Rich, not just in diamonds and diggings, but also in history, culture and agriculture, the Diamond Field region is definitely worth a visit.

Diamonds were first discovered in 1871 on Colesberg Koppie. It triggered rush fever which led to frantic mass diggings, culminating in what is now the Big Hole, the largest artificial construction to be found anywhere in the world. Blood, sweat, tears, triumph, murder and despair ... such are the foundation stones of Kimberley, diamond capital of the world and gateway to the Kalahari and Diamond Fields of the Northern Cape.

Around this 365m-deep pit, Kimberley sprang into being, impelled by the diamond rush that drew 30 000 miners to the diamond fields of South Africa. As time went by, prospectors' tents and shacks were replaced by tree-lined avenues graced by Victorian mansions, as Kimberley developed into a modern city.

Thirsty for more? Kimberley has numerous other attractions. Walk through the historical city centre, take in the museums, monuments and art galleries in old stately homes, or explore the city's haunted corners on the Kimberley ghost trail.

Then prepare yourself to experience the rest of the Diamond Fields region. The Vaal River diggings at Barkley West; old Boer War battlefields at Modder River and Magersfontein; the still operational Bultfontein mine; all this and more beckons to the diamond fields.