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Williamson Diamond Mine

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Industrial site

Weather…

The Williamson Diamond Mine, also known as the Mwadui mine, is located in the Shinyanga Region and is one of the world's oldest continuously operating diamond mines. Discovered in 1940 by Canadian geologist Dr. John Williamson, it is famous for producing rare and high-quality pink diamonds. The mine is based on a massive kimberlite pipe, one of the largest of its kind globally, and is worked through open-pit mining methods. For decades, it has been a joint venture between the Tanzanian government and international mining firms such as Petra Diamonds. The mine has fostered its own township, Mwadui, which features extensive social infrastructure including hospitals and schools. Historically, the mine was one of the first major industrial ventures in Tanzania and remains a symbol of the country's vast mineral wealth. Despite operational challenges in recent years, it remains a key source of gem-quality diamonds for the global market.

Location: Tanzania
Nearby: Shinyanga (25 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun–Aug.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	23	23	23	23	23	23	23	24	26	26	24	23
Rain mm	144	98	142	116	46	6	3	7	12	49	156	176

📋 Practical info

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What is this place?

The Williamson Diamond Mine in Mwadui is a historic diamond mine and one of the oldest continuously operating diamond mines in the world. It has played a significant role in Tanzania's mining history and economy.

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Visiting

The mine site is not accessible to the public. From the nearby road, however, waste rock piles and security infrastructure can be seen, indicating an active mine.

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Where to view it

A public viewpoint exists on the road to Mwadui, from where outlines of the mine facilities and processing plant are discernible. The hill range in the background provides a natural frame.

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Local products

The mine produces rough diamonds, processed into jewellery. In nearby Shinyanga town, travellers can purchase traditional Tanzanian crafts such as Tinga Tinga paintings and wood carvings.

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Active season

Diamond mining operates continuously throughout the year. The best season to visit the region is the dry season from June to October, when road conditions are good and visibility is clear.

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Nearby

Combine a visit with Shinyanga town, known as a regional trading centre. The area is also near Serengeti National Park and Lake Victoria, both worthy of further exploration.

Geography

Coordinates

-3.52800, 33.61200

Facts

The mine was discovered in 1940 by Canadian geologist Dr. John Williamson.
It is famous for the 'Williamson Pink', one of the world's finest pink diamonds.
The Mwadui kimberlite pipe covers an area of approximately 146 hectares.
The Tanzanian government maintains a 25% shareholding in the mine.
Mwadui is a self-contained mining town with its own airport and schools.
The mine has been in almost continuous operation since its opening in 1940.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Shinyanga25 km · SWExplore →

Shinyanga Farmland28 km · SWExplore →

Tazekka National Park68 km · NWExplore →

Guercif70 km · NExplore →

Wembere Plain74 km · WExplore →

Tazeka76 km · NWExplore →

Igunga76 km · NWExplore →

Bariadi79 km · NEExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

What does the Williamson diamond mine produce?

The mine is known for producing high-quality diamonds in the Shinyanga region.

Can I buy diamonds as a tourist?

Directly at the mine this is not possible; diamonds should only be purchased from certified dealers.

Is the mine historically significant?

Yes, it is one of the oldest continuously operated diamond mines in the world and has shaped the regional history.

What is the economic importance?

It is an important employer for the local population and contributes significantly to export earnings.

Is there a visitor center?

Currently, there is no public visitor center as it is a strictly controlled industrial facility.

Williamson Diamond Mine: where is it located?

Williamson Diamond Mine is located in Tanzania.

Williamson Diamond Mine: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is Jun, Aug.

Williamson Diamond Mine: why is it worth visiting?

The Williamson Diamond Mine, also known as the Mwadui mine, is located in the Shinyanga Region and is one of the world's oldest continuously operating diamond mines.

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