About South Africa

At the southern tip of the African continent, where the Atlantic and Indian Ocean meet, lies a country of untamed beauty and unlimited opportunity. Incomparable to any other destination, South Africa is rightfully regarded as the ‘World in one Country’ due to its contrasting cultural and natural diversity. A mix of the infrastructure and luxuries of the developed world and the energy of a developing country result in an exuberant pulse that flows through the country, reflected in its people, its wildlife and its ever-changing landscapes.

Between vibrant first world cities to intimate rural villages, you will find vast and unspoilt areas with healthy populations of wildlife. Golden beaches, soaring mountains, lush forest and open savannahs create brilliant backdrops to photographs, sunsets and memories that will remain with you for the rest of your life.

For visitors to South Africa, from those seeking adventure and excitement to those looking for rest and relaxation, there are a variety of travel experiences on offer. Taste the country’s award winning wines, inhale the smell of dinner cooking over an open fire, get up close to an African elephant, watch whales from the shoreline and listen to the lions roar as the day turns to night. From your first taste of “biltong” to the moment you set sight on the iconic Table Mountain, you will be overwhelmed by what is on offer. World class air travel, road network and accommodation and recreational facilities make South Africa an easy destination to travel to and around.

Brief History of South Africa

South Africa’s history starts thousands of years ago at the Cradle of Humankind (a UNESCO World Heritage site) near Johannesburg. One of the oldest archaeological sites in the world, this is where the famous fossil of a humanoid skull, nicknamed “Mrs. Ples”, was discovered and it is believed that this is the area from which human life emerged. Thousands of years ago various tribes roamed across the African continent. The Khoi-San (also referred to as the Bushmen or Hottentots) peoples were the original inhabitants of South Africa and their paintings remain after thousands of years on many rock faces around the country. Nguni tribes then slowly moved from the north in to South Africa and it was from here that the Zulu, Xhosa and several other distinct tribes emerged. Around 500 years ago Europe started actively trying to source new trade routes. The Portuguese became the first Europeans to set foot on South African soil. In1652 the Dutch sent a man by the name of Jan van Riebeeck to set up a trading post for ships travelling to and from India. From the 1800’s, South Africa saw British, German, French and Indian settlers arrive. The endemic Afrikaner culture developed from the early Dutch settlers.

The increase in European settlers led to skirmishes with the local Xhosa and Zulu tribes and famous colonial wars and battles were fought. When gold and diamonds were discovered in the late 19th century an intense struggle for the control of South Africa and its resources began. After another bitter war between Britain and the local Boers, South Africa was granted limited independence as a British dominion. Racial segregation had been informal in the colony, but from 1948 it became official government policy infamously known as Apartheid.

In 1961, South Africa became a republic. Opposition against Apartheid led to internal resistance, sanctions and trade embargos against the country. During the ‘Struggle’, protests and uprisings led to the imprisonment of anti-apartheid leaders such as Nelson Mandela (who was famously jailed for 27 years for his stand against the Apartheid system). During the 1980s international opposition forced the South African leaders to begin negotiations with the opposition leaders and in 1990 Nelson Mandela was set free. A referendum was held and South Africans voted in favour of allowing the country to become an open democracy for all its citizens. In 1994 South Africans voted in the first fully democratic elections where the ANC won with a landslide victory. Nelson ‘Madiba’ Mandela became the first democratically elected president of the ‘New’ South Africa.

Modern day South Africa is an exciting blend of growth, opportunity and optimism and has lived up to its status as one of the youngest democracies in the world. South Africa is a shining light to the rest of Africa on how a nation can overcome its past and move forward to a prosperous and unified future. South Africans embrace their diversity, their heritage, their history and as a nation, are proud to be part of this working democracy.

The People

South Africans are characteristically a warm and extremely hospitable people and will make international visitors feel most welcome. South Africa is known as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ which refers to the cultural diversity of it’s 47 million citizens. The country has an incredible eleven national languages and is made up by a myriad of different cultures: Black, White, Coloured and Indian and other Asian.

The four major ethnic tribes are the Nguni (Zulu and Xhosa), the Sotho, Shangaan-Tsonga and Venda. In addition to their native tongue, the two major white cultural groups are influenced from European descents - the English (originating in South Africa’s colonial past) and the Afrikaans (stemming from the pioneering Dutch settlers). The ‘Coloured’ populations are predominately of Cape Malay origin and live in the Northern and Western Cape Provinces. The Indian population (which is the largest population of Indians outside of the Indian sub-continent) reside mostly in the KwaZulu-Natal area. Minor Asian populations are also present and have similarly preserved their cultural heritage whilst still being fully integrated into the ‘New’ South African culture.

The Language

South Africa has eleven official languages and within each language there are various dialects. English is the most widely spoken language and visitors will not have a problem conversing in English. Zulu is the most common first language and Afrikaans is also widely spoken, whereas Ndebele, Sepedi, Xhosa, Venda, Tswana, Southern Sotho, Zulu, Swazi and Tsonga are spoken regionally. The languages have all had an effect on one another and languages borrow phrases from other languages. This has even resulted in a pidgin language developing known as ‘Fanagalo’ deriving from a mixture of the various languages.

The Culture

The multiracial society of South Africa blends the old and modern traditions to create a unique culture that is difficult to define. To truly understand the culture one needs to spend some time with the locals. South Africans enjoy their sport, love good food, spend much of their time outdoors and enjoy singing and dancing. In the rural areas you will find a more traditional way of life, far removed from the westernized urban areas and here you will find people that still understand their ancient folklore and rituals. Community tours are a great way of experiencing the local way of life whether in a traditional village or a modern township.

Wine and Dine

The cultural melting pot results in a culinary explosion. Fused with western and eastern styles of cooking South Africa is known for its great food and variety of dining options. Various cultures prepare dishes in their traditional style, but many of these are prepared and enjoyed by all South Africans. All cities in South Africa have restaurants serving food styles that range from American steakhouses to Chinese restaurants and from German Brauhauses to Sushi bars, there is a familiar cuisine for any visitor. One of the most popular styles of cooking is the ‘braai’ (barbeque), the outdoor activity of preparing food over an open fire. South Africans often braai for the sole purpose of cooking the national German-styled sausage called ‘boerewors’ (farmers sausage). One can prepare meat, fish, vegetables or bread on a braai and each culture has their own way of preparing their food for the braai. Traditional South African meals served in restaurants are often influenced by the Cape Malay cooking style where aromatic spices create palatable curries that are less spicy than the more familiar Indian curries. Meals are often a combination of hot and cold dishes and sweet and spicy flavors where meat is paired with fruit to enhance the tastes.

Maize is a staple food item in the African diet and in South Africa its uses are endless. From straight up corn on the cob (which is often on sale along the streets, ready to eat), to dried and broken to form samp, or crushed to a fine meal that is used for a variety of porridge styles or dumplings or it is fermented to create a popular African beer. Hearty stews using a variety of meats and vegetables are very popular and when prepared in a cast iron pot, it is referred to as a “potjie”. Immigrants from across the globe have also added their influence to the South African culinary style.

The wine in South Africa is considered to be ‘New World’ and the country has produced numerous award winning wines as well as plenty of easy drinking wines that offer great value for money. Wine has been produced in South Africa for over 350 years, in the tradition of the classic wine styles, and is well received across the world. The national grape, Pinotage is a local grape variety that developed from an experiment to graft together cinsaut and pinot noir, creating a distinctive wine best enjoyed with hearty stews, venison or any rich barbeque sauce.

The Cities

South Africa has two capital cities, Cape Town, the oldest city fondly referred to as the ‘Mother City’ in the Western Cape and Pretoria in the north. Parliament sits in Cape Town, the legislative capital and the government administration is housed in the executive capital, Pretoria. Johannesburg, with its small concentration of skyscrapers, covers a larger area of land than New York or London and has been dubbed the world’s largest man made forest due to all the trees planted in the suburbs. Pretoria and Johannesburg will soon merge into one great metropolis as both cities are rapidly growing towards each other. Situated along the east coast, Durban hosts the largest port and is the fastest growing city in South Africa. Bloemfontein is the judicial capital and is situated in the centre of the country and is the sixth largest city. Port Elizabeth, known as the ‘Windy City’ and East London are the gateway cities to the Eastern Cape.

Provinces and Places

There are nine provinces in South Africa each vastly different from the other in terms of culture, tourism destinations, climate, terrain and economic activity. The provinces aptly reflect South Africa as ‘a world in one country’.

The Eastern Cape

The tremendously diverse Eastern Cape is situated along the southeastern coast of South Africa and the terrain ranges vastly from the open and arid Karoo in the interior to an 800km strip of pristine coastline. The undeveloped, rustic and rural Wild Coast is a backpacker heaven. There are a range of malaria free “Big 5” game reserves and the flagship Addo Elephant National Park. The capital is Bisho, but Port Elizabeth, George and East London are the base cities for most visitors to the province. Although its major cities and beautiful touristy towns are first world in terms of infrastructure and investment, on a per capita basis the Eastern Cape is one of the poorest provinces. The province is economically reliant on its agriculture, tourism and automotive industries.

