Diamond Mining Town
Barkly West is a small town situated in the Northern Cape on the northern bank of the Vaal River. Originally known as Klipdrift, the area became popular in the late 19th century after the discovery of rich alluvial diamond-bearing gravels and thousands of hopeful diggers set up camp at what became known as Canteen Koppie.
While a dispute ensued over possession of the area, the diggers declared their own republic. Attempts by Zuid-Afrikaanse ZAR President MW Pretorius to exercise jurisdiction over the area were ignored, and the dispute was only settled when Britain annexed the territory of Griqualand West in October 1871.
In addition to its place in South Africa's diamond history, Barkly West is also an archaeological treasure-house, and finds have included implements dating back to the Earlier Stone Age and the fossilised remains of numerous animals.
Visitors who want to experience the authenticity and richness of the Northern Cape should consider Barkly West as a stopover en route to the Kalahari. Various traditional houses have been restored to serve as quaint guesthouses, so travellers have a few great Barkly West accommodation options.
In December 1871, Sir Henry Barkly, Governor of the Cape, was appointed Governor of Griqualand West and Canteen Koppie was later renamed Bar...
Good Hope Private Reserve is a natural safe haven for the beautiful wildlife of the Kalahari in the Northern Cape. With its close proximity ...