The Kimberley Mine, or "The Big Hole of Kimberley", as it is usually known is arguably the most famous diamond mine in the world and one of the biggest hand-dug holes in existence. During its lifetime of 48 years, 14 504 566 carats of diamonds were mined. The original hole had a depth of 240 meters, although debris falling into the hole over the years has reduced this to 215 meters.

The Big Hole of Kimberley as a tourist attraction has been extensively upgraded since we last saw it. A new visitor's center has been built and a large suspended observation platform has been erected so as not to disturb the unstable ground around the hole. A short movie is shown at the visitor's center on the history of the Big Hole and some large actual diamonds are also on display inside the vault at the center. The museum village around the hole has been refurbished as well.

Area of the Big Hole of Kimberley Map