The Free State

Flanked by the Vaal River in the north and the Orange River in the south, the Free State lies in the heart of South Africa and has a continental climate. Rich in mineral wealth and producing 30% of the countries gold output, the landscape is characterized by open rolling grasslands that rise to meet the Maluti Mountains in the foothills of which the Golden Gate National Park is situated. The capital, Bloemfontein, is situated near the vital national road that links Cape Town to Johannesburg. Clarens, the romantic jewel of the Free State, is a small valley town situated in the Eastern Highlands. The region is growing in popularity as a tourism destination for those looking for something different. Agriculture is a significant contributor to the Free State’s economy

Gauteng

Meaning the “Place of Gold”, this province covers a mere 1.4% of the country’s land area yet contributes 33% to the national economy and 10% to the GDP of the entire African continent. Gauteng is the economic hub of South Africa and almost twenty percent of South Africa’s population live in Johannesburg, Pretoria and their outlying areas. As such Gauteng has a very developed infrastructure and an energetic pulse that can be felt the minute one arrives at OR Tambo International Airport. People living in Johannesburg tend to have a work ethic to match London or New York and live by the motto ‘work hard, play hard’. Gauteng is also South Africa’s shopping capital and has a string of top quality golf courses. The theme park styled Gold Reef City (based on Johannesburg’s gold mining heritage) and the Cradle of Human Kind archaeological site and museum provide great educational tours and fun days out for the whole family.

KwaZulu-Natal

The warm Indian Ocean influences the humid coastal climate, whereas the hilly interior is much cooler. Pietermartizburg is the capital of KwaZulu Natal whilst the largest city -Durban - is the busiest port in Africa. The main industry in the province is sugar farming and refining. Extensive preservation parks conserve the picturesque wetlands and rich wildlife regions of Zululand in the north. Here one can find the Hluluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserves, The famous St Lucia Wetlands and the world class dive sites of the coral reefs of Sodwana Bay. The impressive Drakensberg Mountains provide countless hiking opportunities for those wishing to explore the craggy heights. Beach lovers, surfers, fishermen, scuba divers and nature enthusiasts will not be disappointed by what the province has to offer.

Limpopo

The northernmost province of South Africa is also one of the largest provinces in terms of surface area while Polokwane is the largest city and the province’s capital. Limpopo forms South Africa’s border with Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. The northern half of the Kruger National Park lies in Limpopo and the newly formed and culturally rich Mapungubwe National Park is located in its far north. The cascading Waterberg wilderness is situated in the south of the province and a number of prominent game reserves such as Welgevonden and Marakele National Park are found here. The Soutpansberg mountain range runs through the heart of Limpopo and hosts a myriad of plant and bird species. The province relies largely on its agricultural exports, which produces significant quantities of tropical fruit, sunflowers, maize, various nuts and cotton.

Mpumalanga

The Drakensberg Escarpment is a divisive barrier between the grasslands of the ‘Highveld’ plateau and the subtropical ‘Lowveld’ region. It is here that South Africa’s national treasure, the Kruger National Park, is located along with a wealth of other famous private reserves such as the Sabi Sands and the Manyelethi. Nelspruit is the capital and is the gateway to this bushveld region. The Blyde River Canyon is a visually spectacular destination and the views from the aptly named ‘God’s Window’ are simply breathtaking. Quaint villages like Hazyview and old mining towns such as Pilgrim’s Rest provide for an interesting day out. Heading underground to explore the Sudwala caves is another exciting experience. Dullstroom, Belfast and the Lydenberg surrounds are premier trout fishing areas. Mining, citrus farming and forestry play a large role in the economy of the province.

Northern Cape

Although the Northern Cape is the largest province in South Africa, it is the most sparsely populated as distances between the province’s small towns are enormous. Kimberly, famed for its diamond mining past and having the largest man made open hole in the world in its centre, is the capital. The largest river in South Africa, the Orange River, flows through the province and into the Atlantic Ocean providing for exciting week long river rafting trips through the province’s dry wilderness. In contrast to the usually barren environment, a magnificent flowering season occurs in the west of the province from August to September each year in an area known as Namaqualand. The Kalahari forms the northern border of the province and it is here that the impressive Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is found. The Augrabies Falls National Park is also located in the far north of the Province and this quiet park is an interesting stop over for a night or two.

North West Province

Located within an easy drive of Johannesburg and Pretoria is South Africa’s “Platinum Province”. The North West Province contributes 94% of the country’s platinum and 25% of South Africa’s gold production. Beyond the mining corridor lies the famous entertainment Mecca - Sun City - and popular game reserves such as Madikwe and the Pilanesberg National Park. The impressive Magaliesberg mountain range runs through the province providing exciting hiking, hot-air ballooning and mountain biking opportunities. The area is in general very rural - agriculture and cattle farming are important contributors to the economy of the province.

Western Cape

Bordered by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the southern-most province in Africa boasts an unparalleled diversity of natural and cultural draw cards that attract visitors from all over the world. Arguably the most beautiful city in the world, Cape Town’s white sand beaches, majestic mountains, Mediterranean climate, fine dining, shops, and vibrant night life offer something for everyone. Within an easy drive of the city one has the opportunity of spending a day tasting some of the world’s finest wines, cage diving with Great White Sharks in Gansbaai, watching whales frolic in the waters off Hermanus (regarded as the best land-based whale watching destination in the world) or driving the picturesque Cedarberg mountains and the rich Ceres Valley. Besides the internationally recognized wine industry, the textile industry and agriculture play a large role in employment and the Western Cape has the highest employment rate in South Africa.

The South African economy

South Africa has a wealth of natural resources, a strong physical infrastructure and a successful financial sector that making it Africa’s largest economy. The economy is two tiered, part of it rivaling other developed countries and the other part more in line with developing countries. The country has a wealth of natural and mineral resources. South Africa is the world’s largest producer and exporter of gold and platinum, with coal and diamonds also being significant exports. The discovery of diamonds and gold were important to South Africa historically and played a large role in the early economy of the country.

Only thirteen percent of South Africa’s land is suitable for farming, yet this contributes eight percent to the country’s exports. The well equipped transport infrastructure (with three deep water ports, three major international airports and a good rail and road network) contributes to the success of the agriculture industry. The current government is actively trying to reduce their role in certain parts of the economy and is focused on increasing private sector investment and competition. The sophisticated stock exchange is ranked in the top 20 stock exchanges in the world in terms of market capitalization. All central banking functions are performed by the South African Reserve Bank. South Africa’s official currency is the “Rand” and is expressed as the symbol “R”. There are 100 cents (expressed as the symbol “c”) in 1 Rand (R1). The code for South African Rands is ZAR, from the Dutch Zuid-Afrikaanse Rand. The internet domain suffix name for South Africa reflects the Dutch origin, “co.za”.

Poverty and Crime

South Africa has a reputation as being a dangerous country to visit and live in. Compared to other countries, there is a high rate of crime and the media do play a major part in painting a depressing picture, however South Africans prefer to play the topic down. The motivation for most crimes is the great poverty that faces a large part of the population and therefore it often occurs in these areas. Tourist areas are often well policed and the majority of tourists are not affected by crime. However people should always act sensibly and avoid certain areas and flashing about money and expensive jewelry. On a positive note crime levels have been decreasing (in the past few years).

Sports

The most commonly played sports in South Africa are football, rugby and cricket. In South Africa, sport has become more than just a leisurely pastime - it’s become a national obsession. Sport unites the country breaking the divides of race, class and politics. During the Apartheid era in South Africa participation in international sport was not allowed. With the dismantling of Apartheid South Africa was finally allowed to compete again on the international stage and it set the scene for some miraculous moments. In 1992, two years prior to the first democratic election, two African women raced to a nail biting finish of the women’s 10 000 metre final in Barcelona. It was a touching moment to watch a white South African embrace a black Ethiopian at the end of a great Olympic race.

In 1995 the country was brought together in a moment that defied history when Nelson Mandela wore the famous number 6 jersey of the South African rugby captain, Francois Pienaar, to the Rugby World Cup final in Johannesburg. This period has been immortalized in the award winning film ‘Invictus’ starring Matt Damon and Morgan Freeman. The event brought people from different walks of life and from all over the country together. South Africa went on to win a second Rugby World cup in 2007 and this again reafffrirmed the binding powers of sport in South Africa. Following the 1995 Rugby World Cup being successfully hosted by South Africa, a number of other sports events have since been held on South African soil. South Africa has successfully hosted the 2003 Cricket World Cup, the 2003 Presidents Cup Golf Tournament, the 2006 Paralympics Swimming World Champs, the 2007 World Twenty20 Championships, the 2009 Indian Premier League, the 2009 Fifa Confederations Cup and the 2009 ICC Champions Trophy. In 2010, South Africa hosts the Fifa World Cup, one of the greatest international sporting events.

In 1996, the national soccer team won the Africa Nations cup on home soil, and although not a giant in the soccer world, the team affectionately known as ‘Bafana Bafana’ still gives inspiration to the nation. Every year South Africa stages various other world famous sporting events including the Comrades Marathon, the Cape Argus cycle tour, the Billabong Pro surfing competition, the Nedbank Golf Challenge and the Dusi Canoe Marathon amongst others.

The Western Cape

By far the most popular of all South Africa’s tourist destinations, the Western Cape combines magnificent scenery, historical attractions and warm hospitality. Situated at the southern most tip of Africa and bordered by the Indian and Atlantic Ocean, the province contrasts from imposing mountains to white sandy beaches and from the arid semi-desert of the Karoo to the lush green Winelands. This is the fourth largest province and it boasts a rich diversity of people. The area has a very Mediterranean feel and is quite distinct to other parts of South Africa. Centuries of trade and immigration to the traditional turning port linking Europe and the East have created a melting pot of cultures. The coastal region has a Mediterranean climate but further north into the Karoo and along the West Coast, it is typically drier.

Along the West Coast, fishing is the most important industry and Saldanha, north of Cape Town, is South Africa’s only natural harbour. The area surrounding Cape Town is ideally suited for grape cultivation with a number of vineyards producing many famous award winning wines. Inland, the Karoo is best suited to sheep farming and the Little Karoo region to the east is famed for its ostrich farming. From staring at the most amazing night skies in the Karoo to arguably the best land based whale watching in Hermanus, the Western Cape has something for everyone. The province is a tourism haven.

