In short
- Stroll down historic Oak Avenue for cafes and boutique shops.
- Visit Maker's Village for locally-made crafts and vintage items.
- Grab a drink at the historic Cullinan Hotel.
In this article
The Cullinan Diamond Mine sits right next to Cullinan Village. This well-preserved mining town is ideal for exploring before or after your tour. You can easily spend an extra two hours walking the historic streets, shopping for local art, and eating at independent cafes.
What is on Oak Avenue?
Oak Avenue is the main historic street in Cullinan, lined with Victorian-era buildings and jacaranda trees.
This tree-lined street is the heart of the village. It features well-preserved architecture housing boutique shops and local cafes. Plan for about an hour to walk down the avenue and browse the storefronts.
Where can you buy local crafts in Cullinan?
The Maker's Village is a creative hub selling local arts, crafts, and vintage goods.
You will find this community space just a short walk from the mine. It takes about 30 minutes to browse. The Maker's Village is the best spot to buy unique souvenirs while supporting local artists.
Where can you eat near the Cullinan Mine?
Cullinan Village has several cafes on Oak Avenue and the historic Cullinan Hotel.
After a 1.5 to 2-hour surface tour, you will likely want a meal or a drink. Stop by the historic Cullinan Hotel for a drink and a step back in time. Remember to carry cash or a credit card to pay.
Can you buy diamonds in Cullinan Village?
Yes, you can purchase diamonds at the Cullinan Diamond Market located at the mine.
While not technically in the village itself, this exclusive jewelry showroom is part of the surface operations. You can view replicas of famous stones and buy authentic loose diamonds. All stones purchased here are laser inscribed to guarantee authenticity.
What else is nearby for a full day trip?
Many visitors combine a Cullinan visit with a tour of nearby Pretoria.
Cullinan is just 40 kilometers east of Pretoria. Guided combo tours often link the diamond mine with Pretoria landmarks. These usually include the Union Buildings, Kruger House Museum, and the Voortrekker Monument.
How should I structure my visit?
Plan for 4 to 5 hours to see the mine and the village at a relaxed pace.
Here is a simple breakdown of how much time to allocate for each major stop in Cullinan.
Questions travellers ask
How far is Cullinan Village from Pretoria?
Cullinan is located about 40 kilometers east of Pretoria. It takes approximately 45 minutes to drive there via the N4 highway.
Do I need cash in the village?
It is helpful to carry cash or a credit card. You will need it for local craft shops, cafes, and restaurants around Oak Avenue and Maker's Village.
Are children allowed in the village?
Yes, children of all ages are welcome in Cullinan Village. However, strict safety rules prohibit children under 10 years of age from entering the actual mine premises.
