Danielskuil is located 145 km’s north-west of Kimberley and 75 km’2 north-east of Postmasburg. It takes its name from a cone-shaped depression 6 m deep in the dolomitic limestone; with a domed covering, reminiscent of the biblical ‘Daniel in the lion’s den’ (Afr kuil, ‘hole’, ‘pit’). The Griqua leader Adam Kok is said to have used this depression as a prison, and to also have kept snakes in it. Historians have found no evidence supporting the legend that early Griqua inhabitants used this sinkhole as a prison. Danielskuil is part of the Green Kalahari region.

Found in the Northern Cape Province within the ZF Mgcawu District. It was formerly known as Danielskuil Municipal District or Area.

Though small, the town thrives on limestone quarrying, diamond mining and the large farming community. The area is known for rich asbestos deposits and for diamonds, while marble is also mined. The Tswana name of Danielskuil is Tlaka le Tlou or Tlaka-lo-Tlou, ‘elephant reed’. This region includes the towns of Danielskuil and Lime Acres. Kgatelopele is a Setswana name that means “progress”.

Activities

Boesmansgat
A unique natural sinkhole, renowned as the second deepest and largest of its kind in the world. On the farm Mount Carmel. Tel 053 384 0564.
British Fort
Built during the Anglo-Boer War, the fort is on a hillock overlooking the village.
Gaol
Visit the limestone sinkhole in which early Griqua were mistakenly thought to have incarcerated prisoners.
Hiking
Mount Carmel. Tel 053 384 0564

Key Statistics 2011

Return to Northern Cape Towns/Cities