Major cities and towns

Cape Town

Cape Town is largest city in the area and is South Africa’s second most populated city It is the provincial capital for the Western Cape Province. National Parliament and other government offices are situated in Cape Town, making it South Africa’s legislative capital. Set below the famous landmark of Table Mountain, is Cape Town’s famous harbour and the V&A Waterfront with its bars, restaurants and shops attracting tourists and locals alike. As a major destination for immigrants and expatriates, Cape Town is one of the most multicultural cities and is one of the world’s most popular tourism destinations.

Paarl

Set beneath the second-largest granite outcrop in the world, the wineland town of Paarl is only 40 minutes drive from Cape Town. Unusual for South Africa, the name of the town is pronounced differently in English and in Afrikaans. The Paarl community lives in attractive Cape Dutch houses with beautiful gardens and old oak tree-lined streets. The foundations of the Afrikaans language were laid in Paarl and the “Afrikaanse Taalmonument” (monument to the Afrikaans language) is a memorial to this achievement. Paarl also boasts some of the best academic and sporting schools in South Africa.

Stellenbosch

The second oldest town in South Africa, Stellenbosch is known for the spectacular beauty of its internationally acclaimed wines. Historic buildings adorn the tree lined streets making this one of the few towns in South Africa that can easily be discovered on foot. Due to the large number of oak trees planted by the founder, Simon van der Stel, the town is also known as the City of Oaks. The town is also home to one of South Africa’s most popular universities, the University of Stellenbosch, providing a youthful energy and interesting nightlife to this country town.

Swellendam

Located halfway between Cape Town and George along the major N2 highway and at the foot of the Langeberg mountains, the town is an ideal base for exploring the Overberg region. Swellendam is the third oldest town in South Africa and has over 50 monuments.

Worcester

A pretty little town with broad streets and lovely historic buildings, Worcester is situated in the largest wine producing are of South Africa. The town is also a major training and teaching centre for various educational facilities. Set between three mountain ranges, just off the N1 highway, Worcester is a spectacular hour’s drive from Cape Town. This is the largest town in the interior region.

Oudtshoorn

Known as the “ostrich capital of the world”, the area around the town produces the best feathers, leather products and ostrich meat in the world. This quaint town is the commercial hub for the Klein Karoo and is situated between the Outeniqua and Swartberg Mountains. Oudtshoorn is home to the Klein Karoo National Arts Festival in April each year, celebrating the Afrikaans culture in a town where CJ Langehoven, considered the father of the Afrikaans language, lived. Famous for writing the Afrikaans part of South Africa’s national anthem, his Oudtshoorn residence is now a popular museum. The Cango Caves and Cango Wildlife Ranch are popular tourist attractions and are well worth a visit.

George

This popular holiday town is the commercial heart of the Garden Route region and is located halfway between Port Elizabeth and Cape Town. The city is located at the foot of a magnificent pass beklow the Outeniqua Mountains adjacent to the Indian Ocean. The area around George hosts ssome of the country’s finest golf courses including ‘The Links at Fancourt’. George also is the host city of the IRB Rugby Sevens Tournament in South Africa, one of the premier tournaments in the World Series.

Tourist Regions in the Western Cape

Cape Town

Affectionately known as the “Mother City”, Cape Town combines natural beauty and culture with popular tourist destinations and activities. View the entire city from the top of Table Mountain, experience the pearly beaches and icy water of the Atlantic Seaboard or simply enjoy the world class restaurants and shopping at the V&A Waterfront. The city centre, at the foothills of Table Mountain has museums, historical buildings and the lovely Greenmarket Square, a large outdoor market. The interesting Cape Malay Quarter of Bo-Kaap, sheltered by Signal Hill blends into the city’s vibrant Long Street which is a popular place for antique shopping, backpacker hostels and vibrant night life. The V&A Waterfront is the gateway for trips around the peninsula and to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was held in a small cell for 18 of his 27 years imprisonment for his stance against the Apartheid regime.

On the other side of Devil’s Peak, lies the town of False Bay and the quaint villages of Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay and Simon’s town. Here one can get up and close to the local penguin colony at Boulders Beach or learn to surf on some of the easiest waves to learn on in Muizenberg. Further south is one of the area’s most popular attractions - Cape Point – which is a massive peninsular jutting spectacularly in to the Atlantic Ocean. Cape Town also boasts its own wine farms in Constantia and Durbanville where wine can be tasted with the scent of the sea air and views of the famous Table Mountain. Cape Town is best explored by open bus tour and by hiring your own car and setting your own itinerary every day.

Winelands

The Winelands region refers to Somerset West, Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek where world famous whites, reds, sherries, ports and brandies are made. Below rugged mountains, lie lush green valleys where wine farms are dotted with pretty Cape Dutch farmsteads. Previously home to the French community who settled in South Africa, Franschhoek has retained their traditions in the producing of classic French-style wines. The Stellenbosch region is considered the forefront of viticulture and viniculture for South Africa’s unique ‘Pinotage’ variety. Paarl is the world’s first “red route” and here over 33 estates are open for wine tasting. As an alternative to the N2 highway, the region also hosts the world’s longest wine route – the notorious ‘Route 62’ which is a great way to spend a day driving between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn, sampling some interesting wines along the way.

Overberg

The region between the Garden Route and Cape Town, between the Hottentots-Holland and Riversonderend Mountains, is the breadbasket of the Overberg. The rolling wheat fields are also major breeding grounds for South Africa’s national bird, the Blue Crane. The pretty Elgin Valley is the second largest fruit producing region in South Africa. The major attraction in the Overberg is the annual visits from the Southern Right and Bryde’s Whales to their historical breeding and nursing grounds. The town of Hermanus is the best land based spot to view these giants playing in the sea. Nearby Gansbaai is not only a good spot for watching whales, but also for taking a dip with a Great White Shark (in a cage of course!). The official meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Ocean is at Cape Agulhas which is also the southern most tip of the African continent and is an interesting stop-off.

Garden Route

Boasting the mildest climate in South Africa and the second mildest climate in the world (after Hawaii) is the Garden Route region. The stately Outeniqua Mountains (Outeniqua is a Khoisan word meaning “they who bear honey”) overlook the towns scattered beneath them along the Indian Ocean coastline. The unique Cape Fynbos and temperate forest mixture create a marvelous setting for hiking trails and other eco-tourism activites. Surfing, shark cage diving and whale watching adds to the attraction of the area. The picturesque town of Knysna has been voted South Africa’s most popular town for many years and its setting on the banks of the famous Knysna Lagoon adds to the ambience. Plettenberg Bay is a growing coastal town and is one of South Africa’s favourite holiday destinations. The world’s highest commercial bungee jump can be dared in the Bloukrans Gorge. Peace and tranquility can be found under the giant trees of the Tsitsikamma Forest in the Tsitsikamma National Park. The famous Otter Trail meanders through this pristine forested and coastal wilderness and is a once in a lifetime experience.

West Coast

Stretching from Cape Town to the border with the Northern Cape at Touws River, the rugged, unspoilt coastline is dotted with unspoilt beaches and picturesque fishing villages. The West Coast region incorporates the extremely beautiful Cedarberg Mountains where century-old rock art can be seen. From September, the little town of Darling bustles with visitors passing through to view the incredible blanket of blooming wild flowers. Many areas of the West Coast experience similar flower shows in August and September and this truly is a special time in the region. The Koue Bokkeveld (Cold Deer field) valley is famous for the wide variety of fruit it produces and for the warm hospitality of the residents. The Swartland is home to the wheat and rooibos tea producing part of the Western Cape.

Karoo

Bordered by the Swartberg and Langeberg Mountains, the Little Karoo is the smaller region of the Great Karoo. Dispersed around the region’s major town, Oudtshoorn, are a multitude of ostrich farms and beyond the arid landscape lie majestic mountains with exciting walking trails and waterfalls. The famous Cango Caves are found in the area. The caves are the visible result of 20 million years of erosion from rainwater and sub-surface flow which has created two kilometers of underground halls and passageways that can be explored with a guide. Scattered in the area are other small towns such as Calitzdorp, De Rust and Ladismith, each with its own historic charm and interesting characters.

The Eastern Cape – The Adventure Province

Diverse landscape, spectacular scenery and a wild coastline create an impressive hidden gem in South Africa’s crown. Home to the country’s most famous man, former president, Nelson Mandela the province is steeped in history and was the scene of some of the first conflicts and battles in the country. The semi-arid Karoo in the west is separated from the rainforest region of Tsitsikamma by imposing mountains that fall into the south Indian Ocean. The rugged coastline continues all the way to the KwaZulu Natal border in the north-east, interrupted by scenic beaches and small coastal towns. Further inland are rolling hills that lead to the mountainous Lesotho border. The Eastern Cape remains one of the poorest provinces in South Africa and economically it relies heavily on manufacturing and agriculture, followed by eco- tourism. Situated between the subtropical KwaZulu Natal and the Mediterranean climate of the Western Cape, the Eastern Cape coast is mild whereas the interior with the higher altitudes is drier, overall the weather is good to visitors, and rarely reaches extremes.

Major cities and town

Bisho

Bisho, the capital of the Eastern Cape, is named after the river that runs through the city and is the Xhosa word for Buffalo. Best known as being the site of a culminating anti-apartheid event in 1992, the town boasts unrivalled views of the Amathole Mountains and the provincial legislature has its headquarters here.

East London

Often referred to as Buffalo City, East London formed around the only river port in South Africa and this is where the German settlers settled when they arrived in South Africa. The second largest city in the Eastern Cape, nestled between the Nahoon and Buffalo Rivers, the laid back hospitality and the excellent surfing conditions make it a popular holiday destination. South Africa’s only double-decker bridge crosses the Buffalo River and in the East London museum one can see the coelacanth, a prehistoric fish thought to be extinct until it was discovered live by local fisherman.

