed funds for its construction.
Officially named the Alexander McGregor Memorial Museum, it’s been given the fitting nickname, the McGregor, for over 100 years.
Guided by Miss Maria Wilman, its first director (1908-1947), a Cambridge-educated scholar in Geology, Mineralogy, and Chemistry, the museum flourished. Over time, it expanded its influence under various directors, contributing significantly to an ecological and historical understanding of the Northern Cape.
Opening hours: Monday – Saturday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm
Address: Atlas St, Herlear, Kimberley
Contact: 053 839 2700
2. William Humphreys Art Gallery
Discover the treasure of Kimberley’s art scene at the William Humphreys Art Gallery.
The gem is nestled within Oppenheimer Gardens and is known affectionately as WHAG. This artistic haven graces the northern part of South Africa, captivating locals and wanderers alike.
Beyond its art display, WHAG stands as a learning and culture centre. Its canvas holds many exhibitions, from screening films catering to all ages to conducting art workshops that inspire young minds.
Reveal your artistic spirit through WHAG’s developmental classes for children and special-needs adults. The gallery’s commitment is evident through its engagement with the Kimberley community, empowering women through craft workshops and pioneering the WHAG Prison Project.
Delve into a realm of knowledge at WHAG’s unique art library, a sanctuary of visual and tactile inspiration. Open to all, it’s a haven for students and curious minds, offering the brushstrokes of art history and internet access for creative exploration.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 4:30 pm; Saturday, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm; Sunday, Closed
Address: 1 Cullinan Cres, Civic Centre, Kimberley
Contact: 053 831 1724
3. Sol Plaatje Museum Kimberley
The Sol Plaatje House Museum in Kimberley echoes the history of this nation.
A central figure in forming the African National Congress, Sol Plaatje’s journey from founder to first secretary general is immortalised. This liberation leader shone as a journalist, educator, translator, and editor in Kimberley.
A fabric of his life is woven through the museum’s African literature library, along with captivating exhibits.
Plaatje’s pen authored seminal books, notably ‘Native Life in South Africa.’ A momentous melody resonates as the museum plays the inaugural sound recording of ‘Nkosi Sikelele iAfrika.’ Amidst echoes of the Anglo-Boer War, the museum tells tales of Plaatje’s life and legacy.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 4:00 pm, Saturday – Sunday, Closed
Address: 32 Angel St, New Park, Kimberley
Contact: 053 833 2526
4. Kimberley: Time travel in vintage trams
In the bygone year of 1887, the Victoria Tramways Company built the Kimberley Tram system purposely for the Big Hole excavation and mining.
Take a voyage on the vintage orange as a truly throw-back experience awaits all passengers. Commencing at the venerable Kimberley Mine Museum, the tram’s route unveils treasures of history, including the primal mining shaft and the genuine West End tavern.
It encircles the vast Big Hole, granting patrons an intimate glimpse into its depths. En route, you’ll encounter landmarks of Kimberley’s past, including the esteemed De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd’s Head Office and the originative Big Hole mine mounds.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 9:00 am – 4:15 pm
Address: Tourism House,15 Villiers Street, Kimberley
Contact: 053 492 0311
5. The Duggan-Cronin Gallery (Kimberley)
Step into a timeless journey at The Duggan-Cronin Gallery, where photographs capture a fading past.
The indigenous souls of southern Africa come alive through the lens of Alfred Duggan-Cronin, Aubrey Elliot, Jean Morris, and Alice Mertens. From 1919 to 1980, the images on display unveil traditions and attire now merely heard as distant echoes.
Originally called The Lodge in 1889, this sanctuary sheltered John Blades Currey, a London and South African Exploration Company pioneer.
A pivotal shift occurred in 1938 when the Kimberley City Council accepted this haven for the Duggan-Cronin Collection, spearheaded by Alfred Duggan-Cronin himself.
Today, the McGregor Museum preserves this legacy of AM Duggan-Cronin’s journey through Kimberley, commemorating tribes, their crafts, and their heritage.
Opening hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; Saturday – Sunday visits by appointment only
Address: 17 Egerton Rd, Belgravia, Kimberley
Contact: 053 839 2722
6. Mokala National Park
Nestled in nature’s embrace, Mokala National Park beckons with abundant wildlife.
