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THE VOORTREKKERS The Battle - Andries Pretorius and his men advance After the fall of Port Natal Port Natal Andries Pretorius arrived from Graaff-Reinet. On 25 November 1838 Pretorius took over leadership as Commandant-General of the Voortrekkers in Natal. He immediately re-organised the Voortrekkers and started to prepare a retaliatory attack on the Zulu. On Sunday, 9th December, Pretorius and his followers made a vow to God that in the case of victory; they would build a church to honour God and they would tell there children to observe a day of thanksgiving. (Recent research has put a question mark over the vow and its existence as 'thanksgiving' was not commemorated in the years immediately following the battle, but the church was built). The Pretorius party crossed the Ncome (Buffalo) River, and on Saturday 15 December, they reached a tributary (Thukela). Their scouts reported that a large AmaZulu force was advancing (10 000-20 000 Zulu warriors). The Zulu army was led by Dingane's generals Dambuza (Nzobo) and Ndlela kaSompisi. After the scouts had given the warning the Voortrekkers moved there wagons into a laager (circular formation) in the best strategical position possible, between a deep pool in the river and a donga (a large ditch). The Voortrekkers force consisted of 470 men. There were only two gaps in the laager and in each, a canon was placed. 16 December 1838: The Battle At dusk on the 15th December the Amazulu had already begun to circle the laager. A heavy mist surrounded the laager and only lifted in the early hours of the morning, this made visibility poor. At dawn on the 16th December 1838 the Zulu warriors equiped with assagais and shields swept towards the laager. To be able to use their assagais effectively they had to come as close as possible to the defenders. The Voortrekkers were equiped with far superior weaponry and responded to the Zulu advancement with musket and cannon fire. Eyewitnesses and writers differ slightly on the exact details of the battle, but at dawn when the first Zulu attack began, the firing was apparently so heavy that the Zulu warriors could not be seen through the smoke. The main shortcoming of the Voortrekkers weapons was the lengthy reloading times. The first Zulu attack had scarcely been repulsed when a second was launched, this time the Zulu warriors almost reached the laager... Meanwhile hundreds of warriors were hiding in the donga. Sarel Cilliers and 80 others attacked them during a short lull in the fighting. When the Zulu's, who had withdrawn about 50 yards from the laager, failed to launch a third attack, Pretorius sent some men to draw them out to seal the victory. Pretorius' cavalry met with determined resistance from the Zulu Warriors, and it was only after a third sortie that the Zulu's were put to flight, pursued by the Voortrekkers. At midday the pursuit was called off. More than 3000 corpses were counted around the laager. Only, 3 Voortrekkers (including Pretorius himself) were wounded, none were killed. The Ncome River became red with the blood of the slain. Hence the battle became known as the battle of "Blood River". After this defeat, the Zulu kingdom never really recovered. Dingane's half-brother Mpande allied with Pretorius to defeat Dingane, who was eventually killed by the Swazi as he tried to regroup further north. Europeans now increasingly began to dictate the nature of Zulu politics. Timeline of Land Dispossession and Segregation in South Africa 1800-1899 The nineteenth century was a period of several events whose socio-political and economic impact profoundly changed South Africa and the African continent. Colonial conquest and rapid land dispossession was accelerated during this period. Conversely, fierce resistance was launched by African people in response to their loss of land, livestock and political power. As voortrekkers moved away from the Cape Colony to escape British rule, they fought, seized and occupied land while dispossessing Khoi, San and African communities in the process. This opened up the interior of South Africa to further colonial conquest. The British in turn, pursued the voortrekkers by annexing more land and at times even claiming it back from the voortrekkers. In some instances, land dispossession was achieved by stealth through “treaties” which colonists claimed were signed by leaders of communities. The mineral revolution which exploded during the century further contributed to land dispossession as the white colonial government sought to force Africans off their land to become cheap labourers in the newly established mines in Kimberley and the Transvaal. 1803 February, The British returns the Cape Colony to the Batavian Republic. The new administration reinforces the colonial government’s claims to the frontier zone in the east and vows to restore the European dominated social order. Subsequently, the district of Uitenhage is established with Ludwig Alberti as the landdrost and several white farmers who had deserted the area due to attacks by the Khoi and Xhosa return. May, A peace settlement is reached between the Batavian government and Khoisan after the parties fought over issues of land and livestock raids. 1809 1 November, The Caledon Code is promulgated as an attempt to regulate the relationship between the Khoikhoi and the colonists. In terms of the Act, each Khoikhoi within the confines of the colony had to have a fixed place of residence and carry a valid passes should they move from one place to another. 1811-12 The British assisted by about 700 men of the Cape Regiment drive an estimated 20 000 Xhosa people, men, women and children over the Fish River from Zuurveld in the Fourth War of Dispossession. They then establish 27 military garrisons along the River to prevent Xhosa people from returning and station more British troops in Grahamstown and Cradock. 1813 The freehold land tenure under a perpetual quitrent system is introduced. It replaces the old system of the loan farms. 1814 Cape Governor Sir John Cradock changes the system of land tenure from leasehold to freehold for white farmers. Prior to this period, farmers paid little for the land nor made major developments as they recognized that they did not own the land. This measure was introduced to allow for a denser population of white people on the eastern border to act as buffer against black people. 1817 Lord Charles Somerset meets the Ngqika, a Xhosa chief, at the Kat River and is forced to cede land between the Fish and Keiskamma Rivers to the British. 1818 The British invade Xhosa territory by attacking Ndlambe and seize 23 000 cattle marking the outbreak of the Fifth War of Dispossession. Subsequently, those Xhosa people whose cattle had been seized rally behind Makhanda ka Nxele who leads an attack of 6000 warriors on Grahamstown. 1825 Landdrost Andries Stockentroom begins issuing temporary permits allowing white farmers to graze their livestock north of the Orange River, but they are not allowed to trade or erect buildings. This changes later in the decade as farmers stop asking for permission and simply inform the magistrate. 1828 Ordinance 49 of 1828 is passed. The Ordinance allows the government to source labourers from ‘Frontier Tribes’. All black workers were given passes for the sole propose of working and all contracts over a month long were to be registered. 1829 January, Maqoma raids Bawana a Thembu chief forcing the latter’s followers to flee across into territory seized by the colonists. Stockenstroom orders the expulsion of Maqoma from the Kat River Valley and establishes a settlement for landless Khoikhoi to create a buffer zone between the Xhosa and white settler farmers, and to consolidate territory seized by the colonists. Maqoma responds by increasing cattle raids on white farms forcing them to informally allow him to return to the territory. 1834-35 21 December, The Xhosa launch an attack on the British after Xhoxho was injured by a British patrol sparking the Sixth War of dispossession. Other long standing grievances such as loss of land, cattle also fuel the rebellion. A massive herd of 276 000 stock was seized by the Xhosa fighters and 456 farms are destroyed. The British retaliate and later murder Hintsa, and Colonel Harry Smith annexes the area between Keiskama and Kei renaming it Queen Adelaide Province. 1835 May, Benjamin D’Urban proclaims the annexation of what he called Queen Adelaide Province which was land extending to the Kei River, and announces his intention to fight the Xhosa and expel them across the river. He appoints Harry Smith to incorporate African chiefdoms into the newly proclaimed province. 1836 October, The British abandon their annexation of the Queen Adelaide Province and hand the seized land back to the Xhosa. 1837 The voortrekkers under the leadership of Hendrik Potgieter defeat the Ndebele under Mzilikazi at the Marico River and seize vast tracts of land between the Limpopo and Vaal Rivers. 1838 16 May, The voortrekkers led by Andries Pretorius fight and defeat the Zulu at the banks of the Ncome River (“Battle of Blood River) and dispossess them of their land. Subsequently, they establish the Republic of Natalia. 1845 Two parties of voortrekkers arrive near areas settled by Pedi people and establish a settlement at Ohrigstad. 5 July, King Sekwati and Boer leader Hendrik Potgieter ‘sign’ a peace treaty. The treaty becomes a subject of dispute between the Boers and Pedi. The former claim the treaty gave them full ownership and title to a large area of Pedi lands, while the latter claim treaty merely allocated land on which trekkers could settle without relinquishing his people’s ownership to the land. When trekkers offer cattle as payment to acquire more land to establish a farming settlement Sekwati refuses their offer. 1846 A Land Commission is appointed to demarcate locations for Africans in Natal. The commission recommends that seven large locations be set apart for the settlement of black people.As a consequence, Theophilus Shepstone the Commissioner of Native Affairs moves an estimated 80,000 African people to 'Locations' in different parts of the country. 26 July, King Mswati signs a treaty with voortrekkers as a way of protecting his kingdom against Zulu invasion. He grantstrekkers the right to lands bounded by the Oliphants River in the North and the Crocodile and Elands River in the South. The land covered areas settled by the Pedi, Ndzundza Ndebele and several Sotho speaking groups. 1847 The British colonial administration displaces the Korana and /Xam from their lands to increase grazing pastures for sheep. This results in the raid of the settler farmer’s livestock by the Korana and other San groups whose lives had been disrupted. 1848 10 February, A Land Government Commission established during the year states that the extent of land recommended by the 1846 - 47 Commission is excessive. The commission apportions land to white settlers. 1850 Sir George Grey confiscates land from black African people leaving them to search for work in farms. 1852 The British under Sir George Cathcart attack the BaSotho under king Moshoeshoe. 1853 November, A resolution taken by the Volksraad enables District Commandants to grant land for occupation by Africans on condition of ‘good behaviour’. However, the under the resolution there was no individual title, Africans had to use the land communally, chiefs were regarded as trustees of the tribe. However, power over the land still remained the hands of the white government. 1855 18 June, Resolution 159 is adopted by the Transvaal government. It prohibits anybody who was not a burgher from owning land and also prohibits Africans from having burger rights. 1856 Voortrekkersdeclare an independent Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek (ZAR) and lay claim to the Transvaal and the land up to the Limpopo River. 1857 29 April, Lieutenant General Scott issues a Proclamation offering vacant crown lands which are between 300 and 3000 acres. This increases land speculation by white settlers who in turn after purchasing the land lease it to Africans at yearly rental of five shillings. 1858 The First Basotho Boer War breaks out as avoortrekkercommando attacks Thaba Bosiu. In response, the Sotho mobilise an army of 10 000 warriors who raid unprotected settler farms and defeat the voortrekkersand force them to retreat. The Tlhaping /Kora of the Tswana ethnic group raid outlaying Boer farms sparking retaliation by the voortrekkers, who in turn seize thousands of cattle, behead a Chief and carry away women and children as apprentices. 1864 April, The Natal Native Trust is created enabling the British colonial government to place under its control all the unalienated location land in Natal. This land was to be held in trust for the African population with the Executive Council of Natal acted as trustees. 1865 J.H Brand launches an attack on Thaba Bosiu but the voortrekkers are repulsed. They then besiege the Mountain and resort to a ‘scorched earth’ policy burning crops, villages and seizing livestock. King Moshoeshoe refuses to surrender and appeals for British protection. 1866 The voortrekkers go to war with the BaSotho in order to seize the fertile Caledon Valley, and defeat the BaSotho. They force them to ‘sign’ the Treaty of Thaba Bosiu under which the BaSotho lost all of their land north of the Caledon River, and a large area in the northwest. June, Thirteen beacons are erected to fix a boundary between Swaziland and the South African Republic taking some of the kingdom’s land, and despite objections by the Swazi, the beacons become a recognized boundary which was accepted by both the voortrekkers and the British. 1867 Village raids of the Venda conducted by voortrekkerarmies in the Transvaal spark a rebellion led by king Makhado. The voortrekkersare defeated and pushed out of lands which they had occupied. Makhado also destroys the settlers’ settlement at Schoemansdal. War breaks out between BaSotho and voortrekkersafter king Moshoeshoe refuses to give up land to them. 1868-9 The first Korana rebellion breaks out after /Xam speaking San groups joined forces with the Korana to halt the advance of the white settler famers who were increasingly taking over their land and grazing pastures. 1870 February, Ruiters and 25 followers are captured bringing to an end active operations against the Korana. All three captured chiefs, Kivido, Rooy and Ruiters are tried, convicted and imprisoned on Robben Island. 1876 July, The South African Republic declares war on the Pedi which ends in defeat for the Afrikaner owing to combination of Pedi ingenuity and division within the combined Afrikaner force. 1877 The British occupy the South African Republic and in terms of the Article 21 of the Pretoria Convention appoint a Commission to investigate land ownership by Africans. Amongst its members are S.J.P. Kruger, Vice-President of the Transvaal State, George Hudson, British Resident, and H.J. Schoeman Native Commissioner for Pretoria and Heidelberg. The Committee recommends that Africans can purchase or acquire land in any manner; however the transfer of that land should be registered on their behalf in the name of a Native Location Commission. The Second Korana War which lasts until the following year breaks out around the Orange River after the Korana and San launch livestock raids on settler farms. Subsequently, more Korana chiefs are arrested and imprisoned on Robben Island, and the British propose to enlist the landless communities as servants. 