South Africa

The Rainbow Nation

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Overview

Located on the southern tip of Africa, you will find South Africa, country rich in culture and full of people who love with all their hearts. South Africa has a long and complicated history to her freedom as a Republic in 1994. Like most countries, South Africa is no stranger to power struggles and its people have overcome tremendous adversity.But this is where South Africans can stand proud and say they are a joyous nation despite the past. South Africa has 11 official languages making it one of the world's most diverse cultures. The country consists of 9 provinces and it is also one of the few countries in the world with more than 1 capital city: South Africa boasts 3, which are Johannesburg, Cape Town & Bloemfontein. The largest being Johannesburg. With a land size of 1.22 million km2 South Africa has some of the most beautiful features.

Climate, Flora & Fauna

South Africa is surrounded by oceans and overall, has a temperate climate which varies from one region to another. For instance Kwazulu-Natal has a sub-tropical climate while Eastern Cape has a Mediterranean climate, with hot, dry summers and cold, moist winters. The South African climate is generally mild all year round, with average rainfall of 500 mm – compared to a world average of 857 mm. Seasons are the opposite of Europe: the South African summer goes from October to March. At that time of the year, temperatures range from 15°C to 35°C. Winter goes from April to September and temperatures can vary from 0°C or even less, to 20°C at mid-day.

The great diversity of South African wildlife is one of the main tourist highlights. South Africa is host to the three largest land mammals: elephant, rhinoceros and hippopotamus. Of course, the famous “Big Five” – lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros – are the pride of South Africa’s Natural Parks. But also boasts giraffes, antelopes, a vast marine fauna and a number of birds such as ostrich and black-footed penguin. The South African flora is as diverse as the country itself. South Africa’s plant life alone represents one tenth of the world’s botanic heritage, with some 25.000 species. The area around Cape Town, hosts 8.500 different plant species, including 2.500 just in the Cape Peninsula and 5.000 which are not found anywhere else on the planet.

Attractions & Activities

South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer the traveller a unique and inspiring experience, along with the best and least crowded beaches in the world. If you are after surfing, whale watching, shark cage diving, or just sunbathing next to the ocean, there is a whole country worth of beaches just waiting to be explored. Throw in wildlife parks such as the The Kruger National Park, Ten UNESCO World Heritage Sites, exquisite beach-side villas, beautiful natural scenery, a great infrastructure and a stable post-apartheid environment and you have a great destination waiting to happen.

 Culture & Gastronomy

There is so much more to this wonderful country than wildlife & nature, South Africans love for people is infectious. You can go into any community, city, or small town and find people from every culture. Their love for food, socializing around a braai (barbeque) and dancing are two things all the South African cultures have in common. South Africa has even dedicated a none official national day for a braai, they love their meat!

Currency

You will need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months to visit  South Africa. The country's currency is the South African Rand (ZAR). Accommodation options in South Africa vary in price but are affordable, ranging from camping to lodges and luxury hotels. There is something for every budget.

Whether you choose to fly or drive across South Africa, you will be stunned by her beauty, each province boasts its own unique landscape, people & culture. South Africa is calling answer her call!