Port Elizabeth

Well known as the "friendly city", PE, as it is locally known, was first founded by the Portuguese explorers but was founded by the 1820 British Settlers. The city overlooks Algoa Bay, the bustling seaport and is referred to as the “Watersport capital of Africa”. A mere one hour drive from the major malaria free game reserves, it is the major gateway to the rest of the Eastern Cape. Situated along the N2, it is home to South Africa’ motor vehicle industry, and is the official end to the picturesque Garden Route.

Tourist Regions in the Eastern Cape

Tsitsikamma

Named after the khoi word meaning “place of abundant water”, the indigenous forests are home to century old trees and the 80km of coast line make up South Africa’s first marine reserve. Part of the world-renowned Garden Route, the world highest commercial bungee jump in world (216m) and the highest narrow gauge bridge in world are two of the attractions in the centre of adventure tourism. Deep river gorges create crevices and cause spectacular waterfalls as they travel down to the sea. A mild climate makes it a popular destination and the high rainfall ensure lush vegetation. Trailing the rocky shoreline, over a stretch of 42.5km’s is the famous Otter Trail, which ranks as one of the best in world. There are short day hikes that follow the start of the famous route for those less inclined to walk the four and half day route.

Kouga

The diverse Kouga region stretches from sandy beaches to the Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve and fields of pastures in between. The coastal towns of Jeffrey’s Bay, Cape St Francis and St Francis are popular surfing, whale watching and rock angling destinations. The wilderness area of Baviaanskloof supports 12 major vegetation types, nearly 310 bird species and a range of reptiles, mammals and fish as well as the wild and illusive wandering leopard. The surfer’s paradise of Jeffrey’s Bay, renowned for its 11 different surf breaks is the venue for the annual international Billabong Surf Classic.

Sundays River Valley

The world renowned Greater Addo Elephant National Park forms the centre of this region and includes the attractive town of Kirkwood. The famous Alexandria dunes are the longest and widest coastal dunes in the southern hemisphere and contribute the marine section of the greater reserve. The Kirkwood and Addo valleys are known for its citrus fruits, roses and annual Wildlife Festival. The Addo Elephant National Park was formed in 1931 when only eleven elephants remained in the area, today; it is a 360 000ha mega-park and includes a marine section and various smaller sections that have been linked together under one reserve. Known as the only “Big 7” (the Big 5 and Southern Right Whale and Great White Shark) reserve, the park stretches from the vast Darlington Lake, accessed by a 4x4 trail, over the lush Zuurberg Mountains, down the valley to the Woody Cape dune fields. Covering five of the seven biomes the reserve offers 4x4 trails, hiking trails, horse back safaris, elephant back experiences, accommodation in luxury lodges and basic self catering and camping facilities, thereby catering for a variety of outdoor palettes. The extremely rare Flightless Dung Beetle is endemic to the area and is protected within the boundaries of the Addo Elephant National Park. The marine section includes Bird Island, where the world’s largest Cape Ganet colony live and St Croix Island, where a large African Penguin colony reside. Not all of the smaller sections are accessible and only the main park and private concession of Kuzuko, offer accommodation.

The Sunshine Coast

Glorious beaches, scenic nature reserves with Cape Fynbos and lush forest, quaint seaside resort towns, easy access to rivers, lagoons and hiking trails, arts and craft routes and a variety of other attractions make this a popular choice as a family destination throughout the year. Yet, despite the obvious attractions, the coastline has remained largely unspoiled and uncommercialised, retaining the picturesque essence. Kenton-on-Sea and Port Alfred are considered the heart of the Sunshine Coast.

Frontier Country

The historical city of Grahamstown is the centre of this beautiful region and a bustling university town, offering a vibrant mix of history and conservation, which lingers with you long after you have left. Once the second capital of Cape, with its broad tree-lined streets, Grahamstown houses one of only two Victorian Cameras Obscura in the world. Britain fought her longest and most expensive colonial war in Frontier country, but these days, most of this land has been converted into prime malaria free private game reserves

Karoo Hartland

This breathtaking region is characterized by vast open spaces and haunting silences making the “Valley of Desolation” a must see. The fourth oldest town in South Africa, Graaf-Reinet, has more national monuments that any other city in South Africa. Charming towns, Cradock and Nieu Bethesda are a good base from which to explore the nearby game reserves and to enjoy more adventurous activities.

Friendly N6

Off the beaten track, this route offers visitors wholesome outdoor experiences including Southern Africa’s only ski resort and fly-fishing in cold trout streams. Quaint towns, Lady Grey and Rhodes offer old fashioned hospitality, while Aliwal North is famed for its hot springs and Anglo-Boer War Garden of Remembrance.

Amathole Mountain Escape

Set against the majestic Amathole Mountains, which means “the calves of the Drakensberg”, it is here that you will still find traditional Xhosa herdsman grazing their Nguni cattle. Rich in cultural history, the Mgwali Cultural Village offers a glimpse into traditional arts, crafts and food. The popular town of Hogsback takes visitors on a magical journey through forests, past waterfalls and is a true escape from the modern world.

Wild Coast

The Wild Coast is largely undeveloped, dotted with rural villages along rolling hills that stop abruptly along a jagged coastline. The natural beauty of the region is the reason many flock to the coastal towns of Kei Mouth, Coffee Bay and Port St Johns and the natural wonder, “The Hole in the Wall”. The 300km coastline has been described as South Africa’s own Bermuda Triangle, where ships disappear without a trace, plunge to the bottom of the ocean or crash onto the shore.

KwaZulu-Natal – Kingdom of the Zulu

Situated on the eastern coast of South Africa, stretching from Mozambique to the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu Natal is a major cultural melting pot with a mixture of European, African and Indian cultures all residing in the province. Famous for its generous assortment of holiday destinations and activities which include the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains, some of the best game reserves in the country, historic battlefields and pristine Indian Ocean beaches, the province makes for a great destination for any traveller. Locally known as the ‘Sunshine Coast’ the province experiences a range of climates from the humid and subtropical conditions of the warm coastline to drier and colder weather (occasional snow) seen in the hilly and mountainous interior.

Major Cities and Towns

Pietermaritzburg

Maritzburg is the capital of KwaZulu- Natal and the second largest city in the province. Founded in 1838 the city today is a prospering and developed hub, however still proud of its history which is evident by the old churches, monuments, schools and university combined with the improvements in the modern capital.

Ulundi

The capital of Zululand and the legislative capital of the province the historic Ulundi is a traditional town with a strong presence of the Zulu culture. The fast growing town has a continuously improving economy with a strong and bloody history involving the Zulus, British and Boers. Ulundi is well known for being the final scene of the Anglo Boer War including the famous 1879 Battle of Ulundi.

Durban

Known as the ‘Sunshine City’, Durban is a firm South African favourite with its year round warm climate, colourful people and attractive beaches. The largest city in KwaZulu- Natal and third largest in South Africa, Durban has a host of activities to offer to visitors. Shopping is excellent whether it be from one of the many malls or vibrant markets and beach activities are abundant from swimming, surfing, kite surfing, beach soccer and volleyball. The city is also home the Durban Harbour which is the busiest port in Africa.

Tourist Regions in KwaZulu Natal

Zululand

Game Reserves

Hluhluwe-Imfolozi

Set in the heart of Zululand the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve is the oldest game park on the African Continent. The reserves lie adjacent to one another and are openly linked together. The area was made famous by Ian Player and ‘Operation Rhino’ in the 1950’s and 60’s where white rhino were strictly conserved and brought back from the brink of extinction where today there are healthy populations in a few countries. Together the reserves cover 96 000 hectares of pristine bush with an exceptional assortment of fauna and flora. Over 300 species of birds are found in the area and the Hluhluwe River is the one of the few areas in Southern Africa where Pink Throated, Orange Throated and Yellow Throated Longclaws can be seen together. Of the abundant large mammals in the reserve some of the species that one can see are elephant, white and black rhino, zebra, giraffe, lion, cheetah, buffalo, leopard, hippo, wildebeest, impala, nyala, spotted hyena, warthog and wild dog.

Topography on the reserves differs vastly and this is one of the main reasons for the diverse and productive numbers of animal, reptiles, birds, trees and plants. Hluhluwe is made up of high rolling hills with the altitude ranging from 80 metres to 540 metres above sea level. The high ridges support riverine and coastal forest while as one gets lower down valley bushveld becomes more prevalent. Terrain in Umflozi ranges from lowlands of the Umfolozi River to hilly, rocky country with large, open valleys in between. Vegetation is made up mostly of grassland with a fair amount of acacia savannah and woodland.

Please note - The Hluhluwe- Imfolozi Game Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Mkhuze Game Reserve

Mkhuze is a magnificent game reserve in Zululand nestled against the eastern slopes of the Lebombo Mountains. The area boasts extremely diverse terrain including acacia savannah, swamps, woodlands, riverine forest and a patch of a rare type of sand forest. The reserve is an extremely popular destination for serious birders and over 420 species of birds have been recorded in the region including pinkbacked and white pelicans as well as a host of other water birds. The 40 000 hectare reserve makes up the north western branch off of the Isimangaliso Wetland Park which is a World Heritage Site. Some of the game species seen are black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, zebra, leopard, impala, buffalo and nyala amongst others. Cheetah, wild dog and hyena are some of the rare species seen. There are a number of fun and interesting activities available at Mkhuze Game Reserve with the three hides being the most popular with bird watchers and patient visitors. Night drives and bush walks can be booked at the camp office whilst guided birding walks are also available.

