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.
Frances Baard
District Municipality
Tel: 053 838 0911
www.francesbaard.gov.za