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Museum

The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum

📍 Tucker Street, Kimberley, 8301, South Africa
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4.2/ 5.0
★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location
South Africa, Kimberley
Category
Museum
Duration
2-3 hours
Address
Tucker Street, Kimberley, 8301, South Africa
Coordinates
-28.7400, 24.7700

Introduction

Site of 'The Big Hole' in Kimberley, South Africa, a colossal open-pit diamond mine left over from the 19th-century diamond rush (roughly 215 m deep and covering about 17 hectares) that was abandoned in 1914. The adjacent Kimberley Mine Museum displays the Eureka Diamond, the first diamond discovered in South Africa, and you can learn about diamond mining techniques and even shop for diamonds.

✨ Highlights

1
See the giant 215 m deep diamond mine pit
At The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum, See the giant 215 m deep diamond mine pit is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
2
Houses the Eureka Diamond, the first diamond found in South Africa
At The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum, Houses the Eureka Diamond, the first diamond found in South Africa is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.
3
Learn about the history and craft of diamond mining
At The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum, Learn about the history and craft of diamond mining is one of the most representative experiences of this destination.

🛈 Practical Info

→Best time to visit:Avoid the midday heat; mornings or late afternoons are more comfortable and better for photos.
→Transport:Arrange via local public transport, driving or a chartered transfer; check latest local transport info.
→Climate & dress:Prepare sun protection, water and suitable footwear for the local climate; some outdoor areas are exposed.
→On site:Follow on-site signs and rules; do not climb on or touch heritage features.
→Accessibility:Some areas have natural or uneven surfaces and may challenge those with limited mobility.
→Opening Hours:Open daily 08:00-17:00 (closed on Christmas Day)
→Transportation:Located in the centre of Kimberley; reachable by car or taxi.

💡 Tips

• Ticket prices, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: Open daily 08:00-17:00 (closed on Christmas Day); admission: Adults approx. R90/person, children (ages 4-12) approx. R50/person, seniors approx. R80/person.
• Prepare for the local climate (sun, hydration) and pace your visit accordingly.
• Respect local culture, customs and any religious norms; dress and behave accordingly.
• Combine with nearby sights and plan around local transport and accommodation.

FAQ

What are the opening hours of The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum?

Open daily 08:00-17:00 (closed on Christmas Day)

Any practical tips for visiting The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum?

Ticket prices, opening hours and tours may change; confirm on official channels on site. Queried opening hours: Open daily 08:00-17:00 (closed on Christmas Day); admission: Adults approx. R90/person, children (ages 4-12) approx. R50/person, seniors approx. R80/person. Prepare for the local climate (sun, hydration) and pace your visit accordingly.

How long should I spend at The Big Hole and Open Mine Museum?

A typical visit takes 2-3 hours.

This entry is compiled from public travel websites. Tickets, opening hours and transport may change; please confirm with official sources on site.