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 Mine
tours and museums
The history of the diamond coast is one rich with legends
and uncommon heros. Long before the first diamonds were found,
a grand scheme had barges shipping mineral ore down the Orange
River from the interior, to then be shipped south from the
river mouth. Little did these pioneers guess at the incredible
riches directly underfoot. In both Port Nolloth and Alexander
Bay, the local museums provide an excellent introduction to
both the history and natural wonders of this region, with
maps, old photos and some truly unusual specimens. Tours of
the restricted mining area can also be arranged with a few
days' notice.
 Orange
River Mouth
The wetland at the mouth of the Orange River forms an important
stop over for a great variety of migratory birds and has accordingly
been declared a Ramsar site. The endemic Barlow's Lark, a
must for any birder, is also found along the riverbanks, along
with smooth pebbles and semi-precious stones for rock and
gemstone enthusiasts. Unfortunately this wetland is currently
under major threat from several sources including reduced
flow and desertification, but efforts are underway to restore
this wetland. Also of interest are fields of green and orange
lichen growing on a hill near the turnoff to Alexander Bay.
These lichen fields are soon to be declared a national monument.
 Proposed
Groen Spoeg Park
The proposed coastal park, which stretches for 50 kilometres
along the coast, will be situated between the Groen- and Spoeg
Rivers in Namaqualand, just south of Hondeklip Bay. This area
is an ecologically important tract of land in the Karoo region,
encompassing a high number of endemic fauna and flora. It
was announced recently that a marine reserve was to be proclaimed
between the Groen and Spoeg rivers.
See the website for more information:
www.hondeklipbay.co.za
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The
Diamond Route has lured geologists, adventurers and fortune
seekers for over a century. Some were lucky while the fabulous
riches forever avoided others all of their lives. 
