SOUTH AFRICAN JOKES AND POEMS South African jokes are of a rare kind. Jokes in general ease the burden of life by reducing the complexities of life to simple challenges that can be dealt with quickly. Over the years, storytellers have used jokes to capture their listeners' attention and keep things interesting. However, the skill has evolved to become a well-paying career in stand-up comedy, attracting great creative minds. Got a few of your own South African jokes up your sleeve? Naturally, you are in a new country and looking to fit in with your new community. What better way to make friends than to get people laughing? Want a few “off the cuff” South African jokes up your sleeve to unleash on people? Here’s a few of our favourites. The three little (South African) bears (a little load shedding humour): Baby Bear, sitting in his little chair at the table, looks at his little porridge bowl and says “Who ate my porridge?” Pappa Bear looks at his big porridge bowl and says angrily “Who on earth ate my porridge?” Mama Bear sticks her head through the kitchen door and shouts “I haven’t made the porridge yet…because the power is out!” Local one-liner humour: I took a trip to South Africa and met a Khoisan woman. We really clicked. Missing SA humour: In Toronto I saw a bumper sticker on a parked car that read “I miss South Africa”. So, I broke the window, took the radio and left a note stating “I hope that this helps”. These are just a few to have handy, to get people giggling. The internet is filled with a plethora of other (and more) SA joke options for you to choose from. African Jokes 44. why are some people African? because genes you dummy 43. When you can’t have Chinese food because you don’t have any pets, Just eat African food, you have plenty of neighbors! 42. for 15 cents a day you can feed an African child they eat spare change i guess 41. How do you get 1,000,000 followers? Run through Africa with a water bottle 40. Me: have you ever tried african food You: no Me: they haven’t either 39. Why are there no pharmacies in Africa? You can’t take pills on an empty stomach 38. Q: why do all the niggers in Africa run so fast? A: cause the Lions ate all the slow ones! 37. why did the girl fall off the swing… coz she had no arms bants hahahahahahhahahahahahahahahaha 36. In Africa, in a hospital, a black man entered armed – he had a knife on him – stick in his back! 35. A grandmother in South Africa celebrated her 100th birthday on Saturday by going skydiving. It’s pretty impressive – most people turning 100 usually go the other direction in the sky. 34. Would you like to try African food?? They would too. 33. what do u call a mosquito in your language we dont call them the they just come and bight 32. how do you get 11million followers. run around africa with a water bottle 31. Wanna know how to get 1 million followers get a water bottle and run through Africa. 30. You wanna know how to gain 1 million followers, Run throught the middle of Africa with a piece of bread. 29. Just met a really hot girl who was from a tribe in South Africa, we just clicked. 28. Just read about those poor primitive people in Africa who believe Ebola isn’t an illness but a curse placed upon them by evil spirits. Such a shame they can’t see through that mumbo jumbo and superstition like us in the West. I’ll pray for them at mass on Sunday. 27. American- I’ve never shot a gun African- That’s the first coming from an American 26. What do you call a dog that can do magic? A Labracadabrador 25. Why is there no gambling in Africa? Too many Cheetahs. 24. I get more care packages than Africa 23. Have you ever had African food?..neither have they. 22. how many africans does it take to change a light. a water bottle 21. Black man walked into the bar with a parrot on his shoulder. The bartender asks, “Where did you get it?” The parrot says, “Africa…” 20. do you know how to get lots of followers… run through Africa with a water bottle. 19. Student:Can I go to the bathroom? Teacher:What are you gonna do over there? Student: Make a boat and travel to Africa?! Teacher: What kind of comeback is that !? Student: Sorry I can’t talk right now, I got Ebola from Africa because I’m teachers stupid enough to beileve me.. 18. Have you ever tasted African food? No neither have they 17. I don’t see why Africans complain about not having water, they have free chocolate milk. 16. Wanna hear a joke about food in Africa? Im sure they would too. 15. Imagine the smallest grain of rice. That’s still bigger than the average African life span. 14. How do you start a rave in Africa?-You put a biscuit on the ceiling. 13. Have you ever had African water?? Neither have they 12. How many South Africans does it take to change a lightbulb? A Brazilian 11. Have you ever tasted African food? Neither have they. 10. Did you hear the scores of the African basketball game? It was Eight-Nothing 9. All these African jokes ain’t funny when you are a lover of Africa, how are there still Africans alive? Y’all are racist and may God forgive you… You know we rich with natural resources that’s why y’all come to steal from us… Shame on you ALL 8. All these African jokes ain’t funny when you are a lover of Africa, how are there still Africans alive? Y’all are racist and may God forgive you… You know we rich with natural resources that’s why y’all come to steal from us… Shame on you ALL 7. wanna hear a dry joke? a desert 6. In communist Russia there is no discrimination. White, black, African, American, British and Asian. They all go to Gulag eventually 5. where do whales get weighed… the whalewaystation bants ahahahahahahahahahahhahahahashahahhhahahahahahahahahahahahahahahah 4. What food does a cheetah eat? Fast food 3. When ever i eat in Africa the people come up to me and say we don’t do that here 2. how do you start a rave in africa? You tie a water bottle to the ceiling 1.Have you ever had Ethiopian food? Don’t worry nether have they. Funny African Jokes African humor has a unique flavor that reflects the diversity of Africa’s cultures and traditions. From funny anecdotes to clever one-liners, African jokes have a rich history of delivering laughs and joy to people across the continent and beyond. Even though African jokes may not be as well known as other forms of humor, they are an important part of African culture and storytelling. In this article, we’ll delve deeper into the world of African jokes and showcase some of the funniest and most entertaining ones. So, if you’re ready to be entertained and learn about the humorous side of Africa, keep reading! Best African Jokes 1. Do you know what they call a group of zebras in Africa? A dazzle. 2. What do you call a South African who only speaks one language? An American. 3. Why did the elephant quit his job? He couldn’t handle the pressure. 4. Why do elephants never use computers? They’re afraid of mice. 5. Why did the giraffe get bad grades in school? He had a lot of neck-glect. 6. What do you call a group of lions that enjoy dancing? A disco pride. 7. Why do they bury criminals six feet deep in Africa? Because deep down, they’re really good people. 8. What is the connection between dark humor and U.S. airstrikes? They both seem to have a target in Africa and the Middle East. 9. Want to gain a lot of followers? Try running through Africa with a bottle of water, it seems to work. 10. Want to gain 1,000,000 followers? Try running through Africa with a water bottle, it seems to work. 11. What do you call a magical dog breed? A Labracadabrador. 12. Why isn’t there much gambling in Africa? There are too many cheetahs. 13. Have you tried African cuisine before? No, me neither. 14. How do you kickstart a party in Africa? Stick a biscuit on the ceiling. 15. Have you ever had a sip of African water? No, they haven’t either. 16. Have you tasted African dishes? No, they haven’t either. 17. What was the score of the African basketball match? 8-0. 18. Why do they not have casinos in Africa? Too many cheetahs. 19. What is the name of a dog breed that performs magic tricks? Labracadabrador. 20. What is the easiest way to start a party in Africa? Place a biscuit on the ceiling. 21. How many South Africans does it require to replace a light bulb? A Brazilian. 22. Have you ever experienced African food? Nope, me neither. 23. Why don’t people gamble much in Africa? There are too many cheetahs. African American Jokes 24. Have you tried Ethiopian cuisine? Most likely not, as it is not very common. 25. Do two out of five people who don’t have diarrhea actually enjoy it when the other three are suffering? That’s an odd thought. 26. Why are Native Americans not fond of April? Because April brings showers that bloom May flowers, which in turn brought white settlers. 27. What distinguishes America from Canada? Americans are fortunate to have great neighbors. 28. How is America, unlike a bottle of milk? In two centuries, milk will develop a culture, whereas America has a rich cultural history. 29. When do Americans and the world agree? When the temperature drops to -40°. 30. What distinguishes an American from an Englishman? To an Englishman, 100 miles is a considerable distance, whereas, to an American, 100 years is a long time. 31. Do Transformers qualify for health or car insurance? No, as they are considered immigrants in America. 32. How can America be persuaded to enter a World War? By informing them that it’s almost ending. 33. Why doesn’t America use the metric system? Because they have a preference for imperial measurements. 34. How is a computer, unlike an American? A computer has troubleshooting options, whereas an American does not. 35. Why don’t Americans consume snails? Because they prefer fast food options. 36. What do you call a bee that resides in America? A USB. 37. What is the similarity between making love in a canoe and drinking American beer? Both are highly watered down. 38. If a person who can speak two languages is considered bilingual, and a person who can speak multiple languages is considered multilingual, what would you call a person who only speaks one language? A monolingual. 39. How is the United States different from yogurt? Yogurt develops culture if left alone for 300 years, while America still lacks one. 40. Who is a hardworking individual in America that never complains and works for reasonable wages? An industrious immigrant. 41. What was the outcome when the American citizen broke his arm? He ended up in financial trouble. 42. What is the reason for the strong bond between Germans and Americans? Perhaps because Americans have become the most beloved people in the world. Funny Jokes About Africa Laughter is said to be the best medicine, and there’s no better way to get your daily dose of chuckles than with African jokes! The continent is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, each with its unique sense of humor. African jokes are sure to leave you in stitches. In this section, we’ll take a look at some of the funniest African jokes out there. 43. Why are there so many lions in Africa? Because the antelopes keep running away from the crocodiles. 44. What do you call an African with a Ph.D.? A doctor . 45. What do you call an African with a bank account? A wealthy African. 46. What’s the best way to avoid getting malaria? Don’t get bitten by a mosquito! 47. Why are there so many elephants in Africa? Because they’re afraid of mice! 48. Why don’t African animals play hide and seek? Because they’re always being hunted! 49. How do you keep an African elephant from charges? Take away its credit card! 50. How do you catch a cheetah? You tie him to a post! 51. Why are African plain animals like trains? Because they’re always running on time! 52. What do you call an African elephant with a machine gun? Sir. 53. Why don’t African countries have flags? Because then they would have to sew them all together. 54. Why did the mosquito go to Africa? Because that’s where the people are! 55. Why are African countries so poor? Because they’re always giving away free food at the airport . 56. Why don’t African countries get invaded by other countries? Because there’s nothing to steal! 57. What’s the best way to communicate with an African person? By sending a text message! 58. What’s the difference between an African elephant and an African person? An African elephant is much easier to find! 59. What’s the best way to avoid getting bitten by a lion in Africa? Avoiding Africa altogether. 60. Why are African lions, such bad liars? They can’t help but give themselves away with their big manes. 61. How do you catch a cheetah? You tie him to a post and offer him a rabbit. 62. Why don’t Africans use latrines? Because there are too many flies! 63. Why are there so many lions in Africa? Because the Africans are too lazy to hunt them! Funny African Jokes Laughter is said to be the best medicine, and African humor is a perfect prescription for a good chuckle. African jokes are often hilarious and relatable to people of all ages and backgrounds. They are a reflection of African culture and heritage, and they showcase the wit, creativity, and humor of the African people. Here we’ll take a look at some funny African jokes that are guaranteed to bring a smile to your face. 64. What do you call a lazy lion? A definite slacker! 65. Why did the mosquito go to law school? To suck somebody else’s blood! 66. How do you catch a cheetah? Tie him to a post and offer him a rabbit! 67. Why did the hippo go to the dentist? To get his teeth whitened! 68. What do you call an ant who doesn’t do anything? A lazy ant! 69. What’s the difference between an African elephant and an African chicken? One is huge and has a trunk, and the other is tiny and has wings. 70. Why don’t African trees have leaves? Because they don’t have branches! 71. What’s the best way to communicate with an African? By text! 72. What’s the best way to communicate with an African? By singing! 73. What do you call an African with a map? Lost! 74. What’s the capital of Africa? There is no capital of Africa because Africa is a continent, not a country! 75. How do you know an African is lying to you? His lips are moving! 76. Why don’t scientists trust atoms? Because they make up everything! 77. What’s the difference between an African elephant and an African chicken? One is very large and has a trunk, and the other is a bird. 78. Why don’t African lions attack people? Because people taste terrible! 79. What’s an African’s favorite fruit? A baobab! 80. What’s the best way to describe an African sunset? Orange you glad you don’t live in Africa? 81. Why are there so many mosquitoes in Africa? Because that’s where they’re from! 82. How do you know an African is at your door? The rattling of the bones! 83. Why don’t African penguins live in Africa? Because they’re scared of the lions ! 84. How do you throw an African off a cliff? Give him a penny! Jokes About South Africans 85. Why is gambling prohibited in South Africa? Due to strict regulations and laws. 86. What do you call a South African with a sense of humor? A tourist! 87. Why don’t South Africans eat beans for dinner? Because they can’t find a can opener! 88. How do you catch a South African? You tie him to a post! 89. Why don’t South Africans plant trees? Because they know the monkeys will eat them! 90. Why did the South African cross the road? To get to the other side! 91. Why are South Africans so bad at math? Because they can’t count higher than 10! 92. What do you call a South African with a bucket of water? A fireman! 93. Why are South African hens so unhappy? Because they lay eggs for white people! 94. Why did the South Africans crossing the road look so puzzled? Because he was wondering why the chicken was on his side of the road! 95. Why are South African dogs so lazy? Because they have a lot of fleas! 96. What do you call a South African with a dictionary? An oxymoron! 97. If Elon Musk was born in Madagascar, what kind of car would he have created? It’s impossible to predict, but it’s likely that he would have pursued a different innovation. 98. What unit is used to measure light intensity in South Africa? The Candela, like in many other countries. 99. Why was Dr. Jekyll prohibited from South Africa? This is a nonsensical question, as Dr. Jekyll is a fictional character. 100. What happened during the golf match between a black and a white golfer from South Africa? The black golfer had the chance to win the match with a birdie on the final hole but ended up tying with a par. Also, look at : Best Filipino Dad Jokes 2023 Memorial Day Dad Jokes Best Hanging up Jokes Anniversary Dad Jokes Best Disney Knock Knock Jokes Christmas jokes If you find yourself running out of things to talk about during Christmas dinner, tell some of these jokes to impress your wittiest friends or family members. You will ‘crack them up!’. 1. 2. “What’s David Cameron’s favorite Christmas song? All I Want For Christmas is EU.” 3. “What do you get if you cross Santa with a detective? Santa Clues.” 4. “What’s the difference between the clementine in your Christmas stocking and Donald Trump? Nothing, they’re both a little orange.” 5. “What did Adam say on the day before Christmas? It’s Christmas, Eve!” 6. 7. “I can’t get to the chocolates in my advent calendar. Foiled again.” 8. 9. “Why is Bob Dylan’s sleigh so quiet? Because it has Nobel.” 10. “What do you call a bunch of chess players bragging about their games in a hotel lobby? Chess nuts boasting in an open foyer!” 11. “Philip looks out of the window on Christmas Eve: ‘That’s some reindeer’ he says. The Queen replies: ’63 years. Yes, that is a lot.” 12. “What is the best Christmas present in the world? A broken drum – you just can’t beat it.” 13. 14. “How will Christmas dinner be different after Brexit? No Brussels.” 15. “Why is it getting harder to buy Advent calendars? Because their days are numbered.” 16. 17. “What did the stamp say to the Christmas card? Stick with me and we’ll go places!” 18. “What’s the difference between Bono and Santa? Santa gives you things you want.” 19. “What did the snowman say to the aggressive carrot? Get out of my face.” 20. “What do you call an elf who sings? A wrapper!” South African Jokes (Jan van der Merwe) As an SA expat, you might be missing out on some of those old favourite South African jokes. Don’t worry though, you’re about to get your fix. Today we spared a thought for Jan van der Merwe. Do you remember that guy? You surely will when we tell you this story… Van der Merwe was watching the British Lions test match at Loftus in Pretoria. The stadium was packed – of course – and there was only one available seat, next to – you guessed it; Van der Merwe. “Is that seat taken?” asked the neighbour. “Yes, it is for my wife”, replies Van der Merwe. “Why isn’t she here?” he asked. “She died”, said Van der Merwe. “So, you didn’t give the ticket to one of your friends?” asked the neighbour. “They’ve all gone to the funeral”, said Van der Merwe. Has that jolted your memory of Van der Merwe? It probably has! Who could forget?! A classic South African van der Merwe joke Long Jan van de Merwe is a South African farmer and he really wants a shiny new tractor but he can't afford it! So he makes a plan: he is going to win the lottery and use the money to buy a new tractor. He is also a religious man, so every night before going to sleep he kneels by his bed and prays: "Please God, please let me win the lottery! I really need this new tractor I just need to win the lottery!" Every night. For weeks. For months van der Merwe prays to win the lottery, until one day, God speaks to him. "Jan, my son. I have heard your prayers and I have seen that your soul is pure. I am trying to help you win the lottery, I've been doing everything I can but I just can't do it on my own! Look, it's been months Jan, could you just... meet me halfway... and buy a fuckin' ticket already?" Van der Merwe Jokes Van der Merwe Jokes Van der Merwe Biltong Ltd. (UK) Van der Merwe Jokes Page Please feel free to leave some Van der Merwe jokes on our blog. The best will be cut and pasted and published on our website. http://www.vandermerwebiltong.co.uk/ Happy Birthday, Boet! "Hello, is this the SAP?" (South African Police) "e-yes. What you want?" "I'm calling to report my neighbor, Fanie van der Merwe! He is hiding dagga (marijuana) inside his firewood." "e-yes ... Thank you for your co-opershun and informashun in combatting crime and violence, in our society ser." The next day, the SAP descended on Fanie's house. They search the braai lapa (BBQ area) where the firewood is kept. Using axes, they chop open every piece of wood, but find no dagga. They shout and swear at Fanie and leave. "Hey, Danie! Did the SAP come?" "Ja" "Did they chop your firewood?" "....Ja....." "Happy Birthday Boet!" Committing suicide Schalk burst into Van's room to find Van standing on a chair with a rope around his waist and the end of the rope around the ceiling beam. "Hey Van, what do you think you're doing?" said Schalk. "I'm committing suicide," replied Van. "Well you're going about it all wrong," said Schalk. "You're supposed to tie the rope around your neck, not our waist." "Man, but I tried that yesterday and I nearly choked|." Van der Merwe was watching a rugby test against the British Lions at Loftus Versfeld stadium in Pretoria. In the packed stadium, there was only one empty seat - next to Van der Merwe. "Who does that seat belong to?" asked his neighbour. "It's for my wife." "But why isn't she here?" "She died." "So why didn't you give the ticket to one of your friends?" "They've all gone to the funeral." Van der Merwe goes to Paris to watch the Boks take on the Brits at the world cup. Whilst in Paris, he walks around, gaping and staring at everything - so much so that he walks smack bang into a fire hydrant which hits him so hard on the family jewels that he has to be rushed to hospital where the doctors tell him they have to remove his testicles. Van goes berserk, he bites and snarls at every one and he won't let anybody within 10 metres of him. Eventually they find a South African doctor in the hospital and get him to talk to Van. He walks up to Van and tells him "Hey Van, die ouens moet jou knaters uithaal." Van replies "O, okay, ek dog die bliksems wil my test tickets vat." Black & White lessons from the British On a British Airways flight from Johannesburg, September 1990, a middle-aged, well-off white South African lady had found herself sitting next to a black man. She called the cabin crew attendant over to complain about her seating. "What seems to be the problem, Madam?" asked the attendant. "Can't you see?" she said, "You've sat me next to a black man. I can't possibly sit next to this disgusting sub-human. Find me another seat!" "Please calm down, Madam." the stewardess replied. "The flight is very full today, but I'll tell you what I'll do. I'll go and check to see if we have any seats available in club or first class." The woman cocks a snooty look at the outraged black man beside her (not to mention many of the surrounding passengers). A few minutes later the stewardess returns with the good news, which she delivers to the lady, who cannot help but look at the people around her with a smug and self-satisfied grin. "Madam, unfortunately, as I suspected, economy is full. I've spoken to the cabin services director, and club is also full. However, we do have one seat in first class." Before the lady has a chance to answer, the stewardess continues: "It is most extraordinary to make this kind of upgrade, however, and I have had to get special permission from the captain. But, given the circumstances, the captain felt that it was outrageous that someone should be forced to sit next such an obnoxious person." With that, she turned to the black man and said, "So if you'd like to get your things, Sir, I have your first class seat is ready for you." At which point, the surrounding passengers (mostly white British) stood and gave a standing ovation while the man walked to the front of the plane!!! A few years ago Wessels Van Der Merwe (a really well-known Afrikaans character in South Africa) decided to invite an old friend from England to visit his home for a few weeks during the summer. Seeing as it was the first time the Englishman was visiting Africa, Van Der Merwe planned to impress him by showing him around the countryside during a small trek in the bush. Of course, Wessels being who he was, the trek was planned into unfamiliar territory full of jungle plantation requiring lots of equipment and logistics, none of which he had the remotest idea. So, the Englishman and Van Der Merwe set off into the buntu in high spirits, knapsack on their back and jerrycan filled with water in the direction of the thickest part of the jungle Wessels knew about. Pretty soon the going got tough, and then even tougher, and finally they both got so tired they had to settle down to rest for a while, Wessels completely out of breath but not willing to show it. While drinking their water and talking shop about the price of bananas in Ireland, they both failed to notice a tribe of cannibals that had quietly surrounded them and were promptly captured, tied up and dragged back to a cannibal village nearby. The village chief, heavily bored with his everyday rituals of decapitating wild pigs and small rodents for fun, was slightly more bemused with the bewildered duo and immediately clapped his hands as a signal to prepare the evening feast. Van Der Merwe and the Englishman were promptly and unceremoniously undressed, buttered and stuck in a big cauldron together with a multitude of vegetables and spices. The fire under the cauldron was lit and the villagers began their traditional dances around the fire to thank their gods for the coming gift. Wessels, starting to feel the heat and therefore starting to fear he would miss the rest of the summer braai's in the coming weeks, turned to the Englishman first and reassured him that all this was a normal greeting procedure in South Africa. Then he turned to the village chief and started to recount how he had been sick as a child and that his flesh would taste, let alone the diseases that the Englishman might have brought with him from over the big lake... After a period of reflection, the village chief decided to postpone the feast, on condition that Van Der Merwe and the Englishman return to the jungle accompanied by his men to find anything else that the chief hadn't tasted before. Overjoyed, Van Der Merwe and his buddies set out into the thickett at a trot in the opposite direction to the Englishman. Not far out of the village, the trail opened out into a shadowy clearing, just big enough to hold some of the BIGGEST watermelons Van Der Merwe had EVER seen! They were at least twice the size of normal watermelons and were soft to the touch, indicating they were ripe and juicy to eat. Van Der Merwe picked up three of the biggest ones he could carry and started back to the village accompanied by his spear-carrying mates. Upon entering the village and staggering to the village chief, Van Der Merwe gently laid down his trophies at the chief's feet and smiled a winner's smile... which quickly removed itself when he saw the chief's disgruntled face. Waving his hand in a pooh-pooh gesture the chief passively mentioned he had eaten those watermelons two days before. Stunned, Van Der Merwe turned to the boiling pot, back to the chief, back to the pot... Suddenly, the chief smiled and said that Wessels would be spared if... and only if... he could shove each and every watermelon up his ass without laughing. Van Der Merwe, stunned even more, gulped as he saw the size of the watermelons and started unconsciously rubbing his backside with uncomfortable firmness. But the alternative was clear. Van Der Merwe picked up the first watermelon and heftily lobbed it from one hand to the other, testing its weight. He gulped again and pleadingly looked over to the chief. No response except a raised eyebrow. Grunting and groaning, Van Der Merwe started to push the watermelon slowly but surely up his ass, keeping as straight a face as he could. The chief's face slowly began to change from a dark frown to a bemused grin as he watched the spectacle unfold before him, and some of the villagers surrounding them were already starting to laugh in unison. After an hour, the first watermelon was snugly in place and Van Der Merwe slowly turned to reach for the next watermelon, the beads of perspiration appearing in droplets on his face. Not a smile or a smirk had been seen on Van Der Merwe's face and the spectacle continued. Firmly grasping the second watermelon, he bent over and positioned it before heaving a big breath... By now the chief was laughing openly with the other villagers and couldn't keep a straight face every time he saw poor Van Der Merwe struggling with his trophies. Even if the white man were to complete the impossible task, the dinner that would follow would be the best he had ever tasted, dessert included in the main course! Watching Van Der Merwe roll about the village center in sheer agony, it was too much to hold back the hoots and bellows and by the time the second watermelon had found its mark, the chief had fallen off his throne with uncontrollable gut convulsions. Van Der Merwe, his eyes swollen with tears and the rest just swollen, regarded the third watermelon with absolute horror and turned to the practically incapacitated chief for a last chance at getting off the hook. Looking past the chief's shoulder, he suddenly stopped, gazed with amazement and suddenly threw a fit of laughter that shook his whole body! The mirthful shrieks of Van Der Merwe caught the chief by surprise, causing him to stare in disbelief at this white man who had performed a miracle, and asked Van Der Merwe why on Earth he had started to laugh just at the moment when he might have been released? Van Der Merwe, drying the tears from his face and between body shakes pointing behind the chief, said: "Look, there's that stupid Englishman returning from the jungle with a load of prickly pears in his hands!" A prickly pear is the fruit of a cactus! Reminds me of the time Van Der Merwe went to Durban for a holiday for the first time in his life. As he was packing the vrou and the braai into the Nissan bakkie, Van tonder, his ever caring neighbour said to him 'Toe nou Van, jus pasop for those blerry Koelies. Man, they'll rip you off blind and mos take the gold out of your teeth while you'se talking to them nogal. So ou Van says 'No, moenie worry nie man. I'm a man of the world and nobody's gonna chaff me kak. Anyway, ou Van and Tannie Van boek into the beach hotel and they only have a lekker few days, before Van is taking a walk down Addington Beach on the last day. Now check, there's ou Bobbie Naidoo and he's mos gooieing the stick into the sea for his dog (being that it's the Indian Ocean and all). Now for all his being a man of the world who has been to Bloemfontein, Windhoek (Okay so he took a wrong turn, but he blerry went all the way) and Naboomspruit nogal, but Van's only bedonnerd when he sees the dog run along the top of the waves and back with the stick. So Van says to Naidoo, 'Ek se, my good Curry Muncher, how much for the dog?' So ou Bobbie, quick as a flash says 'Hundred Rand Boss'. No hesitation, struse Bob, ou Van gives him the hundred and takes the dog home with him. Anyway, it's sundowners back at home and ou Van Der Merwe and Van Tonder is sitting on the stoep at Tweebuffelsmosdoodmeteenskootgeskietsfontein (A/K/A Die Plaas) and the dog is sitting on the floor next to Van and Van says to Van Tonder 'He Boet, kyk vir die' and he sommer goois the dam with a stick so it lands in the middle. And the dog just takes off over the top of the water and brings the stick back the same way. Man, ou Van tonder just looks at his dop and says 'You bought that brak off a koelie, ne?' And Van says, 'Ja. So?' 'I told you you'd get ripped off. It can't blerry swim' So van der Merwe goes to the railway station, and at the ticket office asks: "A return ticket please." Ticket man: "Where to please?" Van: "Back here, of course, man!" So Van is in a bar in London with a Frenchman and an Italian . They are boasting of their sexual prowess . The Frenchman says "When I pleasure my mistress , I tickle her nipples with a feather , and she floats an inch above the bed in bliss". The Italian, not to be outdone, says "When I make love to my girlfriend, I lick amaretto liqueur from her navel. She floats a foot above the bed in delight ". Van say "Ya , well , er... When I screw my wife , I wipe my dick on the curtains afterwards. Let me tell you, she hits the fuckin' roof!" So now van der Merwe is working at the zoo. He especially enjoys cleaning out the elephant 's enclosure, since the zoo's sole elephant is an intelligent and obedient animal called "Nuts". All he has to do is say "come over here, Nuts", or "sit down, Nuts" and the elephant will do what it is told. One day he comes into the managers office, dripping wet, flings down his broom and shouts "I've had all I can take! I quit!". "What's wrong, Van?" Asks the manager. "I can't take the guy selling peanuts any more. Every day when I'm in with the Elephant he's yelling "Peanuts ! Peanuts !" Tourguide Koos Van der Merwe Old Koos was a courier for a leading tour bus operator. Being a "verligte" he took the opportunity of telling a multiracial group of tourists about to set off for the Garden Route that race was of no consequence to him. "I am not worried about black or white," he said. "As far as I am concerned you could all be green!" "Now, all aboard!! Dark green to the back, light green to the front!" REVISED SOUTH AFRICAN DICTIONARY * AG This is one of the most useful South African words. Pronounced like the "ach" in the German "achtung" it can be used to start a reply when you are asked a tricky question, as in "Ag, I don't know." Or a sense of resignation "Ag, I'll have some more mieliepap then." It can stand alone too as a signal of irritation or of pleasure. * DONNER A rude word, it comes from the Afrikaans "donder" (thunder).Pronounced "dorner", it means "beat up." Your rugby team can get donnered in a game, or your boss can donner you if you do a lousy job. * EINA Widely used by all language groups, this word, derived from the Afrikaans means "ouch." Pronounced "aynah", you can shout it out in sympathy when someone burns his finger on a hot mealie at a braai. * HEY Often used at the end of a sentence to emphasise the importance of what has just been said, as in "Jislaaik boet, you're only going to get a lekker klap if you can't find your takkies now, hey ?" It can also stand alone as a question. Instead of saying, "excuse me?" or "pardon?" when you have not heard something directed at you, you can say "Hey?" * ISIT? This is a great word in conversations. Derived from the two words "is" and "it", it can be used when you have nothing to contribute if someone tells you at the braai "The Russians will succeed in their bid for capitalism once they adopt a work ethic and respect for private owner-ship." It is quite appropriate to respond by saying, "Isit?" * *JAWELNOFINE This is another conversation fallback word. Derived from the four words "yes", "well", "no" and "fine", it means roughly "how about that?" If your bank manager tells you your account is overdrawn, you can say with confidence "Jawelnofine." * JISLAAIK Pronounced "Yis-like", it is an expression of astonishment. For instance, if someone tells you there are a billion people in China, a suitable comment is "Jislaaik, that's a hang of a lot of people, hey?" * *KLAP Pronounced "klup" - an Afrikaans word meaning smack, whack or spank. If you spend too much time at the movies at exam time, you could end up catching a sharp klap from your pa. In America, that is called child abuse. In South Africa, it is called promoting education. * LEKKER An Afrikaans word meaning nice, this word is used by all language groups to express approval. If you see someone of the opposite sex who is good-looking, You can exclaim "Lekkerrr!" while drawing out the last syllable. * TACKIES These are sneakers or running shoes. The word is also used to describe automobile or truck tyres. "Fat tackies" are big tyres, as in "Where did you get those lekker fat tackies on your Volksie, hey?" * DOP This word has two basic meanings, one good and one bad. First, the good. A dop is a drink, a cocktail, a sundowner, a noggin. If you are invited over for a dop be careful. It could be one or two sedate drinks or a blast, depending on the company you have fallen in with. Now the bad. To dop is to fail. If you dopped Standard Two (Grade 4) more than once, you probably won't be reading this. * SARMIE This is a sandwich. For generations, school children have traded sarmies during lunch breaks. If you are sending kids off to school in the morning, don't give them liver-polony sarmies. They are the toughest to trade. * HOWZIT This is a universal South African greeting, and you will hear this word throughout the land. It is often used with the word "no" as in this exchange "No, howzit?". "No, fine.", "No, isit?". * WHAT'S POTTING Local vernacular for " Whats happening " or " What's up" . This term has no gardening connotation whatsoever. * BIOSCOPE A local word now losing a little fashion meaning movie theatre, cinema, flicks or pictures, depending on which part of the world you come from. * JUST NOW Contrary to it's apparent meaning, ' just now ' can mean anytime from now right through to the next millennium.Asked to do a job you don't particularly like, you would reply "Ja, I'll do it just now" * NOW NOW In much of the outside world, this is a comforting phrase "Now, now, don't cry - I'll take you to the bioscope tomorrow." But in South Africa, this phrase means a little sooner than soon. "I'll clean my room now now Ma.", knowing that you will receive a well deserved ' klap if you don't do it at once. It is a little more urgent than "just now". * BOET This is an Afrikaans word meaning "brother" which is shared by all language groups. Pronounced "boot" as in "foot", it can be applied to non-brother. For instance a father can call his son "boet" and friends can apply the term to each other too. Sometimes the diminutive "boetie " is used. Don't use the term with someone you hardly know - it would be thought patronising. *PASOP From the Afrikaans phrase meaning "Watch out!" This warning is used and heeded by all language groups. As in "Your ma hasn't had her morning coffee yet Boet so pasop and stay out of her way." Sometimes just the word, "pasop!" is enough without further explanation. Everyone knows it sets out a line in the sand not to be crossed. * VROT Pronounced "frot". A wonderful word which means "rotten" or "putrid" in Afrikaans, it is used by all language groups to describe anything they really don't like. Most commonly it describes fruit and vegetables whose shelf-lives have long expired, but a pair of tackies (sneakers) worn a few times too often can be termed "vrot" by unfortunate folk in the same room as the wearer. Also a rugby player who misses important tackles can be said to have played a vrot game-but not to his face because he won't appreciate it. We once saw a movie review with this headline "Slick Flick, Vrot Plot." * JA-NEE Afrikaans for "Yes/No" in English. This expression's origin is believed to have originated when a family member starts talking politics what else do we talk about in South Africa?) and you don't want to cause a political argument and get klapped or donnered, then every now and then you mutter, "Ja-Nee." (pronounced yah - near). * GRAZE In a country with a strong agricultural tradition, it is not surprising that farming words crop up (pun intended) in general conversation. Thus to graze means to eat. If you are invited to a bioscope show, you may be asked "Do you want to catch a graze now now. * CATCH A TAN This is what you do when you lie on the beach pretending to study for your matric exams. The Brits, who have their own odd phrases, say they are getting "bronzed". Nature has always been unkind to South African school children, providing beach and swimming pool weather just when they should be swotting for the mid-summer finals. If you spend too much time "catching a tan" at exam time, you could end up catching sharp "klap" from your pa. * ROCK UP To rock up at some place is to just sort of arrive. You don't make an appointment or tell anyone you are coming - you just rock up. Friends can do that, but you have to be selective about it. You can't just rock up for an interview or at a five star restaurant. You give them a bell first, then you can rock up. * BELL South African vernacular for telephone call as in " Ja Boet, I'll give you a bell just now " which means phoning anytime from now to eternity. * SCALE To scale something is to steal it, A person who is "scaly" is not nice, he's a scumbag and should be left off the Christmas party invitation list Van der Merwe is invited to have lunch with the Queen. While sitting at her table he says to her: "Jis you know Queen you have got such a nice house, and you know Queen your clothes are so nice and you know Queen your food is bakgat!" The Queen gets pissed off with this Queen bit and says to Van. "Mr Van der Merwe, you should not be calling me Queen this and Queen that the correct title is "Your highness". Van says, " ..jis that is unbelievable, my brother's name is also Johannes and he is also a queen!" There was a German, an Italian and Van der Merwe on death row.The warden gave them a choice of three ways to die: 1. to be shot 2. to be hung 3. to be injected with the AIDS virus for a slow death. So the German said, "Shoot me right in the head." Boom, he was dead instantly. Then the Italian said, "Just hang me." Snap! He was dead. Then it was Van der Merwe turn , and he said, "Give me some of that AIDS stuff." They gave him the shot, and Van der Merwe fell down laughing. The guards looked at each other and wondered what was wrong with this guy Then Van der Merwe said, "Give me another one of those shots,"so the guards did. Now he was laughing so hard, tears rolled from his eyes and he doubled over. Finally the warden said, "What's wrong with you?" Van der Merwe replied, "You guys are so stupid..... I'm wearing a condom." A boer went to the appliance store sale and found a bargain. "I would like to buy this TV," he told the salesman. "Sorry, we don't sell to boere," the salesman replied. He hurried home, took a shower, changed his clothes and combed his hair, then came back and again told the salesman "I would like to buy this TV." "Sorry, we don't sell to boere," the salesman replied. "Bliksem, he recognized me," he thought. So he went for a complete disguise this time, haircut and new color, shaved off the baard, suit and tie, fake glasses, then waited a few days before he again approached the salesman. "I would like to buy this TV." Sorry, we don't sell to boere," the salesman replied. Frustrated, he exclaimed "Jislaaik, man! How do you know I'm a boer?" "Because that's a microwave," the salesman replied. Van der Merwe went to Australia on vacation. One day he was sitting in one of the Outback pubs in the North-West of WA drinking Emu Export. As he finished his third, Crocodile Dundee came and sat next to him at the bar. Being a skeptical person by nature, Van stared at this guy from head to toe, and at the toe his eyes got stuck. He looked up at Dundee and said: "Hey, lekker boots my bra. What kind is these, huh??" Croc Dundee: "Hey mate, they're croc boots" Van: "They don't look broken to me man!" Croc Dundee: "They're crocodile boots, drongo!" Van: "Oh! Where can I get some?" Croc Dundee: "You just go down to the river and get yourself a crocodile, mate, and then you got some boots!" Van thought this was a great idea so he finished his beer and strolled down to the river. Without hesitation he walked into the river about waist height and started hitting the water with the flat of his hand. Meanwhile, back at the pub the guys were all standing at the verandah watching this spectacle. About 5 minutes passed when a crocodile floating nearby responded to Van's racket. As he approached, Van turned around and leaped at the crocodile, literally attacking him. The others on the porch couldn't believe what they were seeing. An hour had passed when Van finally grabbed the crocodile in a typical "boere" death grip and dragged him out onto the riverbank. Before letting go, Van gave the poor croc another couple of punches on the nose. The croc was out like a candle. Van was soaked in blood, more of the croc's than his own, but nonethe- less, he was still hurt badly. Van laid the croc down and with an enormous effort he managed to roll the croc over. He stared down at the croc for what seemed to be ages, before finally looking up at the very surprised crowd on the porch, and said: "Just my luck, a crocodile without boots!" In a small Afrikaner town, a new bar/tavern started a building to open up their business. The local NG church started a campaign with petitions and prayers to block the bar from opening. Work progressed, however, right up till the week before opening, when a lightning strike hit the bar and it burned to the ground. The church folks were rather smug in their outlook after that, until the bar owner sued the church on the grounds that the church was ultimately responsible for the demise of his building, through either direct or indirect actions or means. The church vehemently denied all responsibility or any connection to the building's demise in its reply to the court. As the case made its way into court, the judge looked over the paperwork. At the hearing he commented, "I don't know how I'm going to decide this, but as it appears from the paperwork, we have a bar owner who believes in the power of prayer, and an entire church congregation that does not. Wanna hear a dirty joke? Van der Merwe slipped and fell in the mud! 1: The English tell jokes about "An Englishman, a Scotsman and an Irishman", sometime with supporting cast from a Welshman or a Frenchman or the like, but they are never individuals just generic ethics. Sometimes you may get a joke starring "Paddy", but it is the exception. So van der Merwe goes to the railway station, and at the ticket office asks: "A return ticket please." Ticket man: "Where to please?" Van: "Back here, of course, man!" South African jokes make use of a named stereotype: van der Merwe. "van der Merwe" is a common enough Afrikaans surname, from the Dutch "from the Merwe", the Merwede (or Merwe) river being near Dordrecht in Holland. How do you confuse van der Merwe? Give him two shovels and tell him to take his pick. The jokes are often the standard repertoire adapted to local tastes. van der Merwe jokes are a fairly juvenile pleasure. "These rooinecke are not so bad when you get to know them," said Van on return from a visit to England. "Hey, they take you home, share their bed with you and give you breakfast in the morning - all for no charge." "Did that really happen to you, Van?" asked van Tonder. "No, but it happened to my sister," said Van. Background details emerge from the jokes: van der Merwe's first name is generally "Koos". If a brother is needed, the brother's name can be "Piet". If a rival or foil is needed, it is van der Merwe's neighbour or co-worker "van Tonder". If a sister, wife, girlfriend or love interest is needed, she will usually be "Sannie". Often van der Merwe is a farmer or a yokel. Sometimes he is a policeman, or sometimes an office worker. Being in a joke, he is by turns naive, stupid, lucky, crass, witty and cunning. He generally speaks English with a thick Afrikaans accent. So now van der Merwe is working at the zoo. He especially enjoys cleaning out the elephant's enclosure, since the zoo's sole elephant is an intelligent and obedient animal called "Nuts". All he has to do is say "come over here, Nuts", or "sit down, Nuts" and the elephant will do what it is told. One day he comes into the managers office, dripping wet, flings down his broom and shouts "I've had all I can take! I quit!". "What's wrong, Van?" Asks the manager. "I can't take the guy selling peanuts any more. Every day when I'm in with the Elephant he's yelling "Peanuts! Peanuts!" It has been noted that jokes about the disadvantaged are politically incorrect, but jokes about the advantaged are OK. The Afrikaners have been for the last century the most advantaged ethnic group in South Africa, so jokes with them as the butt are in a small way subversive. But even Afrikaners will tell van der Merwe jokes without feeling that they are the direct butt of the joke. How does van der Merwe clean his glasses? With brylcreem! Ahahah ha ha ha.... Don't you get it? Well, "brill" is Afrikaans for glasses, so he thinks that it's for his glasses ... never mind, I guess that one doesn't travel. How else do you confuse van der Merwe? Put him in a rondavel and tell him to stand in the corner. Hahahaha. A rondavel? That's a round hut, it doesn't have corners. Oh, never mind. I heard my first van der Merwe joke when I was under five. They range from one-liners to dirty jokes to shaggy dog stories that can be told for as long as you have the courage to wind up your audience. Van is talking to a Texan about their respective farms. The Texan says "Let me tell you about my Ranch back in Texas. Why, I used to get into my truck in the morning, and drive all day, and at the end of the day I wouldn't have reached the end of my farm yet.". "Well ya" says Van, " I used to have a bakkie like that too". And a last, dirty one: So Van is in a bar in London with a Frenchman and an Italian. They are boasting of their sexual prowess. The Frenchman says "When I pleasure my mistress, I tickle her nipples with a feather, and she floats an inch above the bed in bliss". The Italian, not to be outdone, says "When I make love to my girlfriend, I lick amaretto liqueur from her navel. She floats a foot above the bed in delight". Van say "Ya, well, er... When I screw my wife, I wipe my d*ck on the curtains afterwards. Let me tell you, she hits the f#*$in' roof!" 2: Priest was seated next to Van Der Merwe on a flight to Brakpan. After the plane was airborne, drink orders were taken. Van Der Merwe asked for a Rum and Coke, which was brought and placed before him. The flight attendant then asked the priest if he would like a drink. He replied in disgust "I'd rather be savagely raped by a dozen whores than let liquor touch my lips." Van Der Merwe then handed his drink back to the attendant and said "Me too, I didn't know we had a choice." 3: A Zimbabwean, a Nigerian, and van der Merwe’s daughter are in the same bar. When the Zimbabwean finishes his beer, he throws his glass in the air, pulls out his pistol, and shoots the glass to pieces. He says, ‘In Zimbabwe , our glasses are so cheap we don’t need to drink with the same one twice.’ The Nigerian, obviously impressed by this, drinks his beer, throws it into the air, pulls out his AK-47, and shoots the glass to pieces. He says, ’In Nigeria , we have so much stolen money to make glasses that we don’t need to drink with the same one twice either.’ Van der Merwe’s daughter, cool as a cucumber, picks up her beer, downs it in one gulp, throws the glass into the air, whips out her 45, and shoots the Zimbabwean and the Nigerian. Catching her glass, setting it on the bar, and calling for a refill, she says, ‘In South Africa we have so many illegal aliens that we don’t have to drink with the same ones twice.’ ‘ God Bless South Africa ‘ 4: There was a German, an Italian and Van der Merwe on death row.The warden gave them a choice of three ways to die: 1. to be shot 2. to be hung 3. to be injected with the AIDS virus for a slow death. So the German said, "Shoot me right in the head." Boom, he was dead instantly. Then the Italian said, "Just hang me." Snap! He was dead. Then it was Van der Merwe turn , and he said, "Give me some of that AIDS stuff." They gave him the shot, and Van der Merwe fell down laughing. The guards looked at each other and wondered what was wrong with this guy Then Van der Merwe said, "Give me another one of those shots,"so the guards did. Now he was laughing so hard, tears rolled from his eyes and he doubled over. Finally the warden said, "What's wrong with you?" Van der Merwe replied, "You guys are so stupid..... I'm wearing a condom." 5: Van der Merwe went to Australia on vacation. One day he was sitting in one of the Outback pubs in the North-West of WA drinking Emu Export. As he finished his third, Crocodile Dundee came and sat next to him at the bar. Being a skeptical person by nature, Van stared at this guy from head to toe, and at the toe his eyes got stuck. He looked up at Dundee and said: "Hey, lekker boots my bra. What kind is these, huh??" Croc Dundee: "Hey mate, they're croc boots" Van: "They don't look broken to me man!" Croc Dundee: "They're crocodile boots, drongo!" Van: "Oh! Where can I get some?" Croc Dundee: "You just go down to the river and get yourself a crocodile, mate, and then you got some boots!" Van thought this was a great idea so he finished his beer and strolled down to the river. Without hesitation he walked into the river about waist height and started hitting the water with the flat of his hand. Meanwhile, back at the pub the guys were all standing at the verandah watching this spectacle. About 5 minutes passed when a crocodile floating nearby responded to Van's racket. As he approached, Van turned around and leaped at the crocodile, literally attacking him. The others on the porch couldn't believe what they were seeing. An hour had passed when Van finally grabbed the crocodile in a typical "boere" death grip and dragged him out onto the riverbank. Before letting go, Van gave the poor croc another couple of punches on the nose. The croc was out like a candle. Van was soaked in blood, more of the croc's than his own, but nonetheless, he was still hurt badly. Van laid the croc down and with an enormous effort he managed to roll the croc over. He stared down at the croc for what seemed to be ages, before finally looking up at the very surprised crowd on the porch, and said: "Just my luck, a crocodile without boots! 6: Van was hitchhiking along when he got a lift from a chap driving a Mercedes Benz. He was intrigued by the Mercedes crest on the bonnet. “Hey, tell me what that things for.” Thinking this a rather stupid question, the driver decided to play a practical joke on Van. “You see,” he replied, “I’ve got a bad habit of knocking pedestrians down and those are my foresights through which I take aim.” “Hell hey!” exclaimed Van. They were approaching an intersection when a pedestrian stepped off the pavement to cross the road. The driver headed straight for the pedestrian and at the last moment swung away. As he did so there was a huge bang and he saw in his rear-view mirror the pedestrian lying in the road. “Hey man, I would take those sights back,” said Van, “they’re not at all accurate. If I hadn’t opened my door we would have missed him.” 7: oldie How do you know there’s an Irishman at a cock fight? “He’s the person that enters the duck”. How do you know Van’s there? “He puts all his money on the duck.” How do you know the Mafia’s there? “The duck wins.” 8: oldie Moon rocks Van der Merwe was given an allocation of samples of moon rocks for the scientists of South African universities to look over and study. His supply of moon rocks ran out before he had sent them to all the universities, so he went to Van Tonder’s cattle ranch, took some stones, and sent them to the remaining universities. Their scientists became most excited when analyzing the stones. They got together for a meeting to discuss their findings. They had all concluded that the cow definitely did jump over the moon. 9: oldie Rugby By special arrangement it was agreed that a rugby team consisting only of members of the Van der Merwe family should oppose the Lions at a game at Ellis Park, not far from the railway line. It happened that a train passed by during the second half, blowing its whistle as it went. Under the impression that the whistle marked the end of the game, the Lions left the field. It took the Van der Merwe team another 15 minutes to get its first try. 10:oldie Madam Van der Merwe and Labuschagne hated each other when at school together and when they left school they were both delighted at the prospect of not seeing each other again for a very long time. After the passage of many years Labuschagne became an admiral and Van der Merwe a portly butcher. It happened one day that Van caught site of Labuschagne resplendent in his admiral’s uniform on platform 16 of Johannesburg station. Van approached Admiral Labuschagne and said “Excuse me, station master, but can you tell me what time this train leaves for Durban?” “At 6.30 p.m., madam,” Labuschagne replied, “but I am surprised to see you travelling in your condition.” BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