The Mkhuze Game Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Ndumo Game Reserve

Ndumo is best known for its ridiculously high bird count (highest in South Africa) as well as their massive crocodile populations. Found close to Tembe Elephant Park and separated from Mozambique by the Usuthu River, Ndumo Game Reserve is one of the real gems of the country. Made up mostly of large pans, wetlands and stands of fever trees as well as acacia savannah and sand forest the reserve can boast as being one of the most unique game reserves around. Of the strong number of bird species the speciality are the aquatic birds including species such as the Black Egret, Pygmy Goose and Pelicans. Serious birders and twitchers will delight at the special species found in the region such as Pels Fishing Owl, African Finfoot, African Broadbill and Southern Banded Snake Eagle and will be kept busy spotting and identifying the tropical East African forms which use Ndumo as their southernmost range. Apart from the birds Ndumo also has decent numbers of game species such as nyala, black and white rhino, red duiker, suni, hippo and bushbuck as well as a massive insect diversity which is of great interest to entomologists. Visitors are allowed to drive themselves around certain parts of the reserve but more interesting areas can be seen on game drives run by knowledgeable guides. Walks are another option available to visitors.

The Ndumo Game Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Tembe Elephant Park

Established in 1983 to protect the last remaining herds of free ranging elephant, which used to migrate seasonally between Maputaland and Mozambique, Tembe Elephant Park is one of the true ‘wild’ parts of South Africa. The reserve, lying on the border between Mozambique and KwaZulu Natal, has a collection of differing terrains entangled together including sand forest, woodland, grassland and swampland. Tembe falls within a transition zone between tropical and sub- tropical forms and is the main reason for the diverse vegetation in the region. Elephant is the major draw card here and there are approximately 150 in number as well as lion (recently introduced), black and white rhino, buffalo, leopard, suni, waterbuck, giraffe, hippo, kudu and many others. Being in close proximity to Ndumo Game Reserve gives one an idea on how good the birding is here. Over 340 species have been recorded in the area including rare specimens such as Rudds Apalis, Rufous- bellied Heron, Natal Night Jar and Woodwards Batis. The main activities in the park are morning and afternoon/evening drives which are taken in open 4x4’s exploring the unique and wild area. Other activities include birding trips to Ndumo, boat trips on the Kosi Lake system, diving and snorkelling at Kosi Bay and Rocktail Bay and turtle watching in summer in the Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Accommodation in Tembe Elephant Park is available at the private Tembe Safari camp and Conference Centre.

Tembe Elephant Park is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Declared South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in 1999 iSimangaliso Wetland Park is an exceptional collection of some of South Africa’s most unique and spectacular natural wonders. iSimangaliso means ‘Miracle and Wonder’ and this is evident in the 332 000 hectare park which stretches 220 kilometres up the Indian Ocean coastline all the way to Mozambique. Some of the special attractions of the area include three beautiful lake systems, 700 year old fishing traditions, 526 species of birds, Africa’s largest estuarine system, some of the greatest coral diversity in the world and 25 000 year old golden coastal dunes. The biodiversity of the area is both staggering and unusual and was summed up nicely by Nelson Mandela who said “iSimangaliso must be the only place on the globe where the oldest land mammal (the rhinoceros) and the world’s biggest terrestrial mammal (the elephant) share an ecosystem with the world’s oldest fish (the coelacanth) and the world’s biggest marine mammal (the whale)”. The favourite destinations in iSimangaliso, which the Wetland Park refers to as ‘The Ten Jewels’, are made up of Lake St Lucia, False Bay, Kosi Bay, Lake Sibaya, Coastal forest, Sodwana Bay, Mkhuze Game Reserve, Western Shores and Charters Creek, Eastern Shores and cape Vidal and Maphelane.

Please note that the majority of iSimangaliso Wetland Park is in a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Lake St Lucia

Located on the northern KwaZulu Natal coast is the famous World Heritage Site Lake St Lucia. Terrain is made up of five different ecosystems and the beaches have the highest vegetated dunes in the world. The estuary, which is the largest in Africa, is home to large numbers of wildlife including over 800 hippo, 1200 crocodile, elephant, rhino, leopard, nyala, common reedbuck and buffalo. The St Lucia region boasts pristine beaches with excellent diving whilst game fishing is popular and first- class with species such as marlin, tunny and barracuda amongst others being pulled in. Activities in the area are endless and include horse riding on the beaches and in the bush, canoeing, fishing, boat cruises, diving, whale and dolphin watching and turtle watching. Turtle watching safaris take place during the summer months of November- March where turtle species such as Loggerhead and Leatherback turtles come out on to the beaches to lay their eggs.

Please note that the Lake St Lucia Wetland Park is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Sodwana Bay

Sodwana Bay found on a small strip of beach and coastal bush close to Lake St Lucia is an angler and divers paradise. The remote reserve has beautiful golden beaches and warm crystal blue water which is home to a host of fish, mammal and bird species. Deep sea fishing is a popular sport here with some of the best game fish populations around including species such as marlin, sailfish, tuna, kingfish and dorado (dolphin). The diving is world class to say the least with Sodwana having some of the most spectacular diversity of coral species in the world as well as whale shark, manta ray, moray eels, most shark species and the rare and prehistoric coelacanth. Activities in the area include 4x4 drives on the beach, diving, horse riding, fishing, turtle watching (November- March), snorkelling and whale and dolphin watching.

Please note that Sodwana Bay is situated in a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Kosi Bay

The 11 000 hectare Kosi Bay Nature Reserve surrounds the Kosi Lake system in the northern part of KwaZulu Natal’s Maputaland. The lake system is made up of four different lakes, all linked together by narrow channels, which drain into the Indian Ocean via a small estuary section. The lake is South Africa’s most pristine with warm crystal clear water bordered by unique vegetation types including raffia, llala and wild date palms, marshland and mangrove swamps (Only area in South Africa where all species are found together). The lake is home to hippo, crocodile and over 250 species of bird including seldom seen species such as the palmnut vulture, purple and reed kingfisher, fish eagle and whitebacked night heron. The area is particularly well known for its traditional and historic fishing methods used by the local people. Wooden fish traps, of which the design is 700 years old, are set up in the lakes so as to catch large fish which are returning to the ocean after laying eggs in the protected lake systems. Snorkelling is excellent in the lakes thanks to the visibility of the warm water. Canoeing trips are taken on the lakes as well as boating trips, deep sea fishing and 4x4 excursions to the Kosi Bay mouth which is surrounded by the impressive coastal dunes.

Please note that the Kosi Bay Nature Reserve is a malaria area and those wishing to visit the region should consult with their GP’s as to the precautions which should be taken.

Mountains

Drakensberg Mountains

The Ukuhlamba Drakensberg Park encompasses 243 000 hectares of breathtaking mountain scenery from meandering rivers and streams to majestic peaks and cliffs. The park has been declared a World Heritage Site and is home to some incredible fauna and flora including over 300 species of birds such as the black eagle (verauxs), bearded vulture(lammergeier) and wattled crane as well as large numbers of game. The average altitude of the park is 3000 metres and spans over 150 kilometres and features renowned locations such as the Amphitheatre at Royal Natal and the grand southern Drakensberg. There is something to do for everyone in the Drakensberg but activities can be seasonally specific as the area has stark contrast between summer (November- March) and winter (May- September). Hiking is a popular choice in the berg and rightly so. Visitors can choose anything from light walks to lengthy extreme hikes over the escarpment. Hikers will be treated to traditional bushman paintings in the once occupied caves, swimming in crystal pools and waterfalls and glorious views of the surrounding country side. Other activities one can take part in are bird watching, horse riding, mountain biking and 4x4ing. The Drakensberg is easily accessible and is only two hours from Durban and four hours from Johannesburg.

Beaches

The North and South Coast

Kwa-Zulu Natal, with its temperate and humid climate and the warm Indian Ocean lapping its entire eastern coastline, has some of the finest beaches in South Africa. During Christmas and Easter periods hordes of South Africans flock to these beaches for some fun in the sun. There are activities for everyone and the most popular activities being surfing and fishing. The towns and villages along the coast range from urban CBD’s such as Umhlanga Rocks to quaint little hamlets such as Zinkwazi. At some point in June every year massive schools of sardines (pilchards) head in to the shallow waters off the South coast providing for a circus of activity from dolphins, sharks, sea birds and humans trying to capture as many of these little fish as possible.

Gauteng – Place of Gold

A pulsating blend of energy and industry, Gauteng is the undoubtedly the centre of South Africa’s commercial and financial sectors. Despite being the smallest province in the country, rich gold mines boost the economic wealth of the area. There is more to the area than simply its mineral wealth. There are numerous natural, cultural and leisure resources. Gauteng is where the Cradle of Humankind can be found. This is reputedly where human life began and there is a state of the art museum showcasing many of the fossils discovered here. The adjoining Sterkfontein Caves, where many archeological discoveries were made, are situated nearby and offer exciting guided explorations of these underground chambers.

Just a stone’s throw from Johannesburg and Pretoria and easily accessible for a weekend of adventure, water sports, hiking or bird watching is Hartebeespoort Dam and the Magaliesberg Mountain Range. The dam is nestled at the foot of these mountains and is a popular weekend retreat for South Africans. There are delightful day trips to the Magaliesburg area for those wishing to enjoy arts and craft markets and many popular country restaurants – a popular route referred to as the Magalies Meander. The Vaal River in the south separates Gauteng from the Free State and is a playground on water over weekends where boats, jet skis, water-skiers and fishermen all come together on its banks. Said to have one of the best climates in the world, the region’s summers are warm and wind free and the winters are crisp and sunny. The Highveld’s summer heat is often pleasantly broken by grand thunder storms which only last for a short period of time before the sun comes out again.

Behind the business suits and briefcases lies a province that delights in surprises with scenic nature experiences, pretty tree lined streets and a creative buzz to rival the world’s most popular cities. Although Gauteng is not the most popular tourism destination it is definitely worth spending a day or two in. It is an ideal gateway to many game reserves and other African destinations. Most international flights fly directly in to Johannesburg and it is a good idea to spend a day or two at the beginning or end of your trip here to break the journey. The province houses many of the country’s corporate headquarters and Africa’s largest financial houses.

