It is uncertain where the towns name originated, but it is believed to be a variation of an 18th century San leader’s name, Kudumane. The ‘eye’, or source, of the Kuruman River is one of South Africa’s natural wonders. A spring of crystal clear water gushes out from the foot of dolomite hills, about 20 million liters a day in both wet and dry seasons. The spring provides water to 71,000 inhabitants and nurtures an endangered species of cichlid fish. Kuruman was also home to Robert Moffat who lived here for 50 years (1820-1870), he was a Scottish missionary and the first person to translate the Bible into seTswana. Today Kuruman is a neat little town, its economy relies on the community’s stock farming, mining and agricultural activities.

Attractions and Things to do in Kuruman

Bird Sanctuary and Nature Reserve
The 2 000 hectare Nature Reserve is situated on the northwest side of Kuruman, on Hotazel Road. The reserve is home to a large variety of indigenous game, including about 115 different bird species.

The Eye
The Eye is the largest natural fountain in the Southern Hemisphere, and is located on Main Street. It is stocked with goldfish, carp, barbel and blue kurper. There is a café and ablutions faciliites available at the Eye. Tel: 053 712 1095.

Kuruman Trail
Is located about 11 kilometers from town. This interesting hiking trail has a lot to offer. Tel: 053 712 1095/6.

Red Sands Trail
Tel: 053 712 0269. A map is available from the Information Office.

Hunting
For hunting venues and more information, contact the local Tourist Information.Kalahari Hunters’ Association. Tel: 053 712 2711

Kalahari Manganese Field Mineral Collection
A private gemstone collection can be viewed. Tel: 053 712 2145.

Kuruman Country Club
the club offers golf a 9 hole golf course, squash court, bowls, tennis, snooker. Tel: 053 712 1242.

Moffat Mission Station
Completed in 1838, and located on Moffat Lane. It was the largest building in the Northern Cape for a long time. The daughter of Robert Moffat, Mary, got married to explorer David Livingstone in the church. It was declared a national monument in 1939. Tel: 053 712 1352/2645.

Paragliding & Hang-gliding
For venues and more information contact: 083 448 9201/ 053 723 1471.

Raptor Rehabilitation Centre
Located on the road to Upington. The centre rehabilitates and treats injured raptors. Appointments must be made Tel: 053 712 3576.

Truce Tree
Located on Seodin Rd. A truce from the 1914 Rebellion was negotiated beneath this shady camelthorn tree.

Tswalu Kalahari Reserve
Tswalu, means ‘new beginning’ in the Tswana language, it is the biggest privately owned game reserve in South Africa. It is Malaria free and boasts over 70 species of mammals and over 200 species of birds. It is also the historic home of the San people. Some of the activities they offer are: horse riding, game-drives, and bush walks.

Wonderwerk Cave and Rock Paintings
Located just 43 kilometers south down Daniëlskuil road on the Wonderwerk farm. Archaeological excavations of the the Wonderwork Cave, which is 140m long, have revealed a series of artifacts dating from some 800 000 years ago to the early twentieth century when members of the Bosman family made it their home. Many of these interesting artifacts and findings are on display at the McGregor Museum. Tel 082 832 7226.

McGregor Museum
The museum houses finds from the Wonderwerk Cave including Acheulean handaxes and cleavers, grass bedding, engraved stones, animal remains including extinct species, Later Stone Age artifacts and much more.