KWA ZULU NATAL Welcome to the KwaZulu Natal Known as the Zulu Kingdom Appropriately named "South Africa's Garden Province ", the lush and green province forms the east coast of South Africa from the Mozambique boundary southwards to Port Edward. Enticing, spectacular and fascinating, the province is a subtropical coastline, with savannah heading east towards majestic Drakensberg mountain range in the west. KwaZulu Natal's beaches are along the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, and are some of South Africa's most popular holiday spots. It is a multi-cultural showpiece destination. Kwa-Zulu Natal is also known as the Zulu Kingdom and has eight different destinations, each offering its own unqiue set of experiences. It is a kaleidoscope showing you natural wonders, ultra-modern facilities, fascinating glimpses of a multi-coloured people, a history rich in heroic deeds, bloody battles and ultimately reconciliation, and this is all set against a majestic backdrop of sun, sea, mountains and sky. Durban is a sophisticated cosmopolitan city of over three million people. A city where east meets west it is known as the home of Africa's best managed, busiest port. It is an exciting city in which to play, shop, experience the nightlife and relax. It is a city in which to do business also. The world-class International Convention Centre has hosted an historic line-up of events including conferences of a global scale. Also known as the playground of the Zulu Kingdom, there are so many things to keep you busy in Durban, such as a marine world, the wharf, the BAT centre, fine restaurants, entertainment and shopping, craft markets, beachfront stalls, theatres and clubs, township tours, nature sanctuaries and parks, the Botanical Gardens and so much more. You can sail, swim, run, play tennis or stroll along or relax on the sun-drenched beaches. Battlefields - Shaka, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi and General Louis Botha were all famous military strategists who walked through this place many years ago. Lone forts and small graveyards on these undulating landscapes with rocky outcrops make visible the secrets and sorrows of great battles, sighed and whispered by the wind. The Battlefield sites, historic towns and national monuments are testimony to the critical, blood-soaked conflicts which are the legacy of this place. Tours can be taken of the Battlesites, but if you wish to take on a more adventurous route you can go white-water rafting down the rapids of the mighty Tugela, sail on the Chelmsford Dam or hunt in the designated hunting reserves. This region offers all these pursuits. The elephant coast is a pristine eco-wonderland boasting 21 different ecological systems. Some of the world's highest natural dunes, brilliant coral reefs, fever tree and palm savannahs, papyrus swamps and rolling acacia bushveld can be found in this land of natural and cultural diversity. It is home to the Zulu and Tsonga people as well as the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, declared South Africa's first World Heritage Site. Accommodation ranges from luxury game lodges to Zulu homestays and camping. The sea, lakes and beach provide more adventure. Scuba diving and snorkelling enable you to watch the 1200 different species of marine life abounding in these waters. And taking a turtle tours is a must. Angling is a great sport, whether from the 200 kilometers of unspoilt beach, on the lakes or the deep sea. While at sea you might even be lucky enough to spot a whale or two. Historical venues are the Ghost Mountains and Dingaan's grave. The Zulu and Tsonga people will share these places with you and tell you more about their history as well as their traditional way of life. The South Coast is a very popular holiday destination, with it's sub-tropical forests, blue lagoons, golden beaches, rocky coves, warm Indian Ocean and sunny weather. There are three beaches which have International 'Blue Flag' status, namely Ramsgate, Marina Beach and Lucien. The South Coast is also known to many as 'The Golf Coast' because of its nine excellent 18-hole golf course, two of white are rated amongst the top 12 in the country. The Umtamvuna Nature Reserv conserves plants found nowhere else in the world, and you can view 400 species of birds along this coastline. Scuba diving is a popular past time and you will find excellent diving areas at Aliwal Shoal and Protea Banks. You can also go abseiling in the Oribi Gorge. The scenery around here is absolutely breathtaking. The North Coast is also known as the Dolphin Coast and stretches from Zimbali to the mighty Tugela River. You will find the bottle nose dolphin frolicking in these waters close to shore, all year round. There are so many things to do here, such as dining at fine restaurants, partying at the nightclubs, taking a golf course or taking to the air in a microlight. You can stroll along the coast on horseback during low tide, or enjoy some angling. As for the history aficionados you will be interested to know that Shaka Zulu is buried at Kwa-Dukuza, and Albert Luthuli, the Nobel laureate, is buried nearby. You can visit historic battle sites such as the Ultimatum Tree, Ndondakusuka or Fort Pearson, or you can walk a 'muti' trail through the Harold Johnson Nature Reserve. The Zulu people are indigenous to this part of the land, but the North Coast is also home to a large Indian community. You will find Indian temples and you can sample their spicy food. Pietermaritzburg Midlands is home to quaint antique shops, markets, restaurants, art galleries, museums and a casino. This is where the annual Duzi Canoe Marathon starts, as is beginning and end for the Comrades Marathon. Take a picnic to the magnificent Howick Falls, or try your hand at some trout or bass fishing. For the more adventurous you can paraglide off Bulwer Mountain or slide across the canopy of Karkloof's indigenous forests. The Drakensberg Mountains are named by the Zulu 'Ukhahlamba' or the 'Barrier of Spears' and by the Dutch Voortrekkers 'The Dragon Mountain'. With their awe-inspiring basalt cliffs, snowcapped in winter, towering over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests and cascading waterfalls, the Drakensberg Mountains form a massive barrier separating Kwa-Zulu Natal from the Kingdom of Lesotho. The only road access is via Sani Pass, which at the top boasts the highest pub on Africa, at 3000 metres above sea level. This 243 000 hectare mountainous region known as the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, has been preserved and venerated for eons since the San people or bushmen roamed these slopes. These mountains combine sheer natural beauty with a wealth of biological diversity. Tens of thousands of paintings depicting the daily life of the bushmen can be found on the rock faces. In December 2000 the park received international recognition and was declared KwaZulu Natal's second World Heritage Site. The adventurous may try climbing it or abseiling, white water rafting or taking a helicopter ride to view the mountains from above. There are also hiking routes for the less adventurous where you can view the large variety of animals and plantlife. KwaZulu-Natal KwaZulu-Natal (/kwɑːˌzuːluː nəˈtɑːl/ , also referred to as KZN; nicknamed "the garden province") is a province of South Africa that was created in 1994 when the Zulu bantustan of KwaZulu ("Place of the Zulu" in Zulu ) and Natal Province were merged. It is located in the southeast of the country, with a long shoreline on the Indian Ocean and sharing borders with three other provinces and the countries of Mozambique , Eswatini and Lesotho . Its capital is Pietermaritzburg , and its largest city is Durban . It is the second-most populous province in South Africa, with slightly fewer residents than Gauteng . Two areas in KwaZulu-Natal have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites : the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park . These areas are extremely scenic as well as important to the surrounding ecosystems. During the 1830s and early 1840s, the northern part of what is now KwaZulu-Natal was established as the Zulu Kingdom while the southern part was, briefly, the Boer Natalia Republic before becoming the British Colony of Natal in 1843. The Zulu Kingdom remained independent until 1879. KwaZulu-Natal is the birthplace of many notable figures in South Africa's history, such as Albert Luthuli , the first non-white and the first person from outside Europe and the Americas to be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize (1960); Pixley ka Isaka Seme , the founder of the African National Congress (ANC) and South Africa's first black lawyer; John Langalibalele Dube , the ANC's founding president; Harry Gwala , ANC member and anti-apartheid activist; Mac Maharaj , grammy award winning group Ladysmith Black Mambazo , grammy award winning DJ Black Coffee , ANC member, anti-apartheid activist and Little Rivonia Trial defendant ; Mangosuthu Buthelezi , the founder of the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP); Anton Lembede , the founding president of the ANC Youth League ; Jacob Zuma , the former President of South Africa ; Bhambatha , a 19th-century Zulu chief who became an anti-apartheid icon; and Shaka Zulu . Geography A view of the Mngeni River valley near Howick Falls At around 92,100 km2 (35,600 sq mi) in area, KwaZulu-Natal is roughly the size of Portugal. It has three different geographic areas and is the eastern most province in the country. The lowland region along the Indian Ocean coast is extremely narrow in the south, widening in the northern part of the province, while the central Natal Midlands consists of an undulating hilly plateau rising toward the west. Two mountainous areas, the western Drakensberg Mountains and northern Lebombo Mountains form, respectively, a solid basalt wall rising over 3,000 m (9,800 ft) beside Lesotho border and low parallel ranges of ancient granite running southward from Eswatini. The area's largest river, the Tugela , flows west to east across the center of the province. The coastal regions typically have subtropical thickets and deeper ravines; steep slopes host some Afromontane Forest . The midlands have moist grasslands and isolated pockets of Afromontane Forest. The north has a primarily moist savanna habitat, whilst the Drakensberg region hosts mostly alpine grassland . The province contains rich areas of biodiversity of a range of flora and fauna. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park have been declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites . The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, along with uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and Ndumo, are wetlands of international importance for migratory species and are designated as Ramsar sites . South Africa signed the 1971 Ramsar Convention to try to conserve and protect important wetlands because of their importance to habitats and numerous species. The former Eastern Cape enclave of the town of Umzimkulu and its hinterland have been incorporated into KwaZulu-Natal following the 12th amendment of the Constitution of South Africa . The amendment also made other changes to the southern border of the province. The northwesterly line of equal latitude and longitude traverses the province from the coast at Hibberdene (30°34′35″S 30°34′35″E ) to northeast Lesotho . The province became the first to include a portion of road that is made of partial plastic, the equivalent of nearly 40,000 recycled milk cartons. Climate Upland savannah near Pietermaritzburg Mangrove forest at the Umgeni River estuary in Durban KwaZulu-Natal has a varied yet verdant climate thanks to diverse, complex topography. Generally, the coast is subtropical with inland regions becoming progressively colder. Durban on the south coast has an annual rainfall of 1009 mm, with daytime maxima peaking from January to March at 28 °C (82 °F) with a minimum of 21 °C (70 °F), dropping to daytime highs from June to August of 23 °C (73 °F) with a minimum of 11 °C (52 °F). Temperature drops towards the hinterland, with Pietermaritzburg being similar in the summer, but much cooler in the winter. Ladysmith in the Tugela River Valley reaches 30 °C (86 °F) in the summer but may drop below freezing point on winter evenings. The Drakensberg can experience heavy winter snow, with light snow occasionally experienced on the highest peaks in summer. The Zululand north coast has the warmest climate and highest humidity, supporting many sugar cane farms around Pongola. Sports Sports Provincial sport teams Soccer African Warriors (Phuthaditjhaba ) Carara Kicks F.C. (Welkom ) Bloemfontein Celtic (Bloemfontein )(now has been sold) Free State Stars (Bethlehem ) Roses United Bloemfontein Young Tigers Rugby Cheetahs (Bloemfontein ) Currie Cup : Free State Cheetahs (Bloemfontein ) Griffons (Welkom ) Cricket Knights (Bloemfontein ) Borders KwaZulu-Natal borders the following areas of Mozambique, Eswatini and Lesotho: Maputo Province, Mozambique (far northeast) Lubombo District, Eswatini (northeast, east of Shiselweni) Shiselweni District, Eswatini (northeast, west of Lubombo) Mokhotlong District, Lesotho (southwest, north of Thaba-Tseka) Thaba-Tseka District, Lesotho (southwest, between Mokhotlong and Qacha's Nek) Qacha's Nek District, Lesotho (southwest, south of Thaba-Tseka) Domestically, it borders the following provinces: Mpumalanga (north) Free State (west) Eastern Cape (southwest) See also: Parks of KwaZulu-Natal , List of cities and towns in KwaZulu-Natal , and List of municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal The KwaZulu-Natal Province is divided into one metropolitan municipality and ten district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into 44 local municipalities . The local seat of each district municipality is given in parentheses: In 2012, the Ingonyama Trust owns 32% of the land in KwaZulu-Natal, in many municipalities. This amounts to about three million hectares, occupied by over 4 million people. The Zulu king is the chairman of the Trust. Metropolitan municipalities eThekwini Metropolitan Municipality (Durban ) District municipalities Amajuba District (Newcastle ) Newcastle Dannhauser eMadlangeni Uthukela District (Ladysmith ) Emnambithi/Ladysmith Indaka Umtshezi Okhahlamba Imbabazane Zululand District (Ulundi ) Ulundi Nongoma Abaqulusi uPhongolo eDumbe uMkhanyakude District (Mkuze ) Jozini Hlabisa Umhlabuyalingana Mtubatuba The Big 5 False Bay King Cetshwayo District (Richards Bay ) [formerly uThungulu] uMhlathuze Umlalazi Nkandla Mbonambi Ntambanana Mthonjaneni uMzinyathi District (Dundee ) Msinga Nqutu Umvoti Endumeni uMgungundlovu District (Pietermaritzburg ) Msunduzi uMshwathi uMngeni Richmond Mkhambathini Mpofana Impendle iLembe District (kwaDukuza ) KwaDukuza Ndwedwe Mandeni Maphumulo Ugu District (Port Shepstone ) Ray Nkonyeni uMdoni uMuziwabantu Umzumbe Harry Gwala District (Ixopo ) Dr Nkosazana Dlamini-Zuma Ubuhlebezwe Greater Kokstad Umzimkhulu Coastline A beach on the North Coast The coastline is dotted with small towns, many of which serve as seasonal recreational hubs. The climate of the coastal areas is humid and subtropical, comparable to southern Florida in the United States, but not quite as hot and rainy in the summer. As one moves further north up the coast towards the border of Mozambique, the climate becomes almost purely tropical. North of Durban is locally referred to as "The North Coast ", while south is "The South Coast ". The Kwazulu-Natal Tourist board includes towns such as Margate , Port Shepstone , Scottburgh and Port Edward in its definition of the South Coast, while Ballito , uMhlanga , Zimbali and Salt Rock are North Coast resort towns. San Lameer Resort Beaches of world-class quality are to be found along virtually every part of South Africa's eastern seaboard, with some of the least-developed gems found in the far southern and far northern ends of the province. Marina Beach (and its adjoining resort San Lameer) was recognised in 2002 as a Blue Flag beach . Some visitors come for the annual late autumn or early winter phenomenon on the KwaZulu-Natal coast of the "sardine run ". Referred to as "the greatest shoal on earth", the sardine run occurs when millions of sardines migrate from their spawning grounds south of the southern tip of Africa northward along the Eastern Cape coastline toward KwaZulu-Natal. They follow a route close inshore, often resulting in many fish washing up on beaches. The huge shoal of tiny fish can stretch for many kilometres; it is preyed upon by thousands of predators, including game fish , sharks , dolphins and seabirds . Usually, the shoals break up and the fish disappear into deeper water around Durban. Scientists have been unable to answer many questions surrounding this exceptional seasonal event. Interior The interior of the province consists largely of rolling hills from the Valley of a Thousand Hills to the Midlands . Their beauty has inspired literature. Alan Paton , in the novel Cry, the Beloved Country , wrote: There is a lovely road that runs from Ixopo into the hills. These hills are grass-covered and rolling, and they are lovely beyond any singing of it. The road climbs seven miles (11 km) into them, to Carisbrooke; and from there, if there is no mist, you look down on one of the fairest valleys of Africa. About you there is grass and bracken and you may hear the forlorn crying of the titihoya , one of the birds of the veld. Below you is the valley of the Umzimkulu , on its journey from the Drakensberg to the sea; and beyond and behind the river, great hill after great hill; and beyond and behind them, the mountains of Ingeli and Griqualand East . History Further information: Zulu Kingdom , Natalia Republic , Colony of Natal , Natal Province , and KwaZulu On Christmas Day 1497, Portuguese explorer Vasco da Gama saw the coast of Natal and named the site after the Portuguese word for Christmas, Natal . The Nguni branch of the Bantu occupied this area from the early 1300s[10] The first European settlers, mostly British, established Port Natal , a trading post. They made almost no attempt to develop the interior, whose inhabitants had been decimated by the Zulu king, Shaka . The Afrikaner Voortrekkers entered the area via the Drakensberg passes in 1837. These Afrikaners defeated the Zulus at the Battle of Blood River in 1838 and thereafter established the Republic of Natal. Thus, the territory was once part of a short-lived Boer republic between 1839 and 1843 until its annexation by Britain. Many Afrikaner inhabitants left for the interior after the annexation and were replaced by immigrants, mainly from Britain. From 1860 onwards, increasing numbers of Indians, mainly Tamils ,[11] were brought in by the British mainly to work in the sugar plantations on the coast. The colony acquired Zululand (the area north of the Tugela River) after the Zulu War of 1879. The lands north of the Buffalo River were added in 1902. Boer forces entered the area during the South African War (1899 to 1902) – also known as the second Boer War – and laid siege to Ladysmith . They failed to build on their initial advantage and for three months the line between the opposing forces followed the course of the Tugela River . In 1910, the colony became a province of the Union of South Africa and in 1961 of the Republic of South Africa. When the homeland of KwaZulu, which means "Place of the Zulu" was re-incorporated into the Natal province after the end of apartheid in 1994, the province of Natal, which had existed between 1910 and 1994, was renamed KwaZulu-Natal. The province is home to the Zulu monarchy; the majority population speak Zulu . It is the only province in South Africa that has the name of its dominant ethnic group as part of its name. As with Eastern Cape , most White South Africans in KwaZulu-Natal are of British descent and less than a quarter of whites in the province are of Boer/Afrikaner descent.[12] [13] [14] Provincial coat of arms The lion and wildebeest supporters are symbols of, respectively, KwaZulu and Natal, the regions joined to create KwaZulu-Natal. Besides its importance as a symbol of the Zulu monarchy, the lion is also featured in the state emblems of the India and the United Kingdom which together represent the three largest people groups in KwaZulu-Natal and also represents the unity between them. The zig-zag stripe represents the Drakensberg which is green in summer, but snowcapped in winter and the star represents the Star of Bethlehem , due to Vasco da Gama naming the region "Natalia" (a reference to the birth of Christ) on Christmas Day in 1497. The strelitzia flower on the shield symbolizes the province's beauty, while the assegai and knobkierrie behind the shield represent protection and peace. The base of the crown element is a type of headdress traditionally worn by Zulu elders that represents wisdom and maturity; the element itself is a Zulu-style grass hut. The motto is Masisukume Sakhe, Zulu for "Let us stand up and build". Law and government Law and government The KwaZulu-Natal parliament building, located in Pietermaritzburg Provincial government KwaZulu-Natal's provincial government sits in Pietermaritzburg . The foundation stone of the new legislative building was laid on 21 June 1887, to commemorate Queen Victoria's Golden Jubilee . The building was completed two years later. On 25 April 1889, the Governor of Natal, Sir Arthur Havelock , opened the first Legislative Council session in the new building. This was the former site of St Mary's Church, built in the 1860s. The congregation built a new church in 1884 at the corner of Burger Street and Commercial Road. The old building was demolished in 1887 to provide space for the legislative complex. When governance was granted to Natal in 1893, the new Legislative Assembly took over the chamber used by the Legislative Council since 1889. Further extensions to the parliamentary building were made. The building was unoccupied until 1902, when it was used without being officially opened, due to the country's being engulfed in the Anglo-Boer war . The war forced the Legislative Assembly to move the venue of its sittings, as its chamber was used as a military hospital. The Legislative Assembly and the Legislative Council buildings have both been protected as provincial landmarks . They formed a colonial Parliament of two houses: a Council of 11 nominated members and an Assembly of 37 elected members. The Natal Parliament was disbanded in 1910 when the Union of South Africa was formed, and the Assembly became the meeting place of the Natal Provincial Council. The council was disbanded in 1986. The Provincial Legislature consists of 80 members. Current composition Composition of the KwaZulu-Natal Legislature The African National Congress (ANC) holds power in the provincial legislature, winning the province with a convincing overall majority in South Africa's 2019 elections . After the election, the Inkatha Freedom Party (IFP) regained the title of the official opposition in the province. Zulu monarchy KwaZulu-Natal is the home to the Zulu monarch , currently King Misuzulu Zulu kaZwelithini. As of 2015, the king is provided a stipend of 54 million South African rands by the provincial governmentHe is also the chairman of the Ingonyama Trust , which controls 32% of the area of the province. Economy Sugar cane in Midlands South. KwaZulu-Natal has the second largest regional economy in the country after Gauteng . Durban is a rapidly growing urban area and is by most measures the busiest port in Africa. A good railway network links the city to other areas of Southern Africa. Sugar refining is Durban's main industry. Sheep, cattle, dairy, citrus fruits, corn , sorghum , cotton, bananas, and pineapples are also raised. There is an embryonic KwaZulu-Natal wine industry. Other industries (located mainly in and around Durban) include textile, clothing, chemicals , rubber, fertiliser , paper, vehicle assembly and food-processing plants, tanneries, and oil refineries. To the north, Newcastle is the province's industrial powerhouse, with Mittal Steel South Africa (previously ISPAT/ISCOR) and the Karbochem synthetic rubber plant dominating the economy. In 2002, Newcastle became the largest producer of chrome chemicals in Africa with the completion of a chrome-chemical plant, a joint-venture project between Karbochem and German manufacturing giant Bayer. Other large operations include a diamond-cutting works, various heavy engineering concerns, the Natal Portland Cement (NPC) slagment cement factory, and the Newcastle Cogeneration Plant (old Ingagane Power Station). This was recommissioned as Africa's first gas-fired power station by Independent Power Southern Africa (IPSA), and it supplies the Karbochem Plant with electricity. The textile industry is a major employer in the Newcastle area, with over 100 factories belonging to ethnic Taiwanese and Chinese industrialists. Maize, livestock and dairy farmers operate on the outskirts of the city. Coal is also mined in the Newcastle area. Offshore mining of heavy mineral sands including minerals with a concentration of significant economic importance at several locations, such as rutile , ilmenite and zircon are threatening the marine ecology of KwaZulu-Natal's coast, including the Tugela Banks; the fishing economy of the prawn and nurse fisheries are also threatened. Ecology tourism is increasingly important to the economy of KwaZulu-Natal. The area's rich biodiversity and efforts at conservation have been recognised. Tourists have come to see the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park , declared UNESCO World Heritage Sites . These two major parks and that of Ndumo have wetlands of international importance listed as Ramsar sites for conservation. Civil society and politics Prominent civil society organisations based in the province of KwaZulu-Natal include: Abahlali baseMjondolo (shackdwellers') movement, the Diakonia Council of Churches, the Right2Know campaign, and the Unemployed People's Movement. Evictions and political controversy The government in KwaZulu Natal has been under sustained controversy for their eviction of shackdwellers and mistreatment by provincial police structures that has resulted in more than 200 arrests of Abahlali members in the first last three years of its existence and repeated police brutality in people's homes, in the streets and in detention. See also: Attack on Kennedy Road The attack on Kennedy Road informal settlement by an armed mob in 2009 in [Durban] put local and provincial government under sustained scrutiny. It was reported by members of the Abahlali baseMjondolo movement that the attackers were affiliated with the local branch of the African National Congress and it was claimed that the attack was carefully planned and sanctioned by the provincial police department. Academic research seems to confirm that the attackers self-identified as ANC members and that ANC leaders at Municipal and Provincial level later provided public sanction for the attack. See also: Marikana Land Occupation (Durban) Despite a court interdict, the eThekwini municipality, with the support of the provincial SAPS, repeatedly evicted shack dwellers in Durban's Cato Crest. The General Council of the Bar has also expressed concern over the evictions. Ecology Natal plum There are various game reserves found in the province; one notable example is Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park , where the southern white rhinoceros was saved from extinction. In many of these larger reserves, large animals ranging from several antelope species to elephant , Cape buffalo and hippopotamus can be found. Predators include lions , leopards , and Cape wild dogs . The scaly yellowfish (Labeobarbus natalensis) is a fish found in the Tugela River system as well as in the Umzimkulu , Umfolozi and the Mgeni . It is a common endemic species in KwaZulu-Natal Province and it lives in different habitats between the Drakensberg foothills and the coastal lowlands. Carissa macrocarpa (Natal plum) is a shrub native to South Africa, where it is commonly called the "large num-num". In the Zulu language or isiZulu, as well as in the Bantu tribes of Uganda, it is known as the Amathungulu or umThungulu oBomvu. In Afrikaans, the fruit is called noem-noem. Education Universities The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has five campuses in the province.[33] It was formed on 1 January 2004 after the merger between the University of Natal and the University of Durban-Westville .[34] Other universities are: University of Zululand Durban University of Technology Mangosuthu University of Technology University of South Africa Colleges AAA School of Advertising Berea College of Technology Berea Technical College CTU Training Solutions Central Technical College Damelin College Eduvos Ethekwini college ICESA Education iStudent MANCOSA Management and Leadership Academy Pax college Regent Business School Richfield Graduate institute of Technology Stadio institute of Higher Education (Embury institute for higher education) The Business School at Varsity College Oval International Education Sport Major sports events Comrades Marathon , an annual marathon run between Pietermaritzburg and Durban. Midmar Mile , a mile-long swimming race held annually at Midmar Dam . Dusi Canoe Marathon , an annual canoe marathon starting in Pietermaritzburg and ending in Durban. Durban July , South Africa's premier annual horse racing event at Greyville Racecourse, Durban. Mr Price Pro, a premier international surfing event at Durban during winter (previously known as the "Gunston 500"). Provincial sports teams Football (soccer) The South African Premier Soccer League (PSL) currently features the following teams from the province: AmaZulu , Golden Arrows and Royal AM (Durban) Thanda Royal Zulu (Richards Bay) Maritzburg United (Pietermaritzburg) Royal AM Durban Rugby union United Rugby Championship The Sharks Currie Cup Sharks BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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WILDLIFE PANARAMA What kinds of monkeys live in South Africa & Other Species If you visit South Africa, it’s only natural to ask yourself the above question. I mean, who doesn’t want to see monkeys!? Luckily, there are quite a few species you should be able to find. So, keep reading to learn how to identify each monkey, ape, and primate, and learn some fun and interesting facts. Pictures and range maps are also included! COMMON Snakes Found in South Africa! If so, you have come to the right place. In the article below, I have listed the MOST COMMON snakes you can expect to see. Unfortunately, there are so many snakes that live in South Africa that it would be impossible to list each one. You’ll see that the snakes in South Africa are very different from each other. They range from venomous species to snakes that use constriction to immobilize their prey. In addition, certain snakes are common to find living around people. MONEYS 4 Types of Monkeys Found in South Africa! Vervet Monkey Chlorocebus pygerythrus Also known as the Vervet, Common Vervet, Desert Tumbuli, or Yellow Monkey. Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 42-60 cm (17-24 in) long with 49-75 cm (19-30 in) tails. Males are larger, and you can easily identify them by their bright blue scrotums. They have black faces. Their fur coats are shades of gray that grow brown towards the back. Keep your food hidden! Vervet Monkeys are bold and frequently steal food from households. These cheeky monkeys live in South Africa in woodlands, savannahs, and mountainous regions. Their behavior is incredibly similar to humans, with some individuals showing traits such as anxiety and alcoholism. Vervet Monkeys spend as much time among the trees as they do on the ground. When foraging the forest floor, they gather in groups of 10-40 individuals. Then, after a long day, they climb back up to the highest branches to rest. Note that these monkeys are highly territorial and will scream aggressively at any intruders! For example, if a Vervet spots a predator lurking around, it will bellow an alarm call to inform others of the danger. Mohol Bushbaby Galago moholi Also known as the Southern Lesser Galago. Identifying Characteristics: Adults are about 15 cm (6 in) long with a tail of 23 cm (9 in). They have notably large and rounded eyes. Their ears, hands, and feet are also proportionally large. Their wooly coats range from gray to brown. Some have stripes and markings on their bodies. Mohol Bushbabies are some of the cutest primates in South Africa! Don’t blink, or you’ll miss them! These fast little critters sprint and leap through the tangle of branches, using their long tails for balance. What they lack in size, they make up for with an array of adaptive abilities. Mohol Bushbabies are equipped with large eyes to help them see in the dark of night. Also, their twitchy ears can detect the faintest sounds from the insects they feed on. Finally, their tongues are narrow enough to reach deep into cracks where bugs hide. These primates eat fruits, nuts, and tree sap if they can’t find prey. Check out our LIVE bird camera from South Africa HERE! At night it’s common to see Mohol Bushbabies visiting the feeder. 🙂 Interestingly, Mohol Bushbabies got their name because their cries sound like that of a human infant! Family units of 2-5 mark their territories with urine to keep outsiders from trespassing. Adult females and their children sleep together in tree hollows, while adult males sleep alone. They tend to bite and spit when threatened, so try not to startle them. Chacma Baboon Papio ursinus Also known as the Cape Baboon. Identifying Characteristics: One of the longest monkeys. Adult bodies are 50 to 115 cm (20 to 45 in), and tails are 45 to 84 cm (18 to 33 in). They are also one of the heaviest monkeys. Adult males average 31.8 kg (70 lb). Females are considerably smaller. Generally dark gray or brown. There is a patch of rough hair on the nape of its neck. Males DO NOT have a mane, unlike baboon species that live farther north in Africa. Chacma Baboons are the most common monkey in South Africa! You can find them in a wide variety of habitats, including woodland, savanna, steppes, and sub deserts (arid habitats that have just enough rainfall to allow vegetation to grow). They are adaptable and live in both humid and dry environments. It is rare to find only ONE Chacma Baboon, as this species is very social. They live in large troops that can number up to 100 individuals. Communication is done via facial expressions, vocalizations, body movements, and touch. Infanticide is more common among these primates than other baboon species, as new dominant males will kill other infants sired by the previous male. Chacma Baboon Range Map Leopards are the main predator of Chacma Baboons. One study showed that they made up 20% of leopard kills! African wild dogs, lions, Spotted hyenas, Nile crocodiles, and African rock pythons also consume these monkeys when given the chance. But male Chacma Baboons are pretty intimidating themselves with large and sharp canine teeth, and they are often able to drive away potential predators. Blue Monkey Cercopithecus mitis Also known as the Diademed Monkey. Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 50-65 cm (20-26 in) long. Look for a white patch of fur on their necks. They also have round, furry cheeks. Contrary to their name, Blue Monkeys have grayish or olive coats. Look for Blue Monkeys in South Africa high among the tree canopy. They prefer shaded areas with high humidity and nearby water sources. Blue Monkeys are occasional allies and share territory with Red-tailed Monkeys. On the other hand, they avoid Baboons and Chimpanzees, who sometimes prey on them. Blue Monkeys function in groups of 10-15. An alpha male acts as the leader of several subgroups consisting of females and their children. Females can be aggressive towards one another, especially when defending their food. Roughly half of their diets are fruits, but they also eat flowers, leaves, and slow-moving invertebrates. Blue Monkeys rarely leave the safety of treetops, so don’t expect to come across one at ground level. However, sometimes, they bask in the early morning sun from lower bare branches. Puff Adder Bitis arietans Also known as the African Puff Adder and Common Puff Adder Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 100-150 cm (39-59 in) long. They are commonly gray to dusty brown, with yellow chevrons on their backs. There are two dark bands on the head, one on the crown and one between the eyes. Male Puff Adders are usually larger than females. Puff Adders are one of the most dangerous snakes in South Africa. This ill-tempered native snake roams savannas, grasslands, and – to the great misfortune of inhabitants – densely populated areas. The Puff Adder gets its name from how it inflates itself when threatened. Instead of moving away, it will hiss a warning to intruders before inflating and striking. Its distinctive chevron pattern in yellow, white, and brown colors allows the Puff Adder to blend into its surroundings. This camouflage is particularly useful for its lifestyle as an ambush predator. Be careful where you wander because this highly-venomous, fast-striking snake seems to come out of nowhere. The Puff Adder’s venom contains a cytotoxin that can kill a healthy adult human within a day. Their potent venom and tendency to loiter around footpaths make this snake one to avoid. Watch your step! Cape House Snake Boaedon capensis Also known as the Brown House Snake and Common House Snake Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 60 cm (24 in) on average, but they can grow up to 120 cm (47 in). They are various shades of yellow and brown, but some individuals are brick red. You will notice two white lines on the head: one from the back of the eye to the tip of the mouth and the other from the nose to the back of the head. The belly is creamy white, with stripes running along the body. The Cape House Snake is frequently seen in grassy and suburban areas, but it doesn’t stop there. As its name suggests, it has a habit of appearing in houses unannounced, especially at night! Luckily, these snakes are harmless to humans. They slowly drag themselves around at night to catch unsuspecting rodents, lizards, and birds. Without venom to paralyze their prey, Cape House Snakes constrict their prey with strong muscles along their bodies. The Cape House Snake is popular among exotic pet owners due to being low-maintenance. However, owners should be careful to keep these snakes separated. In captivity, they breed up to six times per year as opposed to two times in the wild. Boomslang Dispholidus typus Also known as Common African Tree Snake, Kivu Boomslang, and Kivu Large Green Tree Snake Identifying Characteristics: Adults are usually 100-160 cm (39-63 in) long. Coloration varies greatly, allowing these snakes to camouflage in different terrains. Generally, males are light green, scaled with black and blue, and females are brown. Boomslangs have an egg-shaped head and notably large eyes. This slender snake in South Africa makes its home in low-lying trees. In fact, its common name Boomslang means “tree snake” in Afrikaans and Dutch. Be careful within this species’ range because the next vine you pull might become a deadly encounter! This snake’s venom is highly potent, causing bleeding and death for humans, even in small doses. However, compared to front-fanged snakes, which release large amounts of venom at once, rear-fanged snakes like the Boomslang inject small amounts of venom in quick succession. When confronted, the Boomslang will freeze and then swing its head from side to side before quickly attacking. Fortunately, Boomslangs won’t attack humans except as a last resort. If you are bitten, seek immediate treatment. Victims might get a false sense of safety because the venom is slow-acting, but many people have died from internal bleeding hours later. Cape Cobra Naja nivea Also known as Yellow Cobra and Black Spitting Cobra Identifying Characteristics: Their typical length is between 120-140 cm (47-55 in), but some have been recorded to grow up to 188 cm (74 in). Male Cape Cobras are slightly larger than females. Their colors vary, ranging from bright yellow, dark brown, and reddish black to speckled. Juveniles have dark bands from the throat to the belly for their first two years. The Cape Cobra is found along savannas, shrublands, and deserts. Although it’s mostly a terrestrial snake that hunts on land, this venomous species is surprisingly agile near water or atop trees. Be extra careful if you find yourself within Cape Cobra territory. Among snakes in South Africa, it’s considered one of the most dangerous because its venom targets the respiratory and nervous systems. Seek immediate treatment if bitten because victims have been reported to die within an hour. Like most snakes, the Cape Cobra prefers to flee than fight. However, it can strike without notice if it feels trapped. Be especially wary during this cobra’s mating period in September and October, when it’s more aggressive than usual. Spotted Bush Snake Philothamnus semivariegatus Also known as Spotted Green Snake and Variegated Green Snake Identifying Characteristics: They are typically 60-130 cm (24-51 in) long. Spotted Bush Snakes have small heads, golden yellow eyes, and blue tongues. The upper half of the body can be yellow, green, or blue, while the tail-end is brown. You might also find black spots or stripes. You might encounter the Spotted Bush Snake in South Africa in forested areas or suburban gardens. These beautifully-patterned snakes have keeled, or ridged, belly scales, allowing them to easily climb walls, trees, and bushes. Curiously, they’re fantastic swimmers as well! Often misidentified as the more dangerous Green Mamba, Spotted Bush Snakes are non-venomous and harmless to humans. Instead, they’re patient hawk-eyed hunters, staying completely still before swiftly attacking lizards, geckos, and frogs in daylight. Spotted Bush Snakes are alert, nervous animals and will immediately flee upon sensing danger. They don’t have established territories and are noted to travel far and wide in pursuit of their prey. So if you find one astray in your home, leave a window open, and it’ll leave soon! Stripe-bellied Sand Snake Psammophis subtaeniatus Also known as Western Yellow-bellied Sand Snake Identifying Characteristics: Their average length is 70-140 cm (28-55 in). As its common name suggests, it has prominent stripes along the body from head to tail. The belly is yellow. Look for a slender head and large eyes. Try not to blink, or you might miss seeing one of the fastest snakes in South Africa! Stripe-bellied Sand Snakes are swift enough to successfully hunt birds, lizards, rodents, and even other snakes. But thankfully, it poses no threat to humans. The Stripe-bellied Sand Snake frequents arid habitats such as savannas and rocky hillsides. Here, it indulges in one of its favorite pastimes– basking in the sun! Consequently, it’s most active during the hottest hours of the day. Interestingly, they share a trait commonly seen in house geckos. If a predator catches its tail, the snake snaps it off and slithers away to nearby shrubs and trees for safety. The tail grows back, but it’s usually less colorful and shorter than before. Black Mamba Dendroaspis polylepis Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 200-450 cm (79-177 in). Its coloring is usually brown, olive green, or yellow. Black specimens with purplish scales are very rare. Juveniles are usually gray or green, but they darken with age. In small woodlands and rocky outcrops of sub-Saharan South Africa lurks what many consider the world’s deadliest snake. The Black Mamba is named after the inky coloring of the inside of its mouth, something you should hope never to see! It likes to nest in burrows, so stay alert around suspicious holes. The fatally potent venom of the Black Mamba targets the nervous system and the heart. Difficulty breathing can occur within 10 minutes. If you get bitten, it’s a race against time, so get medical attention immediately! In addition to their highly toxic venom, Black Mambas are terrifyingly fast. They can move 16 kph (10 mph) for short distances and even lunge at prey or attackers. Contrary to popular belief, these snakes are rather shy and will choose to escape when given a chance. They raise their heads, spread their cobra-like neck hoods, and hiss loudly as a warning to would-be attackers. So the best thing to do if you encounter the Black Mamba is to slowly back away, making sure it doesn’t feel cornered. Red-lipped Snake Crotaphopeltis hotamboeia Also known as Common Herald Snake, White-lipped Herald Snake, Savanna White-lipped Snake, Black-templed Cat Snake Identifying Characteristics: This snake can grow to 70-100 cm (28-39 in) long. Coloration is usually olive green or gray on the back, sometimes speckled white. Its head is notably black. True to its name, it has a bright red (sometimes orange or yellow) upper lip most prominently displayed when it feels threatened. The head is broad and triangular, while the tail is short. You’ll find Red-lipped Snakes near marshlands, bogs, and lowland forests in South Africa. They also gravitate towards the suburbs, so you might bump into one in your backyard after an evening rain. Most active during the night, these land snakes prey on amphibians such as toads and frogs. Their venom is mild, effective only on their chosen prey, and harmless to huans. They also have a mild and shy demeanor. Don’t test your luck, though. Red-lipped snakes have a trigger-happy temper when provoked. So even though its venom isn’t dangerous, its bite is still painful! Interestingly, the Red-lipped Snake got its other common name, the Herald Snake, from a newspaper story. It was first mentioned in the Eastern Cape’s Herald newspaper! Southern African Python Python natalensis Also known as Lesser African Python, South African Rock Python, Natal Rock Python Identifying Characteristics: On average, this large snake is 280-460 cm (110-181 inches) long, with rare specimens reaching 600 cm (236 inches). Females are much heavier than males. Its broad head is marked by an arrow shape on the crown. The coloration is dark brown speckled with gray, with a white underside. This species is one of the largest snakes in South Africa. It regularly grows longer than four meters (13 feet), and some rare individuals reach a staggering six meters (20 feet) long! Look for the Southern African Python in woodlands and savannas, close to water sources such as lakes, streams, and rivers. This python’s main diet consists of warm-blooded animals like monkeys, large birds, and even young antelopes. If warm-blooded prey isn’t abundant, it will eat fish and even small crocodiles. As with the rest of the python family, it kills by constriction and swallows its prey whole. Although they’re non-venomous, they’re big enough to kill and eat humans on rare occasions! Thankfully, Southern African Pythons are not aggressive and usually don’t bother people. Instead, they prefer basking lazily in the sun while submerged in shallow waters. Gaboon Viper Bitis gabonica Also known as Gaboon Adder, Forest Puff Adder, Butterfly Adder, Whisper, Swampjack Identifying Characteristics: Their typical size is 80–205 cm (31-81 in) long. Females are heavy and stout, while males have longer tails in proportion to their body length. You’ll see faded, rectangular blotches down the snake’s back, with yellowish hourglass-shaped marks along the gaps. The Gaboon Viper boasts the longest fangs of any snake in South Africa! Incredibly, they can grow up to 6 cm (2.3 in) long. This is one snake you definitely want to steer clear of! Interestingly, its fangs aren’t the only unusual thing about this species. It also has the highest venom yield of any snake worldwide because of its hunting style. Unlike most vipers, it doesn’t release once it engages in a bite, injecting massive amounts of venom into its prey. Watch your step because this nocturnal viper has near-perfect camouflage. It’s practically invisible amid fallen leaves on the forest floor and can remain motionless for hours hunting small birds and mammals. The Gaboon Viper’s venom can be fatal in large doses or cause severe necrosis in the bite area. Fortunately, bite incidents are rare. These snakes are normally non-aggressive, sluggish, and are only encountered in dense rainforests. Olive Whip Snake Psammophis mossambicus Also known as Olive Grass Snake, Olive Sand Snake Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 100-180 cm long (39-71 in) on average. It’s mostly olive-brown, but some specimens are black. There are dark-edged scales along the neck and body. The underside is yellow. This snake in South Africa is a common resident of grasslands and swamplands. You might find the Olive Whip Snake prowling near water sources during the day, so keep a keen eye out! Be alert around trees and shrubs, too, because it’s an adept climber. The Olive Grass Snake is not nearly as venomous as the Black Mamba, but it often gets mistaken for one. This is due to its size and tendency to lift its forebody off the ground to an impressive height. Its food sources are also similar to the Black Mamba: lizards, rodents, frogs, and fellow venomous snakes. Despite its weight, the Olive Grass Snake moves incredibly fast. And while it prefers a speedy retreat when sensing danger, it may choose to lunge and bite. Fortunately, its venom is mild for humans. Brown Forest Cobra Naja subfulva Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 200-275 cm (79-108 in) long on average. They are mostly brownish yellow on the head, darkening to pitch black on the tail. There are light-colored spots all over the body. Other notable characteristics are black stripes under the eyes and a band of small black dots near the throat. Brown Forest Cobras are mostly limited to savanna woodlands in South Africa. This highly alert and intelligent cobra leaves its lair when the sun is out. If it’s not busy basking in the heat, it goes hunting for its usual lunch: birds and small mammals. Thankfully, snakebite incidents are rare because Brown Forest Cobras live far away from human civilization. Even if you encounter them, their first instinct is to flee. Nonetheless, stay back as their venom can cause tissue damage, difficulty breathing, and even death if left untreated. Horned Adder Bitis caudalis Also known as Horned Puff Adder, Horned Viper, Sidewinding Adder, Common Single-horned Adder Identifying Characteristics: Adults are 30-51 cm (12-20 in) long. Body coloration appears in shades of brown, gray, yellow, and red. Males have more vibrant colors, while females are significantly larger. Horned Adders are one of the smallest snakes in South Africa, but they are fierce when disturbed. This species owes its common name to the prominent horn-like scale above each eye. Horned Adders inhabit scrublands and semi-deserts because their repetitive sidewinding motion is efficient in sandy terrain. As an ambush predator, this adder will bury itself into the sand just deep enough for its eyes to poke out. Then, it uses its black-tipped tail to lure prey in the form of geckos, rodents, and birds. Horned Adders are most active at dusk. In the daytime, they enjoy the shade of rocks and bushes. The venom, containing mild cytotoxins, has been known to cause serious pain and skin ulcers. Listen carefully for angry hisses as you might accidentally cross paths with a Horned Adder already in striking position! Twig Snake Thelotornis capensis Also known as Cape Twig Snake, Savanna Vine Snake, Southern Bird Snake, Cape Twig Snake Identifying Characteristics: These are slender snakes with very long tails, measuring 100-168 cm (39-66 in) in total length. Look for a flattened bluish-green head, keyhole-shaped pupils, large black fangs, and a reddish-black tongue. Body coloration is brown or gray with blotches. As the name suggests, you might mistake this snake in South Africa for a twig! Twig Snakes hang perfectly still on branches of low shrubs, waiting for passing chameleons, frogs, and birds. They are patient predators and can maintain this posture for hours. When disturbed, they inflate their necks like a balloon as a scare tactic. Take great care when trekking through coastal forests and woodlands. Its coloration allows it to blend in with the bark and branches of trees. Although it’s unassuming, the Twig Snake is venomous and very dangerous. The Twig Snake’s venom is a slow-acting poison that can cause profuse bleeding and hemorrhage. One German herpetologist named Robert Mertens died 18 days after being bitten by his pet Twig Snake. So, get quick medical treatment for a bite even if you don’t have immediate symptoms. Mole Snake Pseudaspis cana Identifying Characteristics: Adults grow up to 207 cm (81 in) long. Colors are commonly gray, red, or black on the body. The belly is white, speckled with dark spots. Juveniles are light brown with white zig-zags or spots. They use their small heads, pointed snouts, and narrow necks to hunt underground. Look for Mole Snakes in South Africa in scrublands and mountainous regions. You are most likely to find one near rodent burrows where it spends the day foraging for its next meal. In fact, this species was named after the Golden Moles it loves to feast on. A curious quirk of this muscular snake is that it’s viviparous. So instead of laying eggs as most reptiles do, the Mole Snake will give birth to live babies. Incredibly, a single mole snake can give birth to up to 95 babies at once! Mole Snakes may be non-venomous, but you should still be careful if handling one. With strong, very sharp teeth, they can inflict deep wounds that need stitches. In addition, they’re extremely aggressive. They are often mistaken for Cape Cobras because of their short tempers and notorious ferocity. Common Slug-Eater Duberria lutrix Identifying Characteristics: Adults grow to only about 40 cm (16 in). Typically, they have black-striped green or brown backs, white and yellow bellies, and gray sides. Common Slug-Eaters are non-venomous snakes endemic to the damp grasslands of Southern South Africa. True to their name, they feed on a specialized diet of snails and slugs. They have a calm demeanor, and they pose no danger to humans. This snake is known to hunt its prey down by following slime trails. Once it locates a meal, it quickly swallows the soft body before the snail or slug can secrete foul, defensive mucus. In the case of snails, Common Slug-eaters are known to bash the hard shell against a rock to break it open. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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DINNER MENU S Dinner Menu Appetizers These dishes are great for sharing Bread & dips Sourdough bread accompanied by hummus, beetroot & whipped feta dips 4,50 € Vegetarian Green salad A garden-fresh salad with seasonal greens and roasted almonds Small 3,50 € Medium 5,50 € Dairy free Mild Tuna sashimi Seared fresh tuna, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili 4,50 € Soft drink Soda, Sprite, Pepsi & Diet Coke 1,50 € Mains A diverse range of flavorful dishes which are all sourced daily and locally Hand-made ravioli Artisanal hand-made ravioli, filled with a blend of cheeses in a basil pesto sauce 6,50 € Tofu skewers Grilled tofu skewers, marinated in a blend of soy and sesame with seasonal roast vegetables 7,50 € Vegan Fish of the day Fresh catch of the day paired with asparagus & a cream of sweet potato 8,00 € Fish Shellfish Peanut crusted steak Juicy, tender steak cooked to your liking, served with steamed vegetables 8,00 € Peanuts Classic burger Our classic burger with lettuce, pickles, heirloom tomatoes, served with a side of fries Mushroom 7,00 € Chicken 7,50 € Beef 9,00 € Schnitzel Crisp and golden on the outside, in a herb and parmesan crumb 4,00 € Healthy smoothie Nourish your body with our selection of healthy smoothies 3,00 € Fresh juice A refreshing blend of freshly squeezed orange, watermelon, carrot, and ginger Small 2,00 € Medium 3,00 € Large 4,00 € Carrot cake Lightly spiced carrot cake layered with cream cheese frosting 5,50 € Cocktails Aperol Spritz, Gin & Tonic, Mojito 1,50 € Coffee Locally roasted coffee, brewed in-house 2,50 € Green salad A garden-fresh salad with seasonal greens and roasted almonds Small 3,50 € Medium 5,50 € Dairy free Mild Chocolate mousse Our delicate, yet rich signature chocolate mousse dessert Single serve 4,00 € Double serve 7,00 € Lemon meringue pie Zesty lemon meringue, a pistachio crumble, served with a chantilly cream 5,50 € Tree nuts Soft drink Soda, Sprite, Pepsi & Diet Coke 1,50 € Bread & dips Sourdough bread accompanied by hummus, beetroot & whipped feta dips 4,50 € Vegetarian Tuna sashimi Seared fresh tuna, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili 4,50 € Wine Choice of red, white, or rosé 2,00 € Sticky date & ice cream Served with vanilla ice cream, toffee sauce & a peanut crumble 7,00 € Vegetarian Brownie Fresh out the oven brownie filled with dark chocolate chips & walnuts 5,00 € Dairy free Classic cheesecake Topped with a layer of raspberry jam & sliced strawberries 6,50 € Desserts Our desserts are made in house by our pastry chef Sticky date & ice cream Served with vanilla ice cream, toffee sauce & a peanut crumble 7,00 € Vegetarian Classic cheesecake Topped with a layer of raspberry jam & sliced strawberries 6,50 € Lemon meringue pie Zesty lemon meringue, a pistachio crumble, served with a chantilly cream 5,50 € Tree nuts Chocolate mousse Our delicate, yet rich signature chocolate mousse dessert Single serve 4,00 € Double serve 7,00 € Carrot cake Lightly spiced carrot cake layered with cream cheese frosting 5,50 € Brownie Fresh out the oven brownie filled with dark chocolate chips & walnuts 5,00 € Dairy free Healthy smoothie Nourish your body with our selection of healthy smoothies 3,00 € Drinks Healthy smoothie Nourish your body with our selection of healthy smoothies 3,00 € Fresh juice A refreshing blend of freshly squeezed orange, watermelon, carrot, and ginger Small 2,00 € Medium 3,00 € Large 4,00 € Wine Choice of red, white, or rosé 2,00 € Soft drink Soda, Sprite, Pepsi & Diet Coke 1,50 € Coffee Locally roasted coffee, brewed in-house 2,50 € Cocktails Aperol Spritz, Gin & Tonic, Mojito 1,50 € Fish of the day Fresh catch of the day paired with asparagus & a cream of sweet potato 8,00 € Fish Shellfish Carrot cake Lightly spiced carrot cake layered with cream cheese frosting 5,50 € Schnitzel Crisp and golden on the outside, in a herb and parmesan crumb 4,00 € Peanut crusted steak Juicy, tender steak cooked to your liking, served with steamed vegetables 8,00 € Peanuts Hand-made ravioli Artisanal hand-made ravioli, filled with a blend of cheeses in a basil pesto sauce 6,50 € Green salad A garden-fresh salad with seasonal greens and roasted almonds Small 3,50 € Medium 5,50 € Dairy free Mild Chocolate mousse Our delicate, yet rich signature chocolate mousse dessert Single serve 4,00 € Double serve 7,00 € Lemon meringue pie Zesty lemon meringue, a pistachio crumble, served with a chantilly cream 5,50 € Tree nuts Bread & dips Sourdough bread accompanied by hummus, beetroot & whipped feta dips 4,50 € Vegetarian Tuna sashimi Seared fresh tuna, fresh herbs, and a touch of chili 4,50 € Sticky date & ice cream Served with vanilla ice cream, toffee sauce & a peanut crumble 7,00 € Vegetarian Brownie Fresh out the oven brownie filled with dark chocolate chips & walnuts 5,00 € Dairy free Classic cheesecake Topped with a layer of raspberry jam & sliced strawberries 6,50 € Classic burger Our classic burger with lettuce, pickles, heirloom tomatoes, served with a side of fries Mushroom 7,00 € Chicken 7,50 € Beef 9,00 € Tofu skewers Grilled tofu skewers, marinated in a blend of soy and sesame with seasonal roast vegetables 7,50 € Vegan

