Metsweding, in the north-east corner of Gauteng, is where South Africa’s biggest diamond was discovered and the area sparkles with natural and historical attractions. The region has many game reserves and conservancies, which are being linked together and restocked with game with the potential to form a large ‘Big Five’ game reserve in the future.

Against this backdrop of natural beauty, Metsweding offers a melting pot of history and culture. The area's history is of particular significance to the Tswana, Pedi, Ndebele and Tsonga-speaking people, many of whom can trace their roots back to the ancient bush and rolling grasslands.

The present-day region, established in 2000, is developing a project known as Dinokeng, "All of Africa in One Day". You can explore traditional Ndebele culture, go on a game drive, take in a shebeen and explore a diamond mines all in just 24 hours. Dinokeng is a Blue IQ initiative of the Gauteng provincial government to establish a premier tourist destination close to Gauteng and is a good example of tourism transformation. Job creation and social upliftment is the main aim of this project particularly of the historically disadvantaged communities in Metsweding. The project will not only relieve poverty, but will also provide excellent prospects for investors. Sustainable, ethical and progressive job creation for the predominantly poor and rural locals will give them the opportunity to participate in the development of the area as a premier tourist destination. With an emphasis on training and support, people can work in hospitality, nature and ecotourism, conference and bulk infrastructure industries. The increase in tourism also allows for the preservation and promotion of traditional crafts.

The development of Dinokeng is further underpinned by the fact that many South Africans are now able to experience tourism for the first time. The Metsweding region is a great value destination, with a variety of reasonably priced places to stay. There are superb hotels and game lodges, homely chalets, charming bed and breakfasts and rustic self-catering camps, all offering a warm welcome and great value for money.

Being so close to the major urban areas means that even those people living in Gauteng can afford a weekend - or even a day - away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The social hubs of this region are the farming town of Bronkhorstspruit with its spiritual retreats, Gauteng's only wine estate and numerous picnic spots at dams and nature reserves. The quaint Victorian mining town of Cullinan is a treasure chest of history. The Cullinan experience includes visits to stone-built miner's cottages, a turn-of-the-century station and authentic trading centre buildings, jewellery shops and museums and surface and underground tours of the mine.

Metsweding is also an important water catchment area with the Elands and Pienaars rivers feeding the Bushveld and grassland areas. The Mkhombo, Rust de Winter and Roodeplaat dams all offer great recreational facilities for day-trippers and weekend visitors.