HIGHLIGHTS OF SOUTHERN AFRICA - GOLD AND DIAMOND MINING

Southern Africa is one of the richest regions in the world when it comes to mineral resources. In fact, it was the discovery of gold on the reef of the Witwatersrand that created the impetus for the country's economy as we know it today. But before the discovery of gold, there were diamonds. The mad rush for diamonds in Kimberley created the biggest man-made hole in the world, as well as lining the pockets of the mining magnates like Barney Barnato and Cecil John Rhodes with more wealth than most men can only dream of. When gold was discovered on the reef, these mining magantes moved up to Johanesburg, creating the mystique of the Randlords, and some of South Africa's biggest companies. Visit the mines, go on underground tours and watch the gold pouring process, or even visit the homes of the Randlords on the heritage tours available.

By no means exhaustive, these highlights can help you plan your special trip to the southern tip of Africa.

GOLD AND DIAMOND MINING - HIGHLIGHTS
AFRICA-HIGHLIGHTS.COM	NORTH WEST PROVINCE	GAUTENG	MPUMALANGA	ACCOMMODATION
Southern Africa is one of the richest regions in the world when it comes to mineral resources. In fact, it was the discovery of gold on the reef of the Witwatersrand that created the impetus for the country's economy as we know it today. But before the discovery of gold, there were diamonds. The mad rush for diamonds in Kimberley created the biggest man-made hole in the world, as well as lining the pockets of the mining magnates like Barney Barnato and Cecil John Rhodes with more wealth than most men can only dream of. When gold was discovered on the reef, these mining magantes moved up to Johanesburg, creating the mystique of the Randlords, and some of South Africa's biggest companies. Visit the mines, go on underground tours and watch the gold pouring process, or even visit the homes of the Randlords on the heritage tours available. By no means exhaustive, these highlights can help you plan your special trip to the southern tip of Africa.

North West Province
The Big Hole, Kimberley, South Africa	Famous for its diamonds and the Big Hole, the biggest man-made hole in the world, Kimberley’s attractions hark back to its glorious past. Don a hard hat and take a tour down the mine!

Gauteng
Premier Diamond Mine, Cullinan, South Africa	The little town of Cullinan is dominated by the Premier Diamond Mine, where the largest uncut diamond, the Cullinan was discovered. Take a tour above and below the deep mine!

Mpumalanga
Pilgrim’s Rest, Mpumalanga, South Africa	The historical town of Pilgrim's Rest was declared a living museum and is a provincial heritage site in its entirety. Step back in time, and can get a sense of what the gold rush days of old.

Accommodation	If you are looking for accommodation anywhere in South Africa, the all new AA Travel Guides homepage is a great place to start your search. They have real-time booking online and good information on most South African towns including Cape Town, the Garden Route, Knysna, George, Durban, Sun City, Sabi Sands, and the Kruger National Park, as well as covering accommodation in the neighbouring countries of Namibia, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Zambia, Mozambique, Lesotho and Swaziland. Click here

GOLD AND DIAMOND MINING - HIGHLIGHTS

North West Province

Gauteng

Mpumalanga