Mpumalanga "Eastern Transvaal" redirects here. For the rugby team formerly known as "Eastern Transvaal", see Falcons (rugby team) . For the team formerly called "South Eastern Transvaal" representing Mpumalanga, see Pumas (Currie Cup) . Pilgrim's Rest (Afrikaans : Pelgrimsrus) is a small museum town in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa which is protected as a provincial heritage site . It was the second of the Transvaal gold fields , attracting a rush of prospectors in 1873, soon after the MacMac diggings started some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away. Alluvial panning eventually gave way to deeper ore mining. In the 1970s the town, not greatly changed, became a tourist destination. Here are some things to do and see in Mpumalanga 1 2 3 : Lowveld Botanical Gardens, Nelspruit Chasing waterfalls in Sabie Elephant Museum, Kruger National Park Mbombela Stadium, Nelspruit Jock of the Bushveld Trail, Graskop Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve Three Rondavels Viewpoint Bourke’s Luck Potholes Panoramic views of the Blyde Riber Canyon and God’s Window. Mpumalanga means East or “the place where the sun rises” in several South African languages, including Xhosa, Swazi, Zulu and Ndebele. https://www.pexels.com/photo/photo-of-waterfalls-during-daytime-3889929/ You can find South Africa’s Mpumalanga Province on the eastern side of South Africa. It borders Eswatini and Mozambique on the right. On its north is the Limpopo Province, and on the west is the Gauteng Province of South Africa. To the south of the province, you can find the KwaZulu-Natal Province. You can read more about South Africa’s 9 provinces here. The province is 6.5% of the land area of South Africa, making it the second-smallest province in South Africa. South African languages spoken here include Zulu, Ndebele, Tsonga and siSwati. The Towns and Cities of Mpumalanga Hippo in Kruger National Park Nelspruit is the capital of Mpumalanga. The other main towns and cities in Mpumalanga are: Badplaas Barberton Belfast Chrissiesmeer Dullstroom Ermelo Graskop Groblersdal Hazyview Komatipoort Lydenburg Malelane Marloth Park Middelburg Nelspruit Ohrigstad Piet Retief Pilgrim’s Rest Sabie Standerton Volksrust Waterval Boven White River Pilgrim's Rest Pilgrim's Rest (Afrikaans : Pelgrimsrus) is a small museum town in the Mpumalanga province of South Africa which is protected as a provincial heritage site . It was the second of the Transvaal gold fields , attracting a rush of prospectors in 1873, soon after the MacMac diggings started some 5 kilometres (3.1 mi) away. Alluvial panning eventually gave way to deeper ore mining. In the 1970s the town, not greatly changed, became a tourist destination. History The alluvial gold was discovered by prospector Alec Patterson. He panned Pilgrim's Creek, as it became known, when the nearby MacMac diggings became too crowded. He kept his find a secret, but a gold rush resulted when fellow prospector William Trafford registered his claim with the Gold Commissioner at MacMac. After it was officially declared a gold field in September 1873, the town suddenly grew to 1,500 inhabitants searching for alluvial gold. Mining companies In the 1880s the alluvial gold dwindled and prospectors were attracted to Barberton 's newly discovered gold deposits. Towards the end of the 19th century claims were bought up and underground mining started by the company known as TGME. The better-funded mining companies started mining the deeper gold-bearing ore. By 1895 several small mining companies amalgamated to form the Transvaal Gold Mining Estates (T.G.M.E.). This company was listed on the London Stock Exchange and became the first listed gold mining company in South Africa. As the volumes of gold ore increased, the engineers constructed small, local hydro-electric plants to generate electricity for the electric tramway and the ore crushers at the reduction works, built in 1897.[2] In 1911 the 2,000 kW Belvedere power station (at 24°39′18″S 30°50′12″E ) was completed on the Blyde River , some 30 km to the east. It supplied hydro-electric power to Pilgrim's Rest and adjacent communities up to 1992. Pilgrim's Rest was southern Africa's second town with street electricity, the first being Kimberley , also a mining town.[2] Boer war Pilgrim's Rest was the location of an emergency mint during the Second Boer War . This mint struck the famous and extremely rare Veld Pond . Graveyard At the graveyard, every grave was laid facing in the same direction, except for the traditional Robber’s Grave which is laid at right angles to the rest, not facing the rising sun, and emblazoned simply with a cross and the large type words of "Robbers Grave". One legend attributes it to a robber who was shot when he was caught stealing a tent from another miner, while other legends would have it that he instead stole a wheelbarrow , or that the thief died after being lynched. The most detailed account attributes the grave to a fortune hunter, one Walter Scott, who committed suicide . Scott would have shot his friend Roy Spencer, son of a well-to-do English banker, after they returned drunk from a party. Scott suspected Spencer of stealing his purse of gold. Scott pursued Spencer and shot him near the church, the site of the present graveyard, whereafter Spencer was secretly buried. The sobered-up Scott found his purse in his tent, and committed suicide when he realised what he had done. Scott was then buried in an unmarked grave next to that of his friend, Spencer. Recent times and tourism Mining was closed down in 1971 and the village was sold to the government as a national museum. Transvaal Gold Mining Estates Limited started mining again in 1998. It is currently owned by Theta Gold Mines Limited, an Australian listed company. On May 15, 2004, the old TGME reduction works was added to the UNESCO World Heritage tentative List in the Cultural category but was removed in 2016. The town's original architecture remains largely unchanged since the heyday of the mining era, because the town was declared a National Monument. It became a provincial heritage site in 1986. The village is a cultural heritage site and living museum with a variety of village museums, tours, accommodation, restaurants and shops. Things to Do & About Mpumalanga Check out must-see sights and activities: Kruger National Park , Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve , Nature & Wildlife Areas , Hiking Trails . For personalised recommendations, try our AI trip-planning product. Mpumalanga (/əmˌpuːməˈlɑːŋɡə/ ) is one of the nine provinces of South Africa . The name means "East", or literally "The Place Where the Sun Rises" in the Nguni languages . Mpumalanga lies in eastern South Africa, bordering Eswatini and Mozambique . It shares borders with the South African provinces of Limpopo to the north, Gauteng to the west, the Free State to the southwest, and KwaZulu-Natal to the south. The capital is Mbombela . Mpumalanga ZuluiMpumalanga AfrikaansMpumalanga SepediMpumalanga SwazieMpumalanga SetswanaBotlhabatsatsi Southern NdebeleiPumalanga Mpumalanga was formed in 1994, when the area that was the Eastern Transvaal was merged with the former bantustans KaNgwane , KwaNdebele and parts of Lebowa and Gazankulu . Although the contemporary borders of the province were only formed at the end of apartheid , the region and its surroundings have a history that extends back thousands of years. Much of its history, and current significance is as a region of trade. History Precolonial Era One of the Lydenburg Heads from around A.D. 500 found in Mpumalanga Archeological sites in the Mpumalanga region indicate settlement by humans and their ancestors dating back 1.7 million years.[6] Rock paintings, engravings and other archeological evidence throughout the province indicate that Mpumalanga has a long history of human habitation by groups of hunter gatherers. Excavations not far from the Mpumalanga border in the Origstad district, show evidence of Middle Stone Age habitation dating back to 40,000 years ago. The Lion Cavern, in Ngwenya on the Eswatini border, shows evidence of people mining iron ore in the Mpumalanga region and surrounding areas from at least 28 000 years ago. Evidence from mine shafts and trade goods shows that there was notable industry in tin, copper, gold, iron, ochre, and bronze. The Lydenburg Heads , from around 500 CE, are Africa's oldest Iron Age artworks south of the equator and were found in Mpumalanga. Evidence from a site near Mbombela shows evidence of agricultural societies from between the 6th to 17th century. Bokoni stone-walled sites on the Mpumalanga highveld are indicative of a large precolonial agropastoral society between ~1500 and 1820 CE. These societies became centers of trade, with increasingly large and centralised populations This pattern increased as they connected to the Portuguese trading post in Maputo Bay . In this era, groups that would become the Swazi , Pedi , Ndebele , Mapulana and others established themselves in the area that is now Mpumalanga. Colonial era In 1845, as part of the Great Trek , the first Dutch-speaking colonial settlers arrived in what they called the eastern Transvaal The rest of the 19th century in the region was characterised by colonial encroachment and conflict over land and political control. In 1852, the Boers established the South African Republic . The well established Pedi, Swazi and Zulu kingdoms put up significant resistance against the settlers. The Pedi fought wars with the Boers in 1876 (see Sekhukhune Wars ) and the Zulu fought with British settlers in 1879 (see Anglo-Zulu War ). These interconnected conflicts played a role in shifting the balance of power in southern Africa to colonial control. After 1860, missionaries, especially German missionaries like Alexander Merensky set up mission stations in the region, spreading Christianity and European values. Just as the region had been a center for trade in the precolonial era, in the colonial era, the Eastern Transvaal region became an important thoroughfare for trade between Johannesburg and Delagoa Bay (now Maputo ). Gold mining around areas like Pilgrims Rest and Barberton and farming were the main forms of economic activity. On farms in the Transvaal, under a system known as Inboekstelsel , Boers carried out raids to capture children and forced them into indentured labour. During the South African War , the region was the site of notable battles. Apartheid When the National Party came to power in 1948, their policy of apartheid intensified the segregation that had defined communities in the Transvaal . Under a policy of forced removals, Black South Africans were evicted from areas reserved for white people and moved into homelands, including KaNgwane , KwaNdebele , Lebowa and Gazankulu . As the apartheid regime implemented oppressive policies that defined almost every aspect of life, activists responded with resistance. In 1959, the small town of Bethal on what is now the Mpumalanga highveld was the center of the anti-apartheid consumer potato boycott in response to the working conditions Black South African labourers faced on farms in the area. The region was influenced by dynamics in exile and elsewhere in the country, for instance Black Consciousness , the Sharpeville Massacre and the 1976 Soweto Uprisings . In the 1980s, under intense repression, youth and labour organizations moblized against the government and townships and Bantustans erupted in political unrest and violence. In 1986, an avoidable disaster [clarification needed ] killed 177 mine workers in Kinross Mine in the region's highveld. The response to the disaster by the National Union of Mineworkers was a key point in the South African labour struggle. By the late 1980s, the intensity of resistance across South Africa (including areas like Mpumalanga, which hadn't previously been seen as key areas of resistance) combined with economic factors and international pressure was strong enough to end apartheid. On 27 April 1994, when South Africa held its first democratic elections , Mpumalanga province was formed. It was originally called the "Eastern Transvaal" province, but the name was later changed to Mpumalanga on 24 August 1995. Post-apartheid - Geography - Climate Post-apartheid The liberation movement turned leading party, the African National Congress (ANC) came into power in Mpumalanga after white minority rule ended. A program of land redistribution , aimed at granting land back to the black communities who were forcibly moved during apartheid, had redistributed tens of thousands of hectares to these communities and their descendants. However, the process has been marked by corruption, controversy and has been seen as inadequate to address the extent of apartheid spatial planning. In 2001, 1,270 hectares of the Boomplaats farm near Mashishing was the first farm in South Africa to be expropriated. Geography This section needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Find sources: "Mpumalanga" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (August 2023) (Learn how and when to remove this message ) A view from the mountains of the Barberton Geotrail, where evidence of the earliest signs of life (3.2 billion-years-old) was found.[19] 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 Lowveld /Bushveld , mostly savanna habitat. The southern half of the Kruger National Park is in the latter region. The Drakensberg exceeds heights of 2000 m in most places, with this central region of Mpumalanga being very mountainous. These regions have alpine grasslands and small pockets of Afromontane forest . The Lowveld is relatively flat with interspersed rocky outcrops. The Lebombo Mountains form a low range in the far east, on the border with Mozambique . Some of the oldest rocks on earth have been found in the Barberton area; these ancient greenstones and metamorphosed granites form the Crocodile River Mountains in the southeast of the province. The Lowveld is underlaid by African Cratonic Basement rocks of ages in excess of 2 billion years. The Highveld is mostly Karoo Sequence sedimentary rock of a younger, Carboniferous to Permian age. Mpumalanga is the only South African province to border two provinces of Mozambique (Gaza Province to the northeast and Maputo Province to the east), as well as all four regions of Eswatini (Lubombo , Hhohho , Manzini , and Shiselweni districts). Climate The Lowveld is subtropical , due to its latitude and proximity to the warm Indian Ocean . The Highveld is comparatively much cooler and drier, due to its elevation of 1700 m to 2300 m above sea level. The Drakensberg escarpment receives the most precipitation , with all other areas being moderately well-watered by mostly-summer thunderstorms . The Highveld often experiences considerable freezing, while the Lowveld is mostly frost-free. Winter rainfall is rare, except for some drizzle on the escarpment . The differences in climate are demonstrated by comparing the capital, Mbombela , which is in the Lowveld, with Belfast , which is an hour away on the Highveld: Mbombela averages: January maximum: 29 °C (min: 19 °C), July maximum: 23 °C (min: 6 °C), annual precipitation: 767 mm Belfast averages: January maximum: 23 °C (min: 12 °C), June maximum: 15 °C (min: 1 °C), annual precipitation: 878 mm With climate change in the province, rainfall is becoming more variable, temperatures and evaporation rates are rising and extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. It is predicted that these changes will shift biomes so that most of the province will be savanna. Ecology - Endemic species - Conservation areas & Law and government Ecology Some of the earliest signs of life on Earth have been found in Mpumalanga. In the Makhonjwa mountain range's greenstone belt near Barberton , a fossil layer shows microbial activity that is 3.22 billion years old. This discovery indicates that life emerged on Earth 300 million years earlier than previously thought. Mpumalanga has a high plant and animal diversity. Many species are endemic to the province. Endemic species A partial list of species that are endemic to Mpumalanga Robust Golden Mole (Amblysomus robustus) , a mammal in the golden mole family. Treur River Barb (Enteromius treurensis) , a river fish. Barberton sugarbush (Protea curvata), a protea plant threatened by mining activity. Sim's Spotted Aloe (Aloe simii) an aloe threatened by road construction. Komati Waterberry (Syzygium komatiense) a species of waterberry tree. Thorncroftia lotterii , a flowering plant. Acontias albigularis , a lizard species. Procrica mariepskopa , a moth species. Inkomati Mountain Catfish (Amphilius engelbrechti) Yellow Baberton Grass Aloe (Aloe craibii) Longtom oneye (Monopsis kowynensis) Graskop cliff aloe (Aloe nubigena) Kruger National Park, South Africa's largest conservation area Conservation areas The diverse and special flora and fauna of the province enjoys protection in a range of nature reserves. Barberton Nature Reserve Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park , previously known as Gaza-Kruger-Gonarezhou Transfrontier Park. This international game park brings together some of the best and most established wildlife areas in southern Africa. The park is managed as an integrated unit across an unprecedented three international boundaries which includes the Kruger National Park (South Africa), Limpopo National Park (Mozambique ) and Gonarezhou National Park (Zimbabwe ). Lowveld National Botanical Garden in Mbombela Sabi Sand Game Reserve , which is built up of numerous private reserves: Nottens Bush Camp, Idube Safari Lodge , Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge, Djuma Game Reserve, Exeter Game Lodge, Inyati Private Game Reserve, Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve, Lion Sands Private Game Reserve, Londolozi Game Reserve, Mala Mala Game Reserve , Savanna Private Game Reserve and Ulusaba Game Lodge. Verloren Vallei near Dullstroom Many species of plants are unique to the different geological formations within Mpumalanga. Some examples of these formations include serpentines of Barberton Mountains, norites of Sekhukhuneland , quartzites of Blyde River Canyon , and the dolomites in the northern plateaus. Law and government Main article: Politics of Mpumalanga Mpumalanga is governed by the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature , a unicameral system of 30 legislators democratically elected though a closed list system. Under the constitution of South Africa, the legislature is intended to create laws, promote public participation and provide oversight. From 1994 to the present, the African National Congress has been the leading party in the Mpumalanga legislature. As of the 2019 elections, the Economic Freedom Fighters , Democratic Alliance and Freedom Front Plus are in opposition in the legislature. Elected every five years, the premier of Mpumalanga is the head of government in the province. Since 2024 Mandla Ndlovu has held the office of premier. Municipalities Mpumalanga is governed by the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature , a unicameral system of 30 legislators democratically elected though a closed list system. Under the constitution of South Africa, the legislature is intended to create laws, promote public participation and provide oversight. From 1994 to the present, the African National Congress has been the leading party in the Mpumalanga legislature. As of the 2019 elections, the Economic Freedom Fighters , Democratic Alliance and Freedom Front Plus are in opposition in the legislature. Elected every five years, the premier of Mpumalanga is the head of government in the province. Since 2018, Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane has held the office of premier. Municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in Mpumalanga Mpumalanga districts and local municipalities Mpumalanga Province is divided into three district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into 18 local municipalities : District municipalities Ehlanzeni District Bushbruckridge Mbombela Nkomazi Thaba Chweu Umjindi Gert Sibande District Albert Luthuli Dipaleseng Govan Mbeki Lekwa Mkhondo Msukaligwa Pixley ka Seme Nkangala District Delmas Dr JS Moroka Emalahleni Highlands Steve Tshwete Thembisile Farming Farming Farm in Mpumalanga highveld 68% of land area in the province is used by agriculture. The climatic contrasts between the drier Highveld region, with its cold winters, and the hot, humid Lowveld allow for a variety of agricultural activities. Mpumalanga has been an important supplier of fruit and vegetables for local and international markets for decades. A history of dispossession mean that farming land is largely white owned, although policies of land redistribution era aim to address this. Crops include maize, wheat, sorghum , barley , sunflower seed , soybeans , macadamias , groundnuts, sugar cane, vegetables, coffee, tea, cotton, tobacco, citrus , subtropical and deciduous fruit. Natural grazing covers approximately 14% of Mpumalanga. The main products are beef, mutton , wool , poultry and dairy. Farming in the province is driven by both a combination of seasonal , permanent and temporary labourers. Conditions on farms vary widely but seasonal and temporary workers, many of whom are migrant workers from nearby Mozambique , face intense insecurity. Forestry is extensive around Sabie and Graskop . Located near the forests, Ngodwana is the site of one of South Africa's largest paper mills (Sappi ). Mining Extensive mining is done and the minerals found include gold, platinum group metals, silica , chromite , vanadiferous magnetite , argentiferous zinc , antimony , cobalt , copper, iron, manganese , tin , coal, andalusite , chrysotile asbestos , kieselguhr , limestone , magnesite , talc and shale . 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 accounts for 83% of South Africa's coal production. 90% of South Africa's coal consumption is used for electricity generation and the synthetic fuel industry. Coal power stations are in proximity to the coal deposits. A coal liquefaction plant in Secunda (Secunda CTL ) is one of the country's two petroleum-from-coal extraction plants, which is operated by the synthetic fuel company Sasol . The high density of coal power stations on the Mpumalanga highveld means that the region has the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution in the world. Attractions Mpumalanga is popular with tourists. Kruger National Park , established in 1898 for the protection of Lowveld wildlife, covering 20,000 square kilometres (7,700 sq mi), is a popular destination. The other major tourist attractions include the Sudwala Caves and the Blyde River Canyon . Many activities including the big jump, mountain and quad biking, horse trails, river rafting and big game viewing are endemic to the region. This is "Big Five " territory. Towns in the Lowveld are Barberton , Mbombela , White River , Sabie , Graskop , Hazyview , Malelane , Pilgrim's Rest , Lydenburg and Nkomazi .[42] In 2008, a Haute Cuisine route was formed, trickling from Mbombela down to Hazyview. The Lowveld Gourmet Route covers the four top fine dining restaurants the area has to offer. The restaurants include Summerfields Kitchen, Oliver's Restaurant, Orange and Salt. 2007-2010 Culture Ndebele traditional dress Mpumalanga is home to a diverse range of cultures, including Swazi, Ndebele, Afrikaans, Tsonga, Zulu, Mapulana, Portuguese and Pedi communities. The Ndebele Cultural Village at Botshabelo is a renowned center of cultural heritage, with displays of Ndebele house painting . Ndebele artist Esther Mahalangu gained international acclaim for her artwork rooted in Ndebele traditions and geometric patterns. Prominent South African artist Gerard Sekoto was born in Botshabelo . Many celebrated South African musicians, such as Ray Phiri , Rebecca Malope and Pretty Yende , are from Mpumalanga. Since 2003, Mpumalanga's capital city, Mbombela, has hosted the Afrikaans national arts festival Innibos. The festival features music, comedy, arts, crafts and theatre. Municipalities - Economy - Culture Municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in Mpumalanga Mpumalanga districts and local municipalities Mpumalanga Province is divided into three district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into 18 local municipalities : District municipalities Ehlanzeni District Bushbruckridge Mbombela Nkomazi Thaba Chweu Umjindi Gert Sibande District Albert Luthuli Dipaleseng Govan Mbeki Lekwa Mkhondo Msukaligwa Pixley ka Seme Nkangala District Delmas Dr JS Moroka Emalahleni Highlands Steve Tshwete Thembisile Economy Farming Farm in Mpumalanga highveld 68% of land area in the province is used by agriculture. The climatic contrasts between the drier Highveld region, with its cold winters, and the hot, humid Lowveld allow for a variety of agricultural activities. Mpumalanga has been an important supplier of fruit and vegetables for local and international markets for decades. A history of dispossession mean that farming land is largely white owned, although policies of land redistribution era aim to address this. Crops include maize, wheat, sorghum , barley , sunflower seed , soybeans , macadamias , groundnuts, sugar cane, vegetables, coffee, tea, cotton, tobacco, citrus , subtropical and deciduous fruit. Natural grazing covers approximately 14% of Mpumalanga. The main products are beef, mutton , wool , poultry and dairy. Farming in the province is driven by both a combination of seasonal , permanent and temporary labourers. Conditions on farms vary widely but seasonal and temporary workers, many of whom are migrant workers from nearby Mozambique , face intense insecurity. Forestry is extensive around Sabie and Graskop . Located near the forests, Ngodwana is the site of one of South Africa's largest paper mills (Sappi ). Mining Extensive mining is done and the minerals found include gold, platinum group metals, silica , chromite , vanadiferous magnetite , argentiferous zinc , antimony , cobalt , copper, iron, manganese , tin , coal, andalusite , chrysotile asbestos , kieselguhr , limestone , magnesite , talc and shale . 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 accounts for 83% of South Africa's coal production. 90% of South Africa's coal consumption is used for electricity generation and the synthetic fuel industry. Coal power stations are in proximity to the coal deposits. A coal liquefaction plant in Secunda (Secunda CTL ) is one of the country's two petroleum-from-coal extraction plants, which is operated by the synthetic fuel company Sasol . The high density of coal power stations on the Mpumalanga highveld means that the region has the highest levels of nitrogen dioxide pollution in the world. Attractions Mpumalanga is popular with tourists. Kruger National Park , established in 1898 for the protection of Lowveld wildlife, covering 20,000 square kilometres (7,700 sq mi), is a popular destination. The other major tourist attractions include the Sudwala Caves and the Blyde River Canyon . Many activities including the big jump, mountain and quad biking, horse trails, river rafting and big game viewing are endemic to the region. This is "Big Five " territory. Towns in the Lowveld are Barberton , Mbombela , White River , Sabie , Graskop , Hazyview , Malelane , Pilgrim's Rest , Lydenburg and Nkomazi . In 2008, a Haute Cuisine route was formed, trickling from Mbombela down to Hazyview. The Lowveld Gourmet Route covers the four top fine dining restaurants the area has to offer. The restaurants include Summerfields Kitchen, Oliver's Restaurant, Orange and Salt. Culture This section needs additional citations for verification . Please help improve this article by adding citations to reliable sources in this section. Unsourced material may be challenged and removed. Find sources: "Mpumalanga" – news · newspapers · books · scholar · JSTOR (August 2023) Ndebele traditional dress Mpumalanga is home to a diverse range of cultures, including Swazi, Ndebele, Afrikaans, Tsonga, Zulu, Mapulana, Portuguese and Pedi communities. The Ndebele Cultural Village at Botshabelo is a renowned center of cultural heritage, with displays of Ndebele house painting . Ndebele artist Esther Mahalangu gained international acclaim for her artwork rooted in Ndebele traditions and geometric patterns. Prominent South African artist Gerard Sekoto was born in Botshabelo . Many celebrated South African musicians, such as Ray Phiri , Rebecca Malope and Pretty Yende , are from Mpumalanga. Since 2003, Mpumalanga's capital city, Mbombela, has hosted the Afrikaans national arts festival Innibos. The festival features music, comedy, arts, crafts and theatre. Mpumalanga's population is 4,039,939 people (according to the 2011 census).[45] The average population density is 52.81 people per km². Some 30% of the people speak siSwati , the language of neighbouring Eswatini , with 26% speaking isiZulu , 10.3% isiNdebele , 10.2% Sepedi and 11.6% Xitsonga . As of the 2011 census, approximately 90.65% of Mpumalanga's population are Black, 7.51% are White, and 0.91% are Coloured and 0.69% are Indian or Asian. Wikivoyage has a travel guide for Mpumalanga . See also List of heritage sites in Mpumalanga List of speakers of the Mpumalanga Provincial Legislature Care For Wild rhinoceros sanctuary BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

Safety in South Africa Welcome to South Africa! As always, personal safety is a matter of shared responsibility between authorities and the individual visitor. To ensure that your visit is special and safe, we offer a few suggestions based on international guidelines – for your assistance. Enjoy your time in South Africa AT THE AIRPORT Make sure your bags and luggage have locks and name tags. Do not allow people to tamper with your bags. When seeking directions, proceed to marked information counters only. AT THE HOTEL, GUESTHOUSE, OTHER ACCOMMODATION Report any suspicious, unattended luggage or parcels to the personnel at reception. Never leave your luggage unattended unless it is locked away in your room. Store valuables in the safety deposit box. Keep your room locked. If someone knocks, check who it is before opening the door. Contact reception if you have any reason for concern. Hand your keys in whenever you leave. Make sure that luggage is only given to the bell staff and a receipt is issued for stored luggage. ON THE STREET Avoid an ostentatious display of expensive jewellery, cameras, mobile phones and other valuables. Keep your handbag with you, keep it closed or zipped, and do not leave it unattended. Keep your mobile phone with you and do not leave it unattended. Do not carry large sums of money with you. Exchange your currency at a bank or at the hotel – never exchange it on the street. Carry your wallet in an inside pocket – never in the rear pocket of your trousers. Credit card transactions must be processed in your presence. At night, stay away from dark, isolated areas. It is always better to explore in groups and to stick to well-lit, busy streets. Plan your route beforehand and, as far as possible, do not ask directions from strangers. A police officer or traffic officer will be happy to direct you if you get lost. Should you want to call a taxi, your hotel or the South African Tourism helpline (contact number: 083 123 6789) can recommend a reliable service. IN YOUR VEHICLE Plan your route in advance. Keep the doors locked and wind the windows up at all times. Do not leave your mobile phone or other valuables where they are visible from outside the vehicle. Lock valuable items in the boot (trunk) before your departure. At night, park in well-lit areas. Never pick up strangers or hitchhikers. If in doubt about the safety of an area, phone a police station for advice and help. Make sure you have the number of the car rental company at hand in case you get stranded. ON HIKING TRAILS In the interest of personal safety and having assistance in the case of a physical or medical emergency, it is advisable to explore trails in groups. Steer away from isolated areas unless accompanied by a guide. USEFUL TELEPHONE NUMBERS South African Police Service Emergency Number10111 Crime Stop (report criminal activity anonymously)08600 10111 Mobile phone emergency number112 South African Tourism helpline083 123 6789 Visit the SAPS website at:www.saps.gov.za for more safety hints. 10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Africa South Africa is becoming popular in the African tourism industry due to its diversity of cultures, big game populations, sun-soaked cities, and incredible natural beauty. It’s the southernmost country on the African continent and has surprises at every turn, from bustling urban centers to dynamic cuisine. Unfortunately, crime haunts South Africa’s global reputation and prevents less daring tourists from visiting the country. The country exhibits high crime rates, from corruption to homicide and sexual assault to carjacking. Knowing the most dangerous cities in South Africa is essential if you plan to visit. So keep reading to learn more! Contents [show ] 10 Most Dangerous Cities in South Africa Inanda Ten: Inanda Coming in at number ten on the list is Inanda, a small township in the KwaZulu-Natal Province, approximately 30 kilometers northwest of Durban . A survey conducted by the Medical Research Council found that over 75% of men admitted to performing violence against women, with half admitted raping a woman more than once. In addition, 73% of those men said they performed their first rape before 20. Last year, the city reported 297 rape cases, the highest in the country. Plessislaer Nine: Plessislaer Located only a short distance from Pietermaritzburg , Plessislaer has seen a significant spike in homicides over the past year jumping from 43 to 73. This number is low compared to other South African cities, but the fact that it almost doubled in 12 months is concerning. Also, rapes and assaults are commonplace throughout the city, so Plessislaer is best avoided if possible. Umlazi Eight: Umlazi Located southwest of Durban, Umlazi is the fourth-largest township in South Africa. If you’re female, you may want to think twice about visiting Umlazi. In 2020, the city reported 293 incidences of rape, making it one of the worst places in the country for this crime. Also, the city is incredibly corrupt and poor and should be avoided unless visiting a local. Finally, there aren’t many attractions or cultural sites to see in Umlazi, so there shouldn’t be a need to visit. Rustenburg Seven: Rustenburg Rustenburg is where political tensions constantly boil over into the streets resulting in violence. Car hijackings and kidnapping are everyday occurrences, with homicides, raps, and assaults on the rise. Regardless of how much common sense you use while visiting Rustenburg, there’s always a high probability that you could become the victim of a violent crime. Capetown Six: Cape Town With the sweeping views of Table Bay and the backdrop of Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of the most picturesque cities on Earth. As South Africa’s most popular city and capital, it’s easy to see why over three million tourists visit annually. The city combines a distinctly urban edge with the surrounding natural beauty. Unfortunately, Cape Town also has South Africa’s highest murder rate. With a total crime rate of 73.78 and a safety rate of 26.22, there is a chance of being the victim of a crime, even though it’s lower on this list. The worst crime in Cape Town is corruption amongst government officials and police. Port Elizabeth Five: Port Elizabeth Situated on Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape Province, Port Elizabeth is a significant port city best known for its stunning beaches. The Donkin Heritage Trail brings visitors through the Old Hill neighborhood and the various Victorian landmarks that dot the streets. Coastal boat tours allow gawkers to spot rare seabirds and whales, while reserves are home to rhinos, elephants, and other large game. Unfortunately, while Port Elizabeth may sound like a traveler’s dream, it’s steeped in crime, with an overall crime rate of 75.92 and a safety index of 24.08. Pietermaritzburg Four: Pietermaritzburg Known as the City of Flowers due to the rose beds and azaleas found in the National Botanical Gardens and other public areas, Pietermaritzburg is a land-locked city in and capital of the KwaZulu-Natal province. Pietermaritzburg is also famous for the Dusi Marathon and Comrades sporting events and is surrounded by natural beauty. Unfortunately, the city is not all roses and sunshine, especially with a crime index of 79.73 and a safety rating of 20.27. The risk of being scammed, attacked, or mugged in Pietermaritzburg is high for locals and tourists, and private and public transportation can be incredibly dangerous. Johannesburg Three: Johannesburg Beginning as a modest mining town, Johannesburg, or Jo’burg, has become the economic capital of South Africa and a world-class city. It’s established a reputation for its apartheid and township struggles, but is it as unsafe as expected? Jo’burg is the country’s largest city and is in the wealthiest region on the continent, the Gauteng Province. However, due to the many downtown slums and extensive political corruption, it’s important to continue taking precautions when visiting the city. Jo’burg has a crime index of 80.65 and a safety rating of 19.35, placing it third on this list. Political and racial violence, drug-related crimes, and poverty are common in Jo’burg due to the stark disparities in wealth. Durban Two: Durban Located on South Africa’s eastern coastline, Durban has one of the country’s largest seaports and features rapidly growing tourism. As the third largest city in the country, Durban is bordered by the “Golden Mile,” a surfer’s paradise on the Indian Ocean. This area is also well-known for its diversity of cultures, including Zulu influences, an Indian culinary scene, and colonial history. While it’s easy to feel at home in Durban, it’s not a safe city. Durban is the second most dangerous city in South Africa, with a crime index of 80.84 and a safety index of 19.16. Despite the heavy police presence in touristy areas, robberies, harassment, and petty crime are common. Pretoria One: Pretoria Topping this top 10 most dangerous cities in South Africa list is Pretoria, which serves as the location of the executive branch of government. The city is a critical industrial and rail center, only one hour from Jo’burg by car. Although 35% of city residents sit below the poverty line, this is low for Africa, and plenty of wealthier suburbs exist. However, Pretoria boasts a massive crime index of 81.94 with a safety rating of 18.06. The two most common crimes are armed robberies and government corruption. In comparison, Pretoria is the second most dangerous city in the world, behind Caracas , Venezuela . 5 Safety Tips for Traveling to South Africa There are a few safety tips you must follow when visiting, including: One: Know Where to Avoid Crime in South Africa tends to be higher in the townships, but staying safe doesn’t mean avoiding them altogether. Some of the best memories can be from exploring the towns outside city centers. They are friendly places, but it’s best to visit them during the daylight and with a local guide who knows the area. For instance, the Soweto area of Johannesburg has bus, cycle, and walking tours, and the locals welcome tourists. Two: Don’t Walk Alone at Night Many become victims of crimes simply by walking around cities at night instead of taking public or private transportation. Pickpocketing occurs even when walking in groups, but it is more likely to happen when wandering alone. Therefore, avoid walking alone, especially at night, and if you must, stick to the main streets with plenty of people. Three: Don’t Flash Valuables in Public Wearing designer clothing or flashing jewelry or other expensive objects in public are excellent ways to become the victim of a crime. Bringing expensive items on vacation is not advisable, but always keep them hidden if you must get them. Also, don’t walk around with your passport; keep it locked in the hotel room. The more it seems like you are a tourist who doesn’t know the area, the more likely you are to become a target. Instead, put the phone down and take it out at a restaurant or safely at your hotel. Four: Have a Dummy Wallet If you must walk around public places, carry a dummy wallet with canceled credit cards or other irrelevant documents. The dummy wallet will distract pickpockets and other potential criminals from your actual credit cards and cash, which must be kept in a zipped pocket, shoe, or other difficult-to-access clothing. Five: Follow Your Instincts Being hyper-aware while navigating the beautiful country is necessary. If you are walking any distance, look in all directions and let everyone around you know you’re paying attention by looking alert and keeping your head up. Avoid being alone on a sidewalk and move as close to other families as possible. If you end up alone on a quiet side street, return to a main road that is bustling with people. Also, if a stranger gives you too much attention, make eye contact and say hello, then step into a store with other shoppers. South Africa Safety Overview READ THE FULL REPORT: South Africa Safety Review Safety Index: 48 OVERALL RISK: HIGH TRANSPORT & TAXIS RISK: HIGH PICKPOCKETS RISK: MEDIUM NATURAL DISASTERS RISK: MEDIUM MUGGING RISK: HIGH TERRORISM RISK: HIGH SCAMS RISK: MEDIUM WOMEN TRAVELERS RISK: MEDIUM Frequently Asked Questions What are the safest South African cities? Bloemfontein is considered the safest South African city allowing you to focus on the many sites to enjoy. Also, Summerstrand, Upper Wamer, and Ovemore are +safe places to visit. What are the most common crimes in South Africa? Corruption within government officials and the police force is prevalent in South Africa and is the most common crime. Unfortunately, South Africa also has exceptionally high murder, robbery, and violent crime rates. During the final three months of 2022, 83 individuals were murdered in South Africa each day! The highest murder rates occur in the KwaZulu-Natal, Western Cape, and Eastern Cape provinces. Is ridesharing safe in South Africa? All ridesharing companies vet their drivers to ensure they hold valid licenses and pose no threat to customers. Also, ridesharing companies have created several tools to ensure safety. First, most allow updated information on the GPS-tracked ride and time of arrival, which can be sent to five contacts. Two, an in-app emergency button can be quickly activated, and the distress is sent to two private security companies. Third, customers can use the 24/7/365 customer support features to report potential issues. Four, passengers can check driver information the second a driver accepts the request. Finally, the safety center feature gives customers information about insurance, safety tips, and community guidelines. South Africa’s latest crime stats: Murder on the rise, shows ten-year trend At an average of 58 murders a day, South Africa is close to becoming the ‘murder capital’ of the world. By Luke Daniel 31-07-20 10:25 in News JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA – APRIL 24: The crime scene where Thabo Motsei, a taxi driver was murdered near Naturena on April 24, 2018 in Johannesburg, South Africa. Motsei, 23, who had only been in the job for less than a week, was killed in alleged ongoing taxi feud in Freedom Park. (Photo by Gallo Images / Sowetan / Mduduzi Ndzingi) The latest report on South Africa’s crime statistics has revealed an increase in the country’s already-high murder rate. The annual report, issued by the South African Police Service (SAPS) on Friday morning, examined ten-year trends associated with a host of various crimes. While a total of 15 893 murders were recorded in 2010, that number soared to 21 325 in the 2019/2020 financial year. A spike in killings compared to data gathered in 2018/2019 reveals a 1.4% increase, making the most recent year the deadliest on record. The latest report also shows that, on average, 58 people are killed in South Africa on a daily basis, placing the country only second to El Salvador as ‘murder capital’ of the world according to a recent study conducted by the United Nations. Murder in South Africa – the provincial statistics South Africa’s latest crime statistics reveal that while some provinces have recorded a decrease in murders, killings in densely-populated regions have soared. Gauteng: Murders in 2018/2019: 4 495 Murders in 2019/2020: 4 555 Increase of 1.3% KwaZulu-Natal: Murders in 2018/2019: 4 395 Murders in 2019/2020: 4 895 Increase of 10.6% Mpumalanga: Murders in 2018/2019: 996 Murders in 2019/2020: 1 046 Increase of 5% Northern Cape: Murders in 2018/2019: 322 Murders in 2019/2020: 326 Increase of 1.2% Western Cape: Murders in 2018/2019: 3 974 Murders in 2019/2020: 3 975 Murders in the North West province dropped dramatically by 10.1%. The Eastern Cape, Free State and Limpopo also noted a decline in killings compared to the 2018/2019 year. Drop in ‘serious crimes’ While South Africa’s murder rate continues to creep towards new ghastly heights, SAPS reported a meagre decrease in other ‘serious crimes’. Police Commissioner Khehla Sitole noted a 2.7% drop, calculated over 10 years, in commercial crimes and thefts. Latest crime stats: Increases The following crimes have increased from the 2018/2019 year: Murder: +1.4% Sexual offences: +1.7% Common assault: +2.1% Common robbery: +0.1% Robbery with aggravating circumstances: +2.8% Rape: +1.7% Sexual Assault: +4.2% Carjacking: +13.3% Robbery at non-residential premises: +3.3% Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: +13.7% Latest crime stats: Decreases The following crimes have decreased from the 2018/2019 year: Attempted murder: -1.8% Assault with the intent to inflect grievous bodily harm: -2.5% Attempted sexual offences: -3.3% Contact sexual offences: -6% Robbery at residential premises: -5.8% Robbery of cash in transit: -10.4% Arson: -7.3% Malicious damage to property: -4.1% Burglary at non-residential premises: -2.1% Burglary at residential premises: -6.7% Theft of motor vehicle and motorcycle: -2.9% Theft out of or from motor vehicle: -5.5% Stock theft: -4.2% Truck Hijacking Alert Be on the lookout for Phishing, Vishing and SMishing scams Basic security precautions when you live in a remote area Beware of phishing scams Carry cash safely Community participation in the fight against crime can save lives Cybercrime prevention tips Drug awareness General personal safety awareness How to deal with road rage Irresponsible use of fireworks may have deadly effects Keep your cash safe Safety awareness against fraud and scams Safety awareness at home Safety awareness during hostage situations and hijackings Safety awareness in a vehicle Safety awareness at the automated teller machine (ATM) Safety tips for tourists Trafficking in persons is a crime Water safety tips Zero tolerance against drinking and driving Attackers 740 Farm attacks and farm murders in South Africa Report Victims Attackers Attacks Torture Monday 12.5% Tuesday 12.5% Wednesday 11.9% Thursday 14.5% Friday 15.1% Saturday 17.6% Sunday 15.9% Midnight – 6:00 6:01 – 12:00 12:01 – 18:00 18:01 – Midnight 36% 16% 14% 34% Time of the day: In the 357 incidents, there were more than 553 victims involved. The average number of victims per attack is four. The average age of victims is 55 years. In 62% of the incidents, victims of the age of 51 and older were attacked. More than 740 attackers were involved in the 357 incidents, with an average of four attackers per incident. On average from the data, it seems that more attackers struck on farms than on smallholdings. In 20 cases it was reported that an attacker was wounded during the incident. It is not known in how many cases attackers were known to the victims, due to the increasing use of balaclavas that disguise the identities of the attackers. Torture Torture took place in 13 incidents. This number can also be higher as mentioned in the case of rape. Incidents where information was made public, was widely reported in the media. On 10 March 2017, Mrs Niccy Simpson (64) from Kalbasfontein in Gauteng was assaulted during a six-hour long attack, burnt with an iron and a bag was pulled over her head in an attempt to try to smother her. Thereafter her feet were impaled with an electrical drill and the attackers threatened to cut off her legs with a grinding machine. In May 2016, a 68-year-old man was also cruelly tortured with a towel that was pushed down his throat and a piece of wire was wrapped around the victim’s neck to strangle him. He died during the attack. In June 2016, a couple from Gauteng was burnt with irons during an attack. Robert Lynn (66) and Sue Howarth (64), both British citizens, were attacked on their farm in Dullstroom, Mpumalanga Tourist safety in South Africa Do not be alarmed if South Africans announce that they were held up by "robots" (their name for traffic lights), however considering that South Africa is one of the most dangerous countries in the world not at war, it does make sense to take special precautions. Avoid ostentatious displays of expensive jewellery, cameras, laptops and other valuables. Including whilst travelling on public transport. Carry a whistle on you, to draw attention if there's an emergency. Explore in groups rather than alone, and stick to busy, well-lit streets. This is particularly important at night time or in quiet areas. At night stay clear of dark, isolated areas. Avoid isolated beaches. Always carry a map (electronic or paper) with you in the event that you do head off course (although being seen with a map is a giveaway that you're a tourist). Keep your passport, plane ticket and other important documents in a safe place (make a photocopy of the documents before you leave, and give them to somebody for safekeeping). If in any doubt about the safety of an area, phone a police station for advice. Hotels, guest houses & cottages Book your hotel room between the 2nd and 6th floors of the hotel, as being on at least the second floor creates a gap between yourself and dangers near reception (e.g. robberies, car-bombs, shootouts, etc...). Don't go above the 6th floor as ladders don't reach above that in the case of fire. Don't leave valuables lying around in your hotel room - theft is common. Learn where the fire extinguishers are, the staircase and the nearest exit. If you're renting a holiday cottage, do not assume that because you have electric fencing this will stop robbers - they use matresses to get over, and sometimes 2 or 3 pairs of jeans (apparently it stings less). Keep your valuables away from windows. Money Be alert around ATM terminals. Never carry large sums of money around, just the amount of cash you need. Travellers cheques are your best bet. Moving about Plan your route beforehand, and know the type of transport you're going to use, and the time it should take. This is especially NB when travelling in the evenings. Keep your car doors locked at all times and wind windows up. Be especially aware at traffic lights and stop streets. There are frequently beggars and hawkers there, which makes it easier for criminals to operate, as you're used to people being around your vehicle. If hiring a car hire a sedan with a closed trunk (called a “boot” in south Africa), as opposed to a hatchback. Lock valuable items in the trunk. Never leave valuable anything in open display in your vehicle, as thieves roam around checking in car vehicles, and if at night they can't identify something may smash your car's window to see what it is. Be aware of whether any vehicle or people are following you (being followed from the airport and robbed on arrival at your hotel is relatively common). Never pick up strangers, no matter how friendly they appear. When driving, do not use your mobile phone. Do not consume alcohol or narcotics, as they will impair your driving ability. At night, park in well-lit areas. The level of crime in South Africa is unfortunately high and caution must be taken! Robbery, armed assault, carjackings, muggings, theft and pickpocketing occur everywhere in South Africa. Do not make yourself vulnerable to these criminals. If you take care and stay alert you have less chance of experiencing this crime. These are obviously not the only safety issues in the country and there are other things to keep in mind, such as your health, terrorism, political tension and airline safety. You should be aware of these things at home, but when in South Africa be sure to be informed. Never wander alone, especially into townships or to large gatherings which could turn violent unexpectedly. South Africa is a beautiful country and many people just like you live here, so it isn't all that bad. Don’t let the crime spoil your vacation, but don’t let negligence ruin your life. Stay alert and be aware. If you take care you should enjoy your holiday with no problems. Hijackers are targetting these cars in South Africa – beware of these hotspot areas While South Africa has seen a decrease in hijackings year-on-year, some provinces still experienced a big jump in hijackings – while the month-on-month data shows an upward trend in the number of carjackings. Presenting the latest quarterly crime statistics for the first quarter of 2023/24 – 1 April to 30 June 2023 – the South African Police Service (SAPS) noted that 5,488 cars were hijacked over the three-month period. This equates to approximately 60 cars being stolen in the country every day. While 5,488 hijackings in the first three months of the 2023/24 financial year is a decline of 6.4% compared to the same period in 2022, month-on-month data shows that carjackings increased by 8.9% over the quarter to 1,898 in June from 1,742 in April. According to the SAPS, one province experienced a notable year-on-year increase (>20%) in hijackings –the North West (27.6%) – while the Mpumalanga toed the line at 17.9%. Limpopo also experienced an uptick in hijackings, recording an increase of 6.2%. Interestingly, The Northern Cape saw a 28.6% decrease in carjackings, followed by Gauteng (-12.1%), Kwa-Zulu Natal (-8.5%), Eastern Cape (-3%), and the Free State (-5.5%), while the Western Cape saw a meagre decline of 0.7%. Provinces Despite the positive stats for Gauteng, carjackings are most prevalent in South Africa’s most populous regions, such as Gauteng, KwaZulu Natal, and the Western Cape. Gauteng saw 2,735 hijackings, representing 49.8% of all carjackings in Q1 2023/24. Kwa-Zulu Natal experienced 835 carjackings, and the Western Cape saw 749. Looking at more granular station data, though, the Western Cape has the most hijackings per region, with Harare in the province having the most cases – and seeing an increase of 19% over the last year. In Gauteng, Olievenhoutbosch in Tshwane has the highest reported cases, though Protea in Johannesburg has seen a considerable increase, with the number of cases increasing by 88.2%. The top five hijacking hotspots for the three most populated provinces are listed below. Gauteng: Olievenhoutbosch Protea Moroka Orange Farms Midrand Kwa-Zulu Natal: Umlazi Bhekithemba Western Cape: Harare Nyanga Philippi East Lingelethu-West Delft Vehicles targeted While hijackings declined slightly over the past year, the month-on-month trend aligns with claims experienced by insurers. “At Santam, we have seen a rise in crime-related vehicle claims for theft and hijacking over the past 18 months, particularly for high-value vehicles. Santam has also seen a trend in the theft of certain keyless vehicles through hijacking and car jamming methods,” said Philippa Wild, Chief Underwriting Officer at Santam. According to Fidelity Services group CEO Wahl Bartmann, while the decline in incidences of carjackings is a positive sign, it does not mean hijackings are no longer at alarming levels. He added that most of the targeted vehicles are those most popular among South African motorists, which include: VW Polo; Toyota Hilux; Toyota Etios; Ford ranger; Toyota Fortuner; and Nissan NP200. Bartmann said that Toyota Prados and Toyota Landcruisers are also among the most popular models for criminals. However, Hilux and Fortuner GD6 models are still preferred. This trend of targeting popular hatchbacks and bakkies highlighted by Fidelity ADT is also evident in the SAPS report, which showed that Sedans, hatchbacks, and coupes accounted for 2,591 of the vehicles hijacked, followed by bakkies which accounted for 1,582. These vehicle segments represented 47% and 29% of all the hijacked cars in the first quarter of 2023/24. Hijacking in South Africa – 4 Safety Tips to Protect Yourself Reading Time: 5 minutes There are an array of unique opportunities for you to minimize the risks associated with hijacking in South Africa as well as prevent the likelihood of experiencing a hijacking Conceal a panic button in your vehicle clear from view in a position that you can easily reach for without antagonizing a hijacker Follow the latest South African crime statistics to learn more about specific locations and roads that are prone to hijacking and avoid them as often as possible Install and utilize additional apps, software, and technological tools that will give you a safety advantage over hijackers, such as sending WhatsApp live locations and placing automatic lighting solutions in your driveway Hijacking in South Africa is not something we as citizens like to think about but it is certainly something we are all very aware of. Recent statistics show that hijackings in South Africa have reached a five-year high. Our families safety is of paramount importance whether we are at home or in our vehicles, and we must remain vigilant and responsive as we drive around the country if we are to protect our families from falling victim to hijacking. There are several measures that we can take to prevent hijacking as well as minimize the risks associated with a hijacking in the devastating event that we experience it, and we have compiled these essential hijacking safety tips into a comprehensive safety advantage guide to give you more peace of mind as you and your family adventure around our beautiful country. 1. Conceal a Panic Button in Your Vehicle There is very little we can do to call for help once we have been approached by a hijacker if we are not equipped with advanced armed response technological tools, namely a panic button. Generally, it is advisable that you follow a hijacker’s orders as you want to avoid antagonizing the perpetrator. However, between the time it takes for them to arrive at your window and request you leave your vehicle, you can send an emergency alert out to the nearest security company through the use of this small and easily concealed armed response button . Within minutes a trusted security team will be at your location to provide assistance if you are still in the midst of the hijacking attempt. In the event that your vehicle has already been stolen, the security company will be able to follow the location of the panic button concealed in your vehicle and recover your automobile. The success of this tip in minimizing the risk of hijacking is correlated to one’s ability to hide the panic button in strategic spots that are not immediately noticeable to the hijacker. We suggest the following placement options to help you more effectively trigger the button from a position that does not antagonize the perpetrator as well as keeps it hidden in the event that they steal your vehicle. Behind Your Headrest This is the best placement for your panic button as it will allow you to raise your hands in surrender when approached by a hijacker while giving you immediate access to your armed response trigger. Using double-sided velcro or a material-friendly adhesive, you can place your button at the back of your headrest and conceal it from view using headrest and car seat covers. Within Your Door’s Side Cubby Another place that is accessible and generally hidden from a perpetrators view is your door’s side cubby. Placing your panic button here will allow you to subtly reach for it if you feel threatened, unsafe, or wary of an attempted hijacking. If you ever feel incredibly unsafe and do not wish to risk further harrowing incidents during a hijacking, then follow your gut instincts and the orders of the hijacker rather than attempting to operate your panic button. 2. Avoid Hijacking Hotspots as of the Latest Crime Statistics . Another extremely helpful tip to avoid hijacking is to steer clear of hijacking hotspots outlined in the latest South African crime statistics, such as specific districts and roads. According to recent statistics published by BusinessTech, the following areas are hijacking hotspots: Nyanga, Western Cape Loate, Gauteng Umlaze, KwaZulu-Natal Harare, Western Cape Tembisa, Gauteng Delft, Western Cape The problem with this information is that it is too broad to give us a comprehensive idea of the specific places within these larger areas we need to avoid. Fortunately, Arrive Alive has compiled an extensive list of roads and locations within Johannesburg, Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban to avoid if you wish to minimize the likelihood of falling victim to hijacking. 3. Use Other Technology to Your Advantage Technology is shaping the way we prioritise our safety and apps, software, and other devices are equipping us with a safety advantage over hijackers and other criminals within South Africa. We need to, in all areas of our life, leverage the benefits of these new technologies. The following examples of technological support, beyond an accurate and reliable armed response panic button, should become a habit that is implemented into your driving routine: Send a WhatsApp live location out to your close friends or family the minute you get into your vehicle so that someone knows where you are at all times Use your Google Maps whenever you are visiting a new destination regardless of whether you ‘know the area’ or not Install automatic lights in your driveway that are triggered as you roll up to your home so that you can see if anyone is hiding in or around your property 4. Additional Helpful Anti-Hijacking Tips to Keep in Mind Besides using technology and statistics to your advantage, we have compiled a few more additional anti-hijacking tips to keep in mind whenever you and your family get into your vehicle: Check your rearview mirror the minute you get into your car and every so often while you are driving to assess whether or not you are being followed, being especially careful to check when you turn down quieter roads Do not turn into your driveway unless the road is completely clear of other cars both in front of you and behind you, and only enter your property once your gate is fully opened. Keep your doors closed and locked until your gate is fully closed before you get out of your vehicle When visiting family or friends, do not wait idly in their driveway and phone them to let you in. Call them using your hands-free car kit before you arrive or request that they keep an eye on your live location so that they can open up as quickly as possible once you arrive Through the combination of concealing a panic button within your vehicle, avoiding roads and specific locations that are prone to hijacking incidents, and taking advantage of other simple technological tools, you can more effectively minimise the risks associated with hijacking and reduce the likeliness of experiencing a hijacking in South Africa. CRIME IN SOUTH AFRICA POLICE RECORDED CRIME STATISTICS REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA First Quarter of 2024-2025 Financial year (April 2024 to June 2024 Table of contents ❑ Methodology ❑ Counting rules ❑ Quality management ❑ Dissemination Methodology ❑ Crimes perpetrated within the borders of South Africa reported at the 1 163 police stations including satellite stations and stations at ports of entry are discussed in this report. Reported crimes are recorded as they are brought (by either the victims, witnesses or third parties) to the attention of the police or as when detected by the police, irrespective of when the crime(s) were committed or who committed them. ❑ The crime statistics are derived from the administrative recording process. A crime code is allocated to each reported crime type (e.g. murder with code 31984-murder, 31990-farm murder and 31989-police murder). These crime codes are then aggregated into daily summary of serious crime (DSSC) codes (e.g. DSSC 01 for all murder). ❑ For operational use, the crime statistics are extracted using the DSSC code from a live system daily/weekly to compile daily/weekly crime reports. ❑ For strategic use, each station has to synchronise aggregated DSSC codes to from the live system. After all the stations synchronises in the province, then the monthly, quarterly and annually crime statistics can be extracted nationally for computation and dissemination. ❑ The crime report mainly focuses on the 21 priority crimes grouped into two main types namely: ▪ 17 community-reported serious crimes (subdivided into four broad categories, contact, contact-related, property-related and other serious crimes) and ▪ The four crimes that are detected as a result of police action. Continue … Methodology ❑ To measure and explain the changing crime trend direction, the count difference between the years including the percentage increase and decrease is computed. To compare the provincial crime per 100 000 a ratio is calculated and also percentage contribution is calculated. ❑ The percentage changes are computed by comparing the preceding and current (period under review) financial year figures. The following formula is used: Percentage Change (% Increase/Decrease) = 𝐶𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐹𝑖𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑒 −𝑃𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝐹𝑖𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑃𝑎𝑠𝑡 𝐹𝑖𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑥 100 ▪ If the previous year’s figure is 0, only the actual figure for the current financial year is mentioned. ▪ If the current count at individual stations is less than 50, the count difference will be noted. Similarly, if the current count for a group of stations (Districts & Provinces) is less than 100, the count difference will also be mentioned. ❑ Contribution Percentage means the ratio, expressed as a percentage calculated to the nearest one-hundredth of one percent, of the sum. Its used to calculate the contribution of crime , station, district to the total/sum and is computed as follows : % Contribution = 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑇𝑜𝑡𝑎𝑙 𝑥 100 (Replace "number" with the specific value you want to calculate a percentage of and "total" with the overall value or sum). ❑ The crime to population ratio is computed for provincial comparability in the number of crimes committed against persons during a specific financial year. ▪ The mid-year population estimates to make the computation of the ratios are obtained from Statistics South Africa (Stats SA) on a quarterly and annually based on the 2021 series. The following formula is used: Population R𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨 = 𝐶𝑢𝑟𝑟𝑒𝑛𝑡 𝐹𝑖𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑃𝑜𝑝𝑢𝑙𝑎𝑡𝑖𝑜𝑛 𝐹𝑖𝑔𝑢𝑟𝑒 𝑥 100 000 COUNTING RULES ❑ The statistics represent the number of charges or counts and not the number of case dockets registered. ▪ One case docket can contain a single count of a specific offence, multiple counts of same offence or several different type of offences. ▪ The recorded offences may involve one victim or complainant or multiple victims. ▪ e.g. if murder and rape occurred during a house robbery incident, all three crimes will be counted in the statistics. ▪ In a murders case bodies are counted, while in a rape case victims and perpetrators are counted for a charge to be registered. ▪ e.g. if four people are killed in one incident, then four murder counts are recorded. If three perpetrators rape one woman then three counts of rapes will be registered. Inversely if three women are raped by one perpetrator then also three rapes will be registered. Also if three women are raped each by three men then nine counts of rapes will be registered. ❑ For property crimes, regardless of how many items are taken only one count will be registered, e.g. if a TV, radio and microwave are stolen in one incident of burglary at residential premises then only one count will be registered. ❑ Different crime definitions and classifications are used by different agencies or institutions. For instance, the SAPS definition of robbery of cash in transit (CIT), differs with the definition used by the South African Banking Risk Information Centre (SABRIC) and/or Cash In Transit Association of South African (CITASA). According to the SAPS definition, the CIT Company must already have taken control over the money, while with SABRIC/CITASA the CIT Company must be present when the money is robbed and not necessarily having taken control of the money. QUALITY MANAGEMENT ❑ The SAPS followed the rigorous independent data quality assessment conducted by the Data Quality Assessment Team (DQAT) during the 2018/2019 Crime Statistic release and was granted the Official Statistics status by SG. ▪ The attainment of the Official Statistics status was the culmination of putting to action collaboration objectives as outlined in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered into by the two agencies, in March 2015. ▪ A five year period is the timeframe set by the SG’s assessment framework to maintain the Official statistics status for the Annual Crime Statistics. However this Official Statistics status will be revoked if there is methodological change in the compilation of the statistics and the reassessment will be initiated. ❑ Quality control checks conducted by SAPS include the daily Case Administration System (CAS) data quality verification performed at National and Provincial level. The Crime Informational Management Analysis Centre (CIMAC) at police station peruse physical case docket and alert the station management on data integrity concerns. This process is backed up by the province or national offices where cases are referred back to station if any discrepancies are identified. ❑ Legal service in the organisation plays a critical role in terms of providing the quality assurance team with legal opinion where conflict of ideas and understanding occur between the stations and quality assurance official on the correct charges. DISSEMINATION ❑ The SAPS crime statistics dissemination processes adheres to principles and standards that inter alia endorses transparency . SAPS crime statistics dissemination processes subscribes to : ▪ the United Nation (UN) Fundamental principles of Official Statistics, ▪ the International Monetary Fund (IMF) General Data Dissemination Standard (GDDS) and ▪ the South African Statistical Quality Assessment Framework (SASQAF). ❑ According to SASQAF indicators and standards as informed by the UN’s Official Statistics principles, statistical release must be made available to all users at the same time and must be released on a pre-announced schedule. ▪ The pre-announced schedule (calendar) for the quarters of the 2023/2024 financial year is published on the SAPS website (https://www.saps.gov.za/services/crimestats.php), taking into account the GDDS requirements about the release of non- economic statistics six weeks after the reference period. ▪ Definitions of crime discussed are listed in Annexure A of this report. Contact crime 13 Contact crime refers to crimes in which the victims are the targets of violence or instances where the victims are in the vicinity of property that criminals target and are subjected to the use of/or threats of violence by perpetrators. ▪ Murder ▪ Attempted Murder ▪ Sexual Offences ▪ Rape ▪ Sexual assault ▪ Attempted sexual offences ▪ Contact sexual assault ▪ Assault with the intent to inflict grievous bodily harm ▪ Common assault ▪ Common robbery ▪ Robbery with aggravating circumstances ▪ Carjacking ▪ Robbery at non-residential premises ▪ Robbery at residential premises ▪ Robbery of cash in transit ▪ Truck Hijacking TRIO crimes Is It Safe to Visit South Africa? Travel Safety Tips and Advisory for Tourists Exercise increased caution when visiting South Africa. The crime rate is high, especially in violent crimes like armed robbery and carjacking. These incidents mainly happen in non-tourist areas. Follow safety recommendations, stay aware, and heed travel advisories. Enjoy tourist areas during the day for better safety. Health and safety tips are equally important. Travelers should consider vaccinations and carry necessary medications. South Africa has varying climates, so it is also wise to plan for changing weather conditions. Choosing accommodations in safe neighborhoods enhances security. Regularly updating travel itineraries can help ensure safety. Connecting with local guides can enhance the experience while providing further insights into safety. Overall, South Africa offers diverse attractions and experiences. With proper planning and precautions, tourists can enjoy their trip without undue concern. As you prepare for your visit, consider practical safety measures and stay aware of your surroundings. In summary, while South Africa is a captivating destination, diligence and preparation are key for a safe and enjoyable experience. Next, we will explore specific safety tips for various tourist activities in South Africa. Table of Contents What Are the Current Safety Conditions for Tourists in South Africa? How Do Crime Rates Impact Tourist Safety in South Africa? Which Areas of South Africa Are Considered Safe for Tourists? What Precautions Should Tourists Take When Traveling in South Africa? Which Travel Insurance Options Are the Most Recommended for South Africa? How Can Tourists Stay Updated on Safety Alerts During Their Visit? What Health Risks Are Associated with Traveling to South Africa? Are Vaccinations Necessary Before Traveling to South Africa? What Common Health Issues Should Tourists Be Mindful Of? How Can Tourists Enhance Their Safety While Exploring South Africa? What Essential Safety Tips Should Tourists Follow in South Africa? Is Using Public Transportation Considered Safe for Tourists in South Africa? What Resources Are Available for Tourists Concerned About Their Safety in South Africa? Where Can Tourists Access Reliable Safety Information for Their Trip? How Can Tourists Get Assistance from Local Authorities in Emergency Situations? What Are the Current Safety Conditions for Tourists in South Africa? Tourists in South Africa currently face several safety conditions that can vary by region. While many areas are safe for tourists, others have higher crime rates. Crime Rate Variation Petty Crime Concerns Tourist Areas and Safety Measures Travel Advisories and Warnings Local Perspectives on Safety Considering these factors helps create a clearer picture of the safety landscape for tourists in South Africa. Crime Rate Variation: The crime rate variation in South Africa differs significantly between urban and rural areas. Urban areas like Johannesburg and Cape Town have higher crime rates compared to more rural regions. According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) 2022 report, serious crimes such as armed robbery and assault are more prevalent in cities, making awareness crucial for visitors. Petty Crime Concerns: Petty crime, including pickpocketing and bag snatching, poses risks in crowded places and popular tourist spots. The British Foreign Office highlighted that tourists are often targeted by criminals in busy areas. Simple precautions, like securing belongings and avoiding flashy jewelry, can help mitigate these risks. Tourist Areas and Safety Measures: Tourist areas typically implement safety measures to protect visitors. For instance, increased police presence and surveillance in hotspots like the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town improve safety. The Tourism Safety Initiative, supported by South African tourism businesses, aims to enhance security for tourists and promote safe travel practices. Travel Advisories and Warnings: Various governments issue travel advisories regarding South Africa. The U.S. Department of State advises travelers to exercise increased caution, especially in certain regions. These advisories evolve based on current events and security assessments. Tourists should stay updated on travel advisories before planning their visit. Local Perspectives on Safety: Local perspectives on safety can vary widely, even among South Africans. Many residents express confidence in their neighborhoods, while others cite safety concerns. Community-based initiatives, such as neighborhood watch programs, demonstrate efforts to enhance safety. Understanding these local insights can offer tourists a more nuanced perspective on their safety. These elements collectively shape the safety conditions for tourists in South Africa and highlight the importance of being informed and cautious while traveling. How Do Crime Rates Impact Tourist Safety in South Africa? Crime rates significantly impact tourist safety in South Africa by creating perceptions of risk, influencing travel decisions, and affecting local economies reliant on tourism. Perceptions of Risk: High crime rates lead to increased fear among potential travelers. A survey by the World Economic Forum (2021) indicated that safety concerns greatly affect travel choices. When tourists perceive a destination as unsafe, they are less likely to visit. Travel Decisions: Statistics show that regions with elevated crime rates receive fewer visitors. For instance, the Tourism Safety Report (South Africa, 2020) noted a drop of 15% in international tourists to high-crime areas compared to safer regions. Safety advisories from governments also warn against traveling to certain areas, discouraging tourists further. Impact on Local Economies: High crime rates can diminish local economies. The South African Tourism Annual Report (2019) documented that declines in tourism revenues directly correlate with increased crime. Local businesses suffer as tourists avoid areas known for crime, leading to job losses and reduced investment in communities. Prevention Measures: The South African government and tourism boards implement various safety measures to improve perceptions. Increased police presence and community programs have been introduced to enhance safety, as highlighted in the Safety in Public Spaces initiative (2021). Overall, crime rates play a crucial role in shaping tourists’ experiences and decisions when visiting South Africa, influencing both personal safety and the broader economic landscape of the tourism sector. Which Areas of South Africa Are Considered Safe for Tourists? Certain areas of South Africa are considered safe for tourists, providing enjoyable experiences with lower risks. Cape Town Garden Route Kruger National Park Winelands (Stellenbosch and Franschhoek) Durban (certain areas) The perspectives on safety vary among tourists, with some reporting higher comfort levels in tourist areas compared to others. It’s crucial to remember that even in safer areas, caution is still necessary to ensure personal safety. 