Major cities and towns

Johannesburg

Affectionately referred to as ‘Joburg’ and spread out over a massive geographic area due to the limited physical barriers to outward expansion makes Johannesburg the largest city in South Africa. Joburg can also proudly claim that it is not only the largest city in the world not built on a river, lake or coastline but it is also the largest man made forest in the world due to the abundance of trees growing in the suburbian gardens. Founded during a gold rush at the turn of the twentieth century, the city is alive and fast paced. The residents drive fast, talk fast and make decisions fast. The tallest structures in Africa make up the glass and chrome skyline. During the apartheid era, when racial segregation forced people to live in separate areas, Soweto (an acronym for South Western Townships) was formed. This traditionally poor informal settlement has evolved in to a bustling, affluent suburb of Johannesburg and is well worth a visit. Traditional African restaurants and Bed and Breakfasts provide truly unique and authentic travel experiences and are well worth visiting. Themed on the gold rush era, the popular amusement park ‘Gold Reef City’ also has a museum dedicated to Johannesburg’s gold mining past. OR Tambo International Airport serves Johannesburg and is Africa’s busiest airport while several other smaller airports surround the city. Johannesburg has many of the countries hottest bars, restaurants and clubs and during the day, is a shopper’s delight with malls offering international designer and locally created fashions as well as the usual goods and services associated with top end shopping malls.

Pretoria

Johannesburg and Pretoria are so close to one another that they will soon merge in to one great Metropolis, yet the difference between these two cities is remarkable. Pretoria is home to civil servants and diplomats and does not have the same sense of urgency that is characteristic of Johannesburg. Pretoria is one of South Africa’s three capital cities and is officially the administrative capital. Cultural sites are visible throughout the city which includes the Union Buildings, the Voortrekker Monument and Freedom Park. Although the city has been renamed by the local municipality as the City of Tshwane, locals still firmly refer to it as Pretoria. The streets are lined with beautiful Jacaranda trees that burst into bright purple flowers in spring making this a very attractive city and earning it the nickname “Jacaranda City”.

Tourist Regions in Gauteng

Sedibeng

Situated along the picturesque Vaal, Suikerbos and Klip Rivers, only 60km from Johannesburg, Sedibeng offers a variety of historical and culture attractions. The Vaal Dam is a popular weekend destination for the city dwellers and there are various water sport activities on offer. The Suikerbosrand Nature reserve offers scenic hiking trails with breathtaking views and is home to nearly 200 bird species. Heritage sites are dotted through the region including memorials of the Anglo Boer War while modern history can be explored at Sharpeville where a peaceful protest against Apartheid turned into a massacre in 1960.

Metsweding

The world’s largest diamond was unearthed here in 1905 - the unbelievable 3106 carat ‘Cullinan’ Diamond. The quaint little mining town of Cullinan welcomes visitors to take a trip down the Cullinan mine, do a heritage tour or to simply wander around and enjoy the historical Victorian charm. The region also has a number of nature reserves and conservation areas.

Ekurhuleni

Commonly known as the “East Rand”, this is the area that Hollywood actress and Academy Award winner Charlize Theron hails from. The region consists mainly of mining and industrial areas. Most visitors to South Africa start their journey at OR Tambo airport here which is located in Ekurhuleni. One of South Africa’s premier casino complexes ‘The Emperor’s Palace’ is located within a short drive of the airport and hosts several top class hotels, restaurants and entertainment facilities. The gravesite of the great struggle icon, OR Tambo, can be visited in the area as well as the Thokoza Memorial Wall which pays tribute to the thousands who died during the fight for freedom. There are also a number of smaller nature reserves including the Bullfrog Pan and Rondebuilt Bird Sanctuary where a rare wetland features bird hides and a collection of plains game.

West Rand

A predominantly rural area, the West Rand is largely unspoilt and includes some of Gauteng’s most scenic areas. The Magaliesberg and the Witwatersberg are popular hiking, walking, game viewing and bird watching destinations. The Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens is home to a famous pair of Verreaux’s Eagles that soar above the cliffs and waterfalls. The Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site includes the Sterkfontein Caves and Wonder Cave. It is here that hominid fossils were discovered including the famous skeletal remains of Mrs Ples, Little Foot and Australopithecus Sediba. Life of pre-historic man can be explored at the nearby Maropeng Visitor Centre. The charming village of Magaliesberg is a delight for visitors seeking artistic treats, quaint restaurants and a relaxed break from the rush of Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Tshwane

The bustling cosmopolitan city of Pretoria creates the centre of this region and visitors can take time to marvel at the beautiful historical buildings, some designed by Sir Herbert Baker. The major attraction on Tshwane is the Tswaing Crater. The 1.4km-diameter crater is ranked as one of the world’s best preserved meteorite impact craters and is very accessible as visitors can walk down the crater. East of the crater is the Soutpansspruit, a rare and extensive wetland system with a mini delta with many streams and islands.

Johannesburg

The vibrant city of Jozi (Joburg and Jozi is often how Johannesburg is referred to) offers visitors the chance to embark on historical tours, visit cultural sites or just enjoy the vibrant night life. Constitution Hill, the Hector Pieterson Museum and the Apartheid Museum all tell the tale of the regime that reigned over South Africa until 1994. Take a township tour to the infamous Soweto Township, one of the former homes of Nelson Mandela. Here you can enjoy the sights, the sounds, meet the local people, sample delicious food and see local dancing and other entertainment. Culturally one can enjoy the Johannesburg Art Gallery or the Joburg Theatre Complex where a non-stop run of local drama, ballet, musicals and comedies can be enjoyed. The local Heritage trust offers guided walks through Parktown where Victorian-style mansions and local history is combined. The large complex of the Johannesburg Zoo and the adjacent Zoo Lake recreational area are popular attractions. Nearby the Emmarentia Dam is a popular venue for lovely concerts in a park like setting and is a great spot for children, picnics, and canoeing.

Mpumalanga – The Place Where the Sun Rises

Mpumalanga means east or literally "the place where the sun rises" in Swazi, Xhosa, and Zulu. Mpumalanga lies in north eastern South Africa bordering Swaziland and Mozambique. In the north it borders on to the Limpopo province, to the west Gauteng, to the southwest the Free State and to the south KwaZulu-Natal. The capital is Mbombela, previously and more widely known as Nelspruit.

The Drakensberg Escarpment divides Mpumalanga into a westerly half consisting mainly of high-altitude grassland called the Highveld and an eastern half situated in low altitude subtropical area known as the Lowveld which is mostly made up of savannah habitat. The southern half of the Kruger National Park is situated in the latter region and is a very rich wildlife area. The Drakensberg exceeds heights of 2000m in most places with this central region of Mpumalanga being very mountainous. These regions have alpine grasslands and small pockets of Afro-montane Forest which provide for lovely hiking opportunities and scenic drives. The Lowveld is a relatively flat region interspersed with rocky outcrops and undulating hills. The Lebombo Mountains form a low range in the far east of the province creating a natural geographic border with Mozambique.

The climatic contrasts between the drier Highveld region, with its cold winters, and the hot, humid Lowveld summers allow for a variety of agricultural activities. Close on 70 percent of Mpumalanga land area is utilised by agriculture. Forestry is extensive around the Sabie River region. Located near the forests, Ngodwana is the site of one of South Africa's largest paper mills. Natural grazing covers approximately 14 percent of Mpumalanga. Gold was first discovered in Mpumalanga province in 1883 by Auguste Roberts in the mountains surrounding what is now Barberton. Gold is still mined in the Barberton area today. Mpumalanga is South Africa’s largest coal producing region.

Major Cities and Towns

Nelspruit

Nelspruit is the capital of Mpumalanga and is situated in the fertile valley of the Crocodile River. The small city developed in the late 1800’s when farmers where attracted by the region’s rich soils which were most suitable for citrus farming, tobacco and timber. Nelspruit is the gateway between the Lowveld and the outside world having excellent roads and highways spreading out to surrounding provinces. The Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport has numerous daily scheduled flights from around South Africa.

Barberton, Mbombela, White River, Sabie, Graskop, Hazyview, Malelane, Pilgrim's Rest, Lydenburg and Nkomazi

Other towns in the Lowveld, comprise of Barberton, Mbombela, White River, Sabie, Graskop, Hazyview, Malelane, Pilgrim's Rest, Lydenburg and Nkomazi. The towns of Lydenburg and White River are gateways to the region. Quaint towns such as Pilgrim's Rest, a living museum dating back to the hay days of the gold rush, Sabie, Graskop, Ohrigstad and Hazyview are ideal for stopovers. The region's diversity and string of quaint historic towns have made it popular for weekend getaways by well-heeled city slickers, who flock to hamlets such as Dullstroom offering some of South Africa's best trout and fly fishing. The town's stone lodges nestle along cool trout dams and streams, where bright yellow arum lilies and 120 other species of indigenous wild flower carpet the region in a kaleidoscope of colour every spring.

Tourist Regions and Natural Attractions

Mpumalanga is undoubtedly one of South Africa’s most popular tourism destinations. The Kruger National Park, established in 1898 for the protection of Lowveld wildlife, covering 20,000 square kilometres, is a popular destination. The other major tourist attractions include the Sudwala Caves and the Blyde River Canyon. There is God's Window overlooking the world's third largest canyon and the biggest green canyon, the Blyde River Canyon. There are also the astonishing Bourke's Luck Potholes and ‘Three Rondawels’ rock features. Nature enthusiasts will discover cascading waterfalls while adrenaline junkies can get their next rush by bungee jumping, bridge swinging, white water rafting or going on rigorous 4x4 trails. More sedate pursuits include hot air ballooning, walking trails and traditional gold panning.

