GEM OF THE NORTHERN CAPE
Come and explore the Diamond Fields, situated in the Frances Baard District: a place of wide-open spaces and arid natural beauty. The region is defined by the diamond rush of the 19th century; apart from its mining roots, the area has many more experiences to offer including cultural attractions, game farms, birding, water activities and agri-tourism. Nature lovers will feel at home, as there are several game farms and waterways in the region where visitors can spot endangered game species and a wonderful variety of endemic birds.
LOCAL MUNICIPALITIES AND ATTRACTIONS
SOL PLAATJE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
This municipality is named after the first secretary- general of the African National Congress and writer, Solomon Plaatje. At its heart is the bright metropolis of Kimberley, the capital city of the Northern Cape Province. Kimberley and its surrounding area trigger the interest of different kinds of tourism enthusiasts, from leisure to adventure, history and art lovers. Enjoy an adrenaline-filled skateboarding session at the Khumba Skate Park, pop in at the Star of the West restaurant with its rich mining history, or visit the Dornfield Nature Reserve for an ideal weekend getaway filled with birdlife, wildlife and attractive accommodation.
PHOKWANE LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
Phokwane embraces Hartswater, Pampierstad and Jan Kempdorp. Hartswater, labelled as an oasis on the edge of the Northern Cape, intrigues those interested in untouched landscapes, photography and frequent stops. The area is home to Cotton SA, which offers an idealistic agri-tourism experience where visitors are familiarised with the production process of cotton and boasts with a variety of nuts and local wines. In addition, Phokwane offers leisure activities plus historical and natural attractions.
MAGARENG LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
The name Magareng is derived from the Setswana word meaning “the middle”—this region is literally in the centre of the country. Warrenton is an agricultural town located 70km north of Kimberley on the Vaal River and is the administrative centre of the municipality. The area offers significant historical value along with breathtaking natural landscapes such as the Spitskop and Vaalharts dams where water activities can be enjoyed.
DIKGATLONG LOCAL MUNICIPALITY
Dikgatlong means “confluence” in Setswana, referring to the place where the Harts and Vaal rivers flow into one another. The area is home to the site of the first alluvial diamond diggings in the region and is renowned for its excellent fly-fishing spots and luxury game lodges. Visitors can explore the Barkly-West Museum that displays local geology, archaeology and the history of the town; visit the prehistoric Nooitgedacht glacial paving, known to have been forged 250 million years ago; or go in search of the Gong-Gong Waterfall that offers spectacular natural scenery.
GEM OF THE NORTHERN CAPE
Come and explore the Diamond Fields, situated in the Frances Baard District: a place of wide-open spaces and arid natural beauty. The region is defined by the diamond rush of the 19th century; apart from its mining roots, the area has many more experiences to offer including cultural attractions, game farms, birding, water activities and agri-tourism. Nature lovers will feel at home, as there are several game farms and waterways in the region where visitors can spot endangered game species and a wonderful variety of endemic birds.
Frances Baard
District Municipality
Tel: 053 838 0911
www.francesbaard.gov.za