1. Cape Town: Cape Town is recognized for its stunning landscapes and vibrant culture. The iconic Table Mountain and the bustling V&A Waterfront attract millions of visitors annually. A 2022 report by the South African Tourism Board highlighted that tourist hotspots in Cape Town have a visible police presence, deterring crime. However, travelers are advised to stay in well-populated areas and avoid walking alone at night. 2. Garden Route: The Garden Route is famous for its scenic beauty along the southern coast of South Africa. It encompasses several towns, including Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, known for their outdoor activities. The Garden Route National Park attracts nature enthusiasts, offering hiking trails and wildlife viewing opportunities. According to a 2021 travel review, incidents of crime are lower in this region compared to urban areas. 3. Kruger National Park: Kruger National Park is one of the largest game reserves in Africa, celebrated for wildlife safaris. Most incidents of crime are rare, primarily related to wildlife encounters rather than human threats. The park is well-managed, and participating in organized tours significantly enhances safety. The South African National Parks authority emphasizes the security measures in place for visitors, including ranger-led safaris. 4. Winelands (Stellenbosch and Franschhoek): The Winelands are recognized for their picturesque vineyards and wine tasting experiences. Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are popular destinations for both their stunning scenery and culinary delights. The Stellenbosch Wine Routes website notes that these areas maintain a remarkable safety record, particularly in tourist-friendly zones. Travelers are still encouraged to take standard precautions, such as securing personal belongings. 5. Durban (certain areas): Durban features beautiful beaches and a diverse cultural scene. While some areas are considered safe, it is important to exercise caution in less populated neighborhoods. Tourist areas like Umhlanga and the beachfront Promenade are typically safer. The eThekwini Municipality regularly invests in improving safety measures in tourist areas, according to a 2023 safety improvement initiative report. In summary, while certain areas in South Africa cater to tourists with enhanced safety measures, personal vigilance remains critical. What Precautions Should Tourists Take When Traveling in South Africa? Traveling in South Africa requires tourists to take several precautions to ensure their safety and well-being. Main precautions for tourists include: 1. Stay aware of your surroundings. 2. Use reliable transportation options. 3. Avoid displaying valuables. 4. Keep emergency contacts handy. 5. Stay in reputable accommodations. 6. Avoid isolated areas at night. 7. Follow health advisories on vaccinations. To fully understand these precautions, it is essential to explore each point in detail. Staying Aware of Your Surroundings: Staying aware of your surroundings is critical when traveling in South Africa. Tourists should regularly assess their environment and be mindful of potential risks. According to a 2023 report by the South African Police Service, urban areas can experience higher crime rates. Thus, maintaining situational awareness helps in avoiding risky situations. Using Reliable Transportation Options: Using reliable transportation options ensures safer travel. Tourists should use registered taxis, reputable car services, or public transportation designated for tourists. The Department of Transport in South Africa stresses the importance of verified transportation methods, as this reduces the chance of encountering scams or unsafe vehicles. Avoiding Displaying Valuables: Avoiding the display of valuables is essential in minimizing theft risks. Tourists should keep jewelry, expensive cameras, and electronics out of sight when not in use. A 2022 study from the University of Cape Town noted that displaying valuables in public can attract unwanted attention and increase the likelihood of theft. Keeping Emergency Contacts Handy: Keeping emergency contacts handy is important for quick assistance in distressing situations. Tourists should save contact information for local authorities, embassies, and trusted contacts in their phones. The tourism board in South Africa recommends that visitors have this information readily available to expedite response efforts if needed. Staying in Reputable Accommodations: Staying in reputable accommodations increases safety during travel. Tourists should choose hotels or lodges that have positive reviews and are familiar with tourist needs. According to a 2023 survey by the South African Tourism Board, reputable accommodations often have security measures in place, ensuring a safer stay for travelers. Avoiding Isolated Areas at Night: Avoiding isolated areas at night can help tourists evade potential dangers. Areas without adequate lighting and foot traffic can pose risks. The South African tourism industry advises travelers to stick to well-lit and populated areas after dark. Following Health Advisories on Vaccinations: Following health advisories on vaccinations is essential for tourist health. Before visiting, tourists should consult with health professionals about necessary vaccinations for diseases like yellow fever, especially if traveling from affected areas. The World Health Organization emphasizes that being up to date on vaccinations contributes to safer travel experiences. By applying these precautions, tourists can enhance their safety and enjoyment while traveling in South Africa. Which Travel Insurance Options Are the Most Recommended for South Africa? The most recommended travel insurance options for South Africa include comprehensive coverage, emergency medical evacuation, and trip cancellation insurance. Comprehensive Travel Insurance Emergency Medical Evacuation Trip Cancellation Insurance Personal Liability Insurance Baggage Loss Insurance Adventure Sports Coverage The listed options cover various aspects of travel safety and risk management. Each option addresses specific needs that travelers may face. Comprehensive Travel Insurance: Comprehensive travel insurance provides extensive coverage that includes medical expenses, trip interruptions, and personal belongings. It helps protect travelers against unexpected events. According to the Insurance Information Institute, comprehensive policies typically cover 100% of emergency medical expenses. An example case is a traveler who required hospitalization in Cape Town, where comprehensive insurance covered all medical costs. Emergency Medical Evacuation: Emergency medical evacuation insurance is crucial for travelers who may need immediate transport to a medical facility due to severe health issues or accidents. This coverage ensures that travelers receive proper care in a timely manner. A study by the Association of British Insurers stated that evacuation costs can exceed $100,000, citing the importance of this insurance. For instance, a tourist injured in Kruger National Park was evacuated quickly and effectively due to this type of coverage. Trip Cancellation Insurance: Trip cancellation insurance allows travelers to recover non-refundable expenses if they must cancel their trip for specific reasons like illness or family emergencies. The American Express Travel Insurance report notes that 40% of travelers faced cancellations in 2022. For instance, a traveler was able to recoup hotel and flight costs after unforeseen circumstances led to a cancellation. Personal Liability Insurance: Personal liability insurance covers expenses if the insured accidentally causes injury or damage to someone else’s property. This type of coverage protects travelers from potential legal costs. According to the National Association of Insurance Commissioners, such claims can lead to significant financial liabilities. A case in South Africa highlighted how personal liability coverage saved a tourist from hefty legal fees following an accidental injury to another individual. Baggage Loss Insurance: Baggage loss insurance compensates travelers for lost, stolen, or delayed baggage. This can reduce the stress and financial impact of such mishaps. The Transportation Security Administration found that around 1% of travelers faced baggage issues in recent years. A tourist flying into Johannesburg received prompt compensation after their luggage was misrouted, thanks to this type of coverage. Adventure Sports Coverage: Adventure sports coverage caters to those participating in risky activities like hiking or safari tours. This insurance ensures protection from accidents related to these activities. The Insurance Research Council emphasizes the need for this coverage, especially in regions popular for outdoor adventures. For example, a traveler faced serious injuries while zip-lining in South Africa but was able to receive necessary medical assistance through this specialized insurance. How Can Tourists Stay Updated on Safety Alerts During Their Visit? Tourists can stay updated on safety alerts during their visit by using official sources, mobile applications, and local guidance. To elaborate on these points: Official Government Websites: Tourists should regularly check their government’s travel advisory websites. These sites provide up-to-date information regarding safety statuses, health alerts, and travel restrictions. For example, the U.S. State Department issues travel advisories based on analyses of local conditions. Mobile Applications: Downloading safety apps can be beneficial. Applications such as “SmartTraveler” or “TravelSafe” offer real-time alerts and safety tips. These apps often deliver notifications based on the user’s location and can help travelers react promptly to changing situations. Social Media Platforms: Following local news outlets or official tourism boards on social media can provide instant updates. Many organizations use platforms like Twitter or Facebook to disseminate urgent information quickly to the public. Local Authorities and Tour Guides: Engaging with local authorities and trusted tour guides can provide firsthand safety insight. Local guides often know the safest routes and current conditions, which is invaluable for tourists unfamiliar with the area. Emergency Alerts System: Tourists should also consider signing up for local emergency alert systems. Many regions have systems that send out immediate safety notifications via text or email. Travel Health Providers: Consulting with health organizations or travel health providers prior to the trip can help tourists stay informed on health risks, especially in regions experiencing outbreaks or natural disasters. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) provides relevant health travel updates. By utilizing these resources, tourists can stay informed and safe during their travels. What Health Risks Are Associated with Traveling to South Africa? Traveling to South Africa presents several health risks that travelers should consider prior to their visit. The main health risks associated with traveling to South Africa include: Infectious diseases (e.g., HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, malaria) Food and waterborne diseases (e.g., cholera, typhoid fever) Animal-related diseases (e.g., rabies) Environmental risks (e.g., sun exposure, air pollution) Lack of medical facilities in rural areas Understanding these points is crucial for safe travel. Each risk carries specific implications for travelers, informing necessary precautions and health measures. Infectious Diseases: Infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS and tuberculosis are significant health concerns in South Africa. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), South Africa has one of the highest rates of HIV in the world, affecting around 7.5 million people as of 2021. Tuberculosis, which is often linked to HIV, poses a considerable risk as well, with over 360,000 cases reported annually. Travelers are advised to stay informed and possibly considered vaccines or preventative medications, particularly for tuberculosis. Food and Waterborne Diseases: Food and waterborne diseases, such as cholera and typhoid fever, are common in certain regions. Poor sanitation and a lack of clean water contribute to these risks. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that travelers should avoid drinking tap water and should consume food that is thoroughly cooked and served hot. Staying hydrated with bottled water is critical for preventing gastrointestinal illnesses. Animal-related Diseases: Animal-related diseases, particularly rabies, present serious health threats. The WHO reports that rabies is endemic in South Africa, with several cases reported each year. Travelers should avoid contact with wild or domestic animals. Vaccination against rabies is recommended for individuals engaging in outdoor activities or those who may have close contact with animals. Environmental Risks: Environmental risks include sun exposure and air pollution. The South African sun can be harsh, leading to skin damage and heat-related illnesses. Travelers should apply sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher and wear protective clothing. Additionally, cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town experience levels of air pollution that can aggravate respiratory conditions. Travelers with pre-existing lung issues must take precautions, such as avoiding outdoor activities on high pollution days. Lack of Medical Facilities in Rural Areas: The lack of medical facilities in rural areas can pose challenges in emergencies. Many remote regions do not have easy access to medical care. Travelers should have a basic first-aid kit and know the location of the nearest hospital or clinic. It’s advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical evacuation in case of severe illness or injury, especially when visiting less populated areas. In conclusion, understanding and preparing for these health risks will significantly enhance the travel experience and ensure safety while visiting South Africa. Are Vaccinations Necessary Before Traveling to South Africa? Yes, vaccinations are necessary before traveling to South Africa. The country has specific health risks, and certain vaccinations provide essential protection against diseases that are prevalent in the region. Travelers should consult healthcare professionals to ensure they are adequately protected prior to their journey. When comparing vaccinations required for South Africa, there are recommended vaccines such as hepatitis A, hepatitis B, typhoid, and rabies. These vaccines differ in terms of potential exposure risk; for example, hepatitis A can spread through contaminated food and water, while rabies vaccination is particularly important for travelers who may come into contact with animals. Travelers in urban areas may feel less risk than those venturing into rural regions or wildlife reserves, emphasizing the value of tailored vaccination advice based on itinerary. The positive aspects of vaccinations include the reduction of disease risk. According to the World Health Organization, vaccination helps prevent outbreaks of preventable diseases. In South Africa, tetanus and diphtheria vaccines are recommended for all travelers. Furthermore, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that vaccines like yellow fever, while not required for all travelers, are crucial for those coming from certain countries. Vaccines protect personal health and contribute to the overall health of the community. On the downside, some people experience side effects from vaccinations. Common side effects include mild fever or soreness at the injection site. According to Johnson et al. (2020), serious side effects are rare but can lead to long-term health consequences. Travelers should weigh these potential risks and consult healthcare providers for personalized guidance. Travelers should consider specific recommendations based on their individual health needs. For those visiting rural areas, vaccination for diseases like rabies or typhoid is particularly important. Those planning adventures that include animal interactions should consult their doctor about rabies vaccination. Additionally, scheduling vaccinations well in advance, typically several weeks before departure, allows time for any necessary follow-up doses. Always seek professional medical advice tailored to individual travel plans and health history. What Common Health Issues Should Tourists Be Mindful Of? Tourists should be mindful of several common health issues when traveling. These issues can affect their experience and well-being. Food and Waterborne Illnesses Insect-Borne Diseases Respiratory Infections Altitude Sickness Sun Exposure Travel Fatigue Understanding these health issues is vital for a safe and enjoyable travel experience. Each issue has unique characteristics and potential impacts on a tourist’s health. Food and Waterborne Illnesses: Food and waterborne illnesses can occur due to the consumption of contaminated food and drink. These illnesses often include symptoms like diarrhea, vomiting, and stomach cramps. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2020), around 600 million people fall ill from eating contaminated food each year. Tourists should choose cooked foods and bottled water to minimize this risk. Insect-Borne Diseases: Insect-borne diseases like malaria and dengue fever pose significant risks in many regions. These diseases are transmitted through mosquito bites, leading to severe health complications. The CDC reports an estimated 219 million cases of malaria worldwide in 2018. Travelers should use insect repellent and wear protective clothing, especially in areas where these diseases are prevalent. Respiratory Infections: Respiratory infections, including influenza and COVID-19, can spread quickly among tourists. Close proximity in crowded areas facilitates the transmission of these illnesses. According to the CDC, the flu causes millions of illnesses and tens of thousands of deaths yearly in the U.S. Tourists should practice good hygiene, including handwashing and wearing masks when necessary. Altitude Sickness: Altitude sickness occurs when individuals ascend to high elevations too quickly. Symptoms include headaches, nausea, and fatigue. A study published in the Journal of Travel Medicine (2019) highlights that 20% to 50% of travelers who ascend rapidly to elevations over 2,500 meters may experience mild symptoms. Gradual acclimatization is crucial for preventing altitude sickness. Sun Exposure: Sun exposure can lead to skin damage and increase the risk of skin cancer. The WHO emphasizes that ultraviolet (UV) radiation levels are highest between 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. Tourists should use sunscreen with a high SPF, wear protective clothing, and seek shade to minimize exposure. Travel Fatigue: Travel fatigue results from long hours of travel and irregular schedules. Symptoms may include tiredness, difficulty concentrating, and irritability. According to a study by the Travel Association (2021), the majority of travelers reported feeling fatigued during or after travel. Tourists should plan their itineraries carefully, allowing time for rest and adjusting to new time zones. By being aware of these common health issues, tourists can take proactive steps to protect their health while enjoying their travels. How Can Tourists Enhance Their Safety While Exploring South Africa? Tourists can enhance their safety while exploring South Africa by staying vigilant, choosing safe accommodations, adhering to local advice, and avoiding risky areas. To elaborate on these points: Staying Vigilant: Tourists should remain aware of their surroundings at all times. Studies show that situational awareness reduces the likelihood of becoming a target for theft or other crimes. Actions like avoiding distractions, such as using mobile phones, can significantly improve personal safety. Tourists should also be cautious when interacting with strangers. Choosing Safe Accommodations: Selecting accommodations in reputable areas is crucial. Tourists should consider hotels with good reviews, security measures, and proximity to essential amenities. A report from the Global Peace Index (2021) highlights the importance of location safety, indicating that certain districts experience higher crime rates. Adhering to Local Advice: Tourists should seek and follow advice from locals or tour guides regarding safe practices. Local knowledge can provide insight into safer routes and areas to avoid. Consulting resources like travel forums and government travel advisories can offer valuable information regarding current safety conditions. Avoiding Risky Areas: Identifying and avoiding neighborhoods with high crime rates is essential. Crime statistics from the South African Police Service (2022) indicate that tourists may encounter higher risks in certain urban areas during nighttime. It is advisable to stay in well-lit, populated areas and travel in groups whenever possible. Utilizing Secure Transportation: Tourists should opt for reputable transportation options. Using registered taxis, ride-hailing apps, or shuttle services is preferred over public transportation late at night. The U.S. Department of State advises that pre-arranging airport transfers can reduce vulnerability. Limiting Valuables: Tourists should minimize the display of valuables such as expensive jewelry, cameras, and electronics. Keeping essential items secure can lower the risk of theft. A study published in the Journal of Safety Research (2019) emphasizes that less conspicuous tourists are less likely to be targeted. By integrating these safety practices, tourists can significantly enhance their security while enjoying their experience in South Africa. What Essential Safety Tips Should Tourists Follow in South Africa? The essential safety tips for tourists visiting South Africa include awareness of your surroundings, using reputable transportation, securing valuables, and respecting local customs. Stay aware of your surroundings Use reputable transportation methods Keep valuables secure Respect local customs and laws Avoid displaying wealth Use registered tour guides Stay in well-reviewed accommodations Buddy system for excursions To navigate these safety tips effectively, it’s important to delve into the details that will help you understand why each is significant. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings: Staying aware of your surroundings is crucial for personal safety. Tourists should remain vigilant in busy areas. According to the U.S. State Department, many incidents in South Africa involve tourists being targeted while distracted. Examples of potential threats include theft, confrontations, or scams. Use Reputable Transportation Methods: Using reputable transportation methods enhances safety during travel. Opt for registered taxis or ride-sharing apps rather than hailing cabs on the street. The South African tourism board recommends pre-booking transport to avoid unsafe or unlicensed vehicles. Keep Valuables Secure: Keeping valuables secure protects you from theft. Use anti-theft bags and keep important items locked in hotel safes. The UK’s Foreign Office highlights that visible valuables increase the likelihood of theft in tourist areas. Respect Local Customs and Laws: Respecting local customs and laws fosters goodwill and enhances safety. Familiarize yourself with cultural norms, which can minimize misunderstandings. For example, being aware of local social etiquette can prevent offending locals and reduce the risk of conflict. Avoid Displaying Wealth: Avoiding the display of wealth reduces your chances of being targeted for theft or robbery. Leave expensive jewelry and electronics in your accommodations when sightseeing. Tourists who flaunt wealth can inadvertently attract unwanted attention. Use Registered Tour Guides: Utilizing registered tour guides can improve both safety and the overall experience. Guides provide valuable local knowledge and can help navigate potential risks. It also ensures that you contribute economically to the local community. Stay in Well-Reviewed Accommodations: Staying in well-reviewed accommodations promotes safety. Research potential lodging through reliable websites that feature customer reviews. The South African tourism board recommends consulting tourist boards or forums for trustworthy suggestions. Buddy System for Excursions: Implementing a buddy system during excursions can enhance safety. Traveling with a companion allows for added vigilance. In cases where solo travel is necessary, it is advisable to inform someone of your plans and expected return time. By understanding and adhering to these essential safety tips, tourists can enhance their experience in South Africa while minimizing risks. Is Using Public Transportation Considered Safe for Tourists in South Africa? Yes, using public transportation in South Africa can be safe for tourists, but it requires caution and awareness of specific risks. Safety largely depends on the location, time of day, and type of transportation. Many tourists successfully use various public transport methods, including buses and trains, while following safety guidelines. Public transportation options include buses, minibus taxis, and trains. Buses operate in major cities and are generally safer and more regulated. In contrast, minibus taxis are common but can be less regulated and sometimes overcrowded. Trains are available between cities, but some routes have safety concerns, particularly at night. Tourists should compare these options based on their comfort level and awareness of the local environment. Benefits of using public transportation in South Africa include cost-effectiveness and the opportunity to experience local culture. For instance, using minibus taxis can be significantly cheaper than taxi services, costing less than $1 for short trips. Additionally, it can provide insights into local life. According to a 2022 survey by the South African Transport Minister, over 70% of daily commuters use public transport, indicating a reliance on and accessibility of these systems. On the downside, public transportation in South Africa can expose tourists to risks such as petty crime, especially in crowded situations. Research conducted by local safety organizations, like the South African Crime Prevention Unit (2023), points out that tourists should remain vigilant to avoid theft. Additionally, some transport options may operate in unsafe areas, particularly after dark. To maximize safety while using public transportation, tourists should consider specific recommendations. Travel during daylight hours when possible, and avoid overcrowded vehicles. Keep valuables secure and out of sight. Use recognized transport apps for taxi services, such as Uber or Bolt, which are generally safer than unofficial taxis. Stay informed by checking local news for updates on transportation safety and routes before traveling. What Resources Are Available for Tourists Concerned About Their Safety in South Africa? The resources available for tourists concerned about their safety in South Africa include government advisories, travel insurance, local guides and organizations, mobile apps, and safety tips from fellow travelers. Government Advisories Travel Insurance Local Guides and Organizations Mobile Safety Apps Travel Tips and Communities Understanding the available resources can help enhance safety awareness for tourists in South Africa. Government Advisories: Government advisories provide essential information about safety in South Africa. These advisories often include updates on local crime rates, health alerts, and travel restrictions. The U.S. State Department, for example, frequently updates its travel advisory for South Africa to inform travelers of potential risks. Travelers should check these advisories before and during their trip for the most accurate and timely information. Travel Insurance: Travel insurance is crucial for tourists concerned about unforeseen events. It can cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and theft. According to a 2022 study by the Insurance Information Institute, around 41% of travelers purchased travel insurance, highlighting its importance. Tourists should consider comprehensive coverage that includes specific clauses for emergency assistance and repatriation. Local Guides and Organizations: Local guides and organizations can enhance tourists’ safety. Professional guides are knowledgeable about safe routes, areas to avoid, and local customs. Organizations like the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa promote companies that adhere to safety standards. Engaging with reputable tour operators can provide tourists with a secure travel experience. Mobile Safety Apps: Mobile safety apps offer real-time information and emergency assistance. Apps like “Safety in South Africa” provide alerts regarding crime hotspots and safety tips. According to TechCrunch (2021), apps aimed at personal safety have seen increased downloads, illustrating their practical value. Tourists can use these apps to stay informed and make safer decisions. Travel Tips and Communities: Travel tips from fellow tourists can be invaluable. Online communities like TripAdvisor forums or Facebook travel groups often share firsthand experiences and practical advice. According to a 2020 report by the World Tourism Organization, peer recommendations significantly influence travel behavior. Tourists should actively seek advice on safety concerns for more personalized guidance. By utilizing these resources, tourists can navigate South Africa more safely and confidently. Where Can Tourists Access Reliable Safety Information for Their Trip? Tourists can access reliable safety information for their trip by using various resources. Government travel websites are excellent starting points. For example, countries like the United States and Canada provide updated travel advisories on their official websites. Tourists can also consult local embassies or consulates for specific information about their destination. Social media platforms, such as Twitter, can offer real-time information and updates on safety concerns. Travel forums and review sites, like TripAdvisor, allow travelers to share experiences and tips about safety in specific locations. Finally, reputable travel agencies often provide safety briefs as part of their services. By utilizing these resources, tourists can make informed decisions about their safety while traveling. How Can Tourists Get Assistance from Local Authorities in Emergency Situations? Tourists can get assistance from local authorities in emergency situations by contacting local emergency services, visiting information centers, and relying on hotel staff or tour guides for support. Contacting local emergency services: Tourists should know the local emergency numbers. For example, in many countries, dialing 112 connects callers to emergency services. In a crisis, prompt communication with emergency responders is critical. Visiting information centers: Local tourist information centers provide essential resources. These centers offer maps, guides, and assistance. They also help tourists connect with local authorities when needed. Information centers enhance tourists’ awareness of safety protocols and local rules. Relying on hotel staff or tour guides: Tourists can approach hotel staff for immediate help. Staff often understand local protocols and can communicate effectively with authorities. Tour guides are also valuable resources. They have local insights and connections that can facilitate quick assistance during emergencies. Preparation is key. Tourists should familiarize themselves with local laws and emergency procedures. Having travel insurance can also be beneficial. It can provide further assistance in distressing situations. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

TRAVEL GUIDE Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to South Africa Welcome to South Africa, a land of stunning landscapes, diverse cultures, and unforgettable experiences. When touring this beautiful country, be sure to pack essentials like sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and a camera to capture the breathtaking scenery. Don't forget to explore iconic destinations such as Cape Town, the Kruger National Park, and the Garden Route. Embrace the local cuisine and immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant traditions that make South Africa truly unique. Safety tips for travelers in Africa Avoid blatant displays of wealth, cash, and valuables when in public so as not to draw unwanted attention your way. Criminals are always on the lookout for potential opportunities, so the less you come across on their radar the better. Speaking of which, the most common type of crime is in the form of petty theft, so it is important to trust your instinct and to maintain common sense at all times. Avoid walking alone in quiet dark areas. Traveling in groups is always the safer option. Other places to be more wary include busy areas such as public transportation, markets, and tourist hotspots as well as deserted beaches. Know your end destination before you head out, especially at night. As far as possible, make use of ATMs that are located inside a bank, shopping malls, or in well-lit public areas. Even though safari camps and lodges are guarded, wild animals may venture within the boundaries of the camp. Children should never be left unattended in these areas and avoid walking around after dark. It always makes life easier to know a few words in the language of the African country you’re visiting. This helps to understand your surroundings and to make communication easier in times of need. Be aware of your surroundings when in public spaces so that you’re never placed in a position where you’re vulnerable. Don’t place yourself in a position that would make you an easy target. Speaking of being an easy target, dress and act appropriately, resembling the locals as much as you can, so as not to stand out as a foreigner. Avoid going to informal settlements unless you’re visiting with someone who is knowledgable about the area. It is important to remember to keep the doors and windows to your room locked. Speaking of doors, the doors of cars should always be locked. This is non-negotiable. In addition, windows should also be rolled up when driving through busy areas. Missing road signs, roaming livestock, and poorly maintained roads make driving more difficult. Outside of the main capital cities in Africa , four-wheel drives are recommended. Avoid stopping unnecessarily on deserted roads to avoid carjackings. Monitor fuel levels to ensure that the tank levels never drop below the halfway point. If you use a taxi or transport service to get around, ensure that it is part of a reputable company. Also, avoid using a taxi that has been called for you by a random acquaintance and be sure to ask for identification from the driver. Always keep your belongings securely and in sight when walking out and about. This one is directed towards solo female travelers — do not leave food or drinks unattended or with strangers and be cautious of accepting anything that has the potential to be laced with drugs from random people. I know this is a tough one, but keep the use of gadgets to a minimum when in crowded spaces. An important Africa safety tip is to keep abreast of the news and educate yourself on the current affairs of the country or region you’re traveling in. This will help in avoiding any unrest, instability, and political demonstrations. It is practical to register with your consulate before traveling abroad. Everything You Need to Know Before Travelling to South Africa Passport If you’re travelling anywhere in the world, it’s good to know as much as you can about the basics of the country you’re visiting. From entry requirements and currency to whether you need a converter for your gadgets, we’ve got you covered. Here’s a breakdown of everything you need to know when planning your South African vacation. Travellers of all nationalities will need passports that are valid for at least 30 days beyond the period of intended stay. A return ticket or ticket to another destination is also required, as well as evidence of sufficient funds. Visitors to South Africa are required to have at least one blank, and unstamped visa page in their passport, every time they enter the country. This page is in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. Nationals of countries requiring a visa before travelling to South Africa require two unstamped, blank pages in their passport, for issuing a visa prior to departure and stamping upon entering South Africa. Note: South African Immigration Authorities do not accept loose leaf temporary travel documents. Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. It is important that all travellers confirm the entry requirements with their relevant embassy or consulate. Visa Requirements Entry requirements for people travelling to South Africa are subject to change at a moment’s notice, so travellers are advised to confirm with their relevant embassy or consulate prior to departure. Entry requirements for United States citizens: United States nationals require a passport valid for at least 30 days beyond intended travel. No visa is necessary for stays of up to 90 days. Entry requirements for UK citizens: British nationals travelling to South Africa require a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days if the passport is endorsed British Citizen or British Overseas Territories Citizen. Those whose passports state British National (Overseas) may stay up to 30 days without a visa. Entry requirements for Australian citizens: Australian nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, however, no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days. Entry requirements for German citizens: German nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is necessary for says of up to 90 days. Travelling with Children Travelling to South Africa with children who are considered minors (children under 18 years of age) can be an arduous process if you’re not fully prepared. The South African Department of Home Affairs issued new regulations from 1 December 2018, specifying that all minors are required to produce an Unabridged Birth Certificate, in addition to their passport, for all international travel to and from South Africa. Travellers may also be required to produce supporting documents if they fall into a specific category, such as one parent travelling with a minor who may need to produce a written letter of consent from the parent who isn’t travelling, but whose details are listed on the Birth Certificate. For this reason, we urge all visitors travelling with children to confirm entry requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before departing for South Africa. For more information, visit the South African Department of Home Affairs . Currency The currency in South Africa is the Rand (ZAR), which is divided into 100 cents. Major international credit cards are widely accepted throughout the country and ATMs are widely available in major cities. Commercial banks and Bureau de Change will exchange foreign currency. Visitors should be vigilant when drawing cash from ATMs, as con artists are known to operate there. All commercial banks will exchange foreign currency. For the latest exchange rates, have a look at XE . Vaccinations Travellers planning to visit South Africa are not required to receive any vaccinations prior to arrival unless they are travelling from areas infected by yellow fever, in which case they must carry a vaccination certificate. Travellers planning to visit the bush should consider malaria prophylaxis as there is a malaria risk in the low-lying areas of the Northern Province and Mpumalanga (including the Kruger National Park), as well as northeastern KwaZulu-Natal. Medical facilities in South Africa are good in major cities, but travellers are advised to take out medical insurance prior to their travels, as many private doctors and hospitals require upfront payment. Things to Do in South Africa When travelling to South Africa, don’t miss out on these amazing activities. Contact one of our team members to begin planning your bespoke itinerary. Explore one of the many hiking trails within the Table Mountain National Park. Cruise along one of South Africa’s most picturesque coastal roads, the Garden Route, stopping at popular holiday towns such as Hermanus, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay and more along the way. Sample some of the world’s best wines from a vast collection of acclaimed wine estates in the Cape Winelands. Journey to the Cradle of Humankind to learn about the first discoveries of hominid fossils. Visit the historic Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battlefield sites and discover the stories of the Anglo-Boer war. Find a new appreciation for the natural world after heading to the Kruger National Park for an incredible safari escape. Let’s not beat about the bush: South Africa has a bit of a scary reputation. Much is said about the country’s unenviable crime rate, but so much more can be said about all the things that make this diverse destination so magnificent. You shouldn't let anxiety about possible dangers put you off visiting this amazing African country. Huge and diverse, South Africa never stops doling out gifts to the traveler – world-class surf breaks, eclectic local cuisine, mountains to climb, cities to visit, tiny towns to hide away in, desert landscapes to photograph and, of course, plenty of wildlife to watch. The country’s extraordinary variety is both its biggest draw and its biggest challenge, at least when it comes to planning a trip. Much research is needed to decide where to go, what to do and how long to stay. Visiting for less than two weeks is not ideal – three weeks or more would be a better bet if you can manage so much time away. With tips to help you plan as well as information on health, safety and etiquette, here's what you need to know for a successful trip to South Africa. If you come to South Africa as a family, bring the right paperwork. Getty Images 1. Carry the relevant paperwork if you’re traveling with kids If you’re entering or leaving South Africa with a child under the age of 18, you’ll need to have a few extra bits of paper in your carry-on bag. In a bid to stamp out child trafficking, all minors need to have an "unabridged" birth certificate – that is, one that lists both parents’ names. If only one parent is traveling with the child, you’ll need an affidavit from the other parent confirming that they give consent for the child to travel. The rules keep changing and papers are not always checked, but it’s wise to have the documents on hand just in case. 2. Carry cash, just not too much While credit and debit cards are widely accepted, there are still a few places in South Africa that only take cash. It’s best to keep a small stash of notes and coins for purchases at corner stores, buying things from market traders and for the various tips you’ll be expected to give throughout the day (more on tipping below). Of course, it’s not wise to walk around with large wads of cash on your person, so keep the bulk of your money hidden away in the hotel safe, or withdraw modest amounts from ATMs while you are out and about. Be wary of using ATMs on the street; theft and card scams are common, so it’s best to stick to machines inside malls or banks. 3. Buy a South African SIM card and use local Wi-Fi Public Wi-Fi is fairly easy to find in larger cities and more touristed towns, but if you’re planning on wandering far from the main population centers, it’s worth picking up a South African SIM card on arrival at the airport. The card costs just a few rand, but like pretty much everything in South Africa, it does come with a bit of paperwork. You’ll need to “RICA” your SIM card – a fairly simple registration process that requires a photo ID and confirmation of your address in South Africa (a simple booking confirmation will suffice). Book a car with one of the major rental companies to see more of the country. 4. If you really want to see SA, you need to rent a car There's no sugar-coating it – public transport in South Africa often falls short. Long-distance bus services exist but routes tend to bypass many smaller destinations, and fares can be expensive for shorter hops. Long-distance trains are unreliable, and hitchhiking is most definitely not recommended. If you really want to see the country, you’re going to have to rent a car. Fortunately, there are plenty of fantastic road trips to choose from, and all the big car hire companies are represented in South Africa – just be sure to book ahead, especially if you’re traveling in the November to March peak season. 5. Be more cautious when driving in cities When I first moved to South Africa, there was so much talk of carjackers that I expected to find balaclava-clad people lurking at every intersection waiting to appropriate my vehicle. I remember panicking at the gas station because I had to lower the window to pay, then passing my cash through an inch-high gap before driving away, stressed and sweating. These days I often drive with the windows down, but I do approach "robots" (the local term for traffic lights) with caution, always leaving a car-length gap in front of me just in case I need to make a quick escape. Be cautious while driving, but not paranoid. Keep your doors locked and be extra vigilant when driving at night, keeping your windows up and your wits about you. 6. Listen to the locals (but be ready for a little exaggeration) Local advice is always important, particularly in countries that have a reputation for crime and social problems. In South Africa, the host at your accommodation is a good person to ask about the best bars or restaurants, how to get around and which areas to avoid. Just be aware that there are many awesome attractions found in areas that South African locals – particularly older locals – wouldn’t consider visiting. Once, while staying in a guest house in suburban Durban, I asked the owner if there were any places to avoid and she replied “The CBD” (city center), which would have cut my sightseeing rather short. South Africans have a tendency to exaggerate the danger posed by crime – it’s almost a part of the national psyche, and a favorite topic of conversation. You might have to do a bit more research to sort out the worthwhile warnings from the sometimes-inevitable scaremongering. Expect to tip at restaurants, gas stations and even parking lots. Shutterstock 7. Be prepared to tip South Africa has a strong tipping culture. In many customer-facing industries, salaries are low and workers make much of their money from tips. Restaurant staff will expect a top of around 10%, but leaving 12–15% will generate bigger smiles. Drivers never pump their own gas in South Africa; you’ll be expected to pay at least R5 to the person filling your tank, or R10–20 if the attendant also checks your tires, oil or water. Then there are South Africa’s informal parking attendants. While larger cities and towns have areas with pay-as-you-go street parking, in most places, you can park at the side of the road for free… sort of. Ubiquitous car guards will offer to keep an eye on your car while you’re away, and they come in a range of helpfulness levels. Some will go the extra mile, stopping traffic to help you back out into a busy street. Others are opportunists who approach as you pull out your keys, claiming they were keeping a close eye on your car while you were shopping. Reward car guards according to the service they provide – a R5 coin is the standard thank you but R10 is more appropriate for someone who provided a more useful service. 8. South African English takes some getting used to While there are 11 official languages in South Africa, you’ll almost always find someone who speaks English, unless you’re in a remote rural area. There will still be a few local phrases that trip you up. One thing that often baffles foreigners is the (extremely liberal) use of the word “shame.” It’s a versatile word in South Africa. A cute child fell asleep in the car? Shame. A close family member passed away? Shame. Busy week at the office meaning you couldn’t make Friday drinks? Shame. The word is often preceded by the utterance "ag" and followed by the word "man." So the phrase "Ag, shame man" can mean anything from “awww” to “Oh no, that’s terrible!” Also frequently used is the word “hectic.” While it can be used to discuss a particularly busy intersection, it could also be used to describe a ridiculously tall building, a very long line at the bank, an insanely windy day or a particularly large baby being born. In South Africa, hectic doesn’t really mean busy – it usually means "wow." The bright lights don't stay on all day in many parts of SA. Zach Louw/Getty Images 9. Expect lots of talk about politics and power outages Certain subjects are off-limits in every country, but in South Africa, politics is not one of them. Everyone has an opinion on the government’s latest endeavors, whether that’s discussing the abundance of potholes, the latest corruption scandal or – more often than not – the government's failure to provide (electrical) power to the people. You'll very quickly become familiar with the inconvenience of what locals call "load-shedding." Basically, load-shedding is a never-ending series of planned power outages designed to take pressure off the ailing electricity grid. Cities and towns are split into zones, and depending on the severity of the load-shedding, you might end up without power for anything from two to 12 hours a day. There are eight "stages" of load-shedding, broken up into two-hour slots. Larger hotels won’t be affected thanks to backup generators, but if you’re staying in a guesthouse, hostel or private home, you are bound to encounter load-shedding at some point in your stay. Many places come equipped with fail-safes such as emergency lights, backup power for fridges and Wi-Fi hubs, and sometimes generators big enough to power the whole property. Your host will likely give you daily updates on when the power will be off, or there’s a handy app – EskomSePush – that has all the details and comes with a handy warning notification. 