18/06/2026
Mapatiza Mine is an educational, interactive replica underground gemstone mine tour located at Gecko Jewellers in Midrand, South Africa. It offers a family-friendly adventure where visitors explore realistic tunnels, discover how crystals form, and learn about the continent's rich gemstone heritage.
The Mine TourWhat to Expect: A guided 30-to-45-minute underground journey where you'll walk through colorful passages and chambers showcasing raw, unpolished crystals like amethyst, quartz, and tiger's eye embedded in the rock.
Educational Value: The tour teaches visitors about the geology of gemstone formation, the mining process, and how these rough stones are eventually extracted and transformed into beautiful jewelry.
On-Site Activities & FacilitiesGecko Jewellers: After the tour, visitors can explore one of Africa's largest crystal and gemstone showrooms, which features healing crystals, rough mineral specimens, and handcrafted jewelry.
Scratch Patch: A popular hands-on activity where both kids and adults can dig for and collect their own gemstones to take home.
Additional Amenities: The property also features a coffee shop for light meals, outdoor areas, and kids' push-paddle carts.
Planning Your VisitLocation: 52 Mercury Avenue, Crowthorne, Midrand, South Africa.
Operating Hours: Tuesday–Saturday (09:00–16:00) and Sundays & Public Holidays (09:00–13:00).
Admission: Tickets for the guided mine tour typically cost between R80 and R90 depending on age.
Tips: It's great for all ages, but since it is slightly dim and cool in the tunnels, bringing a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes is recommended. Advanced booking for weekend tours is highly encouraged.