Mokala is a hub of activity, offering guided drives at all times of the day. Enjoy in a bush braai or make a tasty potjie kos, perfect for groups of friends or families.
Uncover the cultural legacy of guided rock art drives. At Mosu Lodge, a pool invites refreshing dips while Lilydale Rest Camp’s pool awaits overnight guests. Enjoy picnics beneath open skies at Matopi, with cleaning facilities nearby.
Kameeldoring Picnic Area, amid ancient trees, boasts modern comforts. Birds find peace at Stofdam hide, spotting shrikes and kingfishers.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, 7:00 am – 6:00 pm
Address: Modder River, Herbert District, Kimberly
Contact: 053 204 8000
7. Felidae Centre: A Safe Place For Cats
The Felidae Centre sits as a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. Immerse yourself in the marvels of untamed wildlife during your visit.
Enrich your knowledge as you enjoy informative tours. Every resident animal holds significance in their natural habitat.
Witness the striking wild cats up close, with their sights and sounds enthralling you.
Experience a pride of lions feeding and exploring their expansive enclosures.
Remember to seize the opportunity to feed the charming bat-eared foxes should they roam near you.
Marvel at cheetahs, lions, caracals, leopards, serval cats, monkeys, and meerkats. Each moment spent here is a chance to connect with the wilderness. Engage with these splendid creatures at Felidae Centre and create lasting memories amid nature’s embrace.
Opening hours: Saturday, 10:30 am – 11:00 am; Monday -Friday and Sunday, Closed
Address: 30 km from Kimberley, N8, Kimberley
Contact: 082 801 3819
8. Kamfer’s Dam
Venture just north of Kimberley to discover the captivating Kamfers Dam.
Spanning 400 hectares, the once parched reservoir now glistens with revived water, thanks to Kimberley’s urban growth.
Amidst the lush wetland embrace, the iconic Lesser Flamingo continues to thrive.
Thousands of these beautiful birds paint the skies, feasting and nurturing their kind. Kamfers Dam, a haven for these endangered birds, is a guarded sanctuary vital for survival.
Amidst burgeoning urbanisation and pollution’s threat, a responsibility dawns upon both tourists and locals to cherish and safeguard this cherished zone. Kamfers Dam, set on Kimberley’s edge, boasts the enrapturing beauty of flamingos year-round, with September and October painting the scene most vividly.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday, All hours
Address: 6 km north of Kimberley in the ecotone
Contact: info@savetheflamingo.co.za
9. The Fat Greek Kimberley
Are you craving Mediterranean magic? Discover it at The Fat Greek Kimberley. Taste their delicate cuisine, including the delightful Pita Bread – a warm, pillowy cloud of perfection.
Embark on a journey to Greece with every bite. The restaurant’s executive chefs select premium-grade meats for unparalleled taste. Indulge in mouthwatering curry delights that spice up your day.
Experience a cosy ambience for gatherings with friends and family. Come savour Greek cuisine’s rich flavours at The Fat Greek Kimberley.
Opening hours: Monday – Thursday, 5:30 pm – 10:00 pm; Friday – Saturday, 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm; Sunday, Closed
Address: 229 Du Toitspan Rd, Belgravia, Kimberley
Contact: 071 438 1091
10. Rockwood Conservation Area
Rockwood Conservation’s mission is simple: to save rhinos from extinction.
Their innovative conservation methods safeguard these magnificent beasts, despite the distant wilderness.
While it’s not their wild habitat, it’s their best chance at a future. With no poaching in seven years, Rockwood’s success is evident. Every Rockwood activity aids rhino preservation.
Step into Africa’s rarest species realm at Rockwood and help save rhinos while having a great time in nature.
Activities on the range include rhino darting and witnessing health checks as a guest. Visitors can feed and bond with a baby rhino on a guided nursery tour. Experience Southern White Rhinos in their natural setting through expansive Rhino Game Drives.
Capture incredible images of thriving rhino populations with expert guidance along the way.
Opening hours: Monday- Friday, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm; Saturday – Sunday, Closed
Address: Rockwood, Northern Cape Province
Contact: 053 841 1962
Also read:
