Lichtenburg Attractions
Lichtenburg, an agricultural center 230km/143mi west of Johannesburg, had a more eventful existence during its diamond rush in the 1920s. The area has no great scenic or cultural attractions, but the town may be a convenient stopover on a longer journey (there are a few modest hotels).
The town was founded in 1873 on the Elandsfontein farm. It developed at lightning speed after the first diamond was found in the area in 1926 and 10,000 prospectors flocked to the town. The boom lasted only ten years, during which the whole of the level river valley was dug over and the diamond fields were worked out.
The town was founded in 1873 on the Elandsfontein farm. It developed at lightning speed after the first diamond was found in the area in 1926 and 10,000 prospectors flocked to the town. The boom lasted only ten years, during which the whole of the level river valley was dug over and the diamond fields were worked out.
Lichtenburg Diamond Fields
To the north of Lichtenburg, on both sides of the road to Zeerust, are the remains of diamond workings. Here and there can be seen tools left by the miners. There are some houses dating from diamond rush days in Bakerville, 21km/13mi north of Lichtenburg.
Lichtenburg Museum
Lichtenburg's municipal museum contains mementos and documents on the town's diamond rush and on the life of General Jacobus de la Rey, a hero of the Boer War.
Hours
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 | 9:00 | Closed |
| Close | 12:00 | 12:00 | 12:00 | 12:00 | 12:00 | 12:00 | |
| Open | 14:00 | 14:00 | 14:00 | 14:00 | 14:00 | 14:00 | |
| Close | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 | 17:00 |
Lichtenburg Nature Reserve
The Lichtenburg Nature Reserve (area 6,000ha/15,000 ac), on the northern outskirts of Lichtenburg, has 40 species of mammals, including rhinos, mountain zebras and water buffaloes. Attached to the reserve is a breeding station.
Hours
| Mon | Tue | Wed | Thu | Fri | Sat | Sun | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Open | 8:00 | 8:00 | 8:00 | 8:00 | 8:00 | 8:00 | 8:00 |
| Close | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 | 17:30 |
