Postmasburg, Green Kalahari

Situated in the Northern Cape in South Africa, Postmasburg is completely surrounded by beautiful green foliage fed by a dam and several shimmering fountains.

Postmasburg was proclaimed a town in 1892 and named after Rev J Postma, a founding member of the Dutch Reformed Church. Postmasburg even had its own diamond rush. The first diamond was discovered in 1918 and as a result an open cast mine grew. The mine was permanently flooded in 1935 and as a result, just like Kimberley, Postmasburg could also boast its very own “Big Hole”. This hole is over 45 m deep and filled with fish. It’s a beautiful sight visited by many. Although diamonds are still mined here, the most important mineral is manganese.

There have been a few archaeological findings in this beautiful area. A sight known as Blinkklipkop, meaning “Shining Rock Hill”, boasts indications that the Khoisan attempted mining in this area as early as 700 AD. They mined specularite, which is a soft form of haematite. This stone was used as a cosmetic as well as in certain rituals.

The Witsand Nature Reserve is truly a beautiful spot to visit. Witsand is a rare jewel found in the treasure house of the Kalahari. This gorgeous nature reserve boasts a large spectacular vista of creamy white dunes, 10 km long and 5 km wide, nestling in the folds of the surrounding red Kalahari dunes. Interestingly, apart from their unique colour, these dunes are also famed for the eerie roaring sound that the sands at Brulsand make when they are disturbed. The Witsand Nature Reserve protects a highly sensitive ecosystem and many of the plants found here are completely unique in the reserve found nowhere else in the world. Bird lovers are particularly drawn to the Witsand Nature Reserve as it boasts a large diversity of radiant birdlife.

Postmasburg also boasts spectacular architecture and many historical sites. An old blue dolomite stone Reformed Church built in 1908 can be visited. The Reverend Dirk Postma Statue is found nearby. There is also a rather impressive gun known as “Howitzer Gun” which stands at the civic centre. It honours the men of Postmasburg who died during World War II.

For the adventure seekers, there are plenty of thrilling 4x4 trails, hiking and biking in the area. Postmasburg boasts the amenities, tranquillity and beauty that every person loves to visit and experience. Unlike many other places in the arid Kalahari, Postmasburg is ideally fed by a large dam and continuously flourishing.