1878 Xhosa people who had settled in the Prieska region south of the Orange River, ally with the Kora and San to launch an attack on white farms in the southern districts of Griqualand. As the attacks spread they are joined by the Griqua and Tlhaping. Loss of land to white settlement and loss of authority by chiefs over their own people were primary causes of the rebellion. July, The colonial forces launch an attack and quell the rebellion Xhosa, Kora and San rebellion. 1879 Zulu warriors defeated the British in 1879 at the Battle of Isandlwana 22 January, The British forces are defeated by the Zulu impis at the Battle of Isandlwana. 28 November, The Pedi under the leadership of Sekhukhune are defeated by British forces leaving about 1000 Pedi warriors dead. Sekhukhune is captured and imprisoned in Pretoria. The Cape government annexes Fingoland (Mfenguland) and Griqualand west which constitutes two thirds of the territory between the Cape and Natal. 1882-3 White farmers lay a siege of Ndzundza-Ndebele for nine months who when faced with starvation are forced to surrender. Their fertile lands are seized and divided among the voortrekkers. Each war participant is given five families to use as servants who work for little or no pay on the farms. 1885 Gcalekaland and Thembuland are incorporated into the Cape Colony. 1887 After defeating the Zulu warriors at the Battle of Ulundi, the British formally annex Zululand to pre-empt simmering threat of the Zulu people fighting back to recover the loss of their territory. The kingdom is broken up into 13 chiefdoms by Garnet Wolseleyand placed under different chiefs each with a British resident. 1891 Squatting on crown lands by black people was prohibited by Volksraad Resolution No. 359. 1894 The Glen Grey Act (No. 25 of 1894) is passed. Under the Act, the alienation and transfer of land was to be approved by the governor. Subletting or subdivision of the land was prohibited and the principle of ‘one man one plot’ was to be applied, thus the rest of the people who were not allocated land were forced to go and find work out elsewhere. Although declared in the Glen grey District, itis immediately extended to the Transkeian districts of Butterworth, Idutywa, Ngqamakwe and Tsomo by Proclamation No. 352 of 1894. The Cape government incorporates Pondoland along the east coast. 1895 British Bechuanaland passes into the hands of the Cape Colony. The Act of Annexation makes special provision that no lands reserved for the use of Africans in the territory were to be alienated. Law No. 21 of 1895 prohibits farmers from employing more than 5 African householders on one farm without government permission. However, this proves to be ineffective as Land Companies repeatedly break the law. 1898 Voortrekker commandos underJoubert isolate the Venda chiefdoms and attack them one by one resulting in their defeat. Some of the Venda people are driven across the Limpopo River and their territory is incorporated into the Transvaal. Colonial conquest and resistance, Pre 1900 Several factors seemed to pave the way to apartheid, among them a colonial conquest, land dispossession, economic impoverishment, and exclusion from citizenship of Africans. Part one examines the historical roots of apartheid, from the colonial occupation of the Cape in 1652 through the creation of the Union of South Africa and the period between the formation of the Union and the Nationalist Party coming into power - (1910-1948). Jan van Riebeeck and his expedition of Dutch Calvinist settlers landed at the Cape on 6 April 1652. van Riebeeck had received a commission from the Dutch East India Trading Company (VOC) to establish a refreshment station for passing ships. The station was to supply the ships travelling East, to obtain spices and other goods, with fresh fruit, vegetables and meat. The settlers grew the vegetables and fruit themselves, but meat was obtained through trade with the indigenous population (mainly Khoikhoi) derogatorily referred to as “natives”. From the beginning their relationship with the Khoikhoi was antagonistic and trade with them for slaughter stock soon degenerated into raiding and warfare. In 1657, the colonial authorities started a process of allotting farms to European settlers (“free burghers”) in the arable regions around Cape Town, where wine and wheat became the major products. As the port developed the need for labour increased. In response to the colonists’ growing demand for labour, the VOC imported slaves from Angola, Mozambique, Madagascar, and South East Asia. Soon more Dutch settlers arrived followed by settlers from all over Europe. The colony gradually expanded along a frontier at the expense of the Khoikhoi, Xhosa, and other indigenous peoples, a process similar to the one that unfolded in North America, Australia and New Zealand. Slavery and early colonisation in South Africa In South Africa, destruction of Khoi societies produced an underclass of domestic and farm workers, but their ability to earn a decent wage was severely curtailed by the Dutch East India Company's use of slaves. Little is known of the lives of ordinary people at this time, but archival evidence reveals glimpses of slaves’ struggles against harsh conditions imposed by their white oppressors. Eventually, Great Britain pronounced the emancipation of slaves in the Cape Colony in 1833, but the draconian Master and Servant laws replaced slavery that preserved a social hierarchy in which race closely corresponded to class. Colonial conquest by the Netherlands until 1795, before it fell to the British Crown, before reverting to Dutch Rule in 1803 and again to British occupation in 1806, stimulated limited if uneven capitalist growth. Expansion from the Cape, the Trek Boers and the Great Trek The Great Trek. By the beginning of the eighteenth century, the Cape settlers were expanding their territory northeast. The Trek Boers seeking fresh grazing for their cattle, primarily, led this expansion. These cattle farmers had no fixed dwelling places and many led a semi-nomadic existence, moving ceaselessly between summer and winter pastures. As most trek farmers had large families, the system encouraged swift expansion. The Cape Government had done nothing to hinder expansion inland since it provided a source of cheap meat. As the trekkers’ expansion increased, they inevitably came into conflict with, first, the Khoikhoi and later the Xhosa people into whose land they were encroaching. This marked the beginning of the subjugation of the Tembu, Pondo, Fingo and Xhosa in the Transkei. The Xhosa in particular fought nine wars spanning a century, which gradually deprived them of their independence and subjugated them to British colonial rule. In the towns, tension was also increasing between settlers and the Dutch authorities, with the former becoming increasingly resentful at what they perceived as administrative interference. Soon the districts of Swellendam and Graaff-Reinette pronounced themselves independent Republics, though this was short-lived - in 1795 Britain annexed the Cape Colony. This development and, in particular, the emancipation of slaves in 1834, had dramatic effects on the colony, precipitating the Great Trek, an emigration North and Northeast of about 12 000 discontented Afrikaner farmers, or Boers. These people were determined to live independently of colonial rule and what they saw as unacceptable racial egalitarianism. The early decades of the century had seen another event of huge significance - the rise to power of the great Zulu King, Shaka . His wars of conquest and those of Mzilikazi - a general who broke away from Shaka on a northern path of conquest - caused a calamitous disruption of the interior known to Sotho-speakers as the difaqane (forced migration); while Zulu-speakers call it the mfecane (crushing). Shaka set out on a massive programme of expansion, killing or enslaving those who resisted in the territories he conquered. Peoples in the path of Shaka's armies moved out of his way, becoming in their turn aggressors against their neighbours. This wave of displacement spread throughout Southern Africa and beyond. It also accelerated the formation of several states, notably those of the Sotho (present-day Lesotho) and of the Swazi (now Swaziland). This denuded much of the area into which the Trekkers now moved, enabling them to settle there in the belief that they were occupying vacant territory. Of these Voortrekkers, about five thousand settled in the area that later became known as the Orange Free State (present day Free State). The rest headed for Natal (present day KwaZulu-Natal) where they appointed a delegation, under the leadership of Piet Retief to negotiate with the Zulu King, Dingaan (Shaka's successor), for land. Initially, Dingaan granted them a large area of land in the central and southern part of his territory but Retief and his party were later murdered at the kraal of Dingane. The newly elected Voortrekker leader, Andries Pretorius, prepared the group for a retaliatory attack and the Zulu were subsequently defeated at the famous Battle of Blood River , 16 December 1838, leading to the founding of the first Boer Republic in Natal. The discovery of Gold and Diamonds The discovery of diamonds (1867) and gold (1886) transformed South African from an agrarian society at the edge of world trade into a globally integrated industrial economy, which spurred wealth and immigration and intensified the subjugation of the indigenous inhabitants as well as the conflicts between the Dutch and the British. The mineral revolution led to the quick spread of European colonization into the interior. The period saw the making of magnates and migrants, of millionaires and bankrupts, shopkeepers and entrepreneurs. It also saw the emergence of a new working class, one that was deeply divided along both colour and social lines. Racist laws enabled the white-owned mining companies to control workers, keep wages very low and gain immense profits from the diamonds and gold that black miners extracted from the earth. Most African miners became migrant labourers, spending nine to eleven months of the year in the mines while their wives and children remained in the countryside. The Anglo-Boer War Anglo-Boer War, The Mafeking Siege, Boers surrounded Mafeking, with a Long Tom. 1899-1900. © WITS ArchiveThe Anglo-Boer war. The Voortrekkers in Natal moved northeast after the British defeated them in 1842. They settled north and south of the Vaal River and founded the independent Zuid Afrikaansche Republiek or Transvaal Republic. In 1854, the Contract of Bloemfontein was signed and the Boers founded the Republic of Orange Free State. British sentiment was strongly in favour of uniting their colonies with the Boer Republics into one union and thereby gaining control of the gold mines of Transvaal. The Boers not only opposed this proposal, they resented and resisted British encroachments. On 11 February 1899, war broke out between the two Boer Republics and the two British Colonies (the Anglo-Boer War). On 13 March 1900, the British occupied Bloemfontein, then Johannesburg and Pretoria on 1 September. The Boers continued a guerrilla war, which was countered by the British devastating Boer farms and placing their women and children in concentration camps where some 28 000 died. Although attempts at peace were made as early as March 1900, nothing significant was achieved until 1902. It was only on 31 May that a truce (the Peace Treaty of Vereeniging ) was signed between the Boers and the British. The former eventually accepted the peace conditions, including the loss of their independence. As far as the British were concerned, their victory seemed to pave the way for the establishment of the Union of South Africa. Most rural and urban Black people tried to stay neutral during the war. At the same time, the nature of hostilities made it difficult to avoid getting mixed up in the war, directly or indirectly. As warfare spilled across the countryside, many Black people found themselves in harm’s way. Some were pulled into participating in military operations by the warring sides; others chose to serve in the war effort to escape extreme rural poverty or in the hope of gain or reward. In addition, some became involved in hostilities against the Boers on their own account, defending themselves against invading commandos, seizing opportunities to settle old scores over land losses or harsh treatment, and seizing opportunities to plunder. According to Gilliomee and Mbenga (2007), the Anglo-Boer War (or South African War) remains the most terrible and destructive modern armed conflict in South Africa’s history. It was an event that in many ways shaped the history of 20th Century South Africa. The end of the war marked the end of the long process of British conquest of South African societies, both Black and White. King Dingane ka Senzangakhona Synopsis King of the Zulus (1828 – 1840) First name Dingane Last name ka Senzangakhona Date of birth 1795 Date of death February 1840 Location of death Lebombo Mountains Gender male Dingane ka Senzangakhona was born in 1795 to father Chief Senzangakhona and mother Mpikase kaMlilela Ngobese who was Senzangakhona's sixth and ‘great wife'. [i] Chief Senzangakhona married sixteen women in total and had fourteen known sons, daughters however were not recorded. Very little is known or recorded about Dingane’s childhood or early career. Instead, Dingane enters the record when on the 22 of September 1828 he, with the assistance of his half-brother Mhlangana and servant Mbopha, assassinated his brother and the then Chief of the Zulu – Shaka Zulu . Shaka, the son of Chief Senzangakhona’s third wife, had seized the Zulu chieftainship in 1816, and had thereafter extended the Zulu kingdom. Soon after the murder of Shaka, Dingane had his half-brother Mhlangana murdered and thus rose to the position of Chief of the Zulu. Dingane moved the royal homestead from Nobamba in the emaKhosini valley to a new inland location which he called Mgungundlovu from which he reigned until 1840. Following the death of both Shaka and Mhlangana and Dingane’s subsequent rise to power messages were relayed to neighbouring dependencies, such as the Europeans of Port Natal, to notify them of the change and assure them that the Zulu’s newest Chief was inclined towards peace and would not harm them. [ii] Shaka’s ‘grand army’ at the time was in the north and was due to return shortly to receive the news of their leaders death. Dingane thus recognised the need to assemble his own military support. Since the majority of Zulu men of military age were up north serving in the ‘grand army’ he had little option but to utilize the menials and herdboys who eventually formed the basis of his home guard regiment which he called uHlomendlini, meaning ‘this which is armed at home’. [iii] The regiment comprised of two companies, the younger men being in the Mnyama (black) section and the older men in the Mhlophe (white) section. Dingane was thus well prepared for the eventual return of the Zulu army who received the news in stunned silence. The warriors were promised peace, a life of ease and the enjoyment of their booty. Furthermore, they were promised the right to marry. The majority of the troops accepted these conditions and bowed to Dingane. The marshal of the army, Mdlaka, however objected. Mdlaka was subsequently strangled in his hut and succeeded by Ndlela as army general. ‘Dingane orders the killing of Piet Retief's party of Voortrekkers’ by Richard Caton Woodville, Jr. Source: Suid-Afrikaanse Geskiedenis in Beeld (1989) by Anthony Preston. Bion Books: Printed in South Africa. In 1829, shortly after consolidating his power, Dingane oversaw the relocation of the Zulu capital from the hut-city of Dukuza to the traditional Zulu valley near the Mkhumbane stream. This new capital he renamed Mgungundlovu, meaning ‘the secret plot of the elephant’, which referred to his own plot to assassinate Shaka. William Wood, interpreter to Zululand missionary Reverend Francis Owen, described Mgungundlovu as it was then: “The form of Dingane’s kraal was a circle, it was strongly fenced with bushes and had two entrances. The principal one faced the king’s huts, which were placed at the furthest extremity of the kraal, behind which were his wives’ huts. These extended beyond the circle which formed the kraal, but were also strongly fenced in. On the right-hand side of the principal entrance were placed the huts of Ndlela (Dingane’s captain) and his warriors; and on the left, those of Dambuza (another of his captains) with his men. The kraal contained four cattle kraals which were also strongly fenced and four huts erected on poles which contained the arms of the troops.” [iv] It is recorded that with Dingane in power, increased prosperity actually came to Zululand. The warriors of the Zulu army, who were now able to marry and set up their own homesteads, were gifted cattle and were thus able to settle down and enjoy the fruits of their victories – ‘a country bulging with looted cattle and captured women, who were set to work to till the fields and produce military reinforcements.’ [v] During his reign, Dingane was increasingly involved in trading activities with many of the Portuguese traders from early Port Natal. When on 18 February 1829, Dr Alexander Cowie, a former surgeon from the Cape, and Benjamin Green, a Grahamstown merchant, arrived at Dingane’s Nobamba kraal, they were met by a party of about forty Portuguese traders. The Portuguese traders had reportedly been visiting Dingane in an attempt to re-open trading relations and pay their respects to the Chief of the Zulus. Dingane was known to have on many instances traded heads of cattle and hides in exchange for rifles and gunpowder. On a trading expedition to the Zulus a trader by the name of Isaacs noted Dingane’s respect for both firearms and Europeans: ‘He at once acknowledged it to be his opinion that no power he had could combat with another that used firearms; but added, he did not believe any people could conquer the Zulus excepting Europeans.’ [vi] "Dingane in Ordinary and Dancing Dresses", by Captain Allen Francis Gardiner. Source: Allen Francis Gardiner - "Stamme & Ryke", deur J.S. Bergh, in samewerking met A.P. Bergh. Don Nelson: Kaapstad. 1984. Fearing the devastation that could follow a potential military clash with Europeans, as early as 1830, Dingane sent an expedition to the Cape in an attempt to establish good relations with the British. On 21 November 1830 the group reached Grahamstown and presented four tusks to the Civil Commissioner. John Cane, Dingane’s ambassador, relayed the message that Dingane wanted to live in peace with his neighbours, that he wished to encourage trade and would protect traders, and that he desired a missionary. In January 1832, the government at the Cape finally showed an interest in the affairs of Zululand and sent a well-known explorer Doctor Andrew Smith to investigate more. Smith was well received by Dingane and entertained him with his beautifully dressed women and dancing warriors. Upon his return to the Cape, Smith was reportedly very enthusiastic about Natal and boasted about the greenness and fertility of the region. Thus, in early 1834, the farmers of the Grahamstown and Uitenage region organized a so-called ‘commission trek’ to visit Natal and consider settlement. Twenty-one men and one women, using fourteen wagons, traversed the Natal midlands led by a certain Petrus Lafras Uys. [vii] Nearing the region of Dingane’s capital, the group sent a man named Richard King to meet with Dingane in person and request land. Dingane received the request with interest but demanded that the commission members themselves visit him. There seemed to be countless different obstacles which hindered the commission members from visiting Dingane personally. Uys himself was down with a fever and subsequently sent his younger brother, Johannes Uys, to meet with Dingane. Johannes soon returned with a report that Dingane had allegedly indicated that Natal was vacant and available for European settlement. Dingane and the Voortrekkers An illustration of Dingane’s Kraal by Margaret Cary Image source It was only in 1837 however, with the arrival of the Voortrekkers into the Natal region, that these negotiations would come to fruition. In October 1837 the group of Voortrekkers led by Piet Retief reached Port Natal where they were welcomed by the British ivory traders who occupied the area. On 19 October Retief sent a letter to Dingane as a sign of peace and to inform him that he’d be coming up to Mgungundlovu to discuss the question of land. Retief and the Voortrekkers described Dingane as a: 'robust, fat man, but well proportioned and with the regular features of a well-bred Zulu. There was nothing at all forbidding in his appearance. He was always smiling and was scrupulously clean, being well scrubbed every morning by some of his women in the royal bath, a depression in the ground near his hut. He was shaved every day as well. He hated hair on his head, and one of his women kept him as bald and clean-shaven as a new-born babe, by means of an exceedingly sharp axe. After his toilet, and being well rubbed with fat, he generally spent his day sitting in an armchair attending to business, drinking beer and playing with any new gew-gaws some European visitor might have given him, such as a telescope to watch his people around the kraal, or a magnifying glass to burn holes in the arms of his servants.’ [viii] Upon his arrival, Dingane entertained Retief and his men with dances, feasts and sham fights and discussions regarding the allocation of land commenced. From this point on sources differ greatly. Dingane supposedly declared that he was prepared to grant Retief an extensive area between the Tugela and the Umzimvubu as well as the Drakensberg, on condition that Retief restored to Dingane the cattle stolen from him by Sikonyela (the Tlokwa chief). Dingane felt that this would prove to him that Sikonyela and not the Voortrekkers had in fact stolen the cattle. Some sources claim that Dingane also demanded rifles. With the wisdom of hindsight, it seems that Retief was incredibly naive in his dealings with Dingane. What is also evident is that Dingane had experienced more than enough trouble from the handful of whites at Port Natal and probably never had any intention of allowing a large amount of heavily armed farmers to settle permanently in his immediate neighbourhood. The Voortrekkers obtained the cattle from the Sikonyela as per the deal with Dingane. Retief surrendered the cattle but refused to hand over the horses and the guns he had taken from the Tlokwa. In the meantime, however, Dingane’s agents, who had accompanied Retief to supervise the return of the cattle, reported that even before the land claim had been signed, Voortrekkers were streaming down the Drakensburg passes in large numbers. These allegations allegedly fueled a mistrust between Retief and Dingane. On the 6 February Dingane requested that Retief and his men visit his royal kraal without their guns to drink beer as a farewell gesture. This request was strictly in accordance with Zulu protocol - that nobody appeared armed before the King. Retief suspected no foul play and accepted the invitation. As soon as the Voortrekker party was inside the royal kraal, Dingane gave the order and his regiments overpowered Retief and his men, and took them up to a hill to be executed. Dingane subsequently sent out his warriors to kill the rest of the Voortrekkers awaiting Retief's return from Mgungundlovu. Hundreds of Voortrekkers were consequently killed at Bloukrans and Moordspruit which set off months of bloody conflict between the Voortrekkers and Dingane's Zulus. In response, Voortrekker leaders Hendrik Potgieter and Piet Uys sent out an expedition against Dingane, but were defeated at Italeni. The conflict culminated in the battle at the Ngome River on 16 December 1838, in which the Zulus suffered a severe defeat. The Ngome River was subsequently renamed Bloedriver or Blood River, referring to the deep red colour of the river filled with Zulu blood. The incident became known as the Battle of Blood River . Led by new Voortrekker leader Andries Pretorius , a Voortrekker commando went to Mgungundlovu to confront Dingane. But Dingane had burned down his whole kraal and the Zulus launched an attack on the command at the White Umfolozi River. In the meantime, the British occupied Port Natal (now Durban ). From there, they advanced on Dingane, but were defeated at the Tugela River. Dingane's warriors also attacked the settlement at Port Natal. In September 1839, another half-brother of Dingane, Mpande , defected with many followers to Natal. There, the Voortrekkers recognised his as the ‘Prince of the Emigrant Zulus'. On Christmas Eve 1839, the British garrison withdrew from Port Natal. Almost at once, the Voortrekkers hoisted the flag of the Republic of Natalia and made an alliance with Mpande's supporters to make a joint attack on Dingane. In February 1840, Mpande's forces finally decisively defeated Dingane on the Maqongqo hills. He fled north across the Phongolo River, where it is believed he met his death in the Lebombo Mountains at the hands of the Nyawo and his old enemy, the Swazi. Document 52 - LA. Jordaan, “A Critique of Mr. W. P. van Schoor’s.The Origin and Development of Segregation in South Africa” Discussion, It was during the course of a Memorial Lecture held under the auspices of a Cape Province Coloured teachers' organisation in October, 1950, to honour the memory of one of its members, that Mr. W.P. van Schoor propounded his ideas on a subject which was finally published in booklet form [....] Except for the acclamation of the author as a new historian" by the sponsors of the book, and a brief report on it in the local press, Mr. van Schoor's work passed without comment, discussion or analysis. This cannot surely be the end of a historical work which represents a radical and decisive departure from all the histories hitherto written on South Africa. For here is an author who has boldly undertaken the task of writing a short history from the point of view and in the interest of a general evolution of South African humanity to higher social and political forms. The author himself epitomises the function of historiography in the first and last sentence of his booklet: "A people desiring to emancipate itself must understand the process of its enslavement." [...] the author attempts to explain not only how the present South Africa evolved out of the past, but how the genesis of this country has created the complex and intricate problems, the solution of which falls four-square on the people of South Africa themselves. The book is therefore not merely a matter of academic interest, of historical draughtsman ship and accuracy in the presentation of our historical past. No. The author clearly sees in history the key to the understanding of the present which in turn is the indispensable guide to the future. That is why Mr. van Schoor's work is an entirely new approach to South African history. That is why it demands the attention of all those who are interested in the continued evolution of South Africa. It is indeed a reflection on the inspirers of the Memorial Lecture that, for reasons best known to them, they have remained silent on a work which they merely dismissed by an unwarrantable and meaningless eulogy. Mr. van Schoor has entered a field of study which has up to now been completely monopolised by the official historians in the service of the ruling classes and in the interests of the status quo. [....] In the appraisal of Mr. van Schoor's work I will use the author's own dictum [....] as the yardstick for the critique. Having read the book one must therefore ask oneself the following questions: Do we now understand the process of our enslavement? Do we understand the evolution of modem South Africa and the present national set-up in the light of this work? Do we have a better understanding and appreciation of the manifold problems which face the peoples of South Africa in their democratic strivings? What theoretical and political lessons can one draw from the author's analysis of the process of our enslavement? Does Mr. van Schoor indicate the course of South Africa's future evolution? [....] THE BANEFUL EFFECT OF THE AUTHOR'S ANTHROPOLOGICAL APPROACH TO OUR PROBLEMS 1.The Need for a Social Approach to History Political theory influences our political orientation, poses our practical tasks and clarifies our aims. It is the indispensable guide to political struggle. On the correctness of our theory depends the whole future of the liberatory movement. But what determines our political theory? The most painstaking historical and sociological analysis. Every political in the emancipatory movement, engaged in the interpretation of historical evidence and the assessment of the forces at work in society, must realise the cardinal importance of this work. Documentary evidence is the raw material out of which the historian reconstructs e past to explain the present. But it is impossible to understand the present if one merely regards history as a series of events. [....] it is the fundamental task of the historian to discover the laws and the forces which generate events and which lead to the rise and fall of special institutions. It is on this basis that history becomes a science, id the indispensable aid in the interpretation of the present. And it is on the basis of determining the general laws underlying the social changes that the future becomes predictable. [....] If politics is therefore the expression of fundamental class interests which have their basis in economy, then it is clear that economics is in the final reckoning the determining factor in social change. The question of race and colour, racialism and colour prejudice, while they often tend to have logic of their own, are finally merely the superstructure of basic class conflicts. The temptation every student of South African history should therefore learn to resist is the temptation to conceive of South Africa's evolution and the process of our enslavement in terms of anthropological entities. [....] in South Africa, beset as it is with multi-racial problems, it is a great inducement - incidently the easiest way -to explain the nature of our historical and political problems in terms of race, racialism and colour. For it is precisely in this country that social or class conflicts tend to coincide vim the lines of the race and colour. 