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Modikwa Platinum Mine
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The Modikwa Platinum Mine is a significant underground mining operation located in the Eastern Limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex in South Africa. Operated as a joint venture between African Rainbow Minerals and Anglo American Platinum, the mine is a key producer of Platinum Group Metals (PGMs). The primary commodities extracted include platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold from the Upper Group 2 (UG2) reef. Geographically, it sits on the border of the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces, roughly 25 kilometers northwest of the town of Burgersfort. The facility comprises two main decline shafts and an on-site concentrator plant that processes raw ore into high-grade concentrate. As a major employer in the region, Modikwa plays a vital role in the socio-economic development of local rural communities. The mine contributes a steady output to the global market, supporting industrial applications ranging from catalytic converters to jewelry.
- Location: South Africa
- Top sights: Monganeng · Lekgobo
- Nearby: Tzaneen (77 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 23 | 23 | 22 | 19 | 17 | 14 | 13 | 16 | 20 | 22 | 22 | 23 |
| Rain mm | 122 | 97 | 78 | 44 | 9 | 5 | 4 | 5 | 16 | 51 | 96 | 121 |
📋 Practical info
What is this place?
The Modikwa Platinum Mine is a major producer of platinum and other platinum group metals in the eastern limb of the Bushveld Complex. It provides numerous jobs in the region and significantly contributes to South Africa's mining economy.
Visiting
The mine is an active industrial facility, so public access is typically not allowed. From outside the fence, one can see the headframes and industrial infrastructure.
Where to view it
The best view of the mine site is from the nearby hill or the main road running along the fence. A viewpoint on the opposite side of the valley provides an overview of the entire facility.
Local products
The region primarily mines raw materials such as platinum, palladium, and rhodium. Local artisans occasionally craft precious metals into jewelry sold at markets in nearby towns.
Active season
The mine operates in shifts year-round, with maintenance shutdowns in the winter months of June to August. Production fluctuates with global commodity prices but remains consistently high.
Nearby
A visit to the mine can be combined with a trip to the Blyde River Canyon or Bourke's Luck Potholes. Nearby traditional villages offer insights into Pedi and Ndebele culture.
Geography
Facts
- The mine operates as a 50/50 joint venture between ARM and Anglo American Platinum.
- It focuses on extracting minerals from the UG2 reef of the Bushveld Complex.
- Annual production typically reaches around 300,000 ounces of PGMs.
- The site is situated 25 km northwest of the regional mining hub Burgersfort.
- Modikwa employs over 4,500 people, including staff and contractors.
- The estimated mineral resource supports a mine life exceeding 30 years.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Modikwa Platinum Mine (2)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you tour the Modikwa-Platinmine?
No, tourist tours are not possible at the active mine.
What is the economic significance of the mine?
The mine contributes significantly to local employment and South Africa's platinum production.
Is the area safe for tourists?
Generally yes, but one should stick to public roads and remain vigilant.
Are there nearby attractions?
The region features scenic areas and other mining sites.
How do you get to the mine?
Travel is usually by car via well-maintained regional roads.
Modikwa Platinum Mine: where is it located?
Modikwa Platinum Mine is located in South Africa.
Modikwa Platinum Mine: what is there to see?
Highlights include Monganeng, Lekgobo.
Modikwa Platinum Mine: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Apr, Sep, Oct.
Modikwa Platinum Mine: why is it worth visiting?
The Modikwa Platinum Mine is a significant underground mining operation located in the Eastern Limb of the Bushveld Igneous Complex in South Africa.
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