The Big Hole viewing platform
Historical place
Museums
History Museums
About
The Big Hole viewing platform offers a glimpse into Kimberley's diamond mining history. This enormous pit was hand-dug in the 1800s and has a storied past. The platform provides an honest impression of the mining industry's history, with an entertaining film about late-19th-century mining conditions and characters in Kimberley.Why you should go
- Experience a breathtaking view of one of the world's largest man-made holes
- Learn about the fascinating history of diamond mining through guided tours and museum exhibits
- Explore an old mining town replica with interesting displays and artifacts
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What users say about the app
Highlighted reviews
We had a very informative tour from our tour guide David. Very interesting museum with lots of exhibits. Great history lesson. I especially enjoyed the experiences on the tour. The precinct with all the shops stocking historical goods were delightful, not to buy but for exhibits. There is also safe car parking.
Definitely something you have to see at least once in your life. It's amazing to think that this hole was made with the simplest of tools by diamond miners. It cost R80 per person just to walk out onto the viewing platform and look at the Big Hole. If you want to do the tour it costs a little more.
We enjoyed the visit to the Big hole on the 17 June 2025. Jackie our tour guide was awesome. She was very friendly and explained everything in such a good and informative way.
See all reviews
Phone
+27 53 839 4600Hours
SuSunday: 8AM–5PM
MoMonday: 8AM–5PM
TuTuesday: 8AM–5PM
WeWednesday: 8AM–5PM
ThThursday: 8AM–5PM
FrFriday: 8AM–5PM
SaSaturday: 8AM–5PM
S Circular Rd, Kimberley, 8300, South Africa
Wednesday: 8AM–5PM
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
SuSunday: 8AM–5PM
MoMonday: 8AM–5PM
TuTuesday: 8AM–5PM
WeWednesday: 8AM–5PM
ThThursday: 8AM–5PM
FrFriday: 8AM–5PM
SaSaturday: 8AM–5PM
People typically spend 2.5 hr here
Know before you go
- Bring a water bottle and wear a hat for sun protection during your visit
- Consider taking the guide tour for in-depth knowledge about The Big Hole's history
- Watch out for inflated prices inside shops compared to outside vendors nearby
- Arrive early to ensure you have time to explore all exhibits before closing time
Reviews
Visitors rave about the stunning view of The Big Hole, its historical significance, and the well-maintained facilities. They appreciate the friendly staff, informative tours, and the opportunity to learn about diamond mining history. Some mention minor drawbacks like high prices in shops and a rushed tour experience but overall find it worth visiting for its unique insights into Kimberley's past.Review score
4.3out of 5
Review score
4.3out of 5
5 stars
2692
4 stars
1235
3 stars
489
2 stars
93
1 star
141
We had a very informative tour from our tour guide David. Very interesting museum with lots of exhibits. Great history lesson. I especially enjoyed the experiences on the tour. The precinct with all the shops stocking historical goods were delightful, not to buy but for exhibits. There is also safe car parking.
Definitely something you have to see at least once in your life. It's amazing to think that this hole was made with the simplest of tools by diamond miners. It cost R80 per person just to walk out onto the viewing platform and look at the Big Hole. If you want to do the tour it costs a little more.
We enjoyed the visit to the Big hole on the 17 June 2025. Jackie our tour guide was awesome. She was very friendly and explained everything in such a good and informative way.
What a sight!! And what makes it even more amazing is that it was dug by hand!! The drive humans have when they desire something is amazing and this is a symbol of determination
Very interesting experience, went on my own to pass time and ended up spending nearly 2 hours here, I would highly recommend the tour, Chris was a wonderful and knowledgeable tour guide. Take cash if you would like to tip as there is no ATM.
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Phone
+27 53 839 4600Hours
SuSunday: 8AM–5PM
MoMonday: 8AM–5PM
TuTuesday: 8AM–5PM
WeWednesday: 8AM–5PM
ThThursday: 8AM–5PM
FrFriday: 8AM–5PM
SaSaturday: 8AM–5PM
S Circular Rd, Kimberley, 8300, South Africa
Wednesday: 8AM–5PM
SuMoTuWeThFrSa
SuSunday: 8AM–5PM
MoMonday: 8AM–5PM
TuTuesday: 8AM–5PM
WeWednesday: 8AM–5PM
ThThursday: 8AM–5PM
FrFriday: 8AM–5PM
SaSaturday: 8AM–5PM
People typically spend 2.5 hr here