2. The Author's Preoccupation with Racial Categories. The greatest weakness of Mr. van Schoor's book from which all its other weaknesses naturally flow is the author's inability to resist the temptation. The result is the other side of the coin of Herrenvolkism from which political poison can and must follow. While the official historians have hitherto attempted - and attempted with some degree of success - to paint the white whiter and the blacks blacker, Mr. van Schoor tries to paint the white black and blacks white. The result is the same. Not only does he not find any difference between the Dutch and the British policies in South Africa, not only does he regard the white workers, the white labour aristocrats and the mining magnates is a homogeneous white mass, but he proceeds on the basis of his racial approach to identify slaves with Hottentots, Hottentots with Bushman and the Bantu with the Cape coloured people. And how does he attempt to effect this? By approaching history in reverse. I am referring to his naive attempt to explain the past in the light of the present national set-up, rather than the present in the light of the past. [....] In his attempt to project preconceived political notions on to the historical past, the author forces historical facts into a political straightjacket and proceeds to write some questionable history. Let me illustrate. As a consistent democrat, the author rightly sees the political need for Non-European unity as the indispensable pre-requisite for the launching of a mass democratic movement. The only honest way of approaching such a question is to dwell on the indivisibility of Non-European oppression which has placed all the racial groups, Coloured, Indians, Malay and African in the camp of the oppressed. But the author seeks to "justify" the idea of Non-European unity by obliterating the lines of distinction between the Non-European racial groups and by transferring this idea into the historical past. Thus he writes that the institution of slavery "has had an extremely bad effect in retarding the Non-European struggle for liberation and is beginning to die out only now among the oppressed Non-European people of South Africa." It would therefore seem that the Non-European as a whole at one time existed in the state of slavery. History, however, has it that neither the Bantu, the Hottentots, the Bushman nor the Cape Coloureds were legally chattel slaves. Only a small percentage of the present black population, namely the Malays and a few Coloureds, has slave anteceÂdents. It was the policy of the Dutch not to enslave the indigenous people of South Africa. How this institution of slavery therefore hampered the struggle for liberation is difficult to understand. A number of anachronisms creep into the book in the author's attempt to explain the slow development of Non-European unity. Thus we hear that it was because of "their relatively privileged position as artisan slaves that the Malay slaves "developed an I attitude of aloofness." As if they had then as slaves to unite with the tribal Bantu groups! As if the need for Non-European unity arose not in recent years but in 1652! Then we are asked to accept the idea that the "bad heritage of subservience and inferiority to the ruling class is due to the "intermediate position of the Hottentots as household servants...together with an isolation from the black workers"! Why the Hottentots should have united with other blacks, and who were tribalists, not workers, then is difficult to understand. [....] 3, The Author's Tribal "Heroes": an Example to Democracy? The black chauvinist is as determined as the white chauvinist to create his stock of national heroes. [....] Thus at a time when the Non-Europeans cannot speak of any national heroes, Mr. van Schoor, in his attempt to give his racial approach to history a sort of moral sanction, turns the wheel of history back to fish out "national heroes" for the Non-Europeans. And from where? From the primitive Bantu and Hottentot tribes! It is difficult to understand why a consistent democrat like Mr. van Schoor should elevate a number of tribal chiefs to the position of "national heroes" and by implication deprecate the dissolution of the primitive tribal societies and the development of industrialism - the indispensable pre-requisite for a democratic society in South Africa. [....] The study of the movements of various Bantu tribes clearly reveals that each tribe was bent on territorial expansion which it tried to realise at the expense of the extermination of another. The Zulu king, Chaka, had during the early nineteenth century extended his domains by a rigorous military system and a terrible discipline. The neighbouring tribes, particularly the Xhosa, were forced to flee in the face of Chaka's expansionist policy and rule of terror. [....] Mr. van Schoor [...] eulogises the work of Chaka who had terrorised Gaika and Ndlambi. [....] One must certainly defend the tribes against the land robbery of the Dutch and the British, but to eulogise and hold up as an example the primitive chiefs is not the work of a modem democratic movement. To the black chauvinist van Riebeeck occupies the same place in South African history as the doctrine of "Original Sin" in theology. It is to this humble servant of a commercial company that all the ills of society are attributable. [....] And what is the upshot of it all? Every evil is laid at the door of the white man. [ ....] SOUTH AFRICA HAD NO FEUDAL PHASE IN ITS HISTORY. 1. The Author Leaves the Door Open for the "Feudal Theory" [...] having developed at a slow tempo under commercial capitalism from a half-way house to a commercial colony, the Africans were rudely torn away from their tribal mode of life and geared to a modem industrial machine as wage earners. The depend-ice of the mines on cheap labour made the task of expropriating the Africans from their tribal lands the unpostponable demand of the incipient capitalists. The disintegration of African tribal life was accordingly effected by taxation and wars and the subsequent need for European coinage and goods. In the course of a few decades after 1870, the Africans were violently hurled into the streams of capitalism by sword and fire. The Industrial Revolution in South Africa gave them no opportunity, no breathing space to settle down with the dissolution of tribal life as private landholders. Under the tremendous impact of capitalism, they were forced and absorbed into the economic veins of capitalism, bearing heavily the scars of tribalism. The Africans knew of no age between tribalism and the cash nexus. It must not, however, be taken to mean that industrial capitalism destroyed every vestige of the pre-1870 institutions. [....] In South Africa the industrialists have judiciously preserved the outer forms of chieftainship, tribal categories and combine and integrated these with modem industrial forms. But this preservation of the shells, ' the relics of the past are not the fundamental characteristics, the essence of the social order. They are mere incidentals, mere reminders of the past. The whole argument in Mr. van Schoor's book, as a few good passages indicate, rids to bear out the above argument. This is the author's best contribution. However, the author's characterisation of the Voortrekker republics, the African labourer and the migratory labour system, he draws certain unwarrantable conclusions which point the existence of feudalism at a certain stage in South Africa's development as well the existence of feudal elements today. One therefore gains the impression that he is living the door wide open for the theory that South Africa is feudal now seeking shelter from the intellectual storms. This makes it necessary to deal with some of his remarks on this subject. For from the theory South Africa was and is feudal, definite political conclusions must flow. On the political plane this theory wears the ballroom dress of the "agrarian" slogan, Thus according to the advocates of this theory, the fundamental political task is to rid society of the feudal stalactites and stalagmites and achieve for the people the full and legal ownership of their land, like the August 4th decrees of the French Revolution. The fundamental demand of the people, according to them, is therefore for land. [....] 2 What is Feudalism? [”¦] Feudalism is a state of society in which the political, economic and legal status of every individual came to be inextricably bound up with a contractual relationship based the tenure of land. [....] In the Boer pastoral communities no feudal system could emerge, because the pastoralists lived in a semi-nomadic state. For feudalism, to quote Franck-Brentano, is agriculture without movement. They held land from the Company on a system of rent, not military, clerical or labour services. The Hottentot and Bantu servants rendered labour services in return for food, not for grants of land. In point of fact, until 1828, the Hottentots could not own land or work a plot of land. Under feudalism, personal services to one's master had to be territorialized, that is, they had to be accompanied by a grant of land. The Hottentots were, in short, not medieval serfs. Politically, feudalism means the decentralisation of political power and its delegation to a number of strong feudal lords by the king. [....] The Voortrekker states were, on the other hand, centralized in the People's Council or Volksraad which made laws for all the Boers. Everyone came under the jurisdiction of the central authority. The local authorities - the Landdrost and field comets - merely carried out the instructions of the central authorities to whom they were responsible. The tendency was always in the nature of centralization, which is inimical to feudal political theory. A few liberal historians, notably De Kiewiet and Agar-Hamilton, are quick to draw comparisons between Voortrekker-Bantu relations and feudalism to show that the Boers established a stable system in which their relations with the blacks were based on reciprocity of rights and services. It is a pity that our "new historians" should fall into the same error, which is tantamount to the whitewashing of white-black relations. The liberal historians have subtly tried to see in the practice of a number of chiefs to place themselves under the protection of white farmers a resemblance to the feudal practice of "commendation". But this is precisely why it is not feudalism. "CommenÂdation" or "recommendation" was merely the means whereby the feudal system was built up in the course of centuries during which the weak and helpless placed themselves under the protection of the strong. It is not a feature of feudal society itself. The practice of "commendation" must, in a word, be discontinued to end chaos and anarchy and stabilise the feudal structure. The Voortrekkers could not carry the practice of "commendation" to a logical conclusion by integrating the Bantu into their pastoral economy. The very similarity of the Boer and the Bantu economies, based as they were on land and cattle, was hostile to such assimilation. Their interests were indeed so similar that they both constituted themselves into two armed camps. The result was territorial segregation. To be sure, Bantu children and adults were, through their chiefs, recruited as farm hands and domestic servants. But such services were not accompanied by grants of land. They were not feudalized. Some petty chiefs, on the other hand, seeking refuge from other tribal "heroes", were given temporary residence within the borders of the Transvaal Republic. But even the liberal historians have to admit that such protection as was offered them was a very insecure and hazardous one. At any time they could be expelled. Their temporary residence was therefore not part of perpetual feudal contracts, of feudal tenure and territorialisation. Feudalism offered three main obstacles to the free development of capitalist commodity production. The abrogation of these barriers constituted the historic mission of the capitalist class. Firstly, the capitalist entrepreneur was faced with the task of creating a proletariat [....] The solution of the first problem was the solution of the second: the creation of a home market for the mass-produced goods of the industrialists. [....] The third problem was political: how to absorb the scattered political power that existed under feudalism into the hands of a central authority which could legislate in the interests of the capitalist class. The creation of the centralized political state was finally achieved. In South Africa the mining magnates were faced with the same problems which were, however, complicated by the presence of a compact tribal system. They could not effectively achieve the expropriation of the Africans by an enclosure system. The indivisibility of primitive tribal communalism called for more bloody measures. Wars and taxation had to accomplish the dissolution of tribal life. The call for Confederation of the various provinces was not a mere move for white unity to crush the Africans, as Mr. van Schoor alleges it to be. It was a political move by the mining magnates to create a centralized authority which could protect and legislate in the interests of the capitalist economy. The South Africa Act, 1909, created the central state power. THE INDUSTRIAL REVOLUTION IN SOUTH AFRICA 1. Modern South Africa is Rooted in the Industrialisation of 1870 The foundations of modem South Africa were laid neither by the Dutch East India Company in 1652 nor by the British liberal Cape in 1806. The present-day society of this country has its roots in the Industrial Revolution which began with the opening up of the diamond mines in Kimberley and the gold mines on the Witwatersrand towards the end of the third quarter of the nineteenth century. [....] If twentieth century South Africa is not the product of either early Dutch society or the old liberal Cape, then neither is it the product of the patriarchal Voortrekker pastoral society. Moreover, neither is it a synthesis of the Voortrekker north and the liberal south. It is the creation of an entirely new economic system which, by its new techniques in the process of production, radically altered the old social relationships; evolved new classes rooted in the new process of production and produced a modem political structure to give expression to this change. Up to 1870 South African history is characterised by the slow tempo of her development; after 1870, this country took a tremendous leap which brought her within the course of a few decades into line with modem industrial forms. The introduction of new techniques for the exploitation of the mines is the driving force of this social revolution. The Cape Colony, the basis of whose subsistence was agriculture, commerce and pastoralism, had no policy of residential, social and political segregation within the orbit of commercial capitalism. Neither did it have a colour bar. It finally and legally recognised the equality of all races. And although social differentiation in practice tool: the form of colour, this is because class and colour lines coincided. The Hottentots and early Cape Coloureds, in addition to the detribalised Bantu on the eastern frontier, came to be the exploited class within the framework of political and legal equality. When therefore, one