About Rustenburg

The Capital of the Bojanala Platinum region of South Africa’s North West Province, the city of Rustenburg is known for its rich history as well as its rich minerals and soils. Rustenburg also boasts the beautiful surroundings of the Pilanesberg and Magaliesberg Mountain Ranges.

It was a FIFA Soccer World Cup 2010 host city, and is home to the Royal Bafokeng Stadium, named after the richest tribe of South Africa.

The Royal Bafokeng tribe are still ruled by their King (also vice chouncelor of North-West Province Universties) Kgosi Leruo Molotlegi.

With the majestic beauty surrounding Rustenburg, it’s understandable why it has become a quick getaway from the hustle and bustle of nearby cities such as Johannesburg. The many nature reserves in the area are a popular, while central accommodation options and activities are also easy to find.

Sunset over the Magaliesberg Mountains near Rustenburg

Getting to Rustenburg:

Rustenburg is located at the foot of the Magaliesberg Mountains, about 110 km away both from Johannesburg and Pretoria. From Johannesburg, the Pietersburg Highway will take you straight to the exit road leading to Rustenburg.

To date, over 1 mil. people call Rustenburg their home…

What makes Rustenburg Unique:

1. It’s colourful and meaningful history made a huge contribution to the South Africa we live in today. From the Bafokeng people, the Anglo-Boer war, the 1995 Rugby World Cup to the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Read more about the history of Rustenburg.

2. The Wildlife – all around Rustenburg you’ll find places you can visit to experience the big 5 of Africa. Accommodation in Rustenburg is readily and widely available, so you’ll never have to worry about where to stop for the night – read more about the different accommodation options.

3. Experience Unique Shopping. The Rustenburg Ramble is one of the best known tourist attractions and offers a unique shopping experience in Rustenburg. Find that perfect piece of art, enjoy a delectable lunch or sit down at a coffee shop to watch the world go by – it is the perfect place to wander and wile away the hours.

3 of the big 5 which can be found in the game reserves around Rustenburg

4. The contribution to the economy – Rustenburg is home to 2 of the largest platinum mines, (Impala Platinum and Anglo Platinum) and the world’s largest Platinum Refinery (PMR – Precious Metal Refiners).  PMR produces and refines more than 70% of the world’s platinum. Xstrata Alloys, the biggest Ferrochrome producer in the world is also located in Rustenburg.

5. Sport history and local sport. As mentioned, Rustenburg was one of the host cities of the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup here in South Africa and hosted the English soccer team.

Rustenburg also played host to 3 rugby games during the 1995 Rugby World Cup, played right here at our own Olympia Park. Most South African’s will remember the final day of the tournament when South Africa won the Rugby World Cup and Madiba  walked out onto the field wearing a Springbok jersey with pride, which prompted the crowd to chant his name in unison.

6.  Famous Connections: The following famous personalities were either born, or grew up in Rustenburg:

• Pik Botha (Politician)
• Koos du Plessis (Famed Afrikaans songwriter)
• Andre Stander (Bank Robber)
• Frik du Preez (Springbok rugby player)

Pierneef (One of South Africa’s most esteemed painters) painted several nature scenes of the Rustenburg area including a painting of Rustenburg Kloof.

Climate

Rustenburg has almost year-round sunshine. Summer temperatures range from 22º C and 35º C, with afternoon thunderstorms from August to March. The average temperature from May to July is 16º C, but can range from an average of 2º C to 20º C in a single day.

Click here to see current weather conditions in Rustenburg.

What to Do:

Click here to visit our Tourism Pages, including the Accommodation Page and the Restaurant Guide.