Cullinan is a small mining town about forty minutes east of Pretoria, and its mine is one of the most famous in the history of gemstones. In January 1905 a stone of more than three thousand carats was found here, the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever recovered. It was named after Sir Thomas Cullinan, the mine's founder, and was later cut into several major gems, the two largest of which are part of the British Crown Jewels. The mine has gone on producing notable stones, including rare blue diamonds, and the surface tour gives a good grounding in how a kimberlite pipe forms, how the vast open pit was dug and how the operation later moved underground. It is a rewarding half-day trip from Pretoria, and the village itself, with its tree-lined streets and period buildings, deserves an hour of your time.
A guided tour usually starts with an introduction to the geology and the history of the discovery, and then moves to viewpoints over the pit and the old workings. Guides describe how diamonds are recovered, sorted and valued, and many tours include a walk past the old headgear and displays of equipment.
Surface tours do not go underground, but the scale of the open pit and the stories of the stones that came from it are impressive. Tour days and times vary, so confirm schedules in advance, and consider booking a tour that is combined with a Pretoria city circuit for a fuller day.
Cullinan village grew up around the mine in the early twentieth century and still has a quiet, small-town atmosphere. Walk along Oak Avenue, where mature trees shade the road, and look at the company houses, the old hotel and the small shops. There are cafes, craft stalls and a couple of antique dealers, and it is easy to combine lunch with a stroll. The Sammy Marks Museum lies not far away, so a day on the eastern side of Pretoria can include both sites.
Practical advice
Wear sturdy shoes and a hat, and bring water. The tour is outdoors and can be hot in summer. Photography is permitted in designated areas, and security procedures are sensible, so follow guide instructions. Children over about eight generally enjoy it, especially those curious about gems and geology. Transport options include a private car, a guided tour from Pretoria or Johannesburg, and self-drive on good roads.
Planning note
Tours are timed and group sizes are limited, so book ahead and arrive at the meeting point early. Bring a light jacket in winter, since the pit viewpoint can be windy. The village shops close earlier than city shops, so plan lunch before mid-afternoon.
What to expect
The experience
Guided surface tour of the mine with views of the open pit, followed by free time in Cullinan village.
Best time
Mornings on tour days; spring and autumn for comfortable temperatures.
How long
Three to four hours including the village.
Tips
Confirm tour days, wear closed shoes and a hat, and allow time for lunch in the village.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Anyone curious about gems, geology and industrial history.
- Families
- Good for children aged about eight and over.
- Couples
- A pleasant day out with lunch among old buildings.
- Pair with
- Sammy Marks Museum or a Pretoria city tour.
- Time needed
- Half a day, or a full day combined with Pretoria.
Good questions
What was found at Cullinan?+
The largest gem-quality rough diamond ever recovered, found in 1905 and later cut into major gems, the two largest of which are in the British Crown Jewels.
Do tours go underground?+
Surface tours stay above ground, with views of the pit and workings.
How far is it from Pretoria?+
Around forty minutes by road to the east.
Is the village worth visiting?+
Yes, it has period buildings, cafes and craft shops.
Can I visit independently?+
Tours are scheduled, so check days and book ahead.