compares the present national set-up with the British Cape, then it is clear that British liberalism was a force before 1870. The Industrial Revolution reversed this trend of political and economic assimilation, and gradually abrogated the time-halÂlowed liberal policy of political and legal equality. The Voortrekker pastoral society, on the other hand, was economically and socially incapable of integrating the black into its subsistence economy lest it be consumed in the process. The very similarities of their respective modes of life, based as they were on land and cattle, precluded the possibility of such a development. The Boers therefore pursued a policy of what one can call territorial segregation. This segregation was based on the complete separation, socially and economically, of the Boers and the Bantu. Thus it has not connection with the modem system of social, residential and political segregation which flows from the integration and interdependence of black and white. [....] The essential basis for South Africa's rapid industrialisation since 1870 was the presence of a large permanently settled white population in this country at the inception of mining. British Imperialism had to consider this white element when it embarked upon the intensive exploitation of the country, before as well as after the discovery of gold and diamonds. Without this population in 1870, Great Britain would have occupied this country on military lines and administered it on the same lines as the South American states or West African colonies. There would have been no such constitutional progress of the various colonies to responsible government which formed the basis for Union and complete political autonomy. There would have been no industrial progress in the form of manufacturing industries. For without the whites, South Africa would still perhaps have been a large mining camp. The presence of a large white population is intimately bound up with the rapid industrialisation of modem South Africa. Let it be understood that Britain never really had it all her own way in South Africa. She was forced to grant the whites certain political and economic rights which would never have come, or at least come very much later, had they not been here in 1870. The Boers fought hard for and forced Britain after the Anglo-Boer War to give them those privileges which they today enjoy in the form of a colour bar, industrial and social, a labour aristocracy and a full democracy. Without them it is difficult to conceive the present-day South Africa with these social institutions. In an analysis of the modem colour bar, it is necessary to pose and answer the following questions clearly: What is the colour bar? How and where did it originate? How was it consolidated? What are the conditions for its elimination? All these questions are of vital importance to the democratic movement. Yet our author fails to answer any one of these questions. [....] 2, The Foundations of the Modern Colour Bar [....] The industrial colour bar and all its concomitants - social and political segregation -are the products of capitalist commodity production which began in Kimberley and on the Witwatersrand. The dependence of modern techniques of capital on labour called for the concentration of labour in the industrial centres. The Bantu had, in short, to be swung into the new industrial system. Skilled labour had to be imported from overseas. In this process of economic integration, economic circumstances, practice, white public opinion which were finally sustained by law, made a strict separation in the two types of labour employed; skilled work at high rates of pay was from the outset the monopoly of the whites; unskilled work at low rates of pay came to be associated with black labour. In the mining industry this practice finally received the sanction of the law by the Mines and Works Act of 1911. It was subsequently extended to other industries. This is the industrial colour bar. . . Mr. van Schoor merely sees the hand of Herrenvolkism in this arrangement. "In Kimberley," he says, "Rhodes and his associates developed a 'civilised' labour policy for imported Europeans and maintained African wages at the lowest level. Out of this arose the high ratio between skilled and unskilled rates of pay, unique in the world." We do not know in what respects this high ratio between skilled and unskilled rates of pay is unique in the world. What is unique is the fact that in South Africa a large group of people is excluded from occupying skilled jobs in a modem industry. There is no parallel anywhere else. To see in this arrangement merely race and colour is meaning-less. One must take into consideration the class interests of the mining capitalists who are mainly concerned with quick profits. According to our author it seems that the industrialists were bent from the outset on raising the wage rates of the whites and correspondingly lowering the wage rates of the Africans. This then raises the question whether this arrangement was the cause or result of prejudice or whether the two interacted to cement both. Let us understand that the Africans who appeared on the industrial field had no knowledge and skill in the use of modem instruments of labour. Unskilled work naturally fell to their lot in the formative stages of mining. Moreover, at the time of the opening of the diamond mines, the vast majority of the Africans came of their own accord in search of European goods and guns. The task of destroying African tribal life was not yet under way. Under such circumstances, the Africans worked for low wages. On the other hand. South Africa had no skilled whites to operate the complex machinery. Skilled artisans had to be imported. To induce them to come high wage rates were offered. This division between white labour and black labour was therefore made more emphatic because skilled labour from Europe had to work alongside black workers who had just appeared on the scene of civilisation. Thus the wages the African workers received in the early days of mining were about ten shillings per week with rations, while the white workers received from £4 to £5 per peek in the case of overseers and from £6 to £8 in the case of mechanics and engine drivers. When African labour was scarce their wage rates rose to even thirty shillings per week. Coloured artisans were also employed in skilled occupations. It is therefore clear that this division between black and white labours is attributable to the Objective, economic circumstances of the time, and not to racialism and colour prejudice. "The white workers," writes De Kiewiet, "stood out more sharply because they were for the most part not of South African birth." With the rapid dissolution of African tribal life after 1870 starving Africans appeared on the mines, eager to work at the lowest rates. This partly and temporarily solved the labour problem and depressed African wages still more. The gulf separating black from white wages consequently widened. 3. The Economic Interpretation of Colour Prejudice ...] While Mr. van Schoor finally says that the modem colour bar system "is essentially a British product", he wrongly attributes colour prejudice to the Voortrekkers. [....] The colour prejudice we know today is not the product of the Boers but of the peculiar conditions and circumstances under which the Industrial Revolution developed in this country. The pastoral semi-nomadic Boers had a military hostility and fear of a similar economic group which they could only distinguish from themselves by religion and colour. The two groups could not be integrated into one society because their economic habits were so similar. The colour prejudice we know today flows from the integration of black and white in an industrial society in which the preferential treatment of the whites by the British has revolutionised the whole psychology of the Boers. The Anglo-Boer War was a sharp lesson to the British that without granting concessions, privileges and rights to the Boers, her rule over South Africa with its teeming millions would be unstable. [....] Objective conditions themselves first inculcated the idea of colour prejudice into the white. The particular disposition of black labour, on the one hand, and white labour, on the other hand, produced the idea that the division between skilled and unskilled labour and high and low rates of pay was a natural, permanent and immutable one. They came to regard this division as a legitimate institution imposed from above, and not the product of the peculiar circumstances from below. Shortly after the inception of a diamond mining, the whites of this country developed a strong feeling of colour in relation to the productive process. De Kiewiet says that before "the diggers were themselves reduced by the capitalist mining companies to the state of employees, they had decided that no other place was open to the native than that of low-paid and unskilled labour". This colour prejudice rapidly become more intense when two important social forces arose out of the new techniques of production: a South African born white artisan class and a black proletariat. The Industrial Revolution in South Africa not only led to the dissolution of tribal life, it also dealt a death blow to the isolation, the particularize of the Boer subsistence economy. For when the demand for agriculture and pastoral products to feed the industrial population became great, the white farmer began to exploit their farms as fully as possible to produce for a large market. The demand for agricultural produce had even led the mining companies to speculate in land and buy large areas which they began to exploit to feed the industrial population. Land prices rose rapidly; many farmers could not adjust themselves to this revolution in agriculture and sold out. The new capitalist farmers, in order to exploit every available stretch of land, were less and Mess inclined to give the ruined whites refuge on their estates. The white bywoners, who had, because of land hunger, taken refuge on the estates of the big farmers, were evicted. Black labour was preferred to white labour on the farms. And so the exodus to the industrial areas began. There they were confronted by a mass of cheap black labour with whom they could not compete in unskilled work. Neither were they trained for skilled work. The Industrial Revolution had produced the "Poor White Problem". What does Mr. van Schoor say about the "Poor White Problem"? He writes: "...the inability to compete with Non-European labour in country and town was not simply due to the lack of training; it was due to an attitude of contempt for labour which was regarded as Kaffir work." This is a misunderstanding. The white employers of labour preferred the Bantu labourers to white labour. Economics overruled consideration of race and colour prejudice. With the inability of the impoverished whites to compete with the blacks in industry, with the gradual acquisition of technical skill by the black workers and their utilisation to a small extent as semi-skilled and skilled workers, and with the preference of the mining companies for cheap black workers, there was a loud public outcry against this stage of affairs. The impoverished whites began to place the blame for their economic ruination on the shoulders of the blacks. This fed colour prejudice. Public and political opinion grew for the protection of the whites in industry. The position was aggravated by the cleavage of interests between white employer and white worker whose high wage demands the former would not meet. For the higher the wage rates demanded by the white workers became, the more limited became their opportunities to find employment and the more blacks were conscripted. To be sure, the encroachment of the blacks on skilled occupations was very slight indeed. But so sensitive were the white workers to the idea of associating white labour with skilled jobs and high wages that they began political agitation for the preservation and consolidation of the status quo. [....] Their racialism, their colour prejudice, had an economic content - their demand for a place, a protected place, in industry. Their colour prejudice was not the cause for the separation if black and white in industry but the product and consolidator of it. [....] 4. The Consolidation of the Industrial Colour Bar Such is the genesis of the modem colour bar. Since its conception almost fifty years have elapsed during which it has shown no obvious signs of collapsing. On the contrary. it has permeated every industry which has developed in South Africa. It is being maintained despite the fact that the rationalisation in production which largely elimiÂnates the need for "skilled" operatives has developed at a rapid rate in South Africa. It is being maintained despite the fact that the African workers are becoming more and more acquainted with the production methods of modem industry and are capable of doing most of the so-called skilled work, or could do so with very little training. It is being maintained despite the fact that it is the chief source of annoyance and financial loss to the Chamber of Mines. Today, political expediency which had forced upon the Chamber of Mines the colour bar, is being mercilessly pounded by the laws of economic necessity which no longer sees the justification of the indefinite continuation of a while labour aristocracy. Profits are dwindling; cuts shall have to be made somewhere. This top-heavy social institution is being strained to the utmost. The economic base is now pounding the superstructure of political expediency, race and colour prejudice. After the Great War of 1914-18, however, the colour bar has become more rigid. Not only did the extension of the statutory colour bar to other industrial field-consolidate the labour status quo, but the increase in power and co-ordination of the white trade unions and the corresponding lack of organisation, lack of rights and docility of the black workers led to increased rates of pay and better working conditions for the white workers. "Segregation is more rigorous in the factory than in the mines," writes Mr. van Schoor. Is this really so? In the factory, to be sure, there is not the same rigorous enforcement of the statutory provisions of the colour bar. Non-European factory workers are more intimate with the technical processes of production and receive rates-of pay which are superior to those of the Chamber of Mines. The author, however, says that the "ratio of white to non-white wages in secondary industry" is evidently not decreasing. But a careful study of the wage rates of the two groups shows that there has been a definite narrowing of the gap. In 1915 the ratio was 4,85; in 1919 it was 4,84, and in 1924 it was 4,5. Then there was an increase to 4,27 in 1927, but in 1929 it fell to 4,08. In 1938 the ratio was 4,36 and it fell to 3,5 in 1944, rising to 3,47 in 1945. This decrease, slight though it is, proved that the economic demands of the Non-European workers are increasing. It vaguely foreshadows the future of the Industrial Colour Bar. In the gold mining industry the colour bar is rigidly being maintained. From 1911 to 1915 European wages amounted to an average of £330 annually. In 1920 European wages averaged £501 and then declined to £372 in 1923. In 1938 it was £404, and in 1947 it was £579. As regards Non-European wages, the average cash wages for 1911 was £28 5s.; for 1923 it-was £34 1s., and in 1938 £36 6s. "In 1938 both average cash wages of Natives and average European wages were almost 21,3% above the 1911 level." The gap is being maintained. For example, the average increase of European wages in the diamond industry was 23% from 1911 to 1938, and for Non-Europeans for the same period it was 11,7%. In the coal mining industry the average increase of European wages from 1911 to 1938 was 39,4%, and for Non-Europeans 37,3%.' In July 1918, the Chamber of Mines recognised the Status Quo Agreement, which reaffirmed the colour bar system in the mining industry. [....] In an attempt to modify this agreement, the Chamber of Mines precipitated the 1922 strike. [....] In 1926 the Mines and Works Act was amended to exclude Africans and Asiatics from acquiring certificates of competency to do skilled work. For already, in 1925, the Mining Regulations Commission had spoken of the competition of the African labourer which would lead to the elimination of the European worker "from the entire range of mining operations". There can be no doubt that the Chamber of Mines views the white worker with an ambivalence of emotions. For the conditions and circumstances under which the colour bar arose have vanished. Political considerations are, however, still stronger than the need to cut down on the heavy cost structure, either by reducing European wages or by replacing the whites in skilled jobs by black labour. But so great is the strength of the organised white working class, so strong their political voice, and so docile and rightless the unorganised workers that legislative and administrative measures are still the main props for the support of the colour bar in industry. 