10. Driving in the emergency lane is standard practice While greetings, table manners and general day-to-day etiquette in South Africa should largely be familiar, the way South Africans drive can be a bit of a culture shock for visitors. One of the most idiosyncratic rules of the road is “yellow line driving” – many roads are single-lane highways, and enterprising drivers often use the emergency lane (hard shoulder) as a backup. If you’re on a highway and a driver behind you indicates that they want to get by, you'll be expected to briefly move across the yellow line into the emergency lane to let them pass. If you don’t, you’re likely to find yourself privy to another favorite local driving habit: tailgating. Drivers will usually flash their hazard lights in thanks as they pass, but be aware that obliging drivers aren’t the only thing to be found on the hard shoulder. Always make sure there is good visibility before you pull over, for around the next corner you might find a troop of baboons, a stray cow or a bunch of school kids walking home. If you’re traveling with kids South Africa is an excellent destination for family trips. With its diverse wildlife, delightful beaches, exciting theme parks and fascinating museums, there are many attractions that are perfect for both adults and children. The country is particularly well-suited to older kids who can make the most of the many outdoor experiences. What makes South Africa good for kids? Traveling with kids in South Africa is relatively easy, with child-friendly facilities and accommodations. Most larger hotels will provide a cot for babies and toddlers, and sometimes there are extra beds available, but it pays to check when you book. There are apartments with kitchens available for rent as well as holiday homes. Many family restaurants and cafes have high chairs and offer kids' menus that include dishes such as pizzas, burgers, pasta, toasted sandwiches and fish and chips. Some restaurants and cafes serve variations on local dishes for children. If you want healthier options, there's usually something suitable in the entrée or sides section of the main menu. Public transport in South Africa is limited, so hiring a car is recommended when you're traveling as a family. You’ll find all major car rental brands in South Africa, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget, and there are desks at the airport, although you’ll usually get lower prices if you book in advance. Tourist destinations are safe and you should be able to visit the places on this list independently without any issues, however taking tours through Soweto and downtown Johannesburg is recommended. One important thing to know before you go: bring your child's full birth certificate as well as their passport when traveling to South Africa. If both parents are not traveling with the child, you will also need additional documentation, including a letter from the other parent and potentially a court order. Contact your South African embassy for more information about these requirements. The penguins of Boulders Beach are popular with curious children © Bkampath/Getty Images/iStockphoto Where is the best place to go in South Africa for kids? The larger cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are great for kids, with facilities for young children, excellent food and accommodation options. They also have a wealth of family-friendly activities, including theme and water parks, indoor and outdoor play areas, and museums and zoos. Children will also love seeing the animals and flowers in the nature reserves and national parks. The smaller towns along the coast are the places to go if you're looking for a relaxing beach vacation. Best things to do in South Africa with babies and toddlers Take the cable car up Table Mountain, Cape Town Table Mountain dominates the skyline in Cape Town, and seeing the view from the top is remarkable. If you’re traveling with young children, take the cable car to the top – children aged four and under travel for free. Prams and strollers can be wheeled straight on too, but if you're planning on doing any walks at the top of the mountain, you might prefer a baby carrier or sling. The cable car ride itself is an adventure as the car slowly rotates as it travels up the mountain, offering panoramas of Cape Town and the surrounding region. Once at the top, drag your eyes away from the views to look out for a dassie, a small, guinea pig-type animal, or take one of the accessible hikes and walking routes. See the penguins on Boulders Beach, Cape Peninsula This white sand beach dotted with huge boulders is home to a colony of endangered African penguins. Children can see the penguins up close and watch them waddling on the beach, swimming in the clear waters, and interacting with each other. The water is cold, but the beach itself is sheltered with gentle waves and shallow waters, making it perfect for young children to play and splash around. Just remember that the penguins are wild animals and you should keep your distance. Other activities to keep babies and toddlers entertained include rock pooling and exploring the boulder formations. It's likely that a safari experience in South Africa will appeal to most of the family Best things to do in South Africa with young children Go on a safari Easily one of the best things to do in South Africa is going on a safari. While some younger children may find the drive times a bit challenging, most will be enchanted by seeing wild animals in real life. Take an organized game drive to have the best chance of seeing the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, rhino and Cape Buffalo – up close. If you have younger children, consider doing a game drive in a private reserve, as the smaller area means you can see more animals in a shorter amount of time. For older children, head to Kruger National Park to see animals living in their natural habitat and get a snapshot of what the country (and much of the continent) would once have been like. Visit Gold Reef City, Johannesburg This gold-mining-themed amusement park has rides and entertainment suitable for all age groups, from toddlers to adults. You can also learn about Johannesburg’s gold-mining history, and go on an underground mine tour (suitable for children over six). If you’re visiting with older kids, you may want to combine a visit to Gold Reef City with the nearby Apartheid Museum. Explore the Cango Caves If you’re spending a few days in the Cape Winelands or driving along the Garden Route, take a detour to the Cango Caves. Kids will love exploring the vast underground chambers, tunnels and fascinating rock formations, some of which are millions of years old. The basic guided tour of the caves is accessible to all ages, and the knowledgeable guides are great at keeping kids engaged and entertained. On the way to the caves, a couple of other attractions are also worth visiting – an ostrich farm and Cango Wildlife Ranch where kids can meet cheetahs, snakes, crocodiles and more. Spend a few days at Sun City The popular resort of Sun City in South Africa's North West Province offers a range of exciting activities for children of all ages, including water parks, game reserves and adventure parks. The Valley of Waves, with its thrilling water slides and wave pool, is a favorite among kids. Supervised activities are available for younger children, including mini-golf, outdoor movies and arts and crafts. The resort's game reserves offer the opportunity to see Africa's Big Five, while the zip line and Segway tours provide adrenaline-pumping adventures for older kids. See fossils at the Cradle of Humankind The Cradle of Humankind in South Africa is an excellent destination for kids who are interested in history and science. This Unesco World Heritage site is home to some of the world's most important hominid fossil discoveries, including the famous "Mrs Ples" and "Little Foot." Kids can learn about the evolution of humankind through interactive displays and exhibits and take a guided tour of Sterkfontein Caves, where some of the fossils were discovered. South Africa's vast coastline means there are plenty of superb places to have some family time on the beach. Best things to do in South Africa with tweens and teens Learn about South Africa’s history Older kids and teenagers can learn about apartheid through some of South Africa’s excellent museums and tours. In Johannesburg, visit the Apartheid Museum or go on a historical walking tour of Soweto to learn about the events that shaped the country’s history. If you’re in Cape Town, take a trip to Robben Island, a former prison for political activists, including Nelson Mandela. Tours take you to various historic sites around the island as well as through the prison, giving you a glimpse of Mandela's cell. The boat ride with views back towards the beautiful city are a bonus. Explore Johannesburg’s street art Known as the street art capital of Africa, Johannesburg’s vibrant and colorful street art scene is not only visually stunning but also offers insight into the city's past. Johannesburg's street art evolved out of the city's degeneration in the 1980s and '90s, and is part of the city center's regeneration today. The Maboneng Precinct, in particular, is known for its street art, with some (although not all) of the major works commissioned by the government. Teenagers can learn about the significance of the city’s murals, graffiti, and street art on guided street art tours of Johannesburg. These tours also highlight the works of established and emerging artists, and some offer opportunities to engage with local creative communities. If you're short on time, you can also get a taste of local street art while learning about local history. Most Soweto tours include a visit to the impressive Orlando Towers. The artwork on the old power station makes for a great photo opportunity, and adventurous teens can climb the towers or even bungee jump down from them. If you really want to see SA, you need to rent a car South Africa is the ninth-biggest country in Africa and figuring out how to get around efficiently takes some serious thought and planning. How do you move between bustling cities and epic countryside safely, quickly and cost effectively without damaging the environment as you go? Whether you're going by rail, road or air, here's everything you need to know about getting around South Africa. Travel by plane if you're short on time South Africa is almost five times the size of England and twice the size of Texas, so it can be worth taking to the air if you have a lot of ground to cover in a limited time. South Africa’s main cities are well connected by convenient flights. The domestic airline with the most extensive network is Airlink, which flies through 17 South African airports, along with others in southern and central Africa. FlySafair is also reliable and recommended but reaches less than a dozen destinations. If you have time constraints, flying is the best – though least climate-friendly – option for getting around South Africa. However, airports are often a considerable distance from the city, and it’s worth remembering that you will incur costs and travel time getting into the city center. Almost every city and town is connected by bus Greyhound pulled out of South Africa in February 2021 after nearly four decades of service, so Intercape and TransLux are now the major options for travelers moving between cities in South Africa. Both of these networks have efficient online booking systems and between them, they connect almost every city and town in the country with safe, comfortable and affordable vehicles. All long-distance coaches are equipped with air-conditioning and toilets. Tickets vary according to distance and route, but figure on paying roughly R54 for each hour of traveling. In high season, specifically during the school Christmas holidays, prices can rise by as much as 30%. Up close with an African elephant in Pilanesberg National Park . Renting a car will get you into wilderness areas and national parks Public transport in South Africa is limited when it comes to remote, rural communities and almost nonexistent if you want to explore the wilderness and the all-important national parks and reserves. If you want to experience the thrill and charm of backcountry South Africa, you’ll need your own wheels. The entire country is networked by top-quality and beautifully scenic roads, along with enough endless stretches of gravel top to appeal to any adventurous road-tripper. There are several reliable and relatively inexpensive car rental companies, including Avis, Hertz and Tempest Car Hire. If you’re traveling in a group, car rental often turns out to be the most affordable option, with rates starting around R540 per day. Prices are usually lower if you book in advance rather than upon arrival at the airport. Bear in mind that many parks – specifically Kruger National Park and Addo Elephant National Park – have such excellent road infrastructure that a 4x4 is not necessary and, as long as you confine yourself to the tarmac routes, you can get around even in a small hatchback. If you’re driving in a Big Five country, do some research regarding etiquette and safety precautions, especially in dealing with elephants. An environmentally sound 4x4 rental company is Tread Lite, which offers affordable, compact and delightfully quirky Suzuki Jimnys with all the necessary camping kit for a price tag of around R1547 per day, depending on the time of year and length of your stay. Tread Lite is also an absolute mine of information when planning your route. Hop-on hop-off tour buses take you to the main sights on South Africa's Garden Route . Tour buses provide affordable, flexible travel in South Africa Aimed at backpackers, Bazbus is a perfect option for solo travelers looking for a more sociable mode of transport. The hop-on-hop-off travel pass means that you can take as long as you want to go from A to B. For example, a one-way hop-on-hop-off ticket between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth starts around R4700 and passes through the coastal highlights of the Garden Route, while an eight-day Bazbus travel pass lets you hop off and on as many times as you want in any direction for R4600. The company even offers a three-day all-inclusive Kruger safari from R12,200 per person. Highly recommended, Oasis Overland offers a 17-day trip from Cape Town to Jo’burg that takes in most of the main sights, including Addo, Royal Natal National Park and even a visit to the mountain kingdom of Lesotho, for about R29,050. If you want to make South Africa part of a once-in-a-lifetime African trip, look into the 93-day Grand Adventurer trip from Nairobi to Johannesburg. Splash out on a sleeper cabin on the Blue Train between Pretoria and Cape Town © Michael Heffernan / Lonely Planet Trains in South Africa run from basic to luxury If you’re not in a hurry, the train is often the most pleasant way of getting around South Africa. You can settle in for a relaxing overnight journey, watching the countryside slip past and chatting to fellow passengers. Sadly the tourist-class Shosholoza Meyl sleeper service is still not back to its pre-Covid operations but there are other options available with an unfortunately heftier price tag. The Blue Train raises comfort levels to sumptuous extremes: you’re expected to dress formally for dinner, and the price tag can run to R67,715 for a trip from Pretoria to Cape Town. Meanwhile, on the luxurious Rovos Rail service, the four-day 1600km (994-mile) journey between Pretoria and Cape Town costs from R31,700, and you can carry on all the way to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe for an extra charge. Local taxis or minibuses are another inexpensive option Be aware that in South Africa the word “taxi” is most commonly applied to the privately owned minibuses that connect virtually every town and village in the country. Often overloaded and dangerously driven, it is a mode of transport avoided by most people with sufficient funds to use another option. If you decide to give it a shot, know that you won't have much room for luggage, the schedules are rarely set and you'll have to ask around to find out where to wait. Hired taxis (normal sedans or hatchbacks) run in the major cities only, but the ubiquitous ride-sharing app Uber is a convenient, secure and reliable service that you can count on in most parts of the country. South Africa has good infrastructure for travelers with disabilities . Accessible transportation in South Africa For travelers with mobility issues, South Africa might just be the easiest country on the continent to get around. Facilities include boardwalks and braille signage at the most developed national parks and reserves. Wheelchair users have easy access in getting around city centers, especially in Cape Town and Johannesburg. Avis and Budget are the nationwide rental companies that supply vehicles with hydraulic lifts and wheelchair restraints. Disabled Travel is a great resource for listings, compiled by an occupational therapist, detailing a vast range of accommodations and resources for travelers with disabilities. Durban-based Access 2 Africa Safaris runs everything from day trips to 12-day tours taking in Zululand, Kruger and eSwatini (formerly Swaziland). Travel with Renè is a fantastic tour operator that runs a range of exciting tours, including whale-watching and winelands tours, in the Cape area. Renè, a Black woman who became quadriplegic as a result of a motor accident in 1995, has a vehicle that can take six passengers, including three wheelchairs at a time. South African National Parks has produced the Comprehensive Guide to Universal Access in South African National Parks for Guests with Disabilities, an excellent 24-page PDF. Find more accessible travel information by downloading Lonely Planet’s free Accessible Travel eBook. South Africa Travel Tips for Your First Trip in 2024 South Africa Travel Tips for Your First Trip in 2024 Published October 6, 2023 · Updated October 6, 2023 Oh hey traveler… You’ve read my 20 reasons why you should travel to South Africa, and are now planning your very first trip to the tip of Africa. Yeeaaaah! Today you get to find out my best travel tips to South Africa in preparation for your adventure, on arrival at the airport and when travelling through the country. This article will ensure you are well-informed and well-prepared for that trip of a lifetime. Read on to discover my essential South Africa tips worth knowing before you go ⇓ Reading time: 8 minutes South Africa is often referred to as a rainbow nation with a melting pot of diverse people, languages, and African and Colonial cultures. This is location dependent somewhat, but you will fit in no matter the language you speak, the clothes you wear, or the colour of your skin. A trip to South Africa should be on the bucket list of every intrepid traveler. The country at the tip of Africa welcomes thousands of visitors each year looking to experience its diversity, its beauty, its landmark attractions, and its endless possibilities for adventure. You often hear visitors saying, “I wish I had known …” What follows is my travel guide and tips for visitors planning on traveling to South Africa for the first time. Whether you’re going on a safari, planning a road trip along the coast, or visiting the lively cities of Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban, I’ve got you covered ↓ Useful South Africa Travel Tips Before I continue, note that I don’t think you have to know everything before you arrive. Part of the pleasure and gratification of travel is discovering and exploring the unknown without any preconceived ideas or expectations. It is good to be prepared, but leave some revelations and encounters for the actual journey. >> Read next: The best places to visit in South Africa If you’re looking for more travel preparation tips, check out this guide about what to know before travelling to Egypt. To help you prepare you for the unexpected and to arrange a stress-free trip, here are my top tips for your first trip to South Africa! Let’s get into it. First up…. Before Travelling to South Africa: Tips Planning a trip to South Africa: It is worth having, in advance, a practical list of what to expect and know before travelling to and on arrival in South Africa. I know you’re wondering: IS SOUTH AFRICA SAFE? This is a question I get asked a lot. “Yeah, but is South Africa as a country a safe destination?” Yes, within reason and with precaution. Safety is a major concern of first-time visitors to South Africa. Although the country has a high crime rate and crime is an issue, the majority of incidents occur in areas that are away from the usual tourist trail and so the risk to tourists is low. It is imperative to use common sense and to always be aware of your surroundings. It is also helpful to know which actions and places to avoid to stay safe in South Africa. With proper precaution and preparation, many problems can be avoided. How to remain safe in South Africa as a traveller: — Do blend in To stay safe avoid looking like a tourist. — Avoid ostentatious displays of expensive possessions such as jewellery, cameras, mobile phones and other valuables. — Do not keep any items unattended… like you may do so back home. Store valuables (including passports) in the safety deposit box of your accommodation. Keep huge camera equipment, handbags, phone and other valuable belongings out of view to avoid attracting any unwanted attention. — Better safe than sorry As a preventative measure and common caution, remember to keep your car doors locked at all times. — Pay attention to your location and surroundings as you would in every major city around the world — Know where you are going before you head off particularly at night — Do not put any valuables in suitcases Carry all valuables with you in hand luggage as opposed to leaving in the checked luggage. I hear things are better now, but Johannesburg airport, in particular, had a bad reputation for things going missing from luggage. >> Related reading: The safest African countries in 2024 ranked + essential safety tips when in Africa WEATHER IN SOUTH AFRICA The Best Time to Visit South Africa experiences a sub-tropical temperate climate that is warm and generally dry. The weather is pleasant and sunny for most of the year. Winters (June – August) are mild with snowfall in the mountainous regions. Check the weather before arrival in South Africa and make a note of the season. Many visitors incorrectly think that it’s constantly hot, this being Africa after all. No, there are district seasons each with their own climate. The Western Cape, including Cape Town, receives most of its rainfall during winter, so it’s best to travel here outside of this period. On the flip side, when it is hot, you can easily get sunburnt. So pack some sunscreen. Seasons: Summer – December to February Autumn – March to May Winter – June to August Spring – September to November AVOID: if at all possible, avoid visiting South Africa during the peak summer months of December – February. You will have to put up with inflated prices and also enlarged crowds as both international and local visitors take a break in the holiday season. You will also want to avoid school holiday periods that include mid-June to mid-July. HEALTH REQUIREMENTS: VACCINATIONS — Malaria tablets are advisable should you be travelling within a malaria region in malaria season. — Currently, no vaccinations are required when visiting South Africa, however, proof of yellow fever vaccinations on arrival are needed if you travel through a country with a risk of yellow fever. Travel Tip: Don’t forget to pack some insect repellant that is essential in helping to ward off mosquitoes and other insects. [Covid19]: Travelling to South Africa All visitors to South Africa are expected to follow the rules set out by the government. These include following social distancing in public spaces, regular washing or sanitizing of hands, and a compulsory wearing of masks. In addition to this, all international travellers arriving at the designated airports will be required to provide a negative COVID-19 test result, recognized by the World Health Organization, that was obtained less than 72 hours from the time of departure. Failing to submit a negative COVID-19 test result, will lead to an antigen test being conducted on arrival at own cost. Testing positive for COVID-19 will result in compulsory isolation at own cost, for a period of ten days. ❗ Update: All of South Africa’s COVID-19 entry restrictions have been lifted on June 22, 2022. As a result: · No proof of negative pre-departure COVID-19 test results are required. · No proof of vaccination is required to enter South Africa. Yeaahhhh! SOUTH AFRICA PACKING LIST Don’t overpack. This common mistake should be avoided. Be sure to leave some room space in the luggage for souvenirs and other stuff you will come across. South Africa is a relatively affordable vacation for visitors and you will want to make purchases along the way. What To Wear Bring a mix of stylish and old clothes. You will have use for both depending on your activity or occasion. Most hotels and game lodges offer an extremely quick laundry turnaround, often a same-day service, at additional services. It is not necessary to bring a separate change of clothing for each day and evening. I would recommended that you keep luggage to a minimum for your own comfort and ease of transport, especially if you are using light aircraft transfers. Summer Bring clothes that are lightweight, cool, and comfortable made of a natural, “breathable” fabric. Summer temperatures can reach well into the 30 – 40 degree Celsius range in some areas. Definitely bring a swimming costume and possibly an umbrella or raincoat as this is when most of the country gets its rain. Winter The winters are generally mild, but there are periods when a cold front makes an appearance, so be prepared with a warm jacket, fleece or sweater. Cape Town gets its rain during the winter season so it’s recommended to bring rain gear. General — Always bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen as the sun can be strong even in the winter months. — Walking shoes are a good idea all year-round. — Some establishments stipulate smart casual and a collard-shirt and trousers or slacks, a blouse and skirt is needed. — For game viewing, a couple of lightweight, khaki or neutral-toned items will be useful. A scarf and hat for the dust and heat is recommended. — Binoculars — Camera and accessories — Personal toiletries, lip balm and insect repellent Wide variety of shopping Don’t dread if you forget to pack something. Great shopping malls are dotted throughout the country, ensuring you’ll find what you need. ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS You will find a variety of accommodation options available, from world-class hotels and safari lodges to guesthouses, self-catering apartments, and backpacker lodges. The accommodation you choose will be entirely based on your budget, purpose of travel, and itinerary within South Africa. If travelling during the peak season of November – January, it is important to book your accommodation in advance to get first pick and the best rates. SOUTH AFRICA IS A DEVELOPED COUNTRY No, you won’t find wild animals roaming the streets, according to a popular misconception. What you will find is everything from world-class shopping centres, paved roads, and highways to gourmet restaurants, farmers’ markets, and museums here. While some villages that border animal reserves have to deal with the occasional predator stalking their domestic cattle, you won’t spot any wild animals outside the game reserves. Did you know: South Africa does not have one capital city, but three. Pretoria is the executive capital, Cape Town is the legislative capital, while Bloemfontein is the judicial capital. TRAVEL INSURANCE Do You Need? I’ve said it before, South Africa certainly is one of the adventure capitals of the world. An adventure-traveler’s delight. You can swim with sharks, jump off the highest commercial bungee in the world, go on epic hikes, or paraglide off mountains. If you’re planning on getting your adventure on during your travels in South Africa, do make sure that yourtravel insurance covers extreme sports activities. You’ll also need general comprehensive travel insurance. With this country in Africa being a relatively far destination for most visitors, it is always a good idea to make sure you’re covered for any flight cancellations and unwanted trips to the hospital. South Africa Travel Tips On Arrival at the Airport TRAVEL PASSPORT Entry and Exit Requirements Make sure to have at least two blank pages available in your passport should you require a visa to travel to South Africa. Otherwise one blank page is sufficient, even though only half a page is needed for the stamp at immigration. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of departure from South Africa. SOUTH AFRICA VISA REQUIREMENTS You may need a visa to enter South Africa, depending on your nationality. Citizens of 48 countries, including Canada, USA, Australia, Ireland, and the UK, can enter South Africa for tourism for up to 90 days, while passport holders from an additional 28 countries can spend up to 30 days visa-free. All other travellers and foreign nationals need a visa to enter. Apply in person in the country of your ordinary residence or citizenship from a South African Embassy or Consulate. A system is in the process of implementing the online tourist eVisa application that will make it easier and faster to get a travel visa arranged before the trip. No extension is available on tourism visas. MONEY MATTERS IN SOUTH AFRICA The currency is the Rand, which is divided into 100 cents. There are R200, R100, R50, R20 and R10 notes. Coins come in R5, R2, R1, 50c, 20c, 10c and 5c. Automatic teller machines (ATM) are situated in every mall and outside most banks in towns and cities, operating 24 hours a day. Always advise your bank of our intention of travelling outside of the country so that your purchases are not blocked while abroad. Credit Cards All major international credit cards such as MasterCard, American Express, Diners Club and Visa are widely accepted. You can’t purchase fuel with a credit card but you can pay road tolls with MasterCard or Visa. In some small towns and smaller shops, you may find you’ll need to use cash. You will also need cash for tips. I recommend withdrawing cash from the ATM when you arrive. You will get a better exchange rate from the machines when compared to using a currency exchange service at the airport. There are plenty of ATM’s around so just take out as much as you think you may need for a few days, rather than carrying large amounts of cash. Current exchange rate: 1 ZAR = 0,066 USD IS SOUTH AFRICA CHEAP How to save money South Africa is an affordable destination, particularly when visiting from a country with a stronger currency exchange. Nevertheless, here are some ways to save money while travelling through the country: Visit South Africa during the shoulder or off-peak season This means planning a trip to South Africa in Autumn (March to May) or Spring (September – November). The weather is pleasant and costs are not inflated. A great way to get around South Africa on a budget over longer distances is by using the bus. My recommendation for a reliable, efficient company: Greyhound. They have an extensive long-distance network or routes across the country. Choose outdoor activities that are free or cost little to nothing. Hiking is a particularly good option and the abundance of routes will delight you. Choose from Lion’s Head or Table Mountain in Cape Town to the Fanie Botha Trail in Mpumalanga and the Drakensberg Grand Traverse in Kwa Zulu Natal to Wild Coast Hike in the Eastern Cape. The options are almost endless. Include camping There are variety of well-maintained, affordable campsites throughout South Africa, from Tsitsikamma National Park to Kruger National Park and a handful in-between. Is South Africa Africa’s wealthiest country? Check out the full list here. TRAVELLING WITH CHILDREN All minors require the consent of their parents when travelling into or out of South Africa. From 1 June 2015, parents or guardians travelling with children under the age of 18 will need to carry and yield on request an unabridged birth certificate along with a valid travel document. There are additional settings for minors travelling with only one parent or unaccompanied. These rules should be checked confirmed prior to arrival in South Africa. Although no longer compulsory as of December 2018, South Africa immigration officers still reserve the right to request a copy at their individual discretion. BAGGAGE RESTRICTIONS Do take note of the following baggage restrictions applied at OR Tambo International Airport: Only regular-shaped bags will be allowed to be checked in. This means that the bags must have at least one flat surface to be accepted. Round or irregular-shaped bags will not be allowed. Bags with longs straps will not be allowed. Passengers who try to check in bags that don’t conform to these rules will have the option of having their baggage wrapped with one flat side at airport-approved baggage wrapping stations. AIRPORT CUSTOM ALLOWANCES Currently the following duty-free allowance applies per person: 200 cigarettes, 250 grams of tobacco and 20 cigars, two litres of wine, one litre of other alcoholic beverages, , 50 ml of perfume and 250 ml of eau de toilette. Also, gifts, souvenirs and all other goods to the value of R 500.00. No person under 18 is entitled to the alcohol or tobacco allowance. Duty is levied at 20% thereafter. Tax Value Added Tax (VAT) Tax Value Added Tax (VAT) of 15% is levied in South Africa. International travelers taking goods out of South Africa are able to reclaim the VAT that they paid on these goods. Reclaiming VAT is only applicable for goods that you are able to produce at the airport and not for any services whatsoever. When purchasing your products you should request a tax invoice. VAT Reclaim Offices are found at Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town Airports. Before departing, visit the customs official offices where your invoices and goods purchased will be inspected. Once your invoices have been approved and stamped, the VAT Reclaim Office will refund you the appropriate amount. MOBILE SERVICE IN SOUTH AFRICA Mobile data connection If your phone is unlocked, you can purchase a local pay-as-you-go SIM card from one of the many vendors around the country. The big four network operators in South Africa are Vodacom, Cell C, MTN, and Telkom. You can also get a SIM card at the airport on arrival, but it’s a usually more expensive. You do need to show identity, such as passport, and address/proof of where you’re staying, in order for the card to be activated. You can get data bundles that will help you stay connected as well as airtime for any phone calls you need to make. Do note that data costs are relatively high, so save all the browsing and downloading for when you’re able to connect to free wifi. Also, internet speeds are not the greatest, for the most part. But, good enough to get things done. Mobile Phone Coverage Cellphone coverage and network availability is extensive and easy to access. This means you’re not going to be unplugged from the outside world or family and friends back home while travelling in South Africa. However, it is worth noting that many remote areas, don’t have cellular reception or internet connection. The international dialling code for South Africa is 27. Emergency numbers: 112 for any emergency from a cell phone, 10111 for police response, 10177 for ambulance response. Tips when Travelling through South Africa ELECTRICITY SUPPLY Power Adaptor The South African electricity supply is 220/230 volts with sockets accepting either two-pin or three-pin rounded plugs. Hotels often have 110 volt sockets for electric razors and a USB socket for other electronic items. A travel (power plug) adaptor will be needed for the South African round 3-pin plug. TIPPING ETIQUETTE IN SOUTH AFRICA Whilst tipping is certainly not obligatory, the amount of the gratuity should express the degree of satisfaction that you have obtained. Tipping 10 – 15% of the service fee is common practice (e.g. restaurant bills, taxi fares etc.) The above are merely guidelines and you should be comfortable with the gratuity you give. On safari it is customary to tip your guide and tracker, and this is variable based on the length of your stay, group size, experience, service, etc. Remember, even a little (a couple rands) goes a long way. CAN YOU DRINK THE WATER Testing and treatment of the tap water is up to general standards and as a result it is perfectly safe and good to drink straight from the tap. Remember to bring a reusable water bottle and fill it up throughout the day. You don’t have to worry about buying bottles of water while travelling in South Africa. Bottled water can be used as an individual preference or when in areas where the mineral content is higher than normal. This could happen, for example, when staying at a safari lodge, but the accommodation will be able to advice in this regard. These remote locations when on game drives often have a water filtration system in place to make the water drinkable. Water shortages: There have been water restrictions throughout the country in recent years and there were real fears that Cape Town would run out of water in 2018. The situation has drastically improved since, but even if water seems plentiful, please don’t waste it. GETTING AROUND SOUTH AFRICA Public transport is certainly not up to standard and there isn’t much of a system in place. However, travelling around South Africa is possible by air, road, and rail. It is recommended to use Uber or Bolt for shorter trips and to get around in the major cities. This service is convenient, practical, and cheaper than metered taxis. Background checks are done on the drivers to make sure their driver’s licenses are real. There is also the Gautrain rapid transit railway system in Gauteng Province which links Johannesburg, Pretoria, Ekhuruleni and OR Tambo International Airport. Another means of getting around South Africa are luxury inter-city bus services such as Greyhound and Trans-Lux. DRIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA Car rentals are legit Another worthwhile recommendation is to hire a car to get around. Having a car is the most viable way of seeing the region. It makes it convenient and easy to explore the country, whether it be along the Garden Route, through the Drakensberg mountains, or a self-drive safari in the Kruger National Park. A couple things to note about driving in South Africa: — Driving is on the left-hand side of the road. — Keep in mind that the speed limit on major motorways is 120km/h (75mph). — Do take note in preparation and implementation, that distances take longer to drive than Google Maps suggests. — A valid international driver’s licence is required. — Wearing seat belts is compulsory and cellphones can only be used ‘hands free’. — Most global car hire firms have branches in South Africa — When renting a car: get full insurance protection, be vigilant of speed drivers, and keep nothing of value in the vehicle (or keep it in the boot, if you must). — Manual/stick shift drive cars are particularly common in Southern Africa. If you are not comfortable with manual drive, ensure you select an automatic drive car when renting. FUEL STATIONS: GARAGES The fuel stations (called garages) are not self-service like in some parts of the world, but are staffed by attendants who will fill up your car for you. Here you will also be asked if you want your windscreen washed, tyre pressure checked, oil and water replenished. It’s polite and customary to tip the attendant a couple rands for their service. Even a small amount goes a long way and is always appreciated. CAR GUARDS Parking attendants Often, wherever you park, be it outside restaurants, at the beach, supermarket, amongst others, will find young men offering to watch over your car and protect it from break-ins while you’re away, in exchange for some payment (a few rand) on your return. Some of these car watchers are officially hired by the venue and some are young unemployed guys just trying to earn some money. STOPPING AT TRAFFIC LIGHTS Speaking of traffic lights, don’t be surprised to see guys selling all sorts of items at busy intersections. These items range from newspapers to toys, bags, and electronic accessories, among others. Apart from selling items, you will also find some guys begging, collecting rubbish or handing out flyers. I politely decline if not interested. PEOPLE OF SOUTH AFRICA People are generally friendly, willing to help should the need arise, and excited to share their stories and culture with you. Don’t let the misconstructions and impressions of the apartheid days make you think otherwise. Men generally greet each other with a handshake, while women greet with a kiss on the cheek. If you’re not sure, a handshake is a safe bet. LANGUAGE IN SOUTH AFRICA There are 11 officially recognised languages, most of which are indigenous to the country. English is spoken everywhere you go so it is fairly easy to communicate as you go around. English is the language of the cities, of commerce and banking, of government and official documents. All the road signs and official forms are in English and service staff will speak English. Official languages: Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Sotho, SiSwati, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, and Zulu! >> Related reading: Learn how to say hello and thank you in South Africa and around the world here. LOCAL PHRASES In South Africa, roundabouts are called circles and traffic lights are referred to as robots! So, don’t be surprised if you’re told to continue past the circle and turn left at the first robot. Howzit is a common greeting that is used instead of hi or how are you while lekker is an Afrikaans word that is now mainstream, meaning nice, awesome, or good. SOUTH AFRICA TIME Time zone: South African Standard Time is Greenwich Mean Time GMT + 2 hours. Central European Winter Time +1 , and Eastern Standard Winter Time +7. The country does not change its clocks during the year, and there are no regional variations within the country. Speaking of time, apart from Johannesburg, South Africa operates on a laidback, slow pace. This is the wonderfully slow South African way, as rarely are things on time. Embrace it as you’ll be back home and rushing around before you know it. Also, locals tend to eat dinner earlier in the evening than the rest of the world average. On the same note, attractions tend to close earlier than the rest of the world average. Take note of this when planning. WHAT IS THE FOOD LIKE IN SOUTH AFRICA A trip to South Africa is guaranteed to encompass good food as the country boasts an amazing variety of restaurants from fine dining to casual eateries. The vast number of supermarkets are also stocked with a wide range of produce, making self-catering simple. >>Related reading: Crazy weird foods around the world (including mopani worms in South Africa) Full details HERE The ever popular braai The country is big on meat. “Braais” the Afrikaans word for grilled meat, comparable to a BBQ, is insanely popular all over. Any social gathering is bound to have a braai going on. Confession: I am not a fan of the braai, in the least. I know, what kind of local am I? Other popular dishes to try include chakalaka, potjiekos, malva pudding, bobotie, mealie pap, bunny chow, melktert, and the ever popular biltong. Dining out At restaurants, waiters do not automatically bring the bill at the end of the meal, but will wait until you ask for it. Post-meal etiquette Taking your meal home in a “doggy bag” is completely normal. SMOKING LAWS In accordance with South African law, do note that smoking is prohibited in public areas and buildings, unless they are specifically designated as smoking areas. SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA There is a plethora of game reserves where you have the potential of seeing some incredible wildlife, including the big 5, in their natural habitat. If you’ve been about seeing animals in the wild, South Africa is your calling. It can be dry and very dusty on game drives through the reserves. Be sure to take a scarf and sunglasses along, as this will come in handy. It is also recommended to bring your own pair of binoculars along. National Park fees Each of the SANS national parks are individually gated, even when within a brief distance of each other. This means an entry fee needs to be paid for each park. The non-residential fee is often three times the rate for locals. Watch out for baboons In the national parks and some rural regions, there is a real hazard of baboons going through your belongings should they smell food. Ocean currents You won’t be able to spend a whole lot of time in the waters along the West coast, as these tend to be icy cold from the Benguela current. On the other hand, waters on the East coast are perfectly suited for swimming. DO BRING MORE MEMORY You may just need more memory cards than initially anticipated for all the moments that you will want to capture while traveling South Africa. IT MAY BE ADDICTIVE Yes, many travellers often return to South Africa after that initial experience. You might just become one of them. >> Get hyped for your trip to SA with this: Be sure to check out this list of the best places to visit in South Africa for first timers BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

Andreas Dezius Website C/O Phone: Email: a.dezius@gmail.com Address: Steedener Weg 65594 Runkel/Dehrn Germany How the site works 1. What are the criteria to be listed on South African Tours ? In order to be listed on South African Tours , accommodations must meet all of the following criteria: Must be open to the general public Must have an official name Must have an official address at a single and permanent location Must be open for a minimum of 12 consecutive weeks of the year at a single and permanent location Must have multiple rooms/units Must be able to accommodate 2 or more separate parties at a time Must not require guests to stay more than 7 nights Must be currently open or taking reservations for a future opening date To be listed in the hotel category, an accommodation must also meet all of the following criteria or have an official business license issued by a local governmental or tourism authority that identifies the accommodation is classified as Hotel as defined by local authorities A front desk is open and staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week Check-in hours can have a start time, but should not have a designated end time Periodic housekeeping is included in the room rate Private bathroom for each unit Must not require guests to stay more than 3 nights In select countries, some specially-designated accommodations are displayed with Hotels. These accommodations are editorially selected and not available by request. Currently, these include Hotels, and , all in South Africa. To be listed in the B&B and Inns category, an accommodation must also meet all of the following criteria or have an official business license issued by a local governmental or tourism authority that identifies the accommodation is classified as B&B, Inn, Guest House, or Pension as defined by local authorities: Daily on-site management. Daily housekeeping is included in the room rate Must not require guests to stay more than 3 nights We may, on a case-by-case basis, allow B&Bs with only one room. To qualify, the accommodation must be locally licensed to operate as a B&B, and it must be listed with local tourism authorities. To be listed in the Specialty Lodging category, an accommodation must meet our accommodation listing guidelines. Any accommodation that offers shared (dorm-style) rooms will be considered a hostel and will be listed in Specialty Lodging. For more information, In order to be listed on South African Tours , restaurants must meet all of the following criteria: Must serve prepared food Must be open to the public; cannot require membership Must be open on a regularly scheduled basis Must be open for at least 12 consecutive weeks of the year Must maintain a permanent location in one city/town but can deliver to multiple cities/towns. Must be stationary and have a permanent address (Food trucks may be listed as long as their schedule and locations are posted online.) In order to be listed on South African Tours , airlines must meet the following criteria: Operate a scheduled service under their own brand Publish fares or schedules to the public Operate a service that transports a passenger from one point to another Has been in commercial operation for a minimum of 60 days In order to be listed on South African Tours, Things to Do must meet the following criteria. Permanent attractions: Must be of interest to tourists Must abide by our Animal Welfare Policy Must have an official name and a permanent address Must be open and available to the general public on a regularly scheduled basis Must be open for at least 12 consecutive weeks of the year (Exception: Performances must operate at one venue for at least 24 consecutive weeks of the year. Events lasting less than 12 weeks must be non-travelling events happening at one location.) Must be currently open or taking reservations for a future opening date Tours, cruises, and classes: Must be of interest to tourists Must abide by our Animal Welfare Policy Our Animal Welfare Policy Many tourism attractions around the world feature live animals in some way, whether in the wild or in captivity. At South African Tours , we believe every attraction has a responsibility to ensure that any animals in its care are treated humanely. We know that most attraction operators act responsibly, and agree with the basic precept of treating animals humanely. But we also know that worldwide, the standards of care that animals receive can vary depending on local laws. As an online platform used by millions, we recognize the role South African Tours can play in driving improvements in animal welfare standards across the tourism industry. As a result, we are proud to have introduced a set of industry-leading animal welfare guidelines that every bookable experience sold on our platform must comply with. Here are the guidelines in full: Physical interaction with animals in captivity South African Tours will not sell tickets to, or generate booking revenue from, specific experiences where tourists come into physical contact with captive wild animals unless certain exceptional circumstances apply. The circumstances in which Tripadvisor would allow for sale an experience that involves physical contact between guests and captive wild animals are as follows: Aquarium touch pools used for education purposes, where tourists are under the supervision of zoo, aquarium and or wildlife officials Invertebrate touch and feel experiences (such as spider/insect experiences) used for education purposes, where tourists are under the supervision of zoo, aquarium and or wildlife officials Any feeding or touching program in a captive environment, conducted under the supervision of zoo and or wildlife officials, where physical interaction is initiated by the animals themselves as a natural behavior (i.e. the animals are not drugged, baited or intimidated into compliance) and where those animals can disengage from contact at will Voluntourism programs for endangered species preservation at zoos, aquariums or sanctuaries where it is possible that there might be some level of physical interaction with an animal Domesticated animals Experiences or attractions that involve only domestic animals, such as horseback riding or children’s petting zoos, are eligible for sale on South African Tours . Shows and Performances South African Tours will not sell tickets to, or generate revenue from, specific experiences where captive wild or endangered animals are forced to perform demeaning tricks or other unnatural behaviors in front of the general public, or where they are featured as part of a live circus or stage entertainment act in a demeaning manner (including imitating humans, such as dressing up in costume). Demeaning acts are defined as those where an animal may be either drugged or forcibly trained to behave or comply in an unnatural way, and which do not provide either necessary stimulation, exercise or veterinary care to that animal. Tripadvisor will not sell tickets to greyhound racing. Cetaceans (Whales and Dolphins) South African Tours will not sell tickets to, or directly generate revenue from, attractions or experiences where captive cetaceans are placed on public display, with the exception of: Whale and dolphin seaside sanctuaries Guest experiences that take place at the following types of facilities are eligible for sale: Any sanctuary facility that provides all of its captive cetaceans with a permanent seaside living environment. Any commercial or not-for-profit facility that is in the process of developing, alternative seaside sanctuary environments for captive cetaceans and that has made a public commitment to rehouse all captive cetaceans in its care to these environments in an expedient manner. A seaside sanctuary environment is defined as a natural body of coastal water, such as a bay or cove, that houses cetaceans in as close to a natural environment as possible while providing protection and oversight from qualified husbandry and veterinary staff. Seaside sanctuaries must adhere to a strict no-breeding policy, must not train their animals to perform in any shows or performances for public display, and must prohibit all forms of physical interaction between guests and the animals, including any in-water guest experiences. Other facilities Subject to any other relevant policy stipulations, guest experiences at the following types of facilities may also be eligible for sale: Any accredited* facility that has made an official and public commitment to implement all of the following practices: Cease and prevent the breeding of cetaceans in its care Cease the importation of captive cetaceans from other facilities for public display Cease the capture and importation of wild cetaceans for public display *Accreditation must be provided by a member association of World Association of Zoos and Aquariums (WAZA) Bloodsports South African Tours will not sell tickets to any attraction that is found to be in breach of the South African Tours listing policy as it relates to the harming or killing of animals. This policy stipulates that South African Tours does not list attractions where the primary purpose of the business includes: The harming or killing of endangered species in the wild (such as the hunting of endangered animals); and/or The harming or killing of any captive animal (such as bloodsport attractions) Feeding demonstrations that involve live animals being fed to other animals for entertainment (e.g. feeding live cows to lions). Must have an official name and published phone number or email Must be a tour company, not an individual tour Must operate for at least 12 consecutive weeks of the year Must have an official website which includes: duration of tour description of what is included in the tour name of the city where the tour departs For vacation rentals properties to be listed on South African Tours , there are no specific listing criteria. Hotels, restaurants and airlines are listed free of charge and once listed on the website, businesses are not delisted so long as they remain open.. Landmarks, places of interest and tour operators are listed free of charge, irrespective of commercial relationships. Tours and activities will be bookable on South African Tours only if the suppliers of such tours and activities contract with one of South African Tours affiliate companies to have their products available for bookings or reservations, or otherwise if the listing is displayed as part of a commercial licensing arrangement with a third party business. Bookable vacation rental properties are listed only if the listing is displayed as a part of a commercial licensing arrangement with a third party business. The results displayed are not necessarily exhaustive of all offers that may be available, whether on the Internet or otherwise. 2. What are our policies and criteria for ranking? Hotels are currently ranked in the following ways: “Traveler Ranking” or “Highest Rating”: ranks the top rated hotels, as the case may be, based on user input on South African Tours . Results are ranked on the basis of the 'Popularity Index' , which is based on the quality, recency and quantity of reviews an establishment receives from users. “Best Value” is the default sort order for hotels and ranks these establishments using exclusive South African Tours data, including confirmed availability from our partners, booking popularity as reported to us by our partners, traveler ratings, prices, location, personal user preferences and hotel browsing history. “Price (low to high)”: ranks the establishments according to the lowest prices offered through our partners for your selected dates at the time of your search. “Distance to city center”: ranks first the establishments closest to the applicable city center with confirmed availability for your dates from our partners. “Featured”: ranks accommodations taking into account the compensation paid to us by those accommodations and/or booking sites. It also incorporates exclusive South African Tours data, including traveler ratings, confirmed availability from our partners, prices, booking popularity, location and personal user preferences. Pages featuring Hotels may also feature horizontal selections of other points of interest, suppliers or their products. A range of different factors inform these selections, and the title is usually indicative of this. Revenue paid to companies in the South African Tours group can also be a factor. The ingredients that feed these selections are summarized below. Those selections that are influenced by revenue are highlighted. “Popular Nearby” Proximity to the hotel featured at the top of the page, availability with our partners, user reviews “Similar Sponsored Properties” Payments to South African Tours from the properties listed, along with user review scores, location, availability, price data, booking popularity with our partners “Most booked properties” User review scores, location, availability, price data, booking popularity with our partners “Compare more popular hotels” Location, availability, price data, booking popularity with our partners and reviews “Nearby” Location, availability, price data, booking popularity with our partners and reviews “Vacation Rentals” Vacation rental properties advertised on the South African Tours website ranked by review data, price and availability for the user’s selected dates. Things to Do are currently ranked in the following ways: “Traveller Favorites”: Things to do ranked using South African Tours data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location. “Featured”: The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on South African Tours is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by South African Tours from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, the user’s recent browsing history on South African Tours , and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary. “Traveller Ranking”: ranks places of interest and/or tour operators on South African Tours based on traveler reviews in accordance with the Popularity Index, using the same method as stated above under Hotels. “ Price”: ranks tours, activities and experiences bookable on South African Tours , based on the prices offered by our partners. “Duration”: ranks tours, activities and experiences bookable on South African Tours , based on their duration. Pages featuring Things to Do may also feature horizontal selections of other points of interest, suppliers or their products. A range of different factors inform these selections, and the title is usually indicative of this. Revenue to companies in the South African Tours group can also be a factor. The ingredients that feed these selections are summarized below. Those selections that are influenced by revenue are highlighted. “Other Top Attractions around {Geo}” Geographic distance from the location, overall ratings, ratings in the past year, total number of reviews, reviews in the past year, distinct number of travelers who viewed the attraction’s detail page in the past year, attraction creation date “Explore popular experiences” bookings, page views, clicks, number of products or attractions per category Bookings, page views, ratings, clicks “Ways to tour” / “Must-do experiences” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest “Tours in and around [location]” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest, distance of experience from geographic location “Tours near [location]” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest, distance of experience from geographic location “Recommended for you” User browsing history (previously viewed products and points of interest) Category-based selections Same as Traveller Favourites sort, described above “Experiences you don’t want to miss” Traveler Favorites sort, but filtered further using availability and pricing data “Recommended experiences” Availability, bookings, page views “Similar experiences” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest “Recommended” Revenue, bookings, pageviews, point of interestname, Product name, review counts, ratings, Product/points of interest mappings “Top ways to experience” Ratings, review count, bookings, geographic distance, Revenue, relevant point of interest data, title, description “Ways to experience” Revenue, ratings, review count “Shop tickets and tours” Bookings, page views, ratings, clicks “More to explore in [location]” Bookings, page views, ratings, clicks “Buy it with” Bookings, category, geo location, price, review count, ratings, duration, points of interest mappings “Similar experiences” Product locations, bookings, page views, product title and description, availability “Top rated” Ratings, review count, revenue, product locations, bookings, product tags, product title and description “You may also like” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest “Travelers also viewed” Page views “Buy it with” Bookings, category, location, price, review count, ratings, duration, point of interest data “Recently viewed” User behavior (recent views) “Top attractions in [location]” Revenue, ratings, review count, pageviews, user country “Buy it with” Bookings, category, location, price, review count, ratings, duration, relevant points of interest “Attraction tickets” Revenue, ratings, review count, location “Half day tours” Revenue, ratings, review count, location “Shop tickets and tours” Bookings, page views, ratings, clicks, location “City tours” Revenue, ratings, numbers of reviews, location “Cultural tours” Revenue, ratings, numbers of reviews, location "[Location] is great for" Attraction bookings, page views, reviews, place of interest data, user's answers to questions "Essential [Location]" - Do Hand curated by Tripadvisor staff "Essential [Location]" - Stay Hand curated by Tripadvisor staff "Essential [Location]" - Eat Hand curated by Tripadvisor staff “Top experiences in [Geo]” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest “Top experiences in and around [Geo]” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest, distance of experience from geographic location “Top experiences near [Geo]” Bookings, ratings, review count, category, linked points of interest, distance of experience from geographic location “Top attractions in [Geo]” Review count, ratings, pageviews, user country “Top global destinations” Pageviews, revenue “Top experiences worldwide” Bookings, frequency of user clicks, ratings, review count “Top global attractions” Review count, ratings, pageviews “Family adventures await” Bookings with children, views, reviews and ratings, reviews and ratings by families, minimum age requirement, duration, product title and description, category, availability Restaurants are currently ranked in the following ways: “Highest Rating”: ranks the top rated restaurants based on user input on South African Tours, Results are ranked on the basis of the 'Popularity Index' , which is based on the quality, recency and quantity of reviews an establishment receives from users. “Relevance”: ranks restaurants based on themed ‘tags’, relating to things like cuisine type and amenities. “Best Nearby”: ranks restaurants based on how close other properties are to the featured property, coupled with quality, quantity and recency of user reviews. Hotels may be displayed based on their room availability. “Commerce”: displays restaurants based on partnerships with service providers that enable services like table reservations, food delivery, and dining with a chef, from which South African Tours generates revenue. When restaurants are filtered by sub-category (for instance: type of cuisine, dinner, local cuisine, etc), then within this sub-category they are ranked according to the “Relevance” logic. Sub-categories displaying restaurants that have table reservations and chef experiences are only featured through our partners. The sub-category for delivery is a combination of both “Relevance” and partnerships through our delivery partners. The “special offer” sub-category is displayed based on “Highest Rating.” There are various different types of pages on the South African Tours site that offer lists of restaurants, presented either horizontally or vertically. The restaurants in those lists are sorted and ranked according to different rules and systems, in response to different types of data pertaining to those restaurants. The logic behind these lists is summarized below. Page Description of Logic(s) Restaurants List Horizontal Rows (Shelves): Our relevance logic is based on themed ‘tags’, relating to things like cuisine type and amenities. ‘Community Picks’ is based on public trips rated by the South African Tours community. Our partnerships with service providers enable services like table reservations, food delivery, and dining with a chef, from which Tripadvisor generates revenue. Vertical Rows (List): Our ‘highest rating’ logic is based on quality, quantity, and recency of user reviews. Pages Dedicated to Individual Restaurants Our relevance logic is based on themed ‘tags’, relating to things like cuisine type and amenities, coupled with quality, quantity and recency of user reviews. Best Nearby logic is based on how close other properties are to the featured property, coupled with quality, quantity and recency of user reviews. Hotels may be displayed based on their room availability. “Explore” Page South African Tours editorial staff select properties to be displayed in shelves across the platform. Other properties are displayed from relevance logic based on themed ‘tags’, relating to things like cuisine type and amenities, coupled with quality, quantity and recency of user reviews for properties in proximity to the center of the featured geography. Vacation rental properties are currently ranked in the following ways: "South African Tours Sort" is the default sort order and ranks vacation rental property listings based on a number of criteria (in order of importance from least to most) such as the number of bedrooms and bathrooms, location, amenities, minimum stay requirements, number of photographs, length of time the property has been advertised by Vrbo on South African Tours website, number of times the listing has been viewed, number of bookings, cancellation rates and advertising revenue made by South African Tours when the property is booked. For all other sort orders, the South African Tours Sort also works as a “tie-breaker” to determine ordering where there are two or more properties with the same attributes. “Price (Low to high/ High to low)”: ranks properties based on price on the dates searched. “Bedrooms (Most to least/ Least to most)”: ranks properties based on the number of bedrooms, in the order selected. “# of reviews”: ranks properties based on the total number of reviews of the property, including both reviews submitted to South African Tours and those submitted on Vrbo. Flights are currently ranked in the following ways: “Price”: ranks the results according to the prices currently offered by our partners. “Duration”: ranks based on total estimated flight time from departure to arrival. “Best Value”: ranks the best combination of price, flight duration, and sometimes factors such as additional fees. Earliest/Latest Outbound/Return Arrival/Departure: these options list by various aspects of available flight times. Search: South African Tours internal search function presents results relevant to your text query. To give you the most useful information, search algorithms look at many factors and signals, including the words of your query, reviews, bubble rating, number of page views, and your location. Different result types can have different factors relevant to them, but the text query is applied to rank all the results on the search page. Apart from the query, the following factors are used to order the search results, depending on the type of South African Tours content discovered by the search: Followers/followees count, verified member flag - for Member Profiles Reviews, bubble rating, number of page views, distance from you, open/closed state - for Hotels, Restaurants, Things to Do, Vacation Rental properties. Number of page views - for Geographic Locations Date (freshness of the content) - for Forum Posts AI-powered Trips South African Tours AI-powered trip itinerary builder creates lists of suggestions for a potential trip. The tool suggests destinations based on similar searches by users from the user’s home location. The suggested interests, from which travelers can select, are a mix of generic topics and topics selected by AI as being particularly relevant for the destination. Then, taking the user’s selected destination, dates and interests, the trip tool suggests accommodations, things to do and restaurants to visit. Where options for bookable Things to Do products are shown, they may also be selected partially due to the revenue they are likely to generate for South African Tours . Options for accommodations will be shown according to the Best Value sort, which is described above under Hotels. The itinerary produced by the tool then lists restaurants, places of interest and things to do based on review scores in our Popularity Index and proximity to other recommendations in the list. Bookable Things to do may also appear partly due to the revenue they are likely to generate for South African Tours . The descriptions are generated by AI, drawing on content from user reviews. AI is not perfect and the Trip planner’s suggestions are only intended as a starting point for a user’s booking journey. Travelers should continue their own research and keep reading user reviews and other available information before booking. Trips pages For you – South African Tours users, when logged in, can create Trips and save them to their South African Tours account via the Trips page. Our Trips section also features a “For you” page bearing further suggestions. Where suggestions are described as being “top ranked”, this is a reference to the following sort logics, all of which are explained above: Hotels - Best Value Things to Do – Traveller Favourites Restaurants - Highest Rating Traveler's Choice South African Tours awards fall into two levels: Best of the Best and Travelers’ Choice. Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best is our highest honor. The award takes into account the quality and quantity of traveler reviews and ratings, and ranks the very best accommodations, destinations, beaches, restaurants, and things to do in specific categories and geographic areas, as rated and reviewed by travelers. Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best award winners are among the top 1% of listings on South African Tours . Travelers’ Choice, formerly Certificate of Excellence, recognizes businesses that earn consistently great reviews. Travelers’ Choice award-winners are among the top 10% of listings on South African Tours . South African Tours Travelers’ Choice honors select accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently demonstrate a commitment to hospitality excellence. On destination pages, these winners are ranked using South African Tours data including reviews, ratings and number of page views. 3. No ownership of any listed businesses South African Tours does not own any of the businesses listed on its site. See here the list of websites managed and operated by South African Tours and/or its affiliate companies . 4. Compensation Except where described above, travel and hospitality businesses are listed on South African Tours for free. Where price offers are provided for hotels, the ranking of price offers may depend in part on the price paid by affiliates who participate in our "cost-per-click" auction system. Suppliers of tours, activities and experiences can be listed on South African Tours for free. If they wish to make a tour, activity or experience bookable through South African Tours or its affiliate companies, they must enter into an agreement with one of Tripadvisor’s affiliate companies, pursuant to which the suppliers are paid for bookings made through our platforms. Vacation rental properties are listed for free, a commission is paid on completion of a stayed booking. Airlines are listed on South African Tours for free. South African Tours does not accept any compensation that could influence the rankings of flight for a given user search, as described above. 5. Commercial Relations Partners can enter into a number of different kinds of direct commercial relationship with South African Tours if they wish, especially in order to be bookable online. Commercial relationships that partners may have with South African Tours may influence certain ranking methods as described above. However, they have no influence on South African Tours . 'Popularity Index'. How the Popularity Ranking works The Popularity Ranking is based on the quality, recency and quantity of reviews that a business receives from users — and the consistency of those reviews over time Quality The bubble ratings that users provide as part of their reviews are used to rank the quality of the experience at each business. All other things being equal, a business with more 5-bubble ratings will rank higher than a business with lower bubble ratings. Recency Recent reviews are more valuable than older reviews. They give a more accurate representation of the current experience at the business. This means reviews — good or bad — that are older will not count as much towards a business's ranking as a review written more recently. Although older reviews do not have as much weight in the ranking, they are still visible in the Overview section of each listing and in the business’s review history. Quantity The number of reviews is a critical indicator to Tripadvisor users about a business. South African Tours users typically read multiple reviews to help form a balanced opinion on a business and have more confidence in their decisions when they see agreement across a large set of fellow users’ reviews. When we talk about review quantity, it’s important to note that a business just needs to have enough reviews to provide statistical significance and allow for a confident comparison to other businesses. Just having more reviews doesn’t mean that a business will be ranked higher than its competitors. For example, a business with 1,000 reviews isn’t necessarily going to be rated higher than one with 500 reviews that were received in roughly the same period of time. This is because they both have enough reviews to make us confident in the potential travel experience they can deliver. The Popularity Ranking algorithm is designed to provide a statistical measure of confidence about the current experience at a business. As we accumulate more reviews on a business over time, we have more insight into the potential experience consumers can expect. Once we've reached a critical mass of reviews, we're able to more accurately predict that business's ranking. Consistency: putting it all together In summary: Good reviews are better than poor reviews Recent reviews are given more weight than older reviews More reviews help build confidence faster These factors interact over time to determine a business’s Popularity Ranking. For example, the quality and quantity of reviews over time provide us with a view of each business's consistency. A business that has consistently good reviews will rank higher than one with a similar number of good and poor reviews. Similarly, recency and quantity are closely linked — a large number of recent reviews will be valued higher than ones that are several years old. How has the Popularity Ranking evolved? Over time, we continue to optimize and enhance the Popularity Ranking to improve our site experience for users and businesses alike. We know how important ranking on South African Tours is to businesses. Any changes we make are not undertaken lightly. They are carefully designed and tested to improve our rankings algorithm in very specific ways, while maintaining the accurate standings of existing businesses on South African Tours . Recent changes, in 2016 and 2018, have focused on promoting more consistency in the rankings. The goal with each change has been to more accurately reflect a business’s performance relative to others in its location over time, regardless of its size or the rate at which it collects reviews. How can you improve your business’s Popularity Ranking Because the Popularity Ranking is based on user feedback, consistently collecting new, high-quality reviews — that reflect levels of service and value that meet expectations — is the best way for businesses to improve their position over time. It is important to note that the Popularity Ranking takes into account a business's performance, in relation to the performance of other businesses in the area. As one business moves up in the ranking, it impacts others directly around it. Movements in the Popularity Ranking may be a result of reviews on one particular business — or reviews that have come in for other businesses in the area. To help with review collection, South African Tours offers a variety of tools and businesses who use review collection tools can consistently measure their performance and make improvements based on the feedback they receive. Some questions and answers Why is Business A above Business B? In most cases, this is because A has a statistically better set of reviews (based on quality, quantity, and recency) than B. I received a bad review. Is my Popularity Ranking going to be badly impacted? Positions in the ranking are not necessarily influenced by a single review — positive or negative. Businesses may notice changes in their positions depending on their own performance, or based on how other businesses around them perform. Since our algorithm takes into account the overall quality of the reviews you receive over time, regularly collecting feedback from users is the best way to maintain or improve your business’s position over time, relative to the performance of other businesses in the area. Do Management Responses factor into the Popularity Ranking? Management Responses are not factored into Popularity Ranking. However, research shows that when an owner responds promptly and professionally to a review, addressing any specific complaints as well as the positive comments, it can make a big impact on prospective customers. A Phocuswright1 study shows that 85% of users say that a thoughtful response to a review improves their impression of a hotel and 65% are more likely to book a hotel that responds to reviews versus a comparable hotel that doesn’t. Does having a commercial relationship with South African Tours impact my Popularity Ranking? No. A business’s commercial relationship with South African Tours has absolutely no impact on the Popularity Ranking. While it's helpful to be able show users whether you have availability for their search dates and help them book, or provide a website link or phone number, these have never been part of the Popularity Ranking algorithm. How often is the Popularity Ranking calculated? The ranking is re-calculated daily based on all published reviews, including those new reviews received that day. Do the sub-ratings (cleanliness, service, etc.) impact my ranking? Sub-ratings do not factor into the ranking calculation. However, they do provide users with valuable information on your business. How do fraud penalties impact the Popularity Ranking? Fraud penalties exist on South African Tours to protect the integrity of the content on the site. We employ a number of penalization methods for companies that try to manipulate our system which may impact a business’s position in the Popularity Rankings, and ultimately could lead to the publication of a red alert warning to users. Although Sponsored Placements may appear in and around a list of results, partners cannot buy their way to a particular place in any of the ranking methods described above. The advertising nature of these placements referenced for a fee is indicated by the label "Ad" or “Sponsored”. 6. Our Comparison and Booking Services Hotels and Vacation Rentals South African Tours gives you the ability to search for and compare hotels, as well as availability and pricing offered by professional third-party providers. The results displayed are not exhaustive of all the offers available on the Internet. South African Tours LLC displays results from data provided by its partners and is not responsible for the accuracy or completeness of the information provided by these third-party providers and that it displays on its sites or applications, or content on other websites. The ranking of price offers for a particular property will depend in part on the price paid by our advertising partners participating in our "cost-per-click" auction system. If you make a reservation with a third-party provider, you will need to read and comply with the terms and conditions of purchase and use of the provider's site, their Privacy Policy and any other rules or policies, including the policy relating to the site or the goods of the supplier. You are responsible for your interactions with third-party providers. The price results that consumers see on South African Tours are provided by our business partners, such as online travel agencies, hotel chains and independent hoteliers. When a user enters their dates into our search function for that particular home (assuming that this business works with us or one of our business partners), our systems make an electronic "call" on the programming interface of application (API) provided by this trading partner. The partner then automatically gives us the relevant price information in real time, if there is availability. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions. Flights For flights, the total prices include taxes and fees for one traveler as provided by our partners. For every travel flight listed, South African Tours does not guarantee any specific prices or rates. We recommend checking on the booking site for the exact amount requested as well as the currency. Consult our partners to find out more about the elements of the price included baggage fees, fare attributes and optional fees as well. The price results that consumers see on South African Tours are provided by our business partners in real time for each search done by a user. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions. Things to Do For any attractions listed on our site, the price listed is the total price, inclusive of taxes and fees. Prices are provided in real time for each search conducted by a user. 7. Commercial guarantees and dispute resolution None of the South African Tours company offers any commercial guarantees. If you book a hotel, restaurant or flight, you should consult our partners to find out more about any commercial guarantees and dispute resolution methods they may offer. If you book a tour, activity or experience via the intermediary services of one of our group companies, the applicable South African Tours group company that facilitated your booking will provide you with customer service in the event of a dispute, and will work with the supplier of the tour, activity or experience to help the parties try to reach a resolution. Where you make a booking facilitated by a third-party company outside of our group, that company will provide you with customer service. For more information, please see our Terms and Conditions. 8. Main features of review moderation Before being posted to our site, each review goes through our automated processing system, which collects for each review a certain amount of information answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects an element in clear contradiction to our Content & Community Guidelines, the review will not be posted to the site. The user may be informed as well as the reason for this and may be offered the opportunity to write another review in accordance with our Guidelines, depending on eligibility. When the system detects a potential problem with a review, it is sent to our team of content specialists, who work 24 hours a day, 7 days a week to maintain the quality of content posted to our site. In some cases, we will also send an e-mail asking users to validate their review before it is posted. In certain circumstances (for example, if an owner/manager disputes a review), we might ask the reviewer of a vacation rental property to provide us with proof of their stay, to ensure that the review is attached to the correct property listing. Our team checks every review that is reported to us by our community (both businesses and users) as potentially not meeting our Guidelines. For more information on our anti-fraud policy please refer to our Trust & Safety information center . 9. Our criteria for hosting traveler reviews We want to ensure that South African Tours remains a reliable and secure source for our global community. For this purpose, and to ensure that your review is posted as quickly as possible, make sure that it meets our Content & Community Guidelines. For reviews of vacation rental properties, there are additional criteria listed . In summary, vacation rental reviews must also be: based on short-term stays, written after check-in, verifiable by the name on the rental contract, and written in relation to stays that can be evidenced by the reviewer. Any review that does not meet these criteria will not appear on the site. If you have a question about a review that has not been posted, you can contact us directly by clicking on the link here . 10. When will my review appear on the site? It usually takes less than 24 hours to see reviews on our site. The process can be longer if the review needs to be examined in more detail by our team of moderators. See here for more info. After submitting, the title of your review appears in your profile, on the Review page. If we are unable to host your review, you may be notified of the refusal and the reason for this. Please note that in some cases, we will also send you an e-mail asking you to validate your review before it can appear. You just have to click on the link provided in the e-mail. 11. How long will my review appear? Once posted, your review will appear indefinitely on our site. Your review will only be removed if: 1) You choose to remove it 2) our team of moderators has determined that this review did not meet our Guidelines. 3) You fail to click on the link contained with an email asking you to validate your review, as outlined above 4) an establishment is removed from our site, in which case all reviews are removed. 5) An establishment goes through an ownership change or major renovation and reviews prior to a certain date that are no longer relevant are removed 12. Can I be rewarded for a review? No. Reviews written in exchange for personal benefits, such as gifts, services or money, will be removed. Establishments are free to encourage their clients to post their reviews when they return home. However, no representative of the establishment can offer premium, discount, upgrade or special treatment for current or future stays in exchange for advice. Properties making such offers may have their rankings penalized. If someone has offered you a reward for a review, please let us know by emailing us and including any available evidence (screenshots, photos, etc) at a.dezius@gmail.com 13. Is it possible to modify a review? No, Once submitted, your review can not be edited. You can remove your review and resubmit as long as it complies with our posting guidelines . 14. Will my review appear on other websites or publications? After being posted, all or part of the reviews written by our members may be used on some of our partner sites or in promotional materials generally. For more information, read our Terms of Use and our Privacy Policy . 15. If I write a review about an establishment, can I be contacted about it? Sharing a contributor's e-mail address to an owner, manager, or other person is against our privacy policy. Contributors remain anonymous unless they choose to publish their email address or contact information in a contribution, such as a review or message in a forum. However, property owners or managers may contact you through South African Tours private messaging system, which allows South African Tours members to be in contact without providing an email address. Owners can use the messaging system to thank contributors, ask for other comments, legitimately attempt to resolve customer service issues, or (in the case of vacation rental property owners or managers) discuss a booking with a user, but they are not allowed to ask contributors to retract a review via the mailing system. It is also strictly forbidden to harass contributors. For more information, see our rules for using private messaging. 16. AI-Powered review summaries South African Tours facilitates easier and more informative hotel, restaurant, and experience searches by presenting AI-powered Review Summaries. These summaries, generated through state-of-the-art generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs), offer concise, impartial highlights of traveler reviews on South African Tours from the previous 12 months, focusing on key attributes like cleanliness, location, and value. The summaries are derived solely from user-generated content, with supporting quotes added for transparency. Advanced machine learning techniques including Retrieval-Augmented Generation and BART are employed to preserve the authenticity of the original reviews while providing a clear, practical overview. This technology enables users to quickly understand the essence of traveler opinions, assisting in informed decision-making. Travellers should read the summaries in the context of the original user reviews on which they are based. Tripadvisor provides this feature for convenience and does not endorse or assume responsibility for the content of the summaries. To learn more about how these AI-powered summaries are generated, please visit our detailed blog post (available only in English). 17. Translation of reviews To assist our global community of travelers, South African Tours uses the services of Google and Phrase, both third-party vendors, to provide automated translations of user reviews. This helps ensure that all travelers, regardless of their language preferences, can access and benefit from the insights shared by others. Phrase and Google employ advanced translation technologies to convert user-generated content into multiple languages accurately and efficiently, enhancing the accessibility of our platform. Please note that while our vendors strive for accurate translations, some variations might occur due to linguistic differences. Tripadvisor plays no role in these translations, does not guarantee their accuracy and does not endorse the content of any individual user review or its translation. RULES South African Tours Collective Program South African Tours Collective is our contributor program that recognises you each time you add to South African Tours ! Think of it as your travel community’s way of saying thanks for helping us collectively travel better. For more information, visit the South African Tours Collective main page or the South African Tours Collective FAQs. Contribute experiences to earn points Earn points and reach new levels Collect badges and show your expertise At this time, this program is for entertainment purposes only and the points are not redeemable. Was this helpful? Contact us South African Tours Travel Map Our travel map is an interactive way to share the places you have been, want to go to, or love with your friends and family. You can pin cities, towns, some national parks and islands. However, you cannot pin larger regions such as countries, states, and island groups. There are three ways to add pins to your map: Search for city names in the search box on the right side of the map. Check off cities from the list of popular cities next to the map. Double-click to zoom in on the map and then click in an area near the city you wish to add. Our travel map can only display up to 2,000 pins at a time. If you try to add more than 2,000 pins, be aware that they may not be displayed in the map but are still counted in your statistics: percent of the world traveled and the total distance traveled. These statistics are for entertainment value only, and are based on the number of cities that you have pinned and the distance from your home location. If you have trouble with your travel map, including: You cannot find a place on the map that you would like to pin, even after searching for it in the search bar above the map; You find a pin in the wrong location; Contact us providing the location of the place you are trying to pin. Our editors will revise the information provided and make the appropriate changes when needed. Was this helpful? Contact us Combine my two South African Tours accounts Please use the information and instructions on this page if you have two South African Tours accounts you would like to merge. Take Note: The South African Tours account you are logged into when making the merge request is considered the primary account and will be maintained while the duplicate account will be closed If merging a traveler and owner account, the owner account must be the account maintained for the merge to go through If merging a traveler and a South African Tours Plus subscribed account, the South African Tours Plus subscribed account must be the account maintained for the merge to go through As you can only submit merge account requests for two accounts at a time, you will need to submit multiple requests if you have more than 2 accounts and would like to merge them all into one. After you receive an email confirmation that the first merge is completed, you can submit further merge requests for the remaining accounts. Once you merge accounts the process cannot be reversed Merge account requests cannot be processed from the Tripadvisor App at this time. What Merging Your Account Means: Eligible contributions from the duplicate account will be transferred to your primary account The duplicate account will be closed once the merge is completed Below is a table that shows all eligible merge contributions Contributions eligible for transfer * Contributions not transferable Reviews Photos Videos Trips Badges Points Travel Map Pins Forum Posts Q&A’s Private Messages Links Followers/following *Contributions must meet our Content Guidelines to be transferred. To request a merge of your accounts please select the option that applies to your current situation: I know the email addresses associated with both South African Tours accounts I want to merge AND I am able to access emails sent to the address associated with the account I want closed. Great! You have everything you need, you can request a merge of your two accounts here . I forgot my password to one or both of the South African Tours accounts I want to merge. To reset the password associated with your South African Tours account(s) please click here. I can log in to my South African Tours account, but I do not know the email address associated with the account. Visit this page in your account settings to locate your email address. I am not able to receive emails at the address associated with the South African Tours account I would like to merge and close. Unfortunately, we are unable to merge your South African Tours accounts. You must be able to access emails sent to the email address associated with the South African Tours account you wish to close. Was this helpful? Contact us Become a South African Tours member To become a member, click the Sign In link at the top of most South African Tours pages. You have the option to continue signing in with Google or with your email address and each process varies. Membership is free and lets you post reviews and photos, ask and answer questions in the forums, and create your own trip-planning folders. There are two ways to create your free account: If you have a Google account, you can quickly create a South African Tours account using your Google login credentials. To join via Google, select the Continue with Google button. If you are not already logged into Google, you will need to log in during the registration process. If you do not have a Google account, you can create a South African Tours account by providing your email address and choosing a password. To join with your email address, click Continue with email. Below the email address and password fields, you will need to click the Join link to fill out your name, email address and set a password. Once you've created an account, add some information to your profile so that other members will know a bit about you. Don't forget to fill out your travel map with the places you've traveled, your favorite destinations, and where you want to go. We also recommend that you subscribe to our personalized weekly newsletters. If you own or manage a business, register as an owner to claim your South African Tours page. Was this helpful? Contact us South African Tours profile privacy and personal security Your privacy and personal security are our top priorities at South African Tours . Any contributions you make will be associated with your display name, not your full name. We will never expose your email address, full name, mailing address, or other private information to any other member of South African Tours , unless you include it in a review or forum post. However, your full name will be shown to your friends if you connect via Facebook. Any pages in your Profile that can be viewed by other members are clearly marked, "Information on this page is public.” For more information on our Privacy Policy, click here . Was this helpful? Contact us Change my account email address To change your email address: Go to your Account Info page . Click + Add an email address. Insert the new email and click Make primary. For security purposes, enter your account password and click Save. Was this helpful? Contact us Update my home airport Your home airport is the airport that you prefer to depart from when you book air travel. We use this information to improve our flight recommendations for you. To update your home airport: Go to your Account Info page . For security purposes, log into your South African Tours account via Google, Facebook or email. Update the information displayed under Home airport. Click Save at the bottom of the page. Was this helpful? Contact us Update my username Your username is the unique South African Tours name that only belongs to you and will allow others to find your profile. This name will appear next to your contributions. To update your username: Go to your profile Click Edit profile. Amend the username field and click Save. Please note that usernames which infringe on any copyright, trademark, or other legal property rights are prohibited, as are those created for the purposes of impersonation. If someone has your trademarked name in their username, you can report their profile . TIP: If your username has already been claimed, you will be asked to select a different one. Adding underscores or numbers before or after your desired username will help make it unique. For example, if you would like the username @Andreas but it has already been claimed, consider selecting a name like @_Andreas or @Andreas60. Was this helpful? Contact us Update my profile information Your profile is a place for other South African Tours members to learn about you and your travel style. Information on this page is public and other South African Tours members can read it. To update information in your profile: Go to your profile. Click Edit profile. Add your information and Save. Here, you can add a bio, a profile photo, and your current city. Was this helpful? Contact us Close my member account We work hard to provide our members with great service, so please contact us if you have specific issues with our site, policies, or other members. We would be glad to work with you to improve your experience. There are a few things to keep in mind when you close your account: We will remove your reviews and other content from our site. This process cannot be reversed. Any forum messages you’ve posted will remain on the site attributed to your display name. We do not remove forum posts in bulk, as this would disrupt the flow of conversation. If you wish to remove your forum posts before closing your account, you can do so following these instructions . If you manage a listing, you will lose access to the Management Center. If you have a Plus subscription, all Plus bookings you have made will stay active. If you still wish to close your account: Visit your Account Settings page. Click the blue Close Your Account link at the bottom of the page. Was this helpful? Contact us Maintaining Anonymity There are many reasons to prefer to create an anonymous account and, whatever your reason, at South African Tours we want to make it easy. It is best to use your personal email address - not connect via Facebook or Google. Your email address is never shared with our travel community; however, if you connect via Facebook or Google you are giving permission for anyone connected to you on that platform to see certain updates. If you prefer to ensure your account is absolutely anonymous, use an email address only associated with your South African Tours account. Be sure to regularly check this email address in case we need to verify information about your account or the content associated with it. Do not use your real name but instead select an anonymous username and an anonymous social handle. More information about username/social handle selection can be found here . When selecting your profile picture, allow South African Tours to select a stock photo for you or upload a photo that will not give away your identity. The photo must abide by our photo guidelines . Do not discuss your occupation, location, or general timelines about upcoming travel plans in public facing content. If you would prefer not to see messages from others in the travel community, including from property owners, you can turn off your private message feature. Instructions can be found here . If you decide to keep your messages on but are being harassed, please report the sender to South African Tours . We take these reports seriously and will ban any members of our community who participate in harassment behavior on our platform. Property owners or employees who harass members of our community will be penalized. If you do not want specific profiles to be able to follow you or re-post your content, you can block that profile. For more information on how to block a member of our community follow this link . Was this helpful? Contact us Update my current city Your current city is the location that you want to display in your public profile. It also appears under your screen name next to your contributions on the site. To update your current city: Go to your profile . Click the Edit profile on the right. Edit the Current City field by searching for the name of your location and click Save. We list cities, towns, individual islands, and national parks in some cases. If your specific location is not yet in our database, please contact us providing some information about your location. We will be glad to review and add it to our database as long as it fits our criteria. TIP: Your current city lets other members know where you live, which helps them know more about you as they read your contributions. However, if you are uncomfortable showing your exact location, you may pick a location that represents your region. Was this helpful? Contact u Disconnect my South African Tours account from Google or Facebook To disconnect your South African Tours account from Google or Facebook: Go to the Account Settings page in your South African Tours profile. Click Disconnect under Facebook Settings or Google Settings. The accounts will be immediately disconnected. Was this helpful? Contact us Update my profile cover photo A cover photo is the larger photo above your profile picture. Like your profile picture, cover photos are public, which means anyone who is visiting your profile will be able to see them. To add or change your cover photo: Go to your profile . Click on the symbol next to the Edit profile button. Click on Edit cover photo. Select an existing photo or upload a new photo in one of the following file types .jpg .jpeg .gif .png. Click Save. TIP: For best quality, we suggest a photo size of 2560 x 500 Pixels. Was this helpful? Contact us Facebook name and photo on South African Tours If you have connected your Facebook and South African Tours accounts, we show your Facebook name and picture to you and your friends. Anyone who is not friends with you on Facebook will see your South African Tours display name and avatar. However, if you have not selected a South African Tours photo, we will use your Facebook photo as your South African Tours avatar. You can change this by adding a South African Tours photo, or disconnecting your Facebook and South African Tours accounts. To test how South African Tours members see your name and avatar, find one of your reviews or other contributions , take a look at how your name and photo display, and then log out of your South African Tours account. You should see your name and avatar change. Was this helpful? Contact us Update my profile photo A profile photo is the photo that appears next to your username in your profile page. This photo is public, which means that anyone visiting your profile will be able to see it. To add a profile picture or change your current profile picture: Go to your profile page . Click Edit profile. Click on your profile photo. Select one photo or upload a new one. Click Save. TIP: For best quality, we suggest a photo size of 150 x 150 Pixels or larger. Photos will be scaled to fit the standard display boxes on our site. We support the following file types: .jpg .jpeg .gif .png. Was this helpful? Contact us Manage my email subscriptions To subscribe / unsubscribe from a notification email: Visit the Subscriptions page of your profile. Once you have made your selections, a Changes saved confirmation box will briefly appear and your preferences will be updated. If you are a business representative, you will also see a tab called Emails for Owners. Here you can find a list of the notification emails you are eligible to receive as an owner. We recommend that you subscribe for notifications of new reviews and questions on your listing. If you are not receiving the emails you signed up for: Check your email’s spam folder and make sure to mark South African Tours emails as "not spam." Check your Subscriptions page. If there is a red alert box at the top of the page letting you know that your emails are not being delivered, follow the instructions. If you already followed the instructions and did not receive any South African Tours emails within a week, please contact us . Peruse the page to make sure that you are subscribed to the emails you want to receive, and also check that we have your email address right. Was this helpful? Contact us Manage my Trips Trips make it easy to save, organize and map out all of your ideas for places to stay, things to do and where to eat – and bring them with you, wherever you go. There are two ways to create a Trip: Click the Trips icon at the top of the South African Tours homepage and select Create a Trip. Click on the heart icon appearing on a hotel, attraction or restaurant you find on South African Tours and want to save. You’ll then be asked if you want to add the item to a new Trip or an existing one. When creating a new Trip, you’ll be prompted to give it a title (you can change the title later if you’d like). Once you’ve titled your Trip, you can either view your new Trip or keep browsing South African Tours for other places to save. To edit a Trip: Click the Trips icon at the top of the South African Tours homepage Select a Trip to edit Click the ellipses (...) button towards the top of your Trip’s itinerary. In the drop-down, you can edit the Trip name and description, organize items, change the privacy settings, add collaborators, or delete the Trip. Your saved Trips can always be viewed by visiting https://adezius.wixsite.com/south-african-tours ! Was this helpful? Contact us Content & Community Guidelines At South African Tours , our mission is to help you to find the good out there, wherever it is in the world. We are proud to host contributions from millions of travelers, giving people a platform to guide and inspire others every day. We also recognize how important it is that our platform provides a safe environment for everyone in the travel community, and that the contributions on our site provide useful and relevant guidance that helps travelers plan their trips. That’s why we developed and spent more than 20 years refining our Community Guidelines. In addition to our general community guidelines, different types of content on our site have additional guidelines specific to that content type. Sexually explicit content: We will not post content that contains sexually explicit material, except in the following instances: Lifestyle resort experiences: South African Tours understands that some of our users travel to specific lifestyle resorts to engage in adult activity and, for such locations, we may allow an innuendo that alludes to a sexual experience, but we don't allow graphic or explicit description of such experiences even if directly relevant to understanding the travel experience at those resorts. Eye-witness accounts: If you witness explicit sexual activity and recounting it is relevant to your experience and the experience other travelers may have in the future, we may post the content as long as the commentary is not excessively graphic. Reports of non-consensual sex activity: In this scenario, we reserve the right to host content that some may consider graphic or extreme in order to ensure travelers are informed about an event(s) that may compromise traveler safety. Violence: We are an inclusive community and want our users to feel welcome and safe when visiting our app or website. Please do not include language that expresses intent or inclination to harm specific person(s) or property(s), encourages others to do the same, or conveys a desire for such actions to occur. Content that specifically mentions that people should be shot, killed, strangled, assaulted, or harmed in any way - even if used as sarcasm or stated in an exaggerated manner - will be removed. Content that glorifies structural harm to a property, such as threats of bombing or fires, will be removed. Content containing the above types of threats may be reported to law enforcement. We will not publish content that promotes or describes personal participation in criminal activity that is illegal in the country of the property, establishment or location being written about . We reserve the right to report to the authorities any instances brought to our attention of child endangerment, human trafficking or imminent threats to a person or property. In addition, we will remove any content that mentions: A user’s or travel companion’s participation in prostitution, even if legal in the city or country where activity takes place Participation in non-prescription drug use, including requests to purchase, obtain or smuggle drugs, with the exception of content that describes the personal use of alcohol or marijuana. South African Tours does not condone the use of illegal substances. Participation in the illegal distribution of weapons or firearms. Contributors can include eye-witness accounts of criminal activity, including, but not limited to, staff participation in drugs, violence, robberies, and sexual assaults. Such context should not glorify violent or illegal activity but is included to be helpful to future travelers. South African Tours does not actively monitor content that discusses circumventing property rules or guidelines such as trespassing or refusing to pay an entrance fee and will allow these to remain on the site. Keep it clean! We request that contributors refrain from using vulgar or profane terms. Of course, we don’t allow the “super profane” words and our general rule of thumb is, if you wouldn’t shout it in public, don’t say it here. In some cultures terms may not be seen as problematic while in another culture that same term could be seen as extremely offensive. We are a global platform, so if a term is found generally held to be extremely offensive in the context used in any geography, we may remove that content for the sake of our global community. We ask our community to use the medical or anatomically correct term when referencing body parts or bodily functions. We may choose to publish slang or more colloquial terms on a case-by-case basis. We allow emojis, acronyms and veiled profanities as long as they are not offensive, particularly when aimed at an individual. We reserve the right to allow language that might otherwise be considered offensive when we believe it's necessary to convey important information to our travel community. This could include recounting an experience with a property representative or other guests that may be relevant and informative to other travelers We do not allow contributions that promote any service or product offered by the contributor. With the exception of certain management functions provided to listed businesses, we do not host content that is included primarily for commercial reasons. If you post content to promote your own business, such as a tour provider or packaged goods company, the review will be removed. We reserve the right to reject any website link or content that is deemed promotional or irrelevant such as blogs, news articles, social media references and contact information. Website links may be allowed when relevant and helpful to the travel experience and not promotional in nature. For example, the site used to book a tour reservation at a specific museum could be helpful to travelers. We do not allow advertisements or solicitations, including website links, with referrer tags or affiliate codes. Content posted to South African Tours is available publicly and may be visible in general internet search results. As such, we strongly discourage you from sharing your own private information in any content you submit. This includes passwords, email addresses, loyalty and frequent flyer numbers, your full name, your home address, other personally identifying information, or anything else you do not want shared publicly. That said, we will not remove content because a contributor has chosen to include such information, but can remove it upon a direct request from that contributor. We will remove content that contains information posted by businesses or other travelers that is private or confidential information such as wifi passcodes, door codes, email addresses that are not publicly available, social media contact information, loyalty/frequent flyer numbers, and credit card numbers. We do not allow users to post content containing the full names (including last or surnames) of other individuals. Exceptions to this may be: Employees of the business you are writing about that are commonly referred to at the business with their last/surname or have electively participated in social media platforms with their full name and place of employment; The name of the business is inclusive of the surname of the employee named; Executive-level employees; Property owners/managers; Celebrities; Any employees of a property who respond to reviews on Tripadvisor using their last/surname; or The full names of public professionals such as doctors, lawyers, etc. Property Owners: we will remove management responses if they contain any information that personally identifies the author and/or other guests if such information is not readily available in the content you are responding to. For example, a guest’s full name, medical information or travel itinerary. Special note on Escape Room-type experiences or similar experiences that have an element of surprise: Don’t ruin it for future travelers by giving away secret information about the experience! If you do without explicitly letting travelers know about a spoiler alert, we may remove your post and ask you to submit an updated one without that information. We want you to share your best, most accurate travel advice and tips with our community— just make sure any content you submit is yours! There should be no extensive quoted material from other sources. Any content plagiarized or copied from other websites, reviewers/travelers, property owners, emails, or printed materials that was not written by you will be removed. Review content generated by artificial intelligence (AI) is not permitted and a violation of South African Tours guidelines. Users found to be submitting AI-generated text and/or images to the site may be banned, in addition to having their content removed. South African Tours will not host any content that promotes intolerance for, contains offensive stereotypes of, or incites hatred/bias towards people based on their ethnic or social origin, race, gender, gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, religious/spiritual beliefs, socioeconomic class, physical or mental ability, immigration status, or nationality. If the text is not explicit, we will lean towards removing any such content that could be perceived as expressing bias or hatred even if not necessarily intended that way. Certain terms may not be considered problematic, while in another culture that same term could be seen as extremely offensive. We are a global platform leveraged across geographies and if a term is found offensive in any geography, when used to convey the same meaning, we will remove it for the sake of our global community. We recognize that, in some places, local laws and regulations may require businesses to alter or adjust the service they provide to individuals based on a person’s race, gender identity or orientation, religion, sexual preference, or nationality. We encourage travelers who experience such a scenario to post honest, first-hand accounts of their experience, and we respect their right to criticize or condemn any discriminatory practices they may encounter at a business, even where those practices may fall in line with local laws or regulations. Be nice! No personal insults or other unnecessary and derogatory commentary about other individuals. South African Tours is not the place to promote your favorite political candidate or cause you support. We appreciate your passion, but unlike other websites that allow users to post about anything they want, the South African Tours platform is focused on travel experiences. Any substantial comments on political or religious preferences, ethics, or wider social issues that are not relevant to travel or incite non-travel related discussions on our platform will be removed. Given that we are a global travel platform and help people around the world, we understand at times you might want to write in a language that is not your native language. We advise you not to use a machine to translate because often the text can be garbled and the original intent is missing. If a machine was used to translate and the content is difficult to understand, we may remove it. Please make sure your posting is using the correct alphabet for languages we support as when not used, it can make content hard to read. Do not use HTML tags or type in ALL CAPS. Our Approach to Content Integrity Every day, travelers from all over the world visit South African Tours for guidance in planning and taking trips. The platform is powered by the generosity of travelers who have memorable experiences — and then take the time to share them with others.Over the years, millions of travelers have shared their first-hand experiences on South African Tours in the form of traveler reviews. These reviews offer guidance about destinations and businesses all over the world, and so it is incredibly important that travelers feel confident about the information they provide. That is why every review has to follow a strict set of posting guidelines. These guidelines determine which reviews can be posted to South African Tours and which cannot.But how does South African Tours decide what these guidelines should be? And how does it enforce the rules to ensure reviewers abide by them? Here we detail the principles that shape our posting guidelines, and the steps we take to ensure they are enforced... We believe the best travel advice comes from other travelers. At South African Tours , our members can submit reviews of their experiences at hotels, restaurants, and attractions all over the world. Over the past 20+ years we have received hundreds of millions of reviews and opinions of nearly 8 million businesses from our members, covering virtually every country in the world. We believe in "the right to write." The South African Tours community has a wealth of valuable travel experience, and every one of our hundreds of millions of monthly users should feel confident sharing their opinions. When you stay in a hotel, eat in a restaurant, or visit an attraction, you have a fundamental right to talk about that experience with others. We are immensely proud of the community we’ve built which helps travelers do just that. For that reason, we do not take lightly the decision to block or remove a review from our site. It might be easier to give in to censorship and remove reviews that a business owner disagrees with. But it goes against what we stand for, which is the right for genuine consumers to share their experiences. We believe every customer counts. Every customer has the right to share their experience, not just the ones who paid the bill. So while we do require reviewers to certify that they are reviewing their own experiences before they can submit their review to South African Tours , we don’t require reviewers to provide a receipt or a proof of purchase. We believe that everyone should play by the same rules. We have unique processes for moderating the reviews and content submitted to South African Tours , as well as proprietary algorithms that calculate a business' daily rank within our Traveler Ranking. Those processes and algorithms are applied in the same way to all content, complaints and properties. We never have and will never give our advertisers or anyone else preferential treatment when we moderate reviews. We believe that businesses who don't play by the rules should be penalized. Businesses know that travelers rely on reviews for travel guidance. Unfortunately, we know that there will always be a minority of unscrupulous businesses that will try to cheat in order to take advantage of that. We define “cheating” as any attempt to unfairly or dishonestly impact reviews or rankings for their own business or their competitors. These activities constitute review fraud. Attempting to post fake or dishonest reviews violates the South African Tours Terms of Use, as well as unfair competition and consumer protection laws in many countries. We invest massive amounts of time, effort and resources -both from an automated and human perspective - into identifying and stopping fraudulent activity from making it onto the Tripadvisor platform. How South African Tours identifies and blocks review fraud Unlike on other social platforms, when a review is submitted by a traveler on South African Tours it is not immediately posted to the site. Instead, it is assessed by our review analysis system. This system determines which reviews can be posted, which require further assessment by our team of moderators, and which can be blocked outright. This assessment of every review usually takes less than 24 hours. Our review analysis system captures thousands of data points associated with every review submission, and matches that information to the data points we already know about millions of other reviews, reviewers and businesses on South African Tours , Our system is able to filter, analyze and categorize massive amounts of data quickly and thoroughly. This is how we identify patterns of review behavior. We have over two decades of experience learning what normal review behavior tends to look like on our platform. We are experts at spotting patterns that don’t look normal, and which may indicate attempts at review fraud. We have hundreds of staff all over the world working to assess reviews and to identify, block and remove fraud. Once reviews are posted, we allow businesses and travelers to flag and report content if they believe it is fraudulent. All reports are assessed and analyzed by our advanced technology and team of experts, who can take action to remove any reviews that violate our posting guidelines. We also have a team of highly qualified and trained investigators focused on stopping fake reviews. Among other activities, they proactively engage and catch companies and individuals trying to ‘sell’ reviews, as well as those businesses trying to buy them. We are constantly learning. Fraudsters are always evolving the methods they use to submit reviews. But so are we. Every day, we are innovating, updating, and improving our system to stay one step ahead of anyone who would try to cheat the system. How South African Tours penalizes businesses engaged in review fraud We block or remove the fake reviews. Every fraudulent submission we identify has a negative impact on a business’s rank in our Traveler Ranking - whether the review was ever posted or not. We may disqualify offending properties from our recognition and awards programs, such as our Travelers' Choice Awards. We aggressively pursue companies or individuals that offer to boost a business' reputation by writing fake reviews on its behalf. When we catch them, we block or remove all of the fake reviews they've submitted, we penalize their clients, and in some cases we even help prosecutors send them to jail For businesses that repeatedly try to break the rules, we will post a warning notice on their South African Tours listing called a red penalty badge to warn travelers that they are not playing by the rules. We do not remove the listings of businesses that break the rules - because often that’s exactly what unscrupulous business owners want. They do not want travelers to benefit from the transparency that reviews provide. But we do. That is why we keep businesses listed on our platform if they are open and accepting customers. Finally, we believe it's important for our community to be informed. With over hundreds of millions of reviews and opinions on South African Tours , and millions of travelers using our site each month, we're confident that we're taking the right steps to keep our content fresh and useful. Review Guidelines In addition to our general community guidelines, we have specific posting guidelines for reviews. Reviews are posted to a property’s listing page and are associated with a bubble rating between 1 and 5. Ratings selected may have an impact on the property’s position in South African Tours popularity rankings and/or how a property appears on our platform. A review on South African Tours should be an honest account of a traveler’s personal experience at or with a property that is listed on our site. As reviews are associated with a bubble rating and impact a business’s position within South African Tours popularity ranking they should include relevant, helpful tips for other travelers and members of our community and must be based on a first-hand experience. In order to ensure each review reflects a first-hand experience, each user must have their own account and may not write on behalf of others or use another's account to submit, unless you're writing about the experience of someone in your travelling party at the same location as part of your experience. The author of the review should be the person who experienced the property directly - either via a trip there, a booking, or by experiencing the facilities or some other service interaction. We will not post reviews from customers who only relay a brief phone conversation with a property or property representative. If you did not experience the business as a guest or potential guest, we will not post your review. To ensure that travelers are aware of serious safety incidents at properties we do have a few exceptions to our policy requiring a review to be first-hand: As we want the experience you write about to be your own, we do not allow information attributed to a third-party to be posted as part of your review. Specifically we will remove reviews that contain the following (no matter how minor of a mention): Quotes or descriptions from the media, internet or another guest/person that is not part of your traveling party. This includes, among many others, excerpts of laws, quotes from government agencies, food ratings or a news story. Information that you receive from a third-party after your experience with the business. Exceptions to this guidance are (as long as they pertain to your experience): Anything communicated to you by a staff member of the business you are reviewing. Opinions or experiences of those in your traveling party. Minor references to recommendations received from other travelers, diners or locals - but not media - prior to experiencing the business. References to conversations and bookings with travel agents, booking companies and OTAs (Online Travel Agencies), as travelers often associate these companies as partners of the business being reviewed. Opinions, advice or diagnoses from your lawyer or doctor pertaining to your experience with the business. References to well-known (i) facts, (ii) news stories, (iii) public opinions, or (iv) world events (“well-known” is defined as those things that would be known by most international travelers traveling to that destination.) Incidental mentions of another guest’s experience, either (i) reported directly to you by that guest, but which you did not witness yourself, or (ii) reported directly to staff which you witnessed. It must relate directly to something you or your traveling party experienced.For example, we would not post a review that states, "Another guest at the bar told me that the owner doesn’t pay her employees on-time."We would post a review that states, "Another guest at the bar told me they also had the best pina colada at the swim-up bar."The guests must have experienced the property at the same time as you. Political, Ethical, Religious Views Reviews are not the place to discuss political preferences, ethical differences, religion or your perspective on wider social issues. We understand travel experiences can be deeply personal and may incite perspectives around politics and religion - and we will post such commentary as long as it is directly relevant to the location or business you are reviewing and meets our other content posting guidelines. Any such commentary that evolves into a rant may be removed. If the political, religious, ethical or social views of the owner or employees of the business listed on our site directly impact the experience you are reviewing, you may elaborate on this but not expand to include your personal, non-travel related perspective. We also will post comments and advice that relates to local customs which impact travel, as long as your personal travel experience with the business you are reviewing is detailed. For example, if a specific hotel is not LGBTQ friendly due to local laws or owner behavior, we encourage contributors to share this information with our traveler community. Due to the increased risk of violence and terrorist activity targeting refugees seeking asylum in Great Britain, we will not be posting any reviews in that region which provide information that could lead to the whereabouts of asylum seekers. This includes reviews that may not specifically identify asylum seekers but which make their location easily determinable. South African Tours has been and will continue to be a supporter of refugees seeking a safe haven and condemns any acts of violence towards such communities. Review Length and Ratings It is important that your review offers travel guidance to those planning future trips! For that reason, if your review does not contain enough substantial information about the business you are reviewing, we may ask you to provide additional information about your experience.We have a character limit for reviews we enforce as follows: Hotels - 200 characters Restaurants, Experiences, Airlines & Cruises - 100 characters We have a minimum character count to ensure review content is detailed, helpful and explains the reasoning behind the rating that was given. Reviews that contain very little context in them will be removed.Our bubble rating is from 1 to 5, with 1 being defined as “Terrible” and 5 being defined as “Excellent.” Depending on the type of property you are reviewing, we may ask you to rate specific aspects of your visit such as sleep quality for a hotel visit or food for a restaurant visit. These fields are not required. You should not rate an aspect of the business you did not experience. Irrelevant to Your Experience If your review contains excessive commentary on other reviews, business owners or South African Tours policies we will ask you to resubmit a review that primarily focuses on your experience with that property. If you believe a review has been written by the owner or competitor of a listing on South African Tours , please use the reporting function on our site to let us know. Reviews that allege other posted reviews are fraudulent will not be posted as that information does not relate to your travel experience. If you are concerned a particular business is engaged in multiple incidents of fraud please email us at a.dezius@gmail.com . You can also contact us with any other fraud-related questions you may have. Listed on our Site We list all businesses relevant to travelers, however we don't accept reviews for businesses that are not listed. Your review will be removed if it is submitted on a property that does not correlate with a listed business on South African Tours ,If you would like to submit a review for a business that is not listed, we ask that you submit a request for a new listing. Additionally, if a property is providing a function outside of the primary service you would typically receive at that property, we will not post the review. It is not helpful to the majority of travelers because it is not a regular part of the experience at that property. A review related to special event parking at a restaurant would be an example of a removal in this scenario. Recent Experience To ensure reviews are fresh and current, all reviews must be submitted within one year of your experience. You may write one review on any given business listed on South African Tours per experience or visit. This means one review per hotel stay, restaurant visit, tour taken, or car rental. If you would like to amend your original review you will need to remove that review and submit a new one. For flights, we will post one review per leg of your trip as we understand each experience can differ. If you prefer to write about your round trip experience in one review - we will post that too! To ensure enough time between visits, additional reviews of new experiences will be accepted after three months for an accommodation, attraction or tour, and after one month for restaurants/eateries. An exception is for airline reviews, where there is no limit on how many reviews that can be submitted within a given time frame. Unique Experience We will not post a review that describes the same experience to two listings; we will post it to the most relevant listing. For example, if you post a review to a hotel and the restaurant within that hotel that has exactly the same text and is not specific to one listing more than the other, we will post the review to the hotel. If you want to write a review about each experience you may, just do so independently so as not to confuse travelers. We will allow multiple travelers to write about the same experience. For example, if you and your partner each choose to write a review from your own individual perspectives, we will post both reviews. We also allow reviews from multiple members of a large traveling party. Please just make sure the content is written in your own words and from your own perspective. Contributors may only have one account on South African Tours , except in exceptional circumstances determined at Tripadvisor’s sole discretion. If you submit a review to the same listing from multiple accounts, we may remove duplicate submissions. South African Tours does not allow content on our site that is biased or submitted in an attempt to manipulate rankings or ratings on our site. Violations of these guidelines may result in penalties to your South African Tours listing page, including ranking penalties, red badges, and/or exclusion from awards. Furthermore, not abiding by these guidelines may violate local, national and/or international laws and can lead to legal action - including civil and criminal penalties. Biased Content South African Tours strives to ensure that all reviews are submitted from an authentic traveler’s perspective. This means any person affiliated with a property listed on our site, in any way, may not write a review of that property. Specifically we will not accept reviews from users who: Are currently employed or have been employed at a property at any point in time. This includes reviews from people who have volunteered at or for a business listed on our site. Are related to or are friends with a current employee or owner. Receive any goods or services or provide goods or services to a property. For example, if you are the food purveyor for a property, you may not submit a review to that property. If you provide entertainment at a property, you may not submit a review. Own or are employed at a property of the same business category and are located within the same municipality of such property. To be clear, if you own or are employed by a coffee shop in Dublin, Ireland you may not submit reviews for other eateries in Dublin such as an Italian restaurant. This also applies to similar properties that may not be in your city’s geographic borders but are within 10 miles/16 kilometers of the location of where your business address is listed on South African Tours . While we understand that you certainly may have experienced that business as a general traveler, this policy is in place to help to ensure property rankings remain unbiased. Own a share of a property, such as a timeshare, even if within a larger group of properties and ownership is with a variety of properties. Exceptions to people associated with a property include: Eco-Volunteers: travelers who pay to volunteer or work at a property and still use the general facilities of a property as a traveler may write a review. Attempts to Manipulate Property Ranking by Businesses South African Tours is staunchly opposed to any and all attempts at artificially manipulating a property’s ranking on our site. These include, but are not limited to, the following actions: Reviews submitted by property representatives. We reserve the right to remove content and/or penalize properties should we receive content submissions from anyone who owns, is employed by, or is affiliated with the reviewed property, or any umbrella or parent companies with which that property may be affiliated, in any way. This includes (but is not limited to) content from users who are upfront about their affiliation in addition to users who are impersonating travelers, competitors, or any other individuals or entities. It is also prohibited for representatives of a business to submit reviews on behalf of guests, regardless of whether the opinion is genuine or not. Paid Reviews/Review Exchanges. South African Tours is staunchly opposed to the selling, purchasing, or quid-pro-quo exchange of reviews. Any reviews submitted in this manner are considered inherently fraudulent and will be met with penalties for not only the property or properties involved, but the reviewers as well. If you have been contacted by anyone offering these services, or you know of anyone involved in this behavior, please let our team know at a.dezius@gmail.com Incentives for Reviews. It is against our guidelines to offer or promise anything in exchange for any reviews, irrespective of rating. Examples include offers for free drinks, discounts, entry into a contest, making donations to a cause in the name of a customer, etc. Incentives for Review Removals. Attempts by an individual representing a property to offer anything in exchange for the removal of a published review are against our guidelines and will be met with penalties. Pressuring Users to Remove Reviews. Attempts by anyone affiliated with a property to pressure, threaten, or otherwise coerce a user into removing their review for that property are a violation of our guidelines and will be met with penalties. Coercing Users to Submit Reviews. Any form of coercion by individuals associated with a property to compel users into submitting reviews is strictly forbidden. Such practices include, but are not limited to: (a) using threats, whether explicit or tacit, to pressure a user into submitting a review, (b) withholding any element of service until a user submits a review. Taking Action on Behalf of Users. Individuals affiliated with properties listed on our site should not be directly involved in the submission of reviews. Such practices include, but are not limited to: (a) creating user accounts on behalf of users, (b) writing reviews on behalf of users, (c) monitoring users while they write reviews, (d) suggesting specific terms, wording, or paraphrasing to be included in reviews. Employee Incentives. It is a violation of our guidelines for a property to offer incentives designed to reward employees for encouraging reviews, e.g., a bonus for being mentioned in a review, or a contest for the highest number of reviews achieved within a certain timeframe. Such programs are against our guidelines and may be met with penalties to a property’s ranking. If you are aware of such programs at any property, please let our team know by emailing content a.dezius@gmail.com Review Gating. We prohibit the practice of selectively soliciting positive content and/or rejecting moderate or negative content. If any survey or external website ultimately directs users to submit a review on South African Tours , the user interface and experience for submitting positive and negative reviews must be identical. For example, directing a guest to one review page if they indicate a positive experience but directing them to another path (such as an internal customer support channel) if they indicate a negative experience is against our review guidelines. Restrictions . We do not allow properties to contractually prohibit or discourage guests from posting negative or critical reviews of their experience. Any properties found to be engaging in these practices will have a warning badge posted on their business listing page on South African Tours until that policy has been discontinued. Vandalism. Any attempts, made by individuals affiliated with one property, to damage the reputation of a competing property are considered to be violations of our guidelines. This includes (but is not limited to) submitting negative reviews, attempting to falsely register as an owner of the competing listing, or similar behaviors. User Attempts to Manipulate a Property’s Ranking Any users who attempt to manipulate a property’s ranking, even if not affiliated with that property, may be banned from our site due to such actions. The actions may be, but are not limited to: Blackmail. South African Tours classifies any attempt made in bad faith by a traveler to obtain something of value from a property by threatening to post a negative review on South African Tours , or promising to remove a published negative review, as blackmail. It is not considered blackmail if a guest mentions they plan to write a review due to a negative experience but is not making a bad faith demand. Examples would include a guest trying to rectify a situation with a broken pipe in a room or an incorrect order at a restaurant. Review Bombing Events. Reviews must describe a first-hand experience; users who are submitting reviews to a property due to a personal or political agenda, or reviews submitted solely due to news or social media exposure of a property which do not describe first-hand experiences will not be published. If a significant amount of such content is detected on a listing, we reserve the right to temporarily suspend publishing all content for that listing. There are some scenarios where we do not allow a review to be posted even if there might have been some contact with the property. You are invited to share such comments in the Forums section of our site where members of our community discuss travel-related topics.Some examples of this may include: Comments solely on a property’s policy. While it may be helpful for a traveler to know that a restaurant reserves its bathrooms for patrons only or that a hotel does not allow dogs or that you can not receive a refund for your cancellation, it is unfair to a business to be rated negatively based solely on these types of policies that occur regularly in the travel industry. We will remove reviews that simply describe an interaction that is a disagreement on the stated policies. If you describe a more substantial customer service interaction with the business, beyond the stated policies, we will post the interaction because we believe that customer service experience may be helpful to travelers. Commenting on a property due to media coverage . If you wish to comment on a recent event at that property which attracted media attention but at which you were not present, we will not post your review. Comments solely on business hours or closures. While we recognize that it could be frustrating to arrive at a restaurant only to find out that it is closed, we will not post reviews commenting solely on business hours or closures unless the official information posted by the business created an expectation of service. Unsuccessful attempts to contact a business. We do not consider unanswered calls or emails to be a valid description of the service provided by the business. Experiencing a property from the "outside." If you visit a property with only the intent to view its architecture or decor, we will only post a review if a main component of the property is that visual element alone. For example, when reviewing a cathedral we understand that part of the traveler experience at that business is to view the exterior of the building and is acceptable in a review. We would not post a review of a hotel from someone who was not a guest of that hotel and is only speaking to the hotel’s architecture. Long term stays. We do accept reviews from users who have a prolonged stay at a given property provided the information in the review is relevant to other (more traditional) travelers. We will not post your review if it is written exclusively from a tenant or renter’s perspective. We love hearing about your travel experiences and value your contributions to our site! We also want to make sure that Vacation Rentals is a safe and trustworthy source for our global community. To help us with this goal, and to get your reviews published as quickly as possible, please ensure your reviews are: Recent To keep content fresh for our readers, we ask that you stick to writing about experiences that occurred within the current calendar year or up to two calendar years prior. Based on short-term stays We welcome you to share your thoughts on any stay that is 90 days or less. Relevant to travelers Keep in mind that our reviews are intended to help travelers with their vacation plans – as such, we kindly ask that you stick to writing about vacation rentals only. That means no reviews on corporate, interim, transitional or temporary housing. Written after check-in We kindly ask that you write about your experiences after you check in to your vacation rental. To help ensure authenticity in our reviews, we currently don’t accept submissions that occur during the reservation process or before arrival at the property. Verifiable by the name on the rental contract To help ensure authenticity in our reviews, you will be asked to enter the name of the person in your party who signed the lease agreement. (This required field appears at the top of the Write a Review form). NOTE: We do not share this name publicly on our site. Can be documented by rental owner If a vacation rental owner cannot confirm that a reviewer was a guest, we send the guest a request for documentation. This is simply to ensure that the correct owner and property is credited for your review. Privacy and Cookies Statement Last Updated: Jan 01, 2025 South African Tours owns and operates an online platform that provides users with information, recommendations and services related to travel and leisure, including tools for researching and/or booking hotels, rentals and other accommodations, attractions and experiences, restaurants, flights, and cruises, among other leisure-related services. In this Statement, we refer to these as our “Services”. The information that you and others entrust us with enhances our ability to provide more relevant, personalized and helpful Services. We know that sharing your information with us is based on trust. We take your trust in us seriously and are committed to providing you helpful information, products and services, curated based on the information you have shared with us. Equally, and perhaps more importantly, we are committed to respecting your privacy when you visit our website or use our Services and being transparent about how we use the information you have entrusted to us. This Statement describes how we obtain, use, and process your information. It informs you of the rights you have, how you can exercise them and how you can contact us. Please review this Statement carefully to learn about our practices with respect to information and privacy. By visiting our websites and related mobile applications, as well as other online platforms such as our affiliated partners’ websites, apps and social media, whether on a computer, phone, tablet, or similar device (each of these is referred to as a “Device”), you acknowledge and confirm that you have read this Statement. We offer our Services to users in a number of countries and territories where the laws and customs differ. This Statement provides a general overview of our privacy practices. In addition, Sections 12 through 15 of this Statement provide specific information relevant to users residing in certain regions or countries. Notice at Collection of Personal Information We collect personal information from and about you as detailed in this Notice at Collection of Personal Information (“Notice”) and in the Statement. What categories of personal information do we collect and why? Biographical information & identifiers: This may include your name; phone number, postal, billing, and email address; other information about yourself that you have voluntarily disclosed; unique personal identifier; online identifier; IP address; account username and password; and other similar identifiers. Personal information categories listed in the California customer records statute: This may include your billing and payment card information and certain information that you provide to support your travel and planning, such as a driver’s license number, passport number or trip insurance policy number. Characteristics of Protected Classifications under Applicable Law: This may include your age range, gender, and any other information about yourself that you have voluntarily disclosed. We may also collect race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or religion where you voluntarily disclose it to us, including, for example, in the context of diversity and inclusivity disclosures you choose to make. Commercial Information: This may include information related to products or services that you have purchased or obtained, including details of your membership with Tripadvisor, purchasing and booking history, information about your travel, experience and dining plans and preferences, and any other information about your travel plans that you have voluntarily disclosed. Internet or other Electronic Network Activity Information: This may include information related to your browsing history (including pages you have visited, content reviewed, and apps reviewed), search history, and access to and use of our Services (including automatic collection of information as described in more detail in this Statement). Precise Geolocation Data: This may include the location of your Device when you have agreed to share your location information via privacy settings on your Device or, for example, if you have uploaded photos tagged with location information. Visual and Audio Information: This may include photos, reviews, forum and social posts, and videos that you may provide to us. In addition, we collect communications when you contact our customer service team, including inbound and outbound calls. Inferences Drawn from the Above: We may generate inferences based on the above categories of personal information. Sensitive Personal Information: The following categories are considered “sensitive personal information” under certain privacy laws: precise geolocation data, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, religion, driver’s license number, or passport number. To the extent that we use or disclose any “sensitive personal information” or “sensitive data”, as those terms are defined in applicable privacy laws, we do not use or disclose the sensitive personal information for the purpose of inferring characteristics about you or for any purpose other than limited permissible purposes, such as providing our Services and verifying, maintaining the quality of, and improving our Services. We collect and use each category of personal information for the following business and commercial purposes described in more detail in Section 2 of the Statement: registration, membership and other contracts, to improve our Services, personalisation and customization, communication, and legal compliance. We will retain copies of your information for as long as you maintain your account or as necessary in connection with the purposes set out in the Statement, unless applicable law requires a longer retention period. In addition, we may retain your information for the duration of any period necessary to establish, exercise, or defend any legal rights. What categories of personal information do we “sell” or “share” to third parties? The terms “sell” and “share” are broadly defined in certain U.S. privacy laws. We may “sell” or “share” the following categories of personal information to business partners, social media websites, advertising networks, data aggregators, and other third parties identified in Section 3 of this Statement for purposes of delivering interest-based advertising, analysing use of our websites and apps, and enhancing user engagement on our websites and apps and on social media: biographical information/identifiers, Internet or other electronic network activity information, commercial information, and inferences drawn from the above. We do not knowingly sell or share personal information of individuals under the age of 16. If you would like to opt out of the sale or sharing of your personal information, you may do so by clicking on the “Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information” link on our homepage/app. You may also use a universal tool that automatically communicates your opt-out preferences, such as the Global Privacy Control (“GPC”). We will process the GPC signal as a request to opt out. 1. Information Collected and Processed When you access or use our Services, we collect and process information from and about you to provide the Services in a more personalized and relevant way. Some information we collect passively, for example, with our servers or with cookies or other similar tracking technologies. Some information we collect from different sources, including from you, affiliated entities, business partners, and other independent third-party sources. When you use our Services by “clicking-through” from a third-party website or when you visit third-party websites via our Services, those third-party websites may share information with us about your use of their service. Any information that we receive from third-party websites may be combined with the information provided by you. 2. Information Uses and Purposes To the extent possible, we want to provide you with relevant content and a tailored experience when you use our Services, and we use information about you to do that, including in the following ways: 3. Information Sharing In order to provide some of our Services and processing activities, we use service providers and may need to make available each category of information that we collect to these service providers, and certain other third parties, including our group of companies, in the following circumstances: 4. Information Choices You have options with respect to the processing and use of your information by us. 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SAFARI PARKS Luxury African Safaris & Tours Are you dreaming of a luxury African safari? Picture the scene. The sun is sinking slowly into savannah grasses and the sky is tinged with pink and red streaks. You’re sitting atop a granite rock boulder that’s warm to the touch. A man hands you a gin and tonic and points towards a small group of trees. As if on cue, a pair of lionesses stroll out of hiding. It’s the ultimate African safari fantasy and one that every African safari-goer dreams of living. But just how do you go about organizing an upmarket luxury safari tour? Well, it’s easier than you might think. Kruger Safari Tours Kruger Safari Tours -Packages South Africa’s premier safari destination, Kruger National Park throws up some staggering statistics. Established in 1898, it extends over some 19,000km²/7,335mi² and supports a total of 147 mammal species (the most of any African national park). This includes an estimated 13,000 elephants, 40,000 buffalo, 2,000 lions and more rhinos than any other protected area. Kruger is an ideal safari destination at both ends of the price and experiential spectrum. No other major African park is so well geared to budget-conscious self-drivers. Equally, some of the all-inclusive private and concession lodges associated with Kruger and its immediate surroundings (including MalaMala, Sabi Sabi and Londolozi) rank among the most exclusive, prestigious and costly in Africa. Pilanesberg Safari Tours & Holidays Nestled in an ancient volcanic crater up to three hours’ drive from Johannesburg, Pilanesberg Game Reserve is a top-notch 572km²/221mi² park set in the wilds of North West Province. It is home to all the Big Five (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) and makes for a great all-round safari destination. As the closest major park to Johannesburg, it is particularly suited to business travelers wanting a short bush break. Pilanesberg lies in a malaria-free area, so families with young children often find it preferable to the better-known Kruger National Park. Pilanesberg is also often visited in combination with Sun City, a glitzy but family-friendly resort complete with luxury hotels, casinos, golf courses and a water park that stands right outside the park boundary. Mt Kilimanjaro Climbing, Trekking and Hiking Tours For many visitors to Africa, climbing Mt Kilimanjaro is a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. The climb takes in muddy rainforests, unique high-altitude plants and alpine meadows before finally arriving at the glacier-coated summit. Standing tall above the savannahs of East Africa, Mt Kilimanjaro (5,895m/19,340ft) is an icon of Africa. But just how do you go about climbing Tanzania’s Mt Kilimanjaro and how fit do you have to be? We answer some of these common questions below. Masai Mara Safari - Tours If Africa had a Top Five for safari parks, the Masai Mara safari would easily make the final cut. It’s a classic safari destination and one of the best places to see lions, leopards and cheetahs, as well as being home to iconic savannah country that long ago came to define the East African safari. It also has the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), a good mix of public areas and private conservancies, and extraordinarily rich accommodations offerings. Okavango Delta Safari Tours & Holidays The Okavango Delta is an African classic, a vast network of waterways that changes with the seasons, but always hosts memorable wildlife populations. The diversity here is endless, with islands that exist one year but are gone the next. This world in motion should be drama enough for most visitors, but it is here that Botswana’s wildlife reputation was born and so many wildlife documentaries were filmed. To put it another way, the Delta is one of the best places on the planet to see wildlife. Ngorongoro Crater Safari Tours & Holidays A Ngorongoro Crater tour is usually combined with a safari in neighboring Serengeti National Park. The Ngorongoro Conservation Area protects the volcanically formed Crater Highlands, which are dotted with deep volcanic craters. The best known, Ngorongoro is the world’s largest intact caldera and a natural wildlife reserve with few peers. Ngorongoro safari tours offer your best chance in Tanzania of spotting all the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black rhino) in one game drive. The crater is also notable for the spectacularly scenic combination of the verdant plains of the lake-studded crater floor and imposing 600m-/1,968ft-high cliffs that enclose it on all sides. Amboseli Safari Tours & Holidays Amboseli National Park is one of East Africa’s most rewarding safari destinations, and a real classic of the Kenya safari circuit. Compact enough to get around easily, filled with wildlife, replete with good accommodation in and around the park, and with the best Kilimanjaro views to be had anywhere on the continent, Amboseli should be on the list of every safari visitor to Kenya. It’s also close to Nairobi, making it easy to visit in a short time frame, and combine it with other parks as well. South Africa Safari - Compare 964 Tours South Africa is one of the world’s most varied holiday destinations. From the classic safari country of Kruger National Park to the stately ‘mother city’ of Cape Town; from the snow-sprinkled heights of the Drakensberg to the parched red dunescapes of the Kalahari; from the gorgeous Winelands around Stellenbosch to the idyllic beaches of the Garden Route – South Africa is a true all-rounder that attracts more than its fair share of repeat visitors. It is also the most affordable and well equipped of African safari destinations, particularly well suited to family holidays, to those seeking a malaria-free holiday, to dedicated foodies and wine-lovers, and for combining a foray into Big Five country with a beach holiday and/or city break. Namibia Safari Tours & Holidays A safari in Namibia is as much about the wildlife as the country’s scenic beauty. It is home to Etosha National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves, but there’s so much more to discover. The national parks of the Zambezi Region (formerly Caprivi Strip) are finally getting the attention they deserve, while the dune-scapes of the Skeleton Coast and its hinterland are simply extraordinary. These are just the starting points for exploring a country rich in experiences and safari opportunities. Mozambique Tours & Safari Packages Mozambique’s main draw are the countless paradisiacal palm-fringed beaches that line its 2,600km/1,616mi Indian Ocean coastline and innumerable offshore islands. Serviced by some first-class luxury resorts, it is the perfect country for a relaxing beach holiday, as well as for more active marine pursuits such as snorkeling, diving and coastal safaris. Inland, Mozambique’s national parks and reserves were once major attractions, but a prolonged civil war that ended in 1992 left them poached out and depleted of wildlife. Despite this, recent rehabilitation efforts mean that some of these little-visited parks are now slowly emerging as worthwhile goals for adventurers seeking an off-the-beaten-track safari experience. Gorilla Trekking Tours There are many amazing wildlife encounters – but few can match coming eye to eye with a mountain gorilla. A big part of what makes the gorilla trek so special is that these big apes are so closely related to humans (the difference in DNA is only about 1.6%). They do seem to touch a nerve when they look at us with interest. The gorillas’ natural habitat is restricted to a relatively small area in a historically turbulent region. But most of this region has stabilized in recent decades, which makes gorilla tours increasingly accessible. Habitat loss is now the main obstacle to the survival of gorillas, but money spent on gorilla tourism goes a long way in securing their survival. Chimp Trekking Tours A chimpanzee trekking safari offers a special opportunity to see our closest relatives at close range. Although it doesn’t get the same attention as gorilla trekking, the experience can be quite similar. The intelligence and social structure of chimps make them fascinating subjects for observation, and no two visits are the same. Chimpanzees live in communities ranging from 20 to 150 individuals. Like humans, they tend to have strong personalities. Their expressive faces make their identities easily recognized by us, even during a short visit. Lucky visitors will be able to hear their pant-hooting. This communal, loud calling session can be triggered by anything that excites them – including you. African Fly-in Safaris Imagine an African fly-in safari, flying in a small bush plane over the Serengeti or Kruger National Park, or wilder places like the Luangwa Valley. Way below you’ll spot wildlife such as elephant, hippo and giraffe. All the while you’ll watch the patterns of clouds on expansive savannah plains, and follow the twisting, turning course of great rivers like the Zambezi. Fly-in safaris can really enhance your holiday. They offer a convenient, comfortable means of travel to different destinations, either within one country or between different countries. Most safari destinations have a well-run network of routes that can land right in the heart of the bush. Some lodges even have their own private airstrip. African Canoe Safaris Africa offers some epic canoe safaris. The Okavango Delta, the Zambezi River and Malawi’s Shire River are great all-round African safari destinations, but they show their liveliest and most surprising sides to paddlers. African kayak safaris offer opportunities to get up close to elephant, hippo, crocodile and more. This is true whether you take it easy in a mokoro (dugout canoe) and glide into the sunset, or embark on a multiday canoe adventure. Best of all, canoes offer a way into the animals’ watery habitat. Cruising quietly along in a wooden or fiberglass craft means you won’t disturb the animals, from birds on branches to thirsty antelope at the riverbank. African Self-Drive Safaris & Tours An African self-drive safari might be just the thing for you if you’re a bit of an adventurer. There’s nothing quite like exploring Africa at your own pace and in your own time. While most safari packages adhere to a predetermined itinerary, a self-drive safari is where you get to take control. Yes, you’ll need to have your campsites and other accommodations booked well in advance, putting some limits on your freedom. But it will be up to you which route you take, how long you stay to watch those lions on a kill, and how long you stop for lunch. That freedom comes with a sense of responsibility – if something happens, you’re the one who’ll need to deal with it. But help is never more than a satellite phone call away and it’s a small price to pay for the sort of safari holiday that you’ll never forget. African Birdwatching Tours Africa offers some of the best birding safaris in the world. Birds are an integral part of the African landscape. Even on an ordinary safari, you can expect to see colorful bee-eaters and rollers, proud eagles and ostriches. Because it’s dominated by open savannah rather than dense rainforest, Africa tops the list for seeing a large number of species in the course of an ordinary holiday. Many leading African safari destinations boast a checklist of more than 500 bird species. These include Serengeti National Park (Tanzania), Kruger National Park (South Africa) and Queen Elizabeth National Park (Uganda). If you’ve been bitten by the birding bug, a specialist guided safari will maximize your sighting opportunities. African Walking Safaris Walking the wide, open African savannah in the company of an expert guide is the ultimate African safari experience. The guide can point out medicinal plants and tiny creatures and tell you stories of life in the bush. A long walking safari will give you a greater understanding of the ecosystem and its animals and plants than any jeep safari ever could. When you do see animals, it comes with the thrill of knowing that nothing stands between them and you. Altogether, a long walk through the African wilderness might be one of the greatest and most rewarding adventures you embark on. African Group Safaris & Tours Signing up to an African safari group tour is one of the most popular ways to go on safari. Having an expert plan the nitty-gritty of your safari package for you saves time and hassle. It means all you have to do is read up on African wildlife and hop on a plane. A small group tour can be a great way to see Africa. Special-interest group trips, such as bird watching, conservation or big cats, are recommended. A special-interest trip will put you in a group with like-minded people, and the guide will be an expert. Before jumping into a group safari though, there are a few things to consider. African Honeymoon Safaris Romance and indulgence go hand in hand with an African honeymoon safari. It’s the one holiday where you should pull out all the stops. Spoil yourselves and splash out on a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Africa is perhaps the most romantic continent on earth. It has everything from endless starlit skies and dramatic landscapes of shifting deserts to mighty rivers, open plains and the Great Rift Valley. Then there’s the spectacular wildlife, the stuff you’d only normally see on National Geographic or BBC Earth, right there in front of you. Add to that the beautiful beaches on Indian Ocean islands and friendly people, and the scene for your honeymoon is all set. African Photographic Safaris If you’re a photography enthusiast, you might want to consider booking an African photographic safari. Photography is a hobby shared by many. However, taking great wildlife photos requires dedication. By joining a photographic tour you will avoid ending up with a group of people taking selfies at every sighting. Instead, you'll be with people sharing your passion and dedication. Even if you’re accomplished as a photographer in another field, there’s still much you can learn from an experienced wildlife photographer and the skills of anticipating animal behavior. Wildlife photography on safari is unique in its need for patience and bush etiquette. You should never cross the line where your photography interferes with an animal’s existence. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

THE BATTLE OF BLOOD RIVER The Battle of Blood River is a significant event in South African history. It took place on December 16, 8, between the Voortrekkers, led by Andries Pretorius, and the Zulu army, led by King Dingane. The Voortrekkers emerged victorious, and the battle has since been commemorated as a public holiday known as the Day of Reconciliation. THE FULL STORY The Battle of Blood River (16 December 1838) was fought on the bank of the Ncome River , in what is today KwaZulu-Natal , South Africa between 464 Voortrekkers ("Pioneers"), led by Andries Pretorius , and an estimated 25,000 to 30,000 Zulu . Estimations of casualties amounted to over 3,000 of King Dingane 's soldiers dead, including two Zulu princes competing with Prince Mpande for the Zulu throne. Three Voortrekker commando members were lightly wounded, including Pretorius. The year 1838 was the most difficult period for the Voortrekkers from when they left the Cape Colony, till the end of the Great Trek. They faced many difficulties and much bloodshed before they found freedom and a safe homeland in their Republic of Natalia. This was only achieved after defeating the Zulu Kingdom, at the Battle of Blood River, which took place on Sunday 16 December 1838. This battle would not have taken place if the Zulu King had honoured the agreement that he had made with the Voortrekkers to live together peacefully. The Zulu king knew that they outnumbered the Voortrekkers and decided to overthrow them and that led to the Battle of Blood River. In January 1840 Prince Mpande finally defeated King Dingane in the Battle of Maqongqe and was subsequently crowned as new king of the Zulu by his alliance partner Andries Pretorius. After these two battles, Dingane's prime minister and commander in the Battle of Blood River, General Ndlela , who had also been Mpande’s personal protector, was strangled to death by Dingane for high treason. Background The carronade used during the battle on an improvised carriage Andries Pretorius brought with him from the Cape. The trekkers—called Voortrekkers after 1880—had to defend themselves after the betrayal murder of chief Trekker leader Piet Retief and his entire entourage, and ten days later the Weenen/Bloukrans massacre where "not a soul was spared." Dingane had agreed that, if Retief could recover approximately 700 head of cattle stolen from the Zulus by the Tlokwa , he would let them have land upon which to establish farms. On 6 February 1838, two days after the signing of a negotiated land settlement deal between Retief and Dingane at UmGungundlovu , written by Jan Gerritze Bantjes (1817–1887) which included Trekker access to Port Natal , which the British also had interest in, Dingane invited Retief and his party into his royal residence for a beer-drinking farewell. The accompanying request for the surrender of Trekker muskets at the entrance was taken as normal protocol when appearing before the king. While the Trekkers were being entertained by Dingane's dancing warriors/soldiers, Dingane suddenly accused the visiting party of witchcraft and ordered his men: "Bulalani abathakathi" (Kill the sorcerers...). Dingane's soldiers bludgeoned Retief's party to death. Immediately after the UmGungundlovu massacre, Dingane sent out his impis (regiments) to attack several Trekker encampments at night time, killing an estimated 500 men, women, children, and servants, most notably at Blaukraans . Help arrived from farmers in the Cape Colony, and the Trekkers in Natal subsequently requested the pro-independence Andries Pretorius to leave the Cape Colony, in order to defend the Voortrekkers who had settled in Natal. After the Battle of Blood River, the Dingane-Retief treaty written by Jan Gerritze Bantjes was found on Retief's bodily remains,[9] providing a driving force for an overt alliance against Dingane between Prince Mpande and Pretorius. War strategies of the generals On 26 November 1838, Andries Pretorius (1798–1853) was appointed as Commander of 64 wagons and 464+ heavily armed Boer combatants directed against Dingane at UmGungundlovu with Jan Gerritze Bantjes (1817–1882) as his war secretary. By December 1838, Prince Mpande and 17,000 followers had already fled from Dingane, who was seeking to assassinate Mpande. In support of Prince Mpande as Dingane's replacement, Pretorius' strategy was to target Dingane only. To allow Prince Mpande to oust King Dingane through military might, Pretorius had first to weaken Dingane's personal military power base in UmGungundlovu. Dingane's royal residence at UmGungundlovu was naturally protected against attack by hilly and rocky terrain all around, as well as an access route via Italeni passing through a narrow gorge called a defile . Earlier on 9 April 1838, a Trekker horse commando without ox wagons, thereafter called the "Flight Commando", had unsuccessfully attempted to penetrate the UmGungundlovu defense at nearby Italeni valley, resulting in the loss of several Trekker lives. Trekker leader Hendrik Potgieter had abandoned all hope of engaging Dingane in UmGungundlovu after losing the battle of Italeni, and subsequently had migrated with his group out of Natal. To approach UmGungundlovu via the Italeni defile with ox wagons would force the wagons into an open column, instead of an enclosed laager as successfully employed defensively at Veglaer on 12 August 1838. The military commander during Dingane's attack on Veglaer was Ndlela kaSompisi . The highly experienced general Ndlela had served under Shaka , and was also prime minister and chief advisor under Dingane. Ndlela with his 10,000 troops had retreated from Veglaer, after three days and nights of fruitless attempts to penetrate the enclosed Trekker wagon laager. General Ndlela personally protected Prince Mpande from Dingane's repeated assassination plans. King Dingane desired to have his half brother Mpande, the only prince with children, eliminated as a threat to his throne. Prince Mpande was married to Msukilethe, a daughter of general Ndlela. General Ndlela, like Pretorius the promoter of Prince Mpande, was responsible for Dingane's UmGungundlovu defense during the Trekkers' second attack attempt under Pretorius in December 1838. Given general Ndlela's previous defense and attack experience at Italeni and Veglaer during April 1838 and August 1838 respectively, Ndlela's tactical options were limited. Proven UmGungundlovu defense tactics were to attack Trekker commandos in the rocky and hilly terrain on the narrowing access route at Italeni, thereby neutralising the advantages mounted riflemen had over spear-carrying foot soldiers.[11] Ndlela had to let Pretorius come close to UmGungundlovu at Italeni and lure the Trekkers into attack. Ndlela was not to attack the Trekkers when they were in a defensive wagon laager position, especially not during the day. The problem for Pretorius was that he had somehow to find a way to make Dingane's soldiers attack him in a defensive laager position at a place of his choice, far away from UmGungundlovu and Italeni. On 6 December 1838, 10 days before the Battle of Blood River, Pretorius and his commando including Alexander Biggar as translator had a meeting with friendly Zulu chiefs at Danskraal , so named for the Zulu dancing that took place in the Zulu kraal that the Trekker commando visited. With the intelligence received at Danskraal, Pretorius became confident enough to propose a vow to God, which demanded the celebration, by the commando and their posterity, of the coming victory over Dingane. The covenant included that a church would be built in honour of God, should the commando be successful and reach UmGungundlovu alive in order to diminish the power of Dingane. Building a church in Trekker emigrant context was symbol for establishing a settled state. After the meeting with friendly Zulu chiefs at Danskraal, Pretorius let the commando relax and do their washing for a few days at Wasbank till 9 December 1838. From Wasbank they slowly and daily moved closer to the site of the Battle of Blood River, practising laager defence tactics every evening for a week long. Then, by halting his advance towards UmGungundlovu on 15 December 1838, 40 km before reaching the defile at Italeni, Pretorius had eliminated the Italeni terrain trap. Location and preparation On Saturday, 15 December 1838, after the Trekker wagons crossed the Buffalo River 10 km SW of the actual battle site and still 80 kilometres (50 mi) from their target UmGungundlovu, an advance scouting party including Pretorius got news of a large Zulu force in rugged terrain to the east trying to lure the Boers into a trap as had been the case in April the same year with fatal consequences. While Cilliers wanted to ride out and attack, Pretorius declined the opportunity to engage Dingane's soldiers away from their base as had been the trap at Italeni valley. Instead, Pretorius decided on a fortified laager on the terrain of his own choosing in the hope that general Ndlela would attack Pretorius on his terms rather than the other way around. As the site for the defensive wagon laager, Pretorius chose a defensible position close to a vertical 8m descent into a deep hippo pool in the Ncombe River providing excellent protection on two sides. The wide-open area to the front of the laager provided absolutely no cover for an attacking force. The battle was set with the laager protected on two flanks. As usual, the ox-wagons were drawn into the typical protective enclosure or laager. Movable wooden barriers and ladders which could be quickly opened for cavalry were fastened between the wagon wheels to prevent intruders, with two smoothbore, short barrel artillery pieces positioned at the corners. Andries Pretorius had brought a 6-pound naval carronade with him from the Cape, mounted on a gun carriage improvised from a wagon axle, and named Grietjie. The other ordnance piece is unknown in the original, but the reproduction depicts a 4-pound smoothbore cannon by then obsolete in most European armies. Both were used to fire devastating grapeshot . As evening approached, a thick mist settled over the wagon site above which the sky was clear. According to Afrikaner traditions, the Zulu were afraid to attack at the night due to superstitions and the eerie glow of lamps which the Boers hung on sjamboks [whip-stocks] around the laager. Whether or not there is any truth in this, historian S.P. Mackenzie has speculated that the Zulu held back until what they perceived as the necessary numbers had arrived. Some of the Zulus only arrived near sunrise by following the tracks of the wagons. Due to some recent heavy rains the Ncombe River was swollen making crossing the river difficult. During the night of 15 December, six Zulu regiments, an estimated 20,000 (or more) Zulu soldiers led by Dambuza (Nzobo), crossed the Ncome River and started massing around the encampment, while the elite forces of senior general Ndlela did not cross the river, thereby splitting the army in two. Battle On 16 December, dawn broke on a clear day, revealing that "all of Zululand sat there", according to one Trekker eyewitness. General Ndlela and his crack troops, the Black and White Shields, remained on the other side of the river, observing Dambuza's men at the laager from a safe position across the hippo pool. According to the South African Department of Art and Culture: In ceremonies that lasted about three days, izinyanga zempi, specialist war doctors, prepared izinteleze medicines which made warriors invincible in the face of their opponents. This could partly help explain why Dambuza's forces were sitting on the ground close to the wagon laager when the Trekkers first saw them. An artist's impression of the Battle of Blood River. Dambuza's regiments repeatedly stormed the laager but could not break through. The attackers were hindered by a change introduced during Shaka's rule that replaced most of the longer throwing spears with short stabbing spears. In close combat the stabbing spear provided obvious advantages over its longer cousin. A Zulu eyewitness said that their first charge was mown down like grass by the Boer muskets. As Bantjes wrote in his journal: Sunday, December 16 was like being newly born for us - the sky was clear, the weather fine and bright. We hardly saw the twilight of the break of day or the guards, who were still at their posts and could just make out the distant Zulus approaching. All the patrols were called back into the laager by firing alarm signals from the cannons. The enemy came forward at full speed and suddenly they had encircled the area around the laager. As it got lighter, so we could see them approaching over their predecessors who had already been shot back. Their rapid approach (though terrifying to witness due to their great numbers) was an impressive sight. The Zulus came in regiments, each captain with his men behind (as the patrols had seen them coming the day before) until they had surrounded us. I could not count them, but I was told that a captive Zulu gave the number at thirty-six regiments, each regiment calculated to be "nine hundred to a thousand men" strong. The battle now began and the cannons unleashed from each gate, such that the battle was fierce and noisy, even the discharging of small arms fire from our marksmen on all sides was like thunder. After more than two hours of fierce battle, the Commander in Chief gave orders that the gates be opened and mounted men sent to fight the enemy in fast attacks, as the enemy near constantly stormed the laager time and again, and he feared the ammunition would soon run out. With the power of their firearms and with their ox wagons in a laager formation and some effective tactics, the Boers fought off the Zulu. Buckshot was used to maximise casualties. Mackenzie claims that 200 indigenous servants looked after the horses and cattle and helped load muskets, but no definite proof or witness of servants helping to reload is available. Writing in the popular Afrikaans magazine Die Huisgenoot , a Dr. D.J. Kotze said that this group consisted of fifty-nine "non-white helpers and followers" instead of the commonly stated two hundred. After two hours and four waves of attack, with the intermittent lulls providing crucial reloading and resting opportunities for the Trekkers, Pretorius ordered a group of horsemen to leave the encampment and engage the Zulu in order to induce the disintegration of their formations. The Zulu withstood the charge for some time, but rapid losses led them to scatter. The Trekkers pursued their fleeing enemies and hunted them down for three hours. Cilliers noted later that "we left the Kafirs lying on the ground as thick almost as pumpkins upon the field that has borne a plentiful crop." Bantjes recorded that about 3,000 dead Zulu had been counted, and three Trekkers were wounded. During the chase, Pretorius was wounded in his left hand by an assegaai (Zulu spear). Of the 3,000 dead Zulu soldiers, two were princes, leaving Ndlela's favourite Prince Mpande as frontrunner in the subsequent battle for the Zulu crown. Four days after the Battle of Blood River, the Trekker commando arrived at King Dingane's great kraal UmGungundlovu (near present-day Eshowe ), only to find it deserted and in ashes. The bones of Retief and his men were found and buried, where a memorial stands today. Up to this day 16 December is a public holiday in South Africa; before 1994 it was known as "the Day of the Vow ", "the Day of the Covenant" and "Dingaan's Day"; but today it is "the Day of Reconciliation " Aftermath The conflict between Dingane and the Trekkers continued for one more year after the Battle of Blood River. The idea of a decisive victory may have been planted in Pretorius' mind by a Zulu prisoner, who said that most of Dingane's warriors had either been killed or fled. The same prisoner led some of the Trekker party into a trap at the White Umfolozi River , eleven days after the battle at Ncome River. This time the Zulu were victorious. Only when Dingane's brother, Mpande , openly joined the Trekker side with his sizeable army, was Dingane finally defeated in January 1840. Following the Battle of Maqongqe in January 1840, the forces of Mpande did not wait for Pretorius' cavalry to arrive, and they attacked the remaining regiments of Dingane, who were again under the command of General Ndlela. Ndlela strayed from normal fighting tactics against Mpande, sending in his regiments to fight one at a time, instead of together in ox horn formation. Maquongqe Dingane had to flee Natal completely, but before he did so, he had Ndlela slowly strangled by cow hide for high treason, on the grounds that he had fought for Mpande, with the same disastrous result for Dingane as at Ncome-Blood River. Dambusa, Dingane's other general, had already been executed by Mpande and Pretorius when he fell into their hands before the battle. Pretorius approved and attended the crowning of Zulu King Mpande in Pietermaritzburg . They agreed on the Tugela River as the border between Zululand and the Republic of Natalia . Legacy Popular Afrikaner interpretations of the Battle of Blood River (bolstered by sympathetic historians such as George Theal ) played a central role in fostering Afrikaner nationalism . They believe that the battle demonstrated God's intervention and hence their divine right to exist as an independent people. This is stated in the official guidebook of the Voortrekker Monument (unveiled during the centenary celebrations of the Great Trek on 16 December 1949) that Afrikaners were a nation of heroes exemplifies the conclusions drawn from such events. From the Day of the Vow, Afrikaners consider the site and the commemoration of the day as sacred. Historian S.P. Mackenzie doubts the reported number of Zulu deaths. He compares Zulu casualties at Ncome to battles at Italeni , Isandlwana , and Rorke's Drift . Mackenzie acknowledges that the casualty count was not impossible. Yet, in a similar victory on 15 October 1836 by Trekkers under Hendrik Potgieter over some 9,000 Matabele , the latter suffered only 350 casualties. In 1879, 600 British soldiers with breech-loading rifles caused 2,000 Zulu casualties, perhaps 1,000 killed over three hours before being overrun Ncome/Blood River monument Laager at the Blood River Memorial A church, called "the Church of the Vow ", was built in the Natal town of Pietermaritzburg in 1841, where Pretorius settled on the farm "Welverdient" (English: "Well-earned"), a gift from the Trekkers. A monument was erected on the site of the battle in 1947, consisting of an ox wagon executed in granite by the sculptor Coert Steynberg . In 1971 a laager of 64 ox wagons cast in bronze (by Unifront Foundry in Edenvale – Fanie de Klerk and Jack Cowlard) was erected, and unveiled on 16 December 1972. A stone representation at the Voortrekker Monument of the Laager formed at the Battle of Blood River The Ncome monument on the east side of the river commemorates the fallen Zulu warriors. While the Blood River Memorial is associated with Afrikaner nationalism, the Ncome monument was intended as a symbol of reconciliation—but has become connected with Zulu nationalism. At 16 December 1998 inauguration of the most recent version of the monument, the Zulu politician and then Minister of Home Affairs , Mangosuthu Buthelezi , apologised to the Afrikaner nation for the death of Piet Retief and the subsequent suffering. At the same time Buthelezi also noted the suffering of the Zulus during Apartheid . He stressed that South Africans needed to consider the day as "a new covenant which binds us to the shared commitment of building a new country." Today two complexes mark the battle site: the Ncome Monument and Museum Complex east of the Ncome River, and the Blood River Monument and Museum Complex to the west. Ndlela monument South Africa's ex-president, Jacob Zuma , attended the official inauguration of the Ndlela monument in Eshowe, Kwazulu-Natal. President Cyril Ramaphosa's 2019 speech On the Day of Reconciliation 2019, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa described the Voortrekkers as invaders and the Zulu army as "Freedom Fighters". Dirk Hermann, managing director of the trade union Solidarity , criticised this historical claim as inaccurate and as a "criminalisation of Afrikaner history", and emphasised the reconciliatory message of politician Mangosuthu Buthelezi . December 16, 1838 Short Introduction of the Battle Battle of Blood River, (December 16, 1838), battle between the Zulu and the Voortrekker Boers in South Africa. Its proximate cause was a clash over land rights in Natal and the massacre of Voortrekkers by the Zulu king Dingane. Context In the early 1800s the British colonized the Cape, sending Boer farmers in South Africa looking for areas outside of British rule. These people became known as Voortrekkers (Afrikaans: “Early Migrants”). The Voortrekker migration initially faced little resistance and eventually reached Natal, an area primarily occupied by the Zulu people. Conflict between the Voortrekkers and the Zulu began with negotiations over the proposed purchase of land in Natal. In November 1837 the Voortrekkers met with Dingane, the king of the Zulu. Dingane reportedly granted the Voortrekkers land between the Tugela River and the Mzimvubu River in the south, on the condition that they retrieve cattle stolen by the rebel chief Sikyonela. Piet Retief, leader of the Voortrekkers, agreed to this, and he and his men completed the task that was asked of them. They also took additional horses, cattle, and guns from Sikyonela and his people to supplement the Voortrekkers’ supplies. Dingane demanded that Retief deliver this additional booty to him, and Retief responded with a letter that invoked a previous Voortrekker military success over the Ndebele. Dingane interpreted this thinly veiled threat as evidence of a Voortrekker plot against him. When the Voortrekkers arrived with the cattle and horses they had retrieved, Dingane pretended to welcome them with open arms. He is said to have granted a treaty for the land but planned to kill the Boers before they could settle there. Dingane invited Retief and his men to a farewell celebration that would take place the next day, asking them to leave their weapons behind as a sign of respect. Ignoring the warnings of fellow Voortrekkers who suspected that treachery was afoot, Retief arrived the next day with approximately 69 followers to partake in celebrations. After traditional dances and celebrations, Dingane commanded his people to kill the Voortrekkers. Chaos commenced, and all the Voortrekkers present were killed, including Retief. Dingane then moved against the rest of the Voortrekker population, which had encroached into Zulu territory. With approximately 15,000 men, he marched to the foot of the Drakensberg mountains, where the Voortrekkers had built their laagers (encampments). The Zulu wiped these camps out swiftly, killing a number of women and children in the process. The Voortrekkers responded by marching on the Zulu capital of Mgungundlovu with a force under commandants Dirk Uys and Andries Potgieter. Along the way, they were attacked by the Zulu at Ithaleni, and Uys and many of his men were killed. Exhausted, the remaining Voortrekkers prepared for defeat. The Zulu attacked again on August 12, 1838, but this time the Voortrekkers were able to hold their own. The three-day engagement ended in a Zulu defeat, and the Voortrekkers’ spirits were lifted. Andries Pretorius took command of the Voortrekker forces and led them into Zululand on the offensive. Battle of Blood River, or Battle of Ncome River Monument marking the site of the Battle of Blood River in South Africa. The monument features 64 bronze wagons arranged as they were during the battle on December 16, 1838. A museum on the site provides the Voortrekker view of the battle, while across the Ncome River the Ncome Museum offers the Zulu perspective. Andries Pretorius took command of the Voortrekker forces and led them into Zululand on the offensive. Knowing that they were outnumbered, the Voortrekkers abandoned their plan of a direct assault on the Zulu capital. With the odds against them, the Voortrekkers made a vow to the Christian God: if they won the coming battle, they would build a church and celebrate the day as a holiday. According to Boer tradition, this ritual was performed each night until they reached the Zulu. When news arrived that the Zulu were approaching, the Voortrekkers took a position near the Ncome River. The site was strategically advantageous, as it was protected by a ravine to the south. On December 15, 1838, the Zulu attempted to cross the Ncome, but only half of the 15,000 men were able to, perhaps because of misty weather conditions. The next morning, the Zulu attacked, despite the fact that half their force remained on the other side of the river. The Voortrekkers were able to check the charging Zulu forces with their guns and cannons. After running out of ammunition, Pretorius sent 300 men on horseback to split the remaining Zulu army. The Zulu retreated at nightfall. Seeing that the Ncome River was red with the blood of fallen Zulu warriors, the Boers gave it the Afrikaans name Bloedrivier (Blood River). Aftermath Pretorius and the Voortrekkers arrived at Mgungundlovu on December 20, 1838, only to discover that it had been destroyed. Near the capital, on KwaMatiwane hill, the Voortrekker troops found the remains of Retief and his men. Retief was supposedly found with the treaty ceding land to the Voortrekkers still intact on his person, although contemporary historians question the veracity of this claim. Dingane fled to Swaziland, only to be killed by local chiefs. The Voortrekkers, intent on keeping their vow, built a church in Pietermaritzburg (named after their two fallen leaders, Retief and Gerrit Maritz). December 16 was celebrated as “Dingane’s Day” until 1910, when it was renamed “Day of the Vow.” After the end of apartheid in 1994, December 16 was renamed the “Day of Reconciliation” and is meant to foster a sense of national unity and racial harmony. Pietermaritzburg South Africa Written and fact-checked by Article History Pietermaritzburg Town hall in Pietermaritzburg, South Africa. Pietermaritzburg, South Africa Pietermaritzburg, city, capital of KwaZulu-Natal province, South Africa. It lies in the Msunduzi River valley, at the base of a tree-covered escarpment inland from Durban. Boers from the Cape Colony founded it in 1838 after a victory over the Zulus at Blood River and named it to honor their dead leaders Piet Retief and Gerrit Maritz. The British took control in 1843 and built Fort Napier (now a historical monument). Pietermaritzburg was incorporated in 1854 and was the capital of Natal (now KwaZulu-Natal) province from 1856 to 1994. It was co-capital with Ulundi of KwaZulu-Natal from 1994 to 1995, when Ulundi was designated the capital. This was reversed in 2004, when Pietermaritzburg was once again declared the capital of the province. Pietermaritzburg is known as the “City of Flowers” for its azaleas and roses and because it is the site of one of the country’s National Botanical Gardens. Butterflies for Africa, a butterfly conservation centre, is also in Pietermaritzburg. Other attractions are Alexandra Park, Wylie Park, the Bisley Nature Reserve, Queen Elizabeth Park, and many recreational facilities. At an elevation of 2,218 feet (676 meters), the city is a gateway to KwaZulu-Natal’s many game reserves and mountain resorts. Pietermaritzburg shares with Durban the University of KwaZulu-Natal (1910). There are many well-preserved late 19th-century government buildings in the city, such as the historic Old Supreme Court building, now home to the Tatham Art Gallery. Other cultural attractions include the Natal Museum; the Msunduzi Museum, which includes the Voortrekker Complex; and the KwaZulu-Natal Railway Museum. Pietermaritzburg is a growing business and industrial center. Its industries include the manufacture of furniture, footware, and aluminum ware and the processing of wattle extract. It has excellent highway and rail connections to Durban. Pop. (1996) urban agglom., 378,126; (2001) mun., 553,223. Natal historical province, South Africa Also known as: Terra Natalis Written and fact-checked by Article History historic provinces of South Africa Major Events: Battle of Blood River Battles of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift South Africa Act Great Trek Key People: Louis Botha Sir Theophilus Shepstone Andries Pretorius John Colenso Piet Retief Related Places: South Africa KwaZulu-Natal Hluhluwe Game Reserve Saint Lucia Game Reserve Natal, former province of South Africa. It was the smallest of the four traditional provinces and occupied the southeastern part of the country. The Portuguese navigator Vasco de Gama sighted the coast along what is now Durban on Christmas Day in 1497 and named the country Terra Natalis, after the Portuguese word (“Natal”) for Christmas. The Portuguese maintained a trading settlement farther north at Delagoa Bay from the 1540s. The interior of Natal had been occupied since the 16th century by the Nguni branch of the Bantu-speaking peoples. In the 1820s and ’30s the Zulu clan of the Nguni, under the successive leadership of Dingiswayo (1807–17), Shaka (1817–28), and Dingane (1828–40), developed highly trained regiments and new fighting tactics that enabled the Zulus to establish a powerful kingdom north of the Tugela River . Shaka launched devastating military campaigns south of the Tugela River that disrupted or destroyed the peoples in that area. Those not killed or conscripted by the Zulus fled to other regions or went into hiding, leaving much of the region temporarily depopulated. In the meantime, the British had established a trading post at Port Natal (now Durban) in 1824, and that same year they signed a treaty with Shaka ceding them Port Natal and about 50 miles (80 km) of coastline to a depth of 100 miles (160 km) inland. The British made little attempt to develop the interior, which continued to be decimated by the Zulus. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