The highlands meander is a nature lover’s utopia boasting South Africa’s premier fly fishing areas, some of the sub continents rarest birds, stunning hiking trails and spectacular wildflower displays. It is also home to Africa's only known breeding community of wild Black Leopards, who haunt the wild mountain ravines and streams that characterise the Highland Meander and are very seldomly seen.

Limpopo – The Preferred Eco-Tourism Destination

Limpopo is South Africa's northernmost province, lying within the great curve of the Limpopo River – a national environmental. It's the fifth-largest (and fifth-smallest) of the country's nine provinces, taking up 10.3% of South Africa's land area and with an estimated population of 5.4-million people. The principal home language is Sesotho, spoken by roughly half the population, followed by Pedi and Tsonga. Limpopo is a region of contrasts, from true bushveld country to majestic mountains, primeval indigenous forests, unspoilt wilderness and farmland. The province borders the countries of Botswana to the north west, Zimbabwe to the north and Mozambique to the east.

Limpopo's rich mineral deposits include platinum group metals, iron ore, chromium high- and middle-grade coking coal, diamonds, antimony, phosphate and copper, as well as mineral reserves like gold, emeralds, scheelite, magnetite, vermiculite, silicon and mica. Base commodities such as black granite, corundum and feldspar are also found. Mining contributes to over a fifth of the provincial economy. The province is a typical developing area, exporting primary products and importing manufactured goods and services. It has a high potential for development, with resources such as tourism, rain-fed agriculture, minerals and abundant labour offering excellent investment opportunities. Limpopo is cattle country, where extensive ranching operations are often supplemented by controlled hunting - about 80% of South Africa's hunting industry is found in Limpopo.

Major Cities and Towns

Polekwane, Phalaborwa and Thabazimbi

The capital of Limpopo is Polekwane however significant towns include the major mining centres of Phalaborwa and Thabazimbi, and Tzaneen, a producer of tea, forestry products and tropical fruit.

Bela-Bela, Modimolle, Makhado and Musina

Bela-Bela, with its popular mineral water baths, is near the southern border. Further north is Modimolle, the hub of the local table-grape industry set near the beautiful Waterberg mountain range; Makhado at the foot of the Soutpansberg mountains; and Musina, with its thick-set baobab trees. The small and charming town of Hoedspruit is found in the centre of the Lowveld and is in a prime position as it is close to a number of first class game reserves (including the Kruger National Park) as well as the majestic Blyde River Canyon.

Natural and Cultural Attractions

In the eastern region lies the northern half of the magnificent Kruger National Park, a nature reserve teeming with African wildlife in a total area roughly the size of Israel. Rich in natural beauty, culture and wildlife, Limpopo has a thriving tourism industry. In addition to the Kruger National Park, there are 54 provincial reserves and numerous private game reserves. The province is the link between South Africa and countries further afield in sub-Saharan Africa. On its southern flank from east to west, the province shares borders with Mpumalanga, Gauteng and the North West Province. Its border with Gauteng links Limpopo to the Johannesburg-Pretoria axis which is the most industrialized metropolis on the African continent.

The province contains much of the Waterberg Biosphere, a UNESCO-designated Biosphere Reserve. The Waterberg Biosphere, of approximately 15,000 km2, is the first region in the northern part of South Africa to be named as a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO. The massif was shaped by hundreds of millions of years of riverine erosion to yield diverse and remarkable terrain. The Waterberg ecosystem can be characterised as a dry deciduous forest or Bushveld. Within the Waterberg, archaeological finds are present dating to the Stone Age, including early evolutionary finds related to the origin of humans. It's also home to the Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape, one of the country's seven World Heritage sites and South Africa's first kingdom. Mapungubwe developed into the subcontinent's largest realm, lasting for 400 years before it was abandoned in the 14th century. Its highly sophisticated people traded gold and ivory with China, India and Egypt.

The Free State – Centre Yourself in the Heart of South Africa

The Free State is often referred to as the ‘bread basket’ of South Africa and was the only province to keep its borders unchanged after the provincial reshuffle post 1994. The Free State lies in the heart of South Africa, cradling the Kingdom of Lesotho between the Vaal River in the north and the Orange River in the south. The region is one of flat rolling grasslands and crop fields, rising to staggering sand stone mountains in the northeast. The province is the granary of South Africa, with agriculture being central to its economy, while mining on the rich Goldfields reef is its largest employer. With a low population density and low crime rate, the Free State is a place of tranquillity and humbling beauty.

With a total area of 130 000 square kilometres, the Free State is roughly the size of Nicaragua. It's the country's third-largest province, only slightly bigger than the Western Cape. Its estimated population is just under three-million people which makes it one of South Africa’s least populated provinces. Two-thirds of the population speak Sesotho, the language of neighbouring Lesotho, followed by Afrikaans and pockets of Xhosa.

Mining is the province's oldest and most consistent employer. A gold reef over 400 kilometres long, known as the goldfields region, stretches across Gauteng and the Free State. South Africa is the world's largest gold producer, and the country's largest gold-mining complex is Free State Consolidated Goldfields, with an area of 330 square kilometres. Agriculture dominates the Free State landscape, with cultivated land covering 32 000 square kilometres, and natural veld and grazing a further 87 000 square kilometres of the province. It is also South Africa's leader in the production of bio-fuels, or fuel from agricultural crops, with a number of ethanol plants under construction in the grain-producing western region.

Major Cities and Towns

Bloemfontein

Meaning ‘fountain of flowers’ and affectionately known as ‘Bloem’ is the province’s capital which is also South Africa’s judicial capital. Bloemfontein is home to South Africa's Supreme Court of Appeal, the University of the Free State and the Central University of Technology. JRR Tolkien (author of ‘The Lord of the Rings’ trilogy) was born in Bloemfontein in 1892. The city is one of South Africa’s safest cities and great to explore on foot. With its wealth of historical and cultural attractions and excellent facilities, Bloemfontein is the ideal place to start a tour of the Free State.

Welkom

South Africa’s youngest city situated in the epicentre of the gold fields is one of the few completely pre-planned cities in the world. The town has several gold museums and monuments. Flamingo Pan offers visitors an opportunity to view the resident flamingos.

Sasolburg

Sasolburg gets its name from the petrochemical company Sasol, and is a major industrial town in the province. Sasol is famous for its technological advances in creating petrol from fuel reserves.

Kroonstad

Kroonstad is an important agricultural, administrative and educational centre; Parys, on the banks of the Vaal River is a vibrant waterside hub; the sprawling settlement of Phuthaditjhaba is known for its beautiful handcrafted items; and Bethlehem, gateway to the Eastern Highlands of the Free State a perfect stopover.

Natural Attractions

A beautiful range of hills near Parys in the northern Free State is actually part of the Vredefort Dome, the largest visible meteor-impact site in the world. Formed 2-billion years ago when a meteorite 10 kilometres wide slammed into the earth, the Vredefort Dome is one of South Africa's seven UNESCO World Heritage sites. In the north eastern Free State, nestled in the rolling foothills of the Maluti Mountains is the Golden Gate Highlands National Park - the province's prime tourist attraction. The park gets its name from the brilliant shades of gold cast by the sun on the spectacular sandstone cliffs, especially the imposing Brandwag or Sentinel Rock, which keeps vigil over the park. The little town of Clarens close to Golden Gate Highlands National Park has old sandstone buildings, art galleries, and many B&B's, self-catering and hotels. North of Winburg, the Willem Pretorius Game Reserve is the Free State's major provincial reserve, offering a wealth of wildlife, excellent fishing conditions and a wide range of sports facilities. The wide open spaces and a timeless quality, the Free State is a serene gem in the natural and cultural wealth of South Africa.

The North West Province – Taking Pride in our Heritage

Although relatively unexplored by outside visitors, the North West province has an astonishing mix of cultural, environmental and commercial wealth and warrants further investigation by any discerning traveller. Bordered by Botswana in the north, the Free State and Northern Cape to its south and Limpopo and Gauteng to its east, this province has a delightful mix of South African influences. Mafikeng (formerly Mafeking) serves as the provincial capital with significant towns being Brits, Klerksdorp, Lichtenburg, Potchefstroom, Rustenburg and Sun City.

The North West was created in 1994 with the merger of Bophuthatswana (formerly a homeland referred to as a Bantustan) and the Western Transvaal. Today the population numbers 3,272 million with 65% of those living in rural areas. The province struggles economically and it has one of the lowest literacy rates in the country. The majority of the province's residents are from the Tswana people who speak Setswana – a dialect originating in Botswana. Smaller groups include Afrikaans, Sotho, and Xhosa speaking people. English is spoken primarily as a second language.

The mainstay of the economy of North West Province is mining, which generates more than half of the province's gross domestic product and provides jobs for a quarter of its workforce. The chief minerals are gold, mined at Orkney and Klerksdorp; uranium, mined at Klerksdorp; platinum, mined at Rustenburg and Brits; and diamonds, mined at Lichtenburg, Christiana, and Bloemhof. The northern and western parts of the province have many sheep farms and cattle and game ranches. The eastern and southern parts are crop-growing regions that produce maize (corn), sunflowers, tobacco, cotton, and citrus fruits. The entertainment and casino complex at Sun City and Lost City also contributes to the provincial economy.

Major Cities and Towns

Mafikeng

Although a relatively small town, Mafikeng is the capital of North West. The area is known for its nearby goldmines. It is located on the border with Botswana.

Rustenburg

Rustenberg is situated at the foot of the Magaliesburg mountains within an hour’s drive of Johannesburg and Pretoria. Rustenburg is heavily influenced by local platinum mines which have a siginificant impact on the local economy. There are many Anglo-Boer battlesites situated in and around the town.