5. The Conditions for the Elimination of the Colour Bar What then are the conditions necessary for the elimination of the colour bar? For this is the fundamental task of the political movement for democracy: to bring the wage rates of the black worker to the level of Europeans and to eliminate the artificial barriers separating "skilled from unskilled" in industry. Two factors combine to this end: in the automatic process outside human agency and in the political struggle through human agency to bring about its abrogation. Mr. van Schoor only sees the former [....] The problem of raising the standards of life of the black workers does not enter the mind of the writer. Moreover, he ignores the rapid increase in the number of proletarians settled permanently in the towns where, it is clear, they will one day organise into a mighty social force and play the decisive part in the struggle of the abolition of the colour bar. [....] -The elimination of the industrial colour bar is inextricably bound up with the increase in the number of permanent black workers. For such a development will indubitably lead to the organiÂsation of the black proletariat and their participation as a force in the industrial struggles that lie ahead. Yet Mr. van Schoor only sees the objective factor of economic necessity. Such an automatic abolition of the colour bar is the dream of opportunism and the product of political abstentionism. The Non-Europeans have up to now been putty in the hands of the employers, not only because they are voiceless and voteless, but because they are not an organised force that can struggle for higher wages and better working conditions. But Mr. van Schoor must not consider that they will remain a permanent, docile mass, incapable of any struggle. Such an attitude of mind is already the beginning of capitulation to the status quo. This striking omission of the role of the liberatory movement to wrench away the props that support the colour bar is the beginning of defeatism, of lack of faith and optimism in the democratic struggle. History is made by people under definite conditions. That history will only be made when the proletariat steps into the political arena as an organised industrial force. 6 The Economics of Black Chauvinism Mr. van Schoor's anthropological approach once more reveals its baneful influence on author's assessment of black and white wages and the productive output of the respective labour groups. [....] He argues that "the European worker in secondary industry is deadweight." [....] We are therefore given to understand that the South African capitalists are not really interested whether the white workers produce new social values. It seems that racialism and colour prejudice overrule all economic considerations. According to Mr. van Schoor, the black workers alone contribute towards the productive output. In other words, technical skill, the economic planning commissions, the skilled overseers and engineers play no part in the productive output. All production is dependent - on whom? On the semi- and unskilled black workers who are not allowed to handle modern machinery freely. Thus we finally have the formulae: Skilled workers = unproductive; unskilled work = productive; white = unproductive; black = productive. Two statements on production prove that the author is not at all serious about the above statement: "When 80% of the population is forbidden to handle machinery, technical progress must necessarily slow." So? The Non-Europeans are not very productive after all! Technical skill is, after all, necessary to industry! The whites, after all, produce new values! [....] Even in a democratic society, skilled workers will have to be paid more than workers who are less skilled. For without this technical skill production will be slow, poverty will continue to haunt democracy and elementary needs will not be satisfied. Does the writer imagine that unskilled workers and manual workers can build a democratic society? The reason for the low productivity of this country lies in the fact that the Non-Europeans are not allowed to participate fully in the process of production. The abolition of the colour bar, therefore, also means a tremendous increase in production. 7. The Proletariat as the Greatest Force in the Country. [....] Since the opening of the mines, the establishment of factories and the beginning if capitalist agriculture, the areas allotted to the Africans have continually shrunk. The result is continued proletarianisation. Africans are forced by land hunger, the need for money to buy European goods and pay their taxes to seek work in the urban areas. The reserves were never set aside to sustain the Africans. Thus, before the depression of 1929-36, the income from production of African families in the reserves was £4 0s. Id. per annum. Today the reserves are a large creche for old woman and children and a short place of rest for the migratory workers. Since Union the African population has continued to flow from areas of predomiÂnantly African population to the urban centres and European farms. They go yearly from the reserves to the towns; from the towns back to the reserves; from the reserves to European farms and back to the reserves and from farms to the towns and back to the farms. This perennial movement is a unique characteristic of the black proletariat. It is our task to understand how conditions, administrative measures and economic forces dictate this complex migratory labour system. Once again Mr. van Schoor is unable to see the migratory labour system as a process of development. He simply says: "The Kimberley diamond mines gave rise directly to the vast system of migratory labour flowing between reserves and locations..." How and why this came about he is unable to tell us. Later we hear that, having been rendered homeless, the African was prevented from becoming a settled worker in the towns by the migratory labour system. Then he writes that this labour system also "prevents the settling down of a propertied (!) peasantry." The author here confuses cause and effect. The migratory labour system, contrary to the author, is not the cause of the inability of the Africans to become either a peasantry or a settled urban proletariat, but precisely the result of it. By various administrative measures the Africans are forbidden to settle permanently in urban centres. This is the meaning of the pass laws. After the expiration of his labour contract the pass laws forced him to return to the areas specially set aside for Africans. But here he cannot stay for long because the reserves were never meant to be self-sufficient areas. Poverty and land hunger compel him to seek work in the towns or on the white farms. The result is that he oscillates between reserves and urban areas for European farmers. [....] Yet, in spite of these administrative measures which prevent the emergence of a permanent urban African proletariat, the very poverty of live in the reserve, the increasing economic demands of the Africans, and the consequent desperate need to augment their frugal incomes, are leading to more and more Africans into the ranks of permanent urban dwellers. Their labour contracts and their stay in the industrial centres are becoming larger. The extension of the urban localities themselves bears testimony to this fact. [....] Mr. van Schoor: "...if the migratory labour system were to break down, it would at once polarise into a landed (!) peasantry in the country and an organised (!) working-class in the town. . ."[....] The author does not give us the conditions under which the migratory labour system would break down. He cannot see that the labour and economic needs of the industriÂalists would finally force them to abolish the migratory labour system and allow the migratory African workers to become an integral part of urban life. This is an inescapable development in our social evolution. The wheel of history cannot be turned back either to the revival of tribalism or the settling of the Africans on the land as small producers. Such a development is repugnant not only to the historic process and the development of industry but also to the democratic movement, which can only triumph on the basis of increased industrialisation. The African worker is not a proletarian in the true sense of the word. Firstly, he is not a permanent urban dweller and therefore does not form an integral part of industrial life, socially and culturally. Secondly, he is debarred by industrial legislation from participating in all the technical processes as a skilled and efficient worker. The development of capitalism will indubitable also lead to the development of a fully-fledged proletariat. Of the great importance to the liberatory movement is a strict understanding of the forces which are driving more and more Africans irresistibly forward into the capitalist economy as proletarians. The great task of the liberatory movement is to facilitate this development by its struggle for the abrogation of all the administrative measures which prevent the Africans from becoming a settled proletariat; by calling for the abolition of the Industrial Colour Bar to raise the living standards of the African and develop his technical skill; and by demanding political and civil rights to make him a full citizen of this country. [....] CONCLUSION [....] This analysis has attempted to show that the weakness in the book flow from a wrong orientation and approach to our social and political problems, an approach which, taking racial categories as its point of departure, has the tendency, though not always, to go to the other extreme of Herrenvolkism - black racialism. It is a tendency that is all too prevalent in Colonial countries where class oppression and exploitation assume the form of and coincide with race and colour. But it is precisely the task of the democratic movement to strip this Colonial oppression of its racial garb and reveal its class content. All the differences which this critique has with this book are consequential upon the author's anthropological approach. In many respects they are indeed slight, being a matter of emphasis, of underlying principles, of seeing the wood for the trees and objectivity. And although we have reached an important stage in Mr. van Schoor's work on the road to sociological clarification on our political problems, I still consider that our main task in the field of history at present is to deal with and refute the arguments of the official historians writing South Africa's past. They still reign supreme. We are grateful to Mr. van Schoor for having taken another step in this direction. For the clarification of our past is the condition for the clarification of our present, and the clarification of our present the condition for the clarification of political theory and our future. The leadership of the enslaved masses must first understand the process of enslavement before they can lead them on the road to emancipation.

SOUTH AFRICAN ART & CULTURE South African art has always taken on the unique flavour of the country, from the 4 000-year-old cave paintings of the San Bushmen – the richest collection of rock art in Africa – to the homegrown conceptual art movement that sprang up as apartheid came to an end in the 1990s. The San Bushmen, Africa’s oldest hunter-gatherers, lived in the massive Drakensberg range of mountains from 4 000 years ago until they were driven out by colonialists in the 19th century. Over that time, they created a vast body of art on the walls of caves and rock shelters – the largest and most concentrated group of rock paintings in sub-Saharan Africa. This rich collection prompted Unesco to inscribe the Drakensberg as a mixed natural and cultural world heritage site in 2000. The paintings, Unesco said, “represent the spiritual life of the San people” and are “outstanding both in quality and diversity of subject”. “The San people lived in the mountainous Drakensberg area for more than four millennia, leaving behind them a corpus of outstanding rock art, which throws much light on their way of life and their beliefs,” Unesco said. “The authenticity of the paintings, and their shelter and cave settings, as a reflection of the beliefs of the San peoples, are without question.” Colonial art ‘Elephants Charging over Quartos Country During the early colonial era, white South African artists tended to concentrate on depicting what they saw as a “new world”, in accurate detail. Artists such as Thomas Baines travelled the country recording its flora, fauna, people and landscapes – a form of reporting for those back in the metropolis. Towards the end of the 19th century, painters Jan Volschenk and Pieter Hugo Naude and the sculptor Anton van Wouw began to establish a locally rooted art. Their work – the first glimpse of an artistic vision that engaged with life as lived in South Africa – marked the moment the country began to acquire its own national identity, with the 1910 Union of South Africa marking the formal end of the colonial era. The 20th century and apartheid ‘An extensive view of farmlands In the first decades of the 20th century, the Dutch-born painter JH Pierneef brought a coolly geometric sensibility to the South African landscape; he also, in a way that fed into Afrikaner nationalist ideology, found it bereft of human inhabitants. By the 1930s, two women artists, Maggie Laubscher and Irma Stern, brought the techniques and sensibilities of post-impressionism and expressionism to South African art. Their bold colour and composition, and highly personal