WELCOME TO THE HOME OF AFRIKANER CULTURE WELCOME TO THE HOME OF AFRIKANER CULTURE The Voortrekker Monument is located just south of Pretoria in South Africa . The granite structure is located on a hilltop, and was raised to commemorate the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony between 1835 and 1854. It was designed by the architect Gerard Moerdijk . On 8 July 2011, the Voortrekker Monument was declared a National Heritage Site by the South African Heritage Resource Agency . The idea to build a monument in honour of the Voortrekkers was first discussed on 16 December 1888, when President Paul Kruger of the South African Republic attended the Day of the Covenant celebrations at Danskraal in Natal . However, the movement to actually build such a monument only started on 4 April 1931 when the Sentrale Volksmonumentekomitee (SVK; Central People's Monuments Committee) was formed to bring this idea to fruition. Construction started on 13 July 1937 with a sod-turning ceremony performed by the chairman of the SVK, Advocate Ernest George Jansen , on what later became known as Monument Hill. On 16 December 1938 the cornerstone was laid  by three descendants of some of the Voortrekker leaders: Mrs. J.C. Muller (granddaughter of Andries Pretorius ), Mrs. K.F. Ackerman (great-granddaughter of Hendrik Potgieter ) and Mrs. J.C. Preller (great-granddaughter of Piet Retief ). The monument was inaugurated on 16 December 1949 by Prime Minister D. F. Malan .[citation needed ] The total construction cost of the monument was about £ 360,000, most of which was contributed by the South African government. A large amphitheatre , which could seat approximately 20,000 people, was erected to the north-east of the monument in 1949. The Voortrekker Monument and Nature Reserve is more than just a heritage conservation site. It is the cultural home of the Afrikaner, where everyone is welcome. It is a beacon of hope that can be seen from any direction of Pretoria. It is a place of relaxation. The Voortrekker Monument offers the public the opportunity to learn more about the Afrikaner’s remarkable story of faith, heroism, perseverance, and a vision of the future to be where we are today. Why was the Voortrekker Monument erected? What is the symbolism behind each element and room that makes up this well-thought-out work of art? What is the history behind each of the other attractions that can also be seen on the site? Bring your family, friends or school group and come dig deeper to find answers to all these questions! Besides the rich history, the Voortrekker Monument is also a place of relaxation! Here you can enjoy outdoor activities like horse riding, jogging, walking and cycling, have a picnic or braai, drink coffee and enjoy traditional Boerekos! Come and visit the cultural home of the Afrikaner today and discover our heritage like never before! In 1835, thousands of people left the Cape Colony with all their possessions in search of freedom to create their own future. A future in which they could be free to live according to their view of their own lives and future. The Voortrekker Monument is the symbolic embodiment and representation of their journey woven with idealism, courage, perseverance, ingenuity and hope … for freedom. The Voortrekker Monument is, therefore, a symbol of an ideal of freedom. The Hall of Heroes is the first room visitors enter when they walk through the Monument’s front door. On the walls of the Hall of Heroes, the story of the Great Trek is depicted clockwise by 27 marble frieze panels. These are the longest continuous frieze panels in the world. Here, visitors can also learn more about the symbolism behind the widening circular patterns that cover the Hall of Heroes’ marble floor and the two remarkable domes above the Hall of Heroes. CENOTAPH HALL As you descend the stairs on either side of the Hall of Heroes, you reach the Cenotaph Hall. With the cenotaph in the middle, you stand in a massive room, surrounded by paintings that tell more about the day-to-day life of the Trekkers. The cenotaph is the central focal point of the Monument. The Historical Trek-Route Garden is a modern, interactive learn-while-you-explore outdoor exhibition where young and old can come and relax and learn about the Great Trek and the history of the Voortrekkers. The garden, which depicts the story of the Great Trek on a small scale, contains replicas of various monuments commemorating historical events across South Africa. Along with the replicas, there are also plaques with poems on them. These poems summarise the experience of the Great Trek strikingly by lyrically reflecting on the role that the ox wagons, the Bible, the children and the Vow played during the Great Trek. PANARAMA : OF THE VOORTREKKER MONUMENT Voortrekker Monument North Roof in Tshwane The great grey colossus of the massive Voortrekker Monument can be seen from all directions as you approach Pretoria. Built in honour of the Voortrekkers (Pioneers), who left the Cape Colony in their thousands between 1835 and 1854. The Voortrekker Monument is the biggest monument in Africa, and is a nature reserve. The Voortrekk Monument's dimentions are 40 meters wide, by 40 meters wide, by 40 meters high. A Cube. The cornerstone was laid by Mrs. J.C. Muller (granddaughter of Andries Pretorius), Mrs. K.F. Ackerman (great granddaugther of Hendrik Potgieter), and Mrs. J.C. Preller (great granddaughter of Piet Retief) on 16 December 1938. Eleven years later the Monument was inaugurated on 16 December 1949. The total cost for the construction of the Monument came to £359,600, of which the state contributed the most.Additional funds were obtained through donations, special stamp sales, commemorative envelopes, souvenirs and publications.This image was taken on the north east side of the roof, 60 meters above the ground. Camera was mounted on a 4.5 meter high pole. Full Virtual Tour of the Voortrekker Monument. Voortrekker Monument Hall of Heroes in Tshwane The Hall of Heroes is the main central hall of the Voortrekker Monument. It is a high domed hall, 25x25x41 metres, with marble floors and an impressive marble frieze (92 metres long and 2,3 metres high), depicting historical scenes from the Great Trek. Four huge arched windows made from yellow Belgian glass flank the hall and give the impression that the area is a revered place, like a temple. Below the Hall of Heroes is the Cenotaph Hall, and museum. Full Virtual Tour of the Voortrekker Monument. Main features 01 Main features The Voortrekker Monument is 40 metres high, with a base of 40 metres by 40 metres. The building shares architectural resemblance with European monuments such the Dôme des Invalides in France and the Völkerschlachtdenkmal in Germany but also contains African influences.The two main points of interest inside the building are the Historical Frieze and the Cenotaph. South window and frieze Historical Frieze The main entrance of the building leads into the domed Hall of Heroes. This massive space, flanked by four huge arched windows made from yellow Belgian glass, contains the unique marble Historical Frieze which is an intrinsic part of the design of the monument. It is the biggest marble frieze in the world. The frieze consists of 27 bas-relief panels depicting the history of the Great Trek , but incorporating references to every day life, work methods and religious beliefs of the Voortrekkers. The set of panels illustrates key historical scenes starting from the first voortrekkers of 1835, up to the signing of the Sand River Convention in 1852. In the centre of the floor of the Hall of Heroes is a large circular opening through which the Cenotaph in the Cenotaph Hall can be viewed. The Cenotaph Cenotaph The Cenotaph , situated in the centre of the Cenotaph Hall, is the central focus of the monument. In addition to being viewable from the Hall of Heroes it can also be seen from the dome at the top of the building, from where much of the interior of the monument can be viewed. Through an opening in this dome a ray of sunlight shines at twelve o'clock on 16 December annually, falling onto the centre of the Cenotaph, striking the words 'Ons vir Jou, Suid-Afrika' (Afrikaans for 'We're for you, South Africa'), a line from 'Die Stem van Suid-Afrika '. The ray of light symbolises God's blessing on the lives and endeavours of the Voortrekkers. 16 December 1838 was the date of the Battle of Blood River , commemorated in South Africa before 1994 as the Day of the Vow . The Cenotaph Hall is decorated with the flags of the different Voortrekker Republics and contains wall tapestries depicting the Voortrekkers as well as several display cases with artefacts from the Great Trek. Against the northern wall of the hall is a niche with a lantern in which a flame has been kept burning ever since 1938. It was in that year that the Symbolic Ox Wagon Trek , which started in Cape Town and ended at Monument Hill where the Monument's foundation stone was laid, took place. Visitors to the monument enter through a black wrought iron gate with an assegai (spear) motif. After passing through the gate one finds oneself inside a big laager consisting of 64 ox-wagons made out of decorative granite.  The same number of wagons were used at the Battle of Blood River to form the laager.[citation needed ] Voortrekker woman and children by Anton van Wouw Statue of Piet Retief At the foot of the monument stands Anton van Wouw 's bronze sculpture of a Voortrekker woman and her two children, paying homage to the strength and courage of the Voortrekker women. On both sides of this sculpture black wildebeest are chiselled into the walls of the monument. The wildebeest symbolically depicts the dangers of Africa and their symbolic flight implies that the woman, carrier of Western civilisation, is triumphant. On each outside corner of the monument there is a statue, respectively representing Piet Retief , Andries Pretorius , Hendrik Potgieter and an "unknown" leader (representative of all the other Voortrekker leaders).  Each statue weighs approximately 6 tons .[citation needed ] At the eastern corner of the monument, on the same level as its entrance, is the foundation stone. Under the foundation stone is buried: A copy of the Trekker Vow on 16 December 1838. A copy of the anthem "Die Stem". A copy of the land deal between the Trekkers under Piet Retief and the Zulus under king Dingane. 02 German links According to Alta Steenkamp, the masonic subtext of the Monument to the Battle of the Nations (Völkerschlachtdenkmal) in Leipzig , Germany, is reflected in the Voortrekker Monument because the architect, Gerard Moerdijk , had used the geometric order and spatial proportions of the Völkerschlachtdenkmal. This Germanisation of the Voortrekker Monument occurred after Moerdijk's initial design had caused a public outcry in the South African press for its resemblance to an Egyptian temple . In Moerdijk's initial design, the monument consisted of a causeway linking two Egyptian obelisks . Finalising his design of the Voortrekker Monument, Moerdijk visited Egypt in 1936, including the Karnak Temple Complex in Thebes . In Thebes, the pharaoh Akhenaten , Nefertiti 's husband, had erected three sun sanctuaries, including the Hwt-benben ('mansion of the Benben '). The most prominent aspect of Moerdijk's monument is the annual mid noon sun illumination of the Benben stone, the encrypted cenotaph. The cenotaph is the symbolic tomb of Piet Retief and his delegation. In the years preceding World War II, several Afrikaner nationalists travelled to Germany for academic, political and cultural studies. In 1928 Moerdijk visited Germany, and viewed the Amarna bust of Nefertiti on public display in Berlin. By 1934 Chancellor Hitler had decided that Germany would not return the Amarna bust of Nefertiti to Egypt . He instead announced the intention to use the Amarna bust as the central show piece of the thousand years Third Reich , in a revitalised Berlin to be renamed Germania . Likewise Moerdijk's thousand years monument with Amarna sun symbol at its centre, became Afrikaner nationalists' centre show piece of their capital Pretoria. 03 Round floor opening Looking from the sky dome downwards, a chevron pattern on the floor of the Hall of Heroes, radiates outwards like 32 sun rays. In Moerdijk's architecture, the natural sun forms the 33rd ray through the floor opening. Moerdijk said the chevron pattern on the floor depicts water,as does the double chevron hieroglyph from the civilisation of ancient Egypt . Moerdijk stated that all roads on the terrain of building art lead back to ancient Egypt .  Based on Moerdijk's reference to the watery floor of the Hall of Heroes, as well as his statements about ancient Egypt , the floor opening may be identified with the watery abyss , as in the creation theology of ancient African civilisation . Rising out of this watery abyss, was the primeval mound, the Benben stone, to symbolise a new creation. Religious sun ray Gerard Moerdijk was the chief architect of 80 Protestant churches in South Africa . Moerdijk adhered to Reformed church tradition and thus his Renaissance trademark, the Greek-cross floorplan, always focused on the pulpit and preacher. In Protestant theology, the word of God is central.122  Moerdijk created a similar central focus in the Voortrekker Monument, but in vertical instead of horizontal plane, and in African instead of European style. The monument's huge upper dome features Egyptian backlighting  to simulate the sky, the heavenly abode of God. Through the dome a sun ray penetrates downwards, highlighting words on 16 December at noon. The sky oriented words: "US FOR YOU SOUTH AFRICA", are Moerdijk's focus point. These words are taken from an anthem, Die Stem : "We will live, we will die, we for thee South-Africa". The same anthem ends: "It will be well, God reigns." Thus the sun ray simulates a connection between the words on the Cenotaph and the heavenly abode above, a communication between God and man. The actual sun ray itself forms a 33rd sun ray shining onto the stone in the midst of floor opening. Heavenly vow In Moerdijk's biblical theology, God communicates in two ways: through scripture and nature.Moerdijk merges both methods, by using the sun in his simulation. Relief of an ox-wagon on the laager wall The Vow of the Trekkers was commemorated on 16 December as the Day of the Vow . On 16 December, the appearance of an illuminating sun disc on the wording of the Cenotaph stone, transform their meaning as per the Philosophers Stone of the alchemists. Instead of man below making an earthly vow, the sun shifts the focus upwards to the trinitarian god of the Trekkers, as it is God who communicates through Moerdijk's sun architecture, making Himself a heavenly vow with the words: WE – as in GOD – FOR THEE SOUTH-AFRICA. Thus God in the trinitarian tradition of the Trekkers, speaks a vow within the sun disc illuminating the words on the Cenotaph. The Trekker belief that God was for South Africa originates from the 9–16 December 1838 vow of Trekker leader Andries Pretorius at Blood River, who at around the same time made military and political alliances with Christian Zulus like prince Mpande . Egyptian origin Moerdijk was an outspoken supporter of ancient Egyptian architecture. Moerdijk referred to Africa's greatness as imparted by ancient Egyptian constructions at the inauguration of the Voortrekker Monument. Before his Voortrekker Monument proposal was accepted, Moerdijk and Anton van Wouw had been working in alliance for many years on their "dream castle" project: a modern African-Egyptian Voortrekker Temple in South-Africa. Van Wouw and Frans Soff had earlier employed the Egyptian obelisk , a petrified ray of the African Aten , as central motif for the National Women's Monument in Bloemfontein , South Africa , itself likewise inaugurated on the Day of the Vow , 16 December 1913. Whilst finalising the design of the Voortrekker Monument in 1936,Moerdijk went on a research trip to Egypt . There he visited the Karnak Temple Complex at Thebes ,  where an African Renaissance had flourished under Pharaoh Akhenaten , Nefertiti 's husband. The open air temples of Akhenaten to the Aten incorporated the Heliopolitan tradition of employing sun rays in architecture, as well as realistic wall reliefs or friezes. Moerdijk also visited the Cairo Museum , where a copy of the Great Hymn to the Aten is on display, some verses of which remind of Psalm 104. Moerdijk's wife Sylva related that he was intimately acquainted with ancient Egyptian architecture,and was strongly influenced architecturally by his visit to Egypt. Architectural purpose Looking upwards at mid noon on 16 December reveals a dot within a circle, the ancient African-Egyptian hieroglyph for the monotheistic creator god Aten Looking downwards from the dome The architect, Gerard Moerdijk , stated that the purpose of a building had to be clearly visible.  The aspect of the sun at mid-noon in Africa, was during Nefertiti's time known as Aten . In Egyptian hieroglyphics , Aten was written as a sun dot enclosed by a circle. The Aten-hieroglyph is depicted in the Voortrekker Monument when the sun shines through an aperture in the top dome. Likewise, looking downwards from the top dome walkway, the round floor opening is seen to encircle the sun disc illumination. Moerdijk's message as implied by the wall frieze: by exodus out of the British Cape Colony , God created a new civilisation inland. In order to give thanks to this new creation of civilisation, Moerdijk, recalling Abraham of old, outwardly designed the Voortrekker Monument as an altar Monument complex In the years following its construction, the monument complex was expanded several times and now includes: An indigenous garden that surrounds the monument. The Wall of Remembrance dedicated to those who died while serving in the South African Defence Force (SADF). Fort Schanskop , a nearby fort built in 1897 by the government of the South African Republic after the Jameson Raid . It is currently a museum and was added to the monument complex in June 2000. The Schanskop open-air amphitheatre with seating for 357 people that was officially opened on 30 January 2001. A garden of remembrance. A nature reserve was declared on 3.41 km2 around the monument in 1992. Game found on the reserve include Zebras , Blesbok , Mountain Reedbuck , Springbok , Black Wildebeest and Impala . A Wall of Remembrance that was constructed near the monument in 2009. It was built to commemorate the members of the South African Defence Force (SADF) who died in service of their country between 1961 and 1994. An Afrikaner heritage centre, which was built in order to preserve the heritage of the Afrikaans -speaking portion of South Africa 's population and their contribution to the history of the country. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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FAMILY ATTRACTIONS IN SOUTH AFRICA Looking for the most epic things to do in South Africa with kids? I’ve got you covered! South Africa was my 1-year-old son’s 10th country he visited, and one my partner and I have both been to multiple times. I love it so much, I’ve spent nearly 4 months there over the course of my life, and while I loved it as a solo traveler, I wondered how visiting South Africa would be with kids. We found that, from penguin encounters to some of the continent’s best wildlife, this destination truly has it all for the little ones. Get ready to embark on a family journey filled with excitement, wonder, and loads of sunshine as we explore the best kid-friendly activities in South Africa, starting in Cape Town. Quick Picks for Your Stay If you are here only to find the most amazing adventures for families in South Africa, here are the main tours to book in advance: Have a penguin encounter at Boulders Beach Go on a snorkeling adventure at Hout Bay Join a full-day safari adventure at Addo Elephant National Park 1. Meet African penguins at Boulders Beach Opening its sandy shores from 8 AM to 6:30 PM, Boulders Beach is not your average beach day. Get up close and personal with adorable African penguins, as your kids splash in the calm, shallow waters under the watchful gaze of these tuxedo-clad friends. The Boulders Beach penguin colony is one of the most famous things to see in the area, and for good reason. You don’t get to combine penguins and a beach day all that often! Entrance for adults is around 176 South African Rand or ZAR (US$10) and kids cost 88 ZAR (US$5). If you want to explore Boulders Beach and the surrounding area, then you should take this half-day tour which leaves from Cape Town, so you don’t have to plan anything! NOTE: Check the tide charts before you go and try to go at low tide, or the beach won’t be a beach! TOUR PRICE: US$36 per adult, and US$27 for children (3-11) Save your spot 2. Experience the amazing views from Table Mountain Table Mountain, the iconic backdrop to Cape Town, offers more than just a stunning view. Take the little ones on a cable car ride from 8 AM to sunset for breathtaking vistas of the city and the sea. Much of the area is travel stroller and wheelchair friendly if you’re traveling with a little guy like we were. Kids under 4 ride free, while children aged 4-17 can join in on the fun for 300 ZAR (US$17). But keep in mind that there are usually long lines, so if you don’t want to have to wait, then you grab these fast track + skip the line tickets . Or if you are feeling more adventurous, then you can climb up the mountain by going on a summit walk for the whole family. PRICE: US$106 per person aged 12+ Check availability Subscribe here to get up to 35% off your accommodation for your next trip! 3. Explore the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Open from 8 AM to 7 PM, Kirstenbosch is a paradise for nature-loving families. Let the kids roam freely in the magical treetop canopy walkway or attend a Sunday concert on the lawns. If you’re a plant lover like me, you’ll see plenty of flowers and trees that are unique to the area and that you may have never seen before! PRICE: 80 ZAR (US$5) for adults, and kids under 6 enter for free. Related article: 14 South African Safari Lodges for Every Mood You HAVE to See! 4. See the Animals at the The Two Oceans Aquarium Dive into the wonders of the ocean at the Two Oceans Aquarium from 9:30 AM to 6 PM (hours change seasonally). With interactive exhibits, feeding shows, and a touch-and-learn area, your little marine biologists will be in their element. Tickets start at 200 ZAR for adults, and kids under 4 enter free. You can visit the aquarium as part of this amazing full-day private family tour with all kinds of kid-friendly activities in Cape Town, plus a little wine-tasting bonus for the adults! TOUR PRICE: US$100 for adults, US$50 for children aged 3 to 11 Book your spot 5. Get a taste of seaside village life at Hout Bay For a taste of the seaside village life, head to Hout Bay. Explore the harbor, visit the bustling market, or take a boat trip to Seal Island. The cost varies depending on your chosen activities, but many are family-friendly and budget-friendly. For instance, you can go on an incredible snorkeling experience and have the opportunity to swim with local cape fur seals at Hout Bay’s Duiker Island. PRICE: $52 per person (children 9 and under aren’t permitted) Go on a snorkeling adventure 6. Have some family fun time at Imhoff Farm in Kommetjie Just a hop, skip, and a jump away from Hout Bay, Imhoff Farm opens its doors from 9 AM to 5 PM and is a great combo to do with Hout Bay. Kids will love the farmyard, pony rides, and snake park, making it an ideal family day out with farm animals. PRICE: free entrance, activity prices range from 50 ZAR (US$3) to 150 ZAR (US$9). Related article: 25 Local Tips for Things to Do in Johannesburg (+Hidden Gems!) 7. Relax for the day at Llandudno Beach Sink your toes into the golden sands of Llandudno Beach, open 24/7. Known for its gentle waves and stunning sunsets, it’s the perfect spot for a family beach day while in Cape Town. If your kids are anything like mine, playing in the sand is one of the top things to do! Pack a picnic and enjoy the natural beauty at no cost. 8. Learn more about history at Robben Island Uncover the rich history of South Africa by taking a ferry to Robben Island. Tours include a visit to the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held. While this might not be the best activity for every kid out there, the tour includes a boat ride out to the island and an understanding of South Africa’s Apartheid era. For older kids who are into history, this is important to understand how South Africa’s history shaped the country you see today. PRICE: US$54 for adults, US$27 for kids Book your island tour Now that we’ve explored the wonders of Cape Town, let’s venture westward to discover more family-friendly wildlife escapes. Though many visitors just explore Cape Town, there’s honestly so much more to see well beyond it, including some of my favorite parts of the country. 9. Hike in nature at Tsitsikamma National Park (Eastern Cape) For a perfect blend of nature and adventure, head to Tsitsikamma National Park , located in the Eastern Cape. This province is one of the most breathtaking in the country, and worth spending several days visiting. Open from 7 AM to 6 PM, the park offers family-friendly hikes along the Storms River Mouth on the Garden Route. Encounter the iconic suspension bridge and marvel at the stunning coastal scenery. Entrance is 296 ZAR (US$17) for adults, and kids under 12 enter for free. If you are looking for a more adventurous activity in the beautiful surroundings of the National Park, then you can go on a guided quad bike tour through the wild landscape of Tsitsikamma on this excursion in your Garden Route trip. TOUR PRICE: US$42 for adults, and US$21 for children 3 to 15 Join a quad bike tour 10. Visit Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary (Plettenberg Bay) Continue your adventure at Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary , open from 8 AM to 5 PM. Stroll through the lush forest as monkeys roam freely in the world’s first multi-species, free-roaming monkey sanctuary. Educational and entertaining, it’s an amazing experience the kids will talk about for days, and the guides are clearly so passionate about the monkeys. Just be sure to wear lots of mosquito repellent. They even provide it at the park! Tickets are 350 ZAR (US$20) for adults, 175 (US$10) for kids, and babies under 3 enter for free. If you want to learn more about the monkey population from a guide, you can take this tour and discover cool facts about the 11 different species living in Monkeyland. PRICE: from US$39 per adult, and US$19 per child between 3 and 12 Join a guided tour of Monkeyland 11. Go bird watching at Birds of Eden (Plettenberg Bay) Adjacent to Monkeyland, Birds of Eden provides a spectacular experience for bird enthusiasts. Open from 8 AM to 5 PM, this free-flight bird sanctuary showcases a variety of feathered friends in a vast, natural environment. You can get a combo ticket with Monkeyland for 590 ZAR (US$32) per adult and 295 (US$16) per child. If you are visiting during the high season (November to March), then you can also get a skip-the-line ticket that allows you to book in advance, and you can also get a complimentary guide! PRICE: US$20 for adults and US$10 for kids Get your skip the line ticket 12. Elephant encounter at Knysna Elephant Park Have a gentle encounter with these magnificent creatures at Knysna Elephant Park , open from 8 AM to 4:30 PM. Kids can touch and feed the elephants, creating lasting memories. Of course, you want your elephant experience to be ethical! Knysna Elephant Park over the last 25 years has cared for and raised more than 40 elephants. These animals include relocated animals, orphaned calves, elephants rescued from culls, and ex-circus animals. Most importantly, there is no elephant riding. Another awesome thing about this activity is that you can stay overnight at the lodge to watch them peacefully sleeping from the viewing balcony. Such a cool experience! PRICE: Tickets start at 950 ZAR (US$52) for adults and kids over 5, while those under 5 enter for free. 13. Go on a safari at Addo Elephant National Park After seeing domesticated elephants, you’ve got to see wild African elephants as well! It’s the perfect way to get the best of both worlds. Spot elephants, big cats, and other wildlife at Addo Elephant National Park (Easter Cape) open from 7 AM to 6:30 PM. Entrance is 397 (US$22) for adults and 119 (US$7) for kids. However, the best way to see and learn more about all the animals you will encounter is to go on a half-day guided safari of the park. And if time permits, you can also take a full-day safari tour with Braai lunch! PRICE: full-day US$155 per person, half-day US$75 Go on a full-day safari adventure 14. Spot majestic birds at Oudtshoorn Safari Ostrich Farm Delve into the world of these large flightless birds at the Oudtshoorn Safari Ostrich Farm, open from 8 AM to 4 PM. Kids can interact with ostriches, and the whole family can enjoy an informative tractor tour. In the tour , the whole family can feed the birds and hear stories about them from the guide. TOUR PRICE: US$10 per adult, and free for children under 18 Book a spot on the tour 15. Discover the animals at Cango Wildlife Ranch For a hands-on wildlife experience, visit the Cango Wildlife Ranch in Oudtshoorn from 8 AM to 5 PM. Cango Wildlife Ranch is a multi-accredited conservation destination, open year-round with over 90 species of beloved animals. Enjoy their fun and educational guided tours, unique encounter programs, and even the World’s 1st Croc-Cage Dive! Encounter cheetahs, crocodiles, and lemurs, and learn about conservation efforts. PRICE: 210 ZAR (US$12) for adults, 130 ZAR (US$7) for kids under 12, free for kids under 4 16. Swim and surf at Durban Beaches Hop over to Durban for some sun, sea, and surf! The beaches in Durban, including Umhlanga and Ballito , offer warm waters and expansive shores. You can also go whale watching along the coastline, so check that out while you’re here! Enjoy a family day out with sandcastle building and beach games. The cost? Totally free! Related article: 14 Luxurious Hotels to Splash Your Cash in Cape Town → from Oceanfront to City Break! 17. Hike at Golden Gate Highlands National Park Journey to the Free State for a nature escape at Golden Gate Highlands National Park . Hike through golden sandstone cliffs, and keep an eye out for wildlife. The park gets its name from the way that the sun hits the cliffs as it sets, creating a golden color! Hiking is pretty easy here, though you’ll want a hiking backpack carrier for the littlest in your crew. NOTE: Be sure to get out of the park before it’s completely dark, as wildlife frequently crosses the road. That’s great advice for anywhere in South Africa. PRICE: 266 ZAR (US$15) for adults, 133 ZAR (US$7) for kids. 18. Discover fossils at Cradle of Humankind Embark on a historical journey at the Cradle of Humankind in Gauteng, a UNESCO World Heritage site open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Explore the Maropeng Visitor Centre and Sterkfontein Caves for an immersive experience in human evolution. This is said to be the exact place where humanity originated, plus the area is gorgeous! It’s an easy drive from Johannesburg, should you be starting or ending your trip there. Tickets to the exhibition center are 190 ZAR (US$11) for adults, and kids under 4 enter for free. If you want to get a whole other experience of the site then you should take a guided tour to explore one of the world’s richest concentrations of hominid fossils. TOUR PRICE: US$85 per person Join a guided tour 19. Go on a thrilling Magaliesberg Canopy Tour Better for older kids, thrill-seekers in the family will love the Magaliesberg Canopy Tour , open from 7 AM to 3 PM. Soar through the treetops on a zip-line adventure with stunning mountain views. The kids will love it! Don’t forget to wear comfortable clothing and closed-toe shoes! PRICE: 695 ZAR (US$38) per person Related article: 3 TOP Areas to Stay in Zanzibar + Hotels for a Party Vacay! 20. Explore Kruger National Park (Limpopo and Mpumalanga) You can’t go to South Africa without spending a few days in what is possibly the best safari destination in Africa! For a chance to see the big 5 – elephants, rhinos, cape buffalos, lions, and leopards – Kruger delivers, all with paved roads that you can drive in a Ford Fiesta. I should know, I’ve done it many times! Plus, this makes safari with a baby, if you have one in tow, much easier since babies are often not allowed in open-air safari vehicles. Being able to self-drive with younger kids is a game changer! This is a huge park, so stay at some of the camps within the park and give it at least a few days of your trip. I recommend Sleepover Orpen Gate , just a few mins drive from the park, for family rooms and a relaxed vibe! Adults cost 486 ZAR (US$27) per day and children are 243 ZAR (US$13). If you don’t want to drive by yourself, then you can book a full-day private safari where you’ll explore 7,523 square miles (19,485 square kilometers) with a safari guide who’ll share his knowledge of the animals with you. South Africa for Kids Here are some interesting facts about South Africa for kids which were chosen and researched by kids especially for kids. South Africa's famous Blyde River Canyon South Africa Facts | Country Facts Population: 63 million people live in South Africa (2024) Capital city: Pretoria with 3 million inhabitants Pretoria's nickname is "The Jacaranda City" due to the many jacaranda trees. In South Africa, the city is referred to as 'Tshwane' as the municipality changed its name in 2007. However, South Africa has three capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein Name: Republic of South Africa Nelson Mandela 1918-2013 Government: Democracy Languages: 12 official languages: isiZulu, Afrikaans, English, isiXhosa, siSwati, Sesotho, Xitsonga, Sepedi, isiNdebele, Setswana, Tshivenda, sign language Religion: mainly Christians (86%) and Muslims (2%), but also Jews and other faiths. Currency: 1 South African rand (ZAR) = 100 cents Economy: South Africa is the world's largest producer of platinum group metals, gold and chromium. South Africa is part of the African Union and the BRICS countries. Listen to the Anthem National Symbols: Protea (flower), Springbok (antelope) and others. Read more here. National Day: 27 April (Freedom Day) History: South Africa was colonised by the British and Dutch and the people suffered massively during Apartheid which came to an end when Nelson Mandela was releases from prison in 1990 and became the first democratically elected leader in South Africa in 1994. President: Cyril Ramaphosa South Africa for Kids South Africa Geography South Africa is the southernmost country on the African continent. South Africa shares borders with six countries: Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe in the North, and Mozambique in the East, as well as with Eswatini and Lesotho. South Africa encloses two landlocked African countries which are Lesotho and Eswatini (formerly called Swaziland) which borders also Mozambique. Both these African countries are kingdoms. South Africa is about as big as the land area of France and Spain combined or twice the size of the state of Texas / USA. It takes a 12-hour flight from London/England to fly to reach Johannesburg or a 12-hour flight from Singapore and a flight from New York/ USA to Johannesburg is longer than 17 hours. Cape Point/South Africa In South Africa, the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet off the Southern Cape coast. The southernmost point in South Africa is at Cape Agulhas which is roughly 120 km/ 75 miles to the east of Cape Town. In the image to the right, however, you see Cape Point, the southernmost point of the Cape Peninsula. South Africa for Kids Geography South Africa has various mountain ranges such as the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg, the Magaliesberg or the Cederberg mountains. There is a narrow coastal stretch and in the interior of the country, you will find a high plateau. The highest mountain in South Africa is Mafadi Peak, which is on the border to Lesotho. Mafadi Peak is 3,450 m/ 11,319 ft high. Mafadi Peak In the north of the country, you will find the Kalahari Desert which borders neighbouring countries Namibia and Botswana. The Kalahari is part of the 'highveld', the highlands of the country. Johannesburg is the largest city of South Africa and lies on this plateau at 1,700 m/ 5,577 ft above sea level. However, most of the bigger cities such as Cape Town and Durban are located near the coast in low-lying areas. The longest river in South Africa is the Orange River with 2,432 km/ 1,511 miles. The river runs through the northern parts of the country and passes through an 18 km/ 11 miles long gorge at Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape. Augrabies Falls in the 2022 floods of the Orange River The Orange River also forms part of the border between Namibia and South Africa. The river rises in Lesotho and reaches the Atlantic Ocean in Oranjemund (Namibia). The river is also referred to as Oranje or Gariep by the Afrikaans people or !Garib by the local Nama people. There are various climatic regions in South Africa which has mild to hot days in summer and very cold nights and rain (and snowfall in some regions) in winter. Read more. Especially in the mountain ranges of the Drakensberg region, there is snow in winter and you even can go skiing in South Africa. Tiffindell is the most popular winter resort town. Sometimes also the higher mountain tops in the Western Cape near Cape Town receive some snow in winter. But there is no snow in the city or in the towns along the coastline. Although the snow might be enough for a snowball fight, it certainly is not enough to go skiing. Did you know, that the Tugela Falls in the Drakensberg are the second-highest waterfalls in the world? There are five falls with a combined total drop of 948 m/ 3,110 ft! Famous "Amphitheatre" mountains in the Drakensberg with Tugela river The country name is displayed as ZA which stands for Zuid Africa. The word zuid is Afrikaans and means "south". South Africa for Kids: South Africa Attractions Muizenberg beach huts Cape Town: Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront, Atlantic and Indian Ocean beaches such as the stunning surf beach in Muizenberg. More about Cape Town attractions here Garden Route and the Eastern Cape for amazing pristine beaches and traditional lifestyle Kruger National Park for safaris and great wildlife viewing Sun City near Pretoria for fun and games galore with amazing wave pool and lots of things to do for the whole family Elephants Addo National Park near Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) for animal and especially famous for elephant-spotting Durban for surfing and great beaches and the KwaZulu-Natal midlands for some insights into South African history iSimangeliso (formerly called St Lucia Wetlands) for wildlife viewing and unspoilt nature Drakensberg Mountains for hiking and nearby neighbouring country Lesotho for skiing in Africa South Africa for Kids: Animals Wildlife in South Africa is abundant. There are many species of antilope such as kudu, springbok, wildebeest, impala, oryx and gemsbok. When you go on safari you can see many other South African animals like lions, elephants, giraffes and monkeys. Or admire the fabulous Cape vultures or the cute African penguins at Boulders Beach or in Betty's Bay. African Penguin South Africa is home to the great white shark as well. This large predatory fish lives in the ocean waters here too. Sometimes beaches are closed for bathing due to the sharks in the bays. Many beaches have shark nets. Remember to only swim in the sea where there are lifeguards on duty. Whale watching is very popular in South Africa too and you will encounter an enormous sea life in South Africa when you go on a boat trip. Read more about animals in South Africa on our special page here or click on the image. South Africa for Kids South Africa People South Africa is often called the 'Rainbow Nation', because there are so many different languages are spoken and different cultural traditions are lived. Below you see people of the Ndebele tribe. Women of the Ndebele people South Africa is often called "The Cradle of Humankind", because archaeological artefacts, tools and human remains proof that people lived in the area more than 100,000 years ago. The ancient San and the Khoi were the early African civilizations settling the Cape. There are only few descendants of the local San people living in remote areas in the Karoo desert and near the Cape West Coast. Zulu woman showing a wire basket The biggest South African population group, the Zulu, mainly live in rural settlements in KwaZulu-Natal, they even have a king. Portuguese, Dutch, British, French and German explorers have traveled and populated southern Africa in the 17th and 18th century and therefore you can find many European influences in South Africa too. Read more about the 11 official languages in South Africa and learn some fun South African slang words here or click on the image below. Nowadays most of the people in South Africa live in or near the big cities: Johannesburg, Pretoria, Durban and Cape Town. The rural areas are still very poor and also in the cities many people live in shantytowns or townships. Johannesburg is the largest city and the main industrial and economic hub, while Cape Town and Durban are also large cities with more than 1 million inhabitants. Did you know that in South Africa, cars drive on the left side of the road as they do in the UK and Australia? However, all distance and speed signs are in metres and kilometres and km/ hour and not as in England in yards and miles and miles/ hour! South Africa for Kids Food in South Africa The food the people eat in South Africa is very diverse. The South African staple food for the locals is 'mealies', which is corn, and seasonal vegetables, like potatoes, beans, carrots and peas. South Africans love their meat and game meat such as kudu and springbok are common. However, most people eat beef, chicken, lamb and ostrich with their meals. The people in South Africa love a BBQ (here called 'braai') and almost every house has got a fireplace which is called 'braai-place'. Bobotie Typical South African food: bobotie: typica Cape Malay food containing rice, lamb and fragrant spices. Click to find a tasty easy-to-do bootie recipe. koeksisters: taste like donuts soaked in sticky sweet sauce. Yummy! mealie pap: corn porridge Boerewors biltong: a cured and dried meat that is a typical South African snack and similar to beef jerky. Kids love to take this as snack to school. boerewors: Afrikaans for 'farmers sausage', is often put on the grill, formed in a curl (see image) Read more about South African traditional food here or click on the image below. Did you know that...? … most people speak at least two or three languages, one of them usually English or Afrikaans. … South Africa has really three capital cities. The powers are distributed between Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein. The parliament meets for six months in Pretoria and the other half of the year in Cape Town. We hope you enjoyed our information on South Africa for Kids. Read also our top 15 South Africa facts even locals often do not know here. Looking for the best things to do in South Africa with kids? Here are my recommendations. South Africa, with its rich culture and heritage, unparalleled natural beauty, and amazing adventure opportunities is not just an adult’s playground. It's also a wonderland for children of all ages. From exciting wildlife safaris to enchanting beaches and exhilarating adventures, South Africa boasts a multitude of activities that will entice kids away from their electronics and make a family holiday unforgettable. best things to do in South Africa with kids 1.Family Safaris Tintswalo Waterberg Taking your kids on a safari can be one of the most enriching and memorable experiences a family can share. It's an opportunity for children to connect directly with nature, witness the majesty of wildlife in their natural habitats, and develop an appreciation for nature conservation. Safaris can be both educational and entertaining, as children learn about different species and their behaviours. Beyond the wildlife, the adventure of staying in the wilderness, hearing the sounds of the night, and gazing at a sky full of stars can leave a lasting impression on young minds, fostering a lifelong love for adventure and the great outdoors. My kids have been going on safaris since they were little and they have forged some indelible memories. You can opt to self-drive in a national park like Kruger National Park or stay at a private lodge. While all safari lodges do not allow kids of all ages, there are many that welcome them and cater for them, such as: Tintswalo Waterberg Letamo at Qwabi Private Game Reserve Kapama River Lodge Mhondoro Game Lodge Get your South Africa Bucket List Guide Things you must do in South Africa Jacis Safari Lodge Madikwe Safari Lodge 2.Beaches South Africa's coastline has a plethora of pristine beaches that are perfect for families. With its warm waters, golden sands, and diverse marine life, these beaches provide a wonderful playground for kids to splash, build sandcastles, and discover tidal pools. Here are some of the best beaches in South Africa for kids: Boulders Beach, Cape Town African Penguins at Boulders Beach In addition to its soft sands and sheltered coves, Boulders Beach in Cape Town is famous for its resident African penguin colony , which is always a hit with children. My kids loved it. Muizenberg Beach, Cape Town Beach huts in Muizenberg Known for its colourful beach huts and gentle waves, Muizenberg Beach is another favourite among families. The warmer waters of the False Bay, the surfing lessons and the play areas make it popular with kids. Jeffreys Bay, Eastern Cape Renowned as a top surfing destination, Jeffreys Bay has a range of beaches perfect for families. Dolphin Beach has a Blue Flag status and there is a shell museum nearby that kids can visit. Kwazulu Natal Durban and the KZN South Coast offer kids warm, inviting waters and golden sandy beaches, perfect for swimming, building sandcastles, and exploring lively tidal pools. 3. Cable cars and mountains Harties Cableway Table Mountain, Cape Town Using the Aerial Cableway, families can reach the summit of this iconic mountain. Kids will enjoy the rotating cable car which showcases panoramic views during the ascent. Once at the top, kids can enjoy easy walks, and spot local wildlife like dassies. Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway The Hartbeespoort Aerial Cableway offers families a scenic ride up the Magaliesberg Mountains, overlooking the beautiful Hartbeespoort Dam and surroundings. Interactive displays at the top delve into the area's rich history and biodiversity. The spectacular views, coupled with amenities like a play area and restaurants at the summit, ensure that children and adults will have a fun experience. My kids enjoyed it. 4, Botanical Gardens Walter Sisulu Botanical Garden South Africa's botanical gardens are verdant havens that showcase the country's rich flora and are great places for family picnics. Children can enjoy the vast open spaces, water features, play areas and interactive educational zones. Many gardens also have themed trails and bird-watching activities, ensuring a blend of fun and learning amidst nature. Two of the most popular botanical gardens are: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain in Cape Town, Kirstenbosch has enchanting treetop canopy walks and diverse flora exhibitions, making nature exploration a true delight. Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens Located in Johannesburg , the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens enthralls children with its majestic waterfall, resident black eagles, kiddies' train and interactive environmental education programs. 5. Hop-on hop-off buses City Sightseeing Cape Town Hop-on hop-off buses are a family-friendly way to explore big cities. Children can enjoy the views and feel the breeze from the open-top decks while engaging audio guides narrate captivating stories on the kids channel. In South Africa, you can do this with City Sightseeing Cape Town and City Sightseeing Johannesburg . 6. Theme Parks Gold Reef City Gold Reef City, Johannesburg South Africa may not have many theme parks but it does have a rather unique one. Built on an old gold mine, Gold Reef City transports visitors back to the gold rush era. You can watch a gold pouring demonstration, pan for gold, and visit gold miners’ houses which haven’t changed in over 100 years. Kids will have endless entertainment with the roller coasters and other exciting rides. 7. Aquariums Ushaka Marine World uShaka Marine World, Durban Africa’s largest marine theme park, uShaka Marine World is also home to the 7th largest aquarium in the world, which is set in a shipwreck, Africa’s highest slide waterpark and much more. Whether your kids want to slide down water tubes or watch the sharks, uShaka will ensure a fun day. The Two Oceans Aquarium, Cape Town Located at the V&A Waterfront, this aquarium provides insights into marine life from both the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. From mesmerising jellyfish displays to hands-on touch pools, children can experience the wonders of the underwater world. 8. Interactive science centres Sci-Bono Interactive science centres give children a hands-on approach to learning, sparking curiosity through engaging exhibits and experiments. Scientific concepts are explained with colourful and interactive gadgets, devices and experiments and kids are encouraged to experiment to their heart’s content. Check out Sci-Bono in Johannesburg, KZN Science Centre in Gateway Shopping Centre in Durban, Cape Town Science Centre, and Sci-Enza at the University of Pretoria. 9. Adventure activities Canopy Tour in Magaliesberg Ziplining Ziplining through the country's lush forests offers a bird's-eye view of the landscape, allowing children to soar over treetops and ravines, feeling the rush of the wind. There are many places to zipline in South Africa, including Magaliesberg , Drakensberg , KwaZulu-Natal Midlands and Graskop. Tobogganing Tobogganing on scenic tracks gives youngsters a thrilling descent, combining speed and beautiful vistas. Both activities not only promise fun but also help instil a sense of bravery in young adventurers. Two of the most popular places to toboggan in South Africa are Cool Runnings in Cape Town and Long Tom Toboggan in Sabie, Mpumalanga . South African winters offer something for everyone, and there are some fantastic places to visit for a family getaway. From the vibey activities in chilly Joburg, to the sunny retreats in Durban and the North West, you can embrace adventure in the cold, or find a sunny hideout to avoid the winter chill. Take a Sho’t Left to one of these world-class destinations, and embrace all that a South African winter has to offer. Johannesburg, Gauteng Gauteng is the heart of the nation, and Joburg offers a variety of family events and entertainment. Natural attractions abound, with parks perfect for picnics, such as the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden . For the adrenaline-junkies, the Gold Reef City amusement park offers the wildest of rides, as well a casino and entertainment centre. Have dinner in the Maboneng precinct, the perfect way to end the day. Hermanus, Western Cape Hermanus , a seaside town to the south-east of Cape Town, has been voted one of the twelve best destinations in the world for whale watching by the World Wildlife Fund and is an ideal place to whale-watch. Whale-watching spots are plentiful and will allow you to experience a natural phenomenon which happens only once a year. Popular whale-watching spots in Hermanus include the Cliff Path, a 12km path which stretches across Hermanus, as well as Grotto beach, the Old Harbour, and Gearing’s Point. Bela Bela, Limpopo Warm Baths, A Forever Resort in Bela Bela is a premium resort situated in Limpopo, approximately a 3-hour drive from Johannesburg. Consider this resort as an African bushveld escape, the perfect location to experience an unforgettable holiday with the whole family. With a range of waterslides, mineral pools and spas offering a variety of treatments and products, you are sure to feel revitalised and rejuvenated. Wild Coast, KwaZulu-Natal Experience the best of coastal living and entertainment at the Wild Coast . This incredible stretch of coast starts from Mzamba, just south of Port Edward and the Umthamvuna River to the top-end luxury resort, Wild Coast Sun. Whether you’re looking for self-catering accommodation or luxurious hotels to suit your every need, you’re bound to find something just for you along the Wild Coast. As for the free-spirited, you can expect plenty of adrenaline-pumped activities to get you revved up. Zululand, KwaZulu-Natal Zululand offers a magic of its own. Stretching from the Dolphin Coast, just north of Durban, all the way north up to Richard’s Bay, small towns line the coast, which enjoys warm weather year-round due to its sub-tropical climate. Throughout the route, travellers can enjoy historical and cultural attractions, diverse game viewing areas, as well as birding and hiking trails. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park , 280km north of Durban, has the largest population of white rhino in the world, due to concerted conservation efforts. So take a Sho’t Left, and enjoy a quality family holiday in South Africa. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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