Potchefstroom

Potchefstroom is a small university town and as such has vibrant feel. It is also influenced by the mining industry in the general area.

Tourist Regions and Attractions

Although the province is mainly dominated by flat areas of open grassland and scattered trees, the North West is host to a number of wildlife reserves and remarkable geographical terrain. A prominent feature of the area is the Magaliesberg mountain range which extends 130 kilometres from Pretoria to Rustenburg, providing countless opportunities for climbing and hiking enthusiasts to explore on foot. While there are a number of wildlife sanctuaries scattered throughout the province, the most renowned are the 75 000 hectare Madikwe Game Reserve and the 55 000 hectare Pilanesberg National Park which is located in the crater of a millennia-old, extinct volcano. There are several other smaller parks in the province offering a variety of activities and accommodation types. All the reserves and parks in the province are managed by the respected North West Parks Board.

The North West's most famous attraction is the Sun City complex, which lies next to the Pilanesberg National Park. Sun City is one of the world's biggest entertainment centres, with casinos, two 18-hole championship golf courses, theatres and concert halls, beaches, water slides. a man made wave pool in the Valley of the Waves, a meticulously reconstructed tropical rainforest, and a number of world-class hotels that include the remarkable Palace of the Lost City. Sun City hosts the Nedbank golf challenge - South Africa’s premier golfing tournament which draws in the worlds’ best golfers to its lucrative 2 million dollar prize winnings.

The Northern Cape – As real as the people who choose to explore it

The vast and arid Northern Cape is by far the largest province, slightly bigger than Germany and taking up nearly a third of South Africa's land area. Yet it has the country's smallest population, around 1 million people which equates to an extremely roomy population density of three people per square kilometre. The province lies to the south of its most important asset, the mighty Orange River, which feeds the agriculture and diamond industries. The river forms the border with Namibia in the north, while the Molopo River is at the border with Botswana to the northeast.

As the Northern Cape is South Africa's largest province the distances between towns can be substantial. The province is dominated by the Karoo Basin and consists mostly of sedimentary rocks and some Dolerite intrusions. The south and south east of the province is high-lying (between 1200 and 1900 metres above sea level) in the Roggeveld and Nuweveld districts. The West Coast region is dominated by the Namaqualand area, famous for its spring flowers. The Northern Cape landscape is characterised by vast arid plains with haphazard outcroppings of rock piles. The cold Atlantic Ocean forms its western boundary and provides the lifeblood for various small fishing villages along its shoreline.

Major Cities and Towns

Kimberly

The capital, Kimberley, is located on the province's eastern border, a remarkable little town born out of the diamond rush and host to ‘The big Hole’ – an abandoned diamond crater of epic proportions. This is the largest man made hole on the planet, This quaint historical town is host to a variety of museums, B&B’s and restaurants which make it an ideal stop over when travelling to and from Cape Town.

Other towns

Other important towns are Upington, centre of the karakul sheep and dried fruit industries, and the most northerly wine-making region of South Africa; Springbok, in the heart of the Namaqualand spring flower country; Kuruman, founded by the Scottish missionary Robert Moffat; and De Aar, a hub of the South African railway network.

Tourist Regions and Attractions

Sutherland is the site of the southern hemisphere's largest astronomical observatory, the multinational-sponsored Southern African Large Telescope, or SALT. The night skies in the province are simply amazing with very little artificial light ‘pollution’ from large towns and cities to hinder the views of the heavens above.

Parks and Conservation Areas

The province has a wealth of national parks and conservation areas. The Kgalagadi Trans-frontier Park, Africa's first cross-border game park, joins South Africa's Kalahari Gemsbok National Park to the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. It is one of the largest conservation areas in southern Africa, and one of the largest remaining protected natural ecosystems in the world. The park provides unfenced access to a variety of game between South Africa and Botswana, over its combined land area of more than 3.6 million hectares. The Ai-Ais-Richtersveld Transfrontier Conservation Park spans the border with Namibia, with some of the most spectacular scenery of the arid and desert environments in Southern Africa. Bisected by the Orange River, it comprises the Ai-Ais Hot Springs Game Park in Namibia, and the Richtersveld National Park in South Africa. Distinctive features include the Fish River Canyon - often likened to the Grand Canyon in the US - and the Ai-Ais hot springs.

Nowhere is the Orange River more impressive than at the Augrabies Falls, which ranks among the world's greatest cataracts on a major river. The 19 separate falls cascade over a granite plateau, dropping a total of 191 metres to a 43-metre-deep pool gouged out by the force of the water. The Kalahari area of the Northern Cape is home to the last remaining truly indigenous Khoi-San (Bushmen) people – a cultural treasure in decline, but of huge historical significance. The area, especially along the Orange and Vaal rivers, is rich in San rock art engravings of which a good collection can be seen at the McGregor Museum in Kimberley. The province is also rich in prehistoric and iron-age artefacts and a vast array of fossils.

Misconceptions of South Africa

A bleak picture is often painted about the current situation in South Africa pertaining to crime, poverty, disease, political instability, language barriers etc. Although certain problems do exist they are often exaggerated and pulled out of proportion by irresponsible and poor media and newspaper companies. South Africa is a culturally and ethnically diverse country. It is the most developed country in Africa and is a great destination with excellent weather and a warm and friendly people. The 2010 FIFA World Cup proved that South Africa is a safe and capable travel destination. World Cup Press have been extremely positive about the country as a whole as well as 9 out of 10 tourists who visited the country stating they would recommend South Africa to family and friends.

Some of the misconceptions include the following:

• Crime

Unfortunately due to high levels of unemployment and poverty the crime rate in South Africa is unnaturally high. However the majority of visitors do not feel the effects of this crime as it is mostly concentrated in the poorer and rougher areas. Tourists are recommended to avoid these rough areas as well as any risky looking or quiet backend streets. Simple steps that experienced travelers take when visiting other countries are more than such as not walking around at night or leaving ones valuables out in the open or on unattended.

• Disease and Poor Sanitation

Being a third world country in Africa immediately places doubt in one’s mind as to health safety in South Africa. Although diseases such as malaria and HIV are serious and prevalent here these can be avoided. Safety precautions must be taken with regards to STI’s no matter where one is in the world. Prophylactic medicines can be taken when visiting malaria areas however this will not prevent one from contracting the illness if bitten by an infected mosquito (See Malaria Precautions).

Most water in South Africa is safe to drink, in actual fact the country has some of the highest quality water in the world. For those still worried bottled water is the best and safest option.

• Political Instability and Racism

Despite certain parts of the African continent being led by highly violent regimes South Africa is and remains a peaceful and democratic state. Apart from a handful of our government members having legal issues or being corrupt, the country is well governed and done so peacefully.

South Africa has an unfortunate history of sever hatred and racism. Things took a turn for the better in 1994 when Nelson Mandela was elected to Office and became South Africa’s first black president. Racism today is only a slight issue within the country but is mostly confined to a small minority of the population as is found in countries throughout the world.

• Languages

A small misconception with travel to Africa is that of language barriers. English is the first language in South Africa and most travelers should not have any issues with this regard. South Africa actually has eleven official languages including those such as English, Afrikaans (Derived from the Dutch settlers), Zulu, Xhosa and Sotho to name but a few.

Health in South Africa

• Malaria

The vector for malaria in Sub- Saharan Africa is the female Anopheles mosquito. When an Anopheles mosquito first bites someone the small amount of blood that it takes is used by the malaria parasites to develop in. After the development phase whenever that mosquito bites someone they are infected with the malaria parasite. After a period of between 2 weeks to a few months spent in the liver these parasites start to multiply within red blood cells. These lead to symptoms such as severe pain, fever, vomiting, shivering, convulsions and headaches. If not treated the disease can result in hallucinations, coma and death. Malaria is a serious disease, particularly in poor rural areas, and is the biggest killer of people in Africa.

Malaria is not common to all of South Africa but instead confined to the Kruger National Park, parts of Mpumalanga, Limpopo Province and Northern KwaZulu- Natal. There is always the debate as to the value of taking malaria prophylactics. There are those that argue that they have to be taken and those who say that they are unnecessary and cause more harm than good. Our advice is to consult your doctor or medical professional as to the latest recommendations. Prophylactics do not prevent one from getting the disease however it does limit the parasite count in ones blood which decreases the severity of the symptoms and gives one more time to get to a doctor or hospital before the disease becomes too serious.

There are other measures that can be taken when staying in malaria areas. Firstly mosquito repellant is effective at repelling mosquitoes and should be applied to exposed areas as well as on light clothing (Mosquitoes will bite straight through these). Secondly it helps wearing long pants, closed shoes and light, long sleeved shirts in the late afternoon and evening time when mosquitoes become more active. Lastly we advise on using mosquito nets, particularly so if camping or sleeping in highly exposed areas.

• The African Sun

Sun burn is very common with visitors to Sub- Saharan Africa as one is closer to the equator and this results in increased exposure to the sun. Even those dark skinned people who generally have more tolerance with the sun at home will find themselves being sun burnt very quickly in Southern Africa. Over exposure to the sun can result in sunburn, dehydration, sun stroke and occasionally in the long run, skin cancer. The sun is most intense from 10:00 in the morning to 4:00 in the afternoon. Sunscreen must be worn between these times and it is advisable that the SPF is higher than 20 SPF and that it contains both UVA and UVB protection. Visitors should wear protective clothing such as long sleeves, pants, hats and sunglasses when exposed for lengthy periods. One should note that the sun can be dangerous even on cloudy, overcast days.

• Vaccines Required for South Africa

There are no compulsory vaccinations required for entry into South Africa. However it is advised that those children under 12 who have not completed their Hepatitis B series of inoculants to have the necessary injections.

It is also recommended that individuals have a Tetanus booster before travelling to South Africa.