point of view, rather scandalised those with old-fashioned concepts of acceptable art. Yet younger artists such as Gregoire Boonzaier, Maud Sumner and Moses Kottler were rejoicing in this new spirit of cosmopolitanism. Irma Stern Museum: www.irmastern.co.za The apartheid years (1948-1994) witnessed a great diversity in South African art – ranging from landscape painting to abstract art. There was engagement with European and American currents, but also a fiercely local sense of what it meant to be an artist in this country during troubled times. Inevitably, black artists were largely neglected. It was left to white artists, endowed with training, resources and supportive galleries, to build a corpus of South African art. After World War II, returning soldiers and some immigrants brought European ideas to the local art world. In the 1940s, Jean Welz, for instance, born in Austria in 1900, brought a detailed, nuanced and sophisticated style to still lifes, portraits, nudes and landscape paintings. Maurice van Essche, born in Belgium in 1906, applied the modernist techniques of his teacher Matisse to specifically African subject matter. Impact of African forms Meanwhile, African forms themselves began to have an impact on the work of white artists. An awareness of art forms ranging from those of the ancient Egyptians to San Bushman rock art increasingly influenced South African artists from the 1950s onwards. Walter Battiss, for one, had developed an interest in rock art long before he became an artist in the 1930s. Until his death in 1982, Battiss returned repeatedly to the motifs and styles of San rock art. In Symbols of Life (1967), for instance, San-type figures and patterns become stylised into a kind of symbolic alphabet. Walter Battiss: walterbattiss.co.za Other artists found different ways of interacting with the visual stimuli of Africa, whether by adapting its outward forms or finding ways to incorporate its textures into the work. Alexis Preller, for instance, created fantastically detailed canvases influenced by the European surrealists of the 1920s and 1930s. Beginning in the late 1940s, Preller painted African scenes and themes such as The Kraal and Hieratic Women, but these were not realistic portraits of African life: instead, they were reinvented by Preller’s startling visual imagination. Cecil Skotnes, by contrast, took a leaf from Picasso’s book – the European art revolution instigated by the great Spaniard had, in part, been generated by his appreciation of African masks. Skotnes became South Africa’s master of the woodcut, bringing European modernism into fruitful collision with African styles. Meanwhile, a host of white artists were engaging with the South African landscape in interesting ways – though such formalism was increasingly criticised during the struggle against apartheid for its detachment from the political situation. Emerging black artists By contrast, black artists such as Gerard Sekoto and George Pemba concentrated on depicting their realities and environments in a direct, though forcefully expressionist, manner. From the 1930s onward, Sekoto portrayed urban African life in places such as Sophiatown and District Six, vital and tumultuous hotspots of an emerging though unacknowledged black culture. In Sekoto’s works of the early 1940s, such as Street Scene, bustling African figures are placed in the context of their often denuded environment, while Yellow Houses (the first work by a black artist bought by the Johannesburg Art Gallery), reduces the human presence, focusing instead on the environment itself. In Song of the Pick, naturalism gives way to severe stylisation: a rank of workers wield picks in unison, forming a powerful image of African labour; a white overseer’s figure is dwarfed, even threatened, by this phalanx of diggers. In 1947, Sekoto left for Paris. Illness and intermittent impoverishment meant that his work never again reached the heights it had in South Africa. George Pemba, by contrast, stayed in the township of Motherwell near Port Elizabeth, living into his 90s and patiently continuing to paint despite the lack of public acclaim. His often naively styled work focused on the simple lives of poor black people, humbly and sometimes humorously evincing their fundamental humanity, though he also treated themes such as the story of the Xhosa prophetess Nongqawuse of the 19th century. Increasingly, and inevitably, black artists began to give voice to a political sensibility that left behind the realist depiction of township life. Lack of resources meant that many had to rely on media other than oil-painting, but making a virtue of necessity gave added force to their work. Dumile Feni (known as Dumile), for instance, became a master of drawing, often in ballpoint pen. Dumile’s sense of anger and despair fed into work of extraordinary power; his distorted figures seemed to have been physically deformed by the very forces of society. Called “the Goya of the townships”, he painted his own version of Picasso’s Guernica, a cry of pain at human suffering. Dumile went into exile in 1968 and died in New York in 1991. Black artists such as Azaria Mbatha and John Muafangejo also made striking use of the accessible and relatively cheap medium of the linocut. In the 1980s and 1990s, artists such as William Zulu, Vuyile Cameron Voyifwa, Cyprian Shilakoe and others extended linocut work into what has become practically a subgenre of its own. Gerard Sekoto Foundation: www.gerardsekotofoundation.com George Pemba: www.georgepemba.co.za District Six Museum: www.districtsix.co.za Dumile Feni: www.dumile.org.za The outsiders’ view Meanwhile, the idiosyncratic Jackson Hlungwane, discovered by the mainstream community only late in his life, produced a vast body of sculpture in wood and built environments expressing his own highly individual religious world. It contains a multitude of creatures both mythical and real, as well as a large cast of characters. In this he has something in common with another “outsider artist”, Helen Martins, who obsessively peopled her small-town home – known as the Owl House – with sculptures of concrete and found objects, up to her suicide in 1976. Yet South Africa’s most successful “outsider” artist is perhaps the Russian emigre Vladimir Tretchikoff, who developed a distinctive style in which arch sentimentality was rendered with virtuoso formal exactitude. Tretchikoff had considerable commercial acumen, turning paintings such as The Dying Swan and Chinese Girl (also known informally as The Blue Lady) into prints and selling millions around the world. To the post-modern eye, Tretchikoff’s work, long scoffed at as the peak of kitsch, now has a distinctive ironic charm. From the 1960s on, many South African artists responded to developments in American and British art. The severe yet sensual work of Cecily Sash showed the impact of post-painterly abstraction and later “op art”; the playful surfaces of Helmut Starke and Kevin Atkinson opened the dialogue with pop art. A wide range of styles and modes were now available to South African artists, and the likes of Judith Mason and Andrew Verster extended the traditions of oil painting into personal expressions of life, society and the world around them. Apartheid in crisis: 1970s and 1980s As the apartheid state became more repressive in the 1970s and 1980s, many artists faced the harsh realities of South African life, sometimes obliquely, sometimes head-on. In the early 1980s, for instance, Paul Stopforth made a series of works dealing with police torture – the cause of the death of resistance heroes such as Bantu Steve Biko. And Robert Hodgins satirised figures of power in paintings that turned leaders into sinister but laughable echoes of Alfred Jarry’s mad king Ubu. In paintings, lithographs and sculpture, Norman Catherine developed the playful sensibilities of Walter Battiss into a disturbing private menagerie of threatening and threatened theriomorphs and larger-than-life human figures. The crowded collages, pastels and charcoals of Helen Sebidi spoke of the struggle of human life; her figures seem to battle upwards, towards the picture plane, as though they were drowning. William Kentridge used expressionist drawings and highly developed personal metaphors, symbols and characters to expose the hypocrisies and ironies of white South African life. More recently, he has employed his powerful drawing technique in “animated” films and installations, and the set design of Mozart’s The Magic Flute. Penny Siopis tackled femininity and history in dense, allusive paintings, and in installations, photographs and other conceptual works. In the 1980s, “resistance art” was increasingly recognised as a genre of expression directed at the white elite’s oppressive exercise of power. For example, trade union posters and T-shirts used imagery that had something in common with the Russian constructivists as well as African art. And anonymous artists placed images of state violence (or bewildering dream reflections) at traffic intersections. Judith Mason: www.judithmason.com Steve Biko Foundation: www.sbf.org.za Norman Catharine: www.normancatherine.co.za William Kentridge – Art21 Feature: www.pbs.org/art21/artists/william-kentridge Conceptual art of the 1990s Conceptual art in South Africa seemed to come into its own in the 1990s. Events such as the two Johannesburg Biennales (1995 and 1997) contributed to a new dialogue between local artists and currents from other countries. Media such as video, performance and installation took the place of painting. Jeremy Wafer, for instance, used photography, earth, and fibreglass sculpture to tackle issues such as borders and boundaries. The complex installations of Sue Williamson used found and reworked materials to speak of memory and history. Sandile Zulu made paintings out of the unpredictable marks of fire on surfaces, or created sculptural tableaux from natural materials. Even refuse was turned into suggestive assemblages and collages by Moshekwa Langa. Steven Cohen made drag into a form of sculpture-performance that addressed identity and marginality, while Kendell Geers interrogated the very process of artmaking itself. Other artists put a conceptual spin on traditional artforms: Jane Alexander, for example, took sculpture into new realms with disturbing figures that place the human form in extremis or subject it to frightening transformations, while Jo Ractliffe worked with photography to investigate personal and familial memory, death, decay and love. Hentie van der Merwe also used photographs, taken or found, to talk about the body in an age of HIV/Aids. Kendell Geers: kendellgeers.com Crafts: the reinvention of tradition traditional Ndebele beadwork. While the “high art” continues to blossom in South Africa, the market for crafts has expanded to include every possible form of traditional artwork. There is a host of work in traditional media on the market. Artists are constantly developing the repertoire of African crafts – from intricate and near life-size beaded wire sculpture to tableware, ornaments and embroidered cloth, to stunning costume jewellery, welded cast-iron objects, folk painting and more. At the same time, the status of the traditionally anonymous maker of craft works is changing: “folk art” has made inroads into “high art”. For example, in the 1990s the work of late ceramicist Bonnie Ntshalintshali went well beyond the confines of traditional African pottery, yet her exquisite creations could conceivably still be used at the dinner table. The Ndebele tradition of house-painting exploded with the advent of commercial paints, giving rise to artists such as Esther Mahlangu, whose adaptations of the highly coloured geometric designs adorned everything from cars to aeroplanes. Notwithstanding the appearance of celebrity “folk artists”, ordinary craft continues to thrive – the main examples being beadwork, pottery, basketry and wooden carving. South African Art The art of the peoples of South Africa is the oldest known art in the world, dating back over 100,000 years. The archeological discoveries there help scholars to date the evolution of cognition and intelligent progression. South African art in the modern era is influenced and molded by the trials of the South African people under apartheid and the years of European involvement in the area expressed in the found art of Africans making sense of modern traditions, and the Dutch influence on both white and black artists. With the many tribes, languages, cultures, and races of South Africa, there is a very diverse and eclectic art scene in historical and contemporary South Africa. South African Art Origins and Historical Importance: Blombos cave South African Art The very beginnings of art, not just for South Africa, but for the world, were found at the Blombos cave. This ancient art studio contained paint pots in the form of shells that were used to store mixed paints from disparate sources. This proved to archeologists that early man may have been more sophisticated than previously thought. Whatever it was that they painted, be it clothing, faces, or the walls of the caves, the South African climate, particular in this sea cave is not conducive to the permanent survival of art. What has been found of ancient South African art are the cave paintings of the Khoisan, San, and Bushman tribes dating to 10,000 BC. Other cave painters left behind scenes of hunting and domestic life, and also of spiritual and magical art. The colors used are derived from nature and are therefore mostly in earth tones such as black, yellow, red, orange, white, and gray. “The drawings don’t start with ‘a beautiful mark’. It has to be a mark of something out there in the world. It doesn’t have to be an accurate drawing, but it has to stand for an observation, not something that is abstract, like an emotion”. – William Kentridge Cave scenes portray battles and hunts, animals, dancing, and later, white hunters on horseback. The figures are shown in long forms in action and some figures that are either dancing or participating in the shamanic rituals are costumed in clothing in unusual patterns and prints and are often wearing masks. It is unknown if these are people drawn from life, or if these represent symbolic characters. The symbols, themes, and subjects of the South African cave paintings are similar to what is seen in cave and rock paintings all over the world. European Influence: The Boers, better known as the Dutch, and the English came to South Africa in the mid-19th century and the art of the Europeans that remained and the traditional art of the indigenous tribal people began to mix. The end of the 19th century spurred some artists to move away from this mixed art and begin studying art in realism , creating a unique art free from both European and native influences. Indigenous people South African Art Under European colonization, the native people suffered under racial segregation and prejudice. The English established museums, universities, art schools, and other education opportunities, but they were not ones open to the indigenous. However, white intellectuals and artists seeking inspiration from the art and culture of the African people sought them out and some artistic instruction was imparted by collaboration. As the tide of the world was changing to strive for respect of all peoples, the artists of South Africa, both white and black began to protest against apartheid, and against the cultural boycott on South Africa. Their success led to South African artists stepping up to a level global playing field. “I don’t know how one actually would define obscenity. I’m sure the definition is different according to the age one is living in”. – Jane Alexander South African Art Key Highlights: South Africa is home to the Thupelo Workshop, an annual workshop that brings artists from all over the world to share the diversity of artistic style, technique, and motivation with the global community of artists. The San culture are hunter-gatherers that are still in existence, but as their culture fades and there are fewer San artists, galleries are stepping in to help keep their art and culture alive. The lack of galleries on the Cape has given artists in that area freedom of expression without the restriction of pleasing the intellectual middle classes. The Ndebele tribe is known for its graphics geometric paintings on houses. The paints used were traditionally made from natural sources, but the Ndebele are now sometimes being supplied with commercial paints. Because of the rampant poverty in South Africa, poor artists use found media to create art. The talent and vision of the South African people is evident in the beauty they are able to create from these materials. For instance, baskets spiraling in vivid bright colors look to be made from highly died natural materials but are, in fact, made from telephone wires. South African Art Top Works: San Bushmen Rock Paintings – Drakensberg Mountains Elephants Charging over Quartos Country – Thomas Baines An Extensive View of Farmlands – JH Pierneef Pretoria Mural – Walter Battiss Song of the Pick – Gerard Sekoto The Rice Lady – Vladimir Tretchikoff The Conservationists Ball – William Kentridge The Butcher Boys – Jane Alexander Ndebele Beadwork Zulu Baskets BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

Places & Attractions South Africa is a country with a rich cultural heritage and diverse beauty. From the bustling city of Johannesburg to the stunning beaches of Cape Town, there are countless places to visit and attractions to see. Some of the must-visit places include Kruger National Park, Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the Apar Museum. Whether you're interested in history, wildlife, or simply soaking up the sun, South Africa has something for everyone. Click Here More Information ATTRACTIONS & PLACES TO VISIT western cape16 Castle-of-Good-Hope south-africa-cape-grace western cape16 1/14 The Union Building The Union Building in Pretoria, South Africa, is a landmark that has played a significant role in the country's political. Built in 1913, the building served as the administrative center for the Union of South Africa, which was formed in 1910. It was also the site of Nelson Mandela's presidential inauguration in 199, marking the end of apartheid and the beginning of a new era in South African history. Today, the Union Building remains an important symbol of democracy and freedom in the country. Suncity Casino Suncity in South Africa is a world-renowned resort and casino complex offers a unique blend of entertainment, relaxation and adventure. Located in the heart of the North West Province, Suncity boasts a range of luxurious hotels, restaurants, and attractions that cater to every taste and budget. Whether're looking for a romantic getaway, a family, or a thrilling experience, Suncity something for everyone. Cape Castle Capetown The Cape Castle in Cape Town is a historic that was built by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century. It served as a strategic base for the Dutch to protect their trade route to the East. Over the years, the castle has been used for various purposes, including a prison and a military base. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Town's rich history. Fish Hoek in Capetown Fish Hoek is a charming coastal town located in the southern of Cape Town, South Africa. The has a rich history dating back to the early1800s when it was first settled by Dutch farmers. Over the years, Fish Hoek has grown into a popular tourist destination, known for its beautiful, stunning scenery, and relaxed atmosphere. Whether you're looking to soak up the sun, explore the local culture, or simply unwind and relax, Fish Hoek has something for everyone. South Africa’s top 10 incredible attractions Ask anyone and they’ll tell you, South Africa boasts amazing tourist attractions that are worth visiting more than once. But where does one even start? Here’s a list of top 10 attractions that you should tick off your “to-do” list. 1) Table Mountain Sitting at 1,085m above sea level, you’re guaranteed incredible sunset views of Cape Town and surrounds on the new 7 Wonders of the World – the magnificent Table Mountain. Sprawling with indigenous plants such as the Protea and wildlife including adorable Dassies (rock badgers), Table Mountain is the ideal spot to witness nature at its best. Get a bird’s eye view of the city below from the Table Mountain Cable Way. 2) Cradle of Mankind Imagine what life was like in South Africa millions of years ago. Now you can when you visit the Cradle of Mankind in Gauteng, just northwest of Johannesburg. This World Heritage Site is a treasure trove of fossilised history, and home to the remains of our ancestors – the Hominids. Go back in time and discover an ancient world of dinosaur fossils, hominid skeletons and evidence of their existence at the Maropeng Visitor Centre and the Sterkfontein Caves. 3) Robben Island Of course, a visit to the Cape Town (The Mother City) is not complete without a boat trip to Robben Island. One can almost feel the spirit of legendary Tata Madiba - Nelson Mandela on the island, where he spent 27 years in incarceration. Take a tour of his former prison cell and learn more about his years spent on the island with other struggle fighters. 4) The Cape Winelands Who doesn’t like to swirl and sip delicious and award-winning wines? Even if you’re not a wine connoisseur, everyone can appreciate a good glass of wine. There’s no doubt South Africa, particularly the Western Cape is gateway to incredible wines that’s made in centuries old vineyards across the province. From Stellenbosch to Franschoek, drive along the wine route and enjoy wine tasting along with food pairing to tickle your palate. 5) The Drakensberg Mountains Did You Know? The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is 2200 metres above sea level? Reaching a whopping 3482 metres above sea level, the Drakensberg Mountains covers a distance of over 1000 kilometres. Thabana Ntlenyana is its highest peak and can be found around the area bordering Lesotho. 6) The Kruger National Park Expect to see the 'King of the Jungle' in its natural domain, ruling over the savannah... and the roads. The Kruger National Park is a gateway into the wild, where visitors get to see the Big Five including lions and other fierce cats in their prime. 7) Soweto From the former home of legendary Nelson and Winnie Mandela to other prominent struggle fighters who fought for equality during apartheid, visit Soweto to get a real sense of South Africa’s past and an in-depth look into the lives of those who once lived there. Go on a Sowetan tour, including a visit to nearby taverns to enjoy local beer, braai (barbeque) and experience the vibe of the township. 8) Blyde River Canyon Travelling to Mpumalanga requires a stopover at the Blyde River Canyon. There’s so much to see at this incredible part of the province, including God’s Window – an attraction that will greet you with sweeping views of the valley below. 9) Sun City Resort In 1979 the Sun City Resort was built and houses the Valley of Waves. It’s situated along the border of the Pilanesberg National Park and is known for its casino entertainment, water theme park and renowned for its safari adventures. 10) Golden Gate Highlands National Park Situated in the enchanting Golden Gate National Park in the heart of the Free State and at the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains, it's the perfect place to find South Africa and yourself. From Stellenbosch to Franschoek, drive along the wine route and enjoy wine tasting along with food pairing to tickle your palate. One of the continent’s most popular countries to visit, South Africa boasts loads of epic scenery and amazing wildlife. Asides from safaris and nature spots, some parts are just as famed for their wines and whale-watching or surfing and shark cage diving. Occupying the southernmost end of Africa, the ‘Rainbow Nation’ is bordered by the Atlantic and Indian oceans. A biodiversity hotspot, it includes everything from dramatic deserts and gorges to savannahs, mountains and wine lands. Dotted all about the huge country are gigantic game parks and nature reserves home to the Big 5. While Cape Town and Kruger National Park dominate most peoples’ itineraries, almost every corner of South Africa has new and interesting things to do to offer. Visitors quickly discover that the rich history and colourful inhabitants ideally complement the top tourist attractions in South Africa, which creates an unforgettable experience. e to add your own text and edit me. It's easy. Top Tourist Attractions in South Africa One of the continent’s most popular countries to visit, South Africa boasts loads of epic scenery and amazing wildlife. Asides from safaris and nature spots, some parts are just as famed for their wines and whale-watching or surfing and shark cage diving. Occupying the southernmost end of Africa, the ‘Rainbow Nation’ is bordered by the Atlantic and Indian oceans. A biodiversity hotspot, it includes everything from dramatic deserts and gorges to savannahs, mountains and wine lands. Dotted all about the huge country are gigantic game parks and nature reserves home to the Big 5. While Cape Town and Kruger National Park dominate most peoples’ itineraries, almost every corner of South Africa has new and interesting things to do to offer. Visitors quickly discover that the rich history and colourful inhabitants ideally complement the top tourist attractions in South Africa, which creates an unforgettable experience. Table of Contents Sabi Sands Game Reserve Part of the Mpumalanga province, the sprawling Sabi Sands Game Reserve lies nestled in the northeast of the country. One of the most luxurious safari experiences you can have, its top-end lodges almost guarantee up-close encounters with incredible animals. Named after the two rivers that flow through it, the park was founded as a private game reserve in 1938. Now dedicated to conservation, it has hundreds of species of animals, birds and reptiles residing within its confines. The most sought after and special to see are, of course, the Big 5. As the upscale lodges employ expert guides and trackers, guests return raving about all the elusive animals they’ve seen. Thanks to their efforts, you can often watch leopards, elephants and lions roam about, right beside the jeep. It is these superb safaris and the five-star service that make the considerable outlay well worth it. Cape Agulhas, Western Cape The southernmost tip of the African continent, Cape Agulhas is where both the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. Oft-overlooked in favour of Cape Point, which is much closer to Cape Town, it contains some absolutely stunning scenery. In addition, there is also a charming old lighthouse and a photo spot to prove you’ve been here. Fittingly named ‘Cape of Needles’ by Portuguese navigators, it overlooks a rough patch of sea renowned for winter storms and rogue waves. To protect the sailors and ships rounding the cape, a lonely lighthouse was built here in 1849. Its red-and-white striped tower now makes for some fantastic photos as does the large metal relief map of Africa nearby. There is also a scenic boardwalk to stroll along and rock pools to explore. Although it is nowhere near the country’s most impressive bit of coastline, we were still happy we stopped by while driving along the Garden Route. It was quite special seeing the oceans meet and their glittering waves stretching away endlessly into the distance. Surfing in Jeffreys Bay One of the best surf spots in the world, the laidback town of Jeffreys Bay can be found in the Eastern Cape, about an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth. Known for its consistent swells, breaks and big waves, it hosts top-class surfing competitions each year. Since The Endless Summer surf documentary came out in the sixties, both expert and amateur surfers have flocked to J-Bay. It is most famed for its fast right-hand point break that sometimes continues for over a kilometre. At times, its waves also reach up to three metres in height with the Super Tubes stretch being the most popular. Even if you’re not into surfing or are fed up with falling off your board, Jeffreys Bay is still a nice place to spend some time. It has beautiful beaches full of pretty shells to lounge on before trying some of its delicious seafood restaurants. Addo Elephant National Park Also lying near PE (or Gqebera as the coastal city is now known) is the Addo Elephant National Park. One of the most popular places to visit in SA, it houses over 600 of the enormous animals. Whales and white sharks can also sometimes be spied in its waters. Established in 1931 to protect the area’s last eleven elephants, it is now the third-largest park in the country behind Kruger and Kgalagadi. Besides herds of zebra, antelopes and Cape buffaloes, you can also see rhinos, lions and leopards amidst the bush. Cute African penguins and Cape gannets form large breeding colonies along the coast and on its two offshore islands. Hiking and horseback riding about the park is a truly epic experience as is taking a night safari to see its nocturnal creatures. The only park in the world that boasts the ‘Big 7’, Addo definitely isn’t to be missed out on. Wildflowers of Namaqua A natural phenomenon like no other, the semi-desert area of Namaqua is transformed each spring when thousands of succulents seemingly shoot up over night. Watching the colourful wildflowers bloom in the remote region is now an increasingly popular activity. Spread across a large part of the Northern Cape, the biodiversity hotspot contains roughly 5,000 species of plant. Many of these are endemic to the area and can survive amidst all its dry and dusty landscapes. In August and September of the year, the biome changes dramatically for just several weeks thanks to the winter’s rains. During this period, succulents paint the desert a mesmerizing mix of colors with daisies and lilies seen next to aloes and even quiver trees. Cool rock formations and a diverse array of animals can also be seen from Namaqua’s scenic roads and trails. Sun City Resort If after all the sightseeing and safaris you’re looking to kick back and relax in style, then Sun City Resort is the place to go. At the ‘Las Vegas of South Africa’, guests can enjoy fun water parks, golf courses and a casino. Long a popular holiday and weekend destination, the resort opened in 1979 amidst the rolling mountains outside of Rustenburg. Nowadays, its four high-end hotels offer up all kinds of exciting family-friendly activities and exhilarating watersports. Asides from rides and water slides, you can quