Well known for safaris, sunsets, savannahs, strife and civil chaos. South Africa is often makes travel wishlists due to the 'Big Five'. Yet it doesn’t take much research to discover there’s a lot more in this multi-race nation.
Head north for the best wildlife reserves, east for the coastline and south for the wine. Cosmopolitan Cape Town and its coast is a must-see. Opportunities to shark-dive or whale watch shouldn't be missed. Take the time to explore the lush Drakensburg Mountains. Xhosa, Zulu and other indigenous cultures remain strong and adventure sports and the braai (BBQ) rule everyday life. You may even grow to like biltong (dried meat). Try zebra biltong cut paper thin and sprinkled with spices.
History is unavoidable in South Africa, whether it’s in visiting the sites of Mandela and the Freedom Fighters or going to a township where (financial) inequality is still rife. In the township’s shebeens (unlicensed bars), you might banter with the local drunks while sipping the homebrew (try not to wince). Overall you’ll find a South African spirit that has salvaged from the wilds of Apartheid.
Vital Statistics
Capital
Pretoria
Population
44 million
Language
IsiZulu, IsiXhosa, Afrikaans, Sepedi, English, Setswana, Sesotho, Xitsonga
Currency
Rand
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