The Dome with its magnificent scenery marks the centre of the world’s oldest and largest visible impact crater and is a Unesco World Heritage Site. Visitors have a right to demand well-informed and responsible tour guiding.
Our Association supports the training, development and oversight of professional nature, culture and adventure guides in the area.
Vredefort Dome − More than two-million years ago an meteorite, the size of Table Mountain collided with Earth at a speed of 20km per second. The resulting explosion was similar to that of multiple nuclear bombs. It penetrates 17km deep into the Earth.
The explosion was of such a magnitude that pulverised rock powder rained down on the Earth for months, blotting out the sun. Some scientists speculate that the incident may have increased the planet’s oxygen levels to the point of making life possible. This cataclysmic event created what today is known as the Vredefort Dome, a South African World Heritage Site.
On impact and in a matter of minutes, it forced layers of rock outwards and downwards to form three rims of crumpled ridges that today stretch as far as Johannesburg and into the North West province. Simultaneously granite and gold were forced to the surface.
Over the years various groups of people came to the area like the ancient San people followed by the Sotho, the Tswana, Boer and Brit, and gold prospectors in search of fortunes.
In contrast with its past violence, the site has been transformed into a tranquil sanctuary for body and soul where a plethora of leisure activities are enjoyed.
Private landowners take their role as custodians seriously by guarding against overdevelopment.
Many operate B&B establishments, conference centres and wedding venues. Adventure seekers will find more than enough activities to test their bodies against the Vredefort Dome’s challenging geographical features such climbing its peaks and abseil its rock faces. They can explore its mine tunnels and challenge the rapids of the Vaal. Guided tours ensure interesting visits to the Iron and Stone Age sites and granite quarries. The Vredefort Dome also provides a very interesting outing for the fauna and flora enthusiast.
(More on: www.hartrao.ac.za & www.tourismnorthwest.co.za)
