Acacia Africa

South Africa

The Republic of South Africa is a country located at the southern tip of Africa, with a 2,798 kilometres (1,739 mi) coastline on the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. To the north lie Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe; to the east are Mozambique and Swaziland; while Lesotho is an independent country wholly surrounded by South African territory.

South Africa is known for a diversity in cultures and languages. Eleven official languages are recognised in the constitution. Two of these languages are of European origin: Afrikaans, a language which originated mainly from Dutch that is spoken by the majority of white and Coloured South Africans, and South African English. Though English has a large role in public and commercial life, it is nevertheless only the fifth most-spoken home language.

The country is divided into nine provinces and 367 magisterial districts. The government is represented by National Departments, Provincial Departments, and Local Government at the district level. Environmental issues are the responsibility of the government at each of these levels.

South Africa's population was estimated to be 49 million in the 2010 census, with roughly 50% living in urban areas, and 50% in rural areas.


Garden Route The Garden Route is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in South Africa, and is home to the coastal villages of Plettenberg Bay, Knysna and Wildnerness. It is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline imaginable, from verdant lake settings where the setting is so peaceful that the rare African Oystercatcher is able to bred undisturbed on its coastline.

The Drakensburg Mountains
The Drakensberg mountains of South Africa or uKhahlamba (the Barrier of Spears) is a 200-kilometre-long mountainous wonderland and world heritage site. The largest proportion of the Drakensberg area falls in the province of KwaZulu-Natal.

The Zulu people named it 'Ukhahlamba' and the Dutch Voortrekkers 'The Dragon Mountain'. The Drakensberg Mountains, with their awe-inspiring basalt cliffs, snowcapped in winter, tower over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests and cascading waterfalls, form a massive barrier separating KwaZulu-Natal from the Kingdom of Lesotho.

Panorama Route, Mpumalanga
The magnificent Panorama Route in Mpumalanga is best known for its cultural heritage and its dramatic landscapes. Offering a vast array of exciting options for the visitor, the Panorama Route hosts some of the best adrenalin enhancing adventures in the country as well as some more placid pastimes.

One of the major highlights of the region is the Blyde River Canyon Reserve, home to spectacular wildlife and birdlife and some of the best views in South Africa.

Cape Town
Cape Town is famous for a variety of attractions that stretch from the famous Table Mountain all the way down to the sea. With a rich history, vibrant culture, pearly white beaches, charming fishing villages, colourful floral reserves and numerous activities including Robben Island and The Cape of Good Hope.

Kruger National Park
Is one of the largest game reserves in Africa. It covers 19,485 square kilometres (7,523 sq mi) and extends 360 kilometres (220 mi) from north to south and 65 kilometres (40 mi) from east to west. It is home to the Africa's 'Big 5' - elephant, rhinoceros, leopard, lion and buffalo. Kruger National Park has over 500 species of birds, 150 species of mammals (including some 12,000 elephants). 100 reptiles, 23,000 plant species and a variety of amphibians.

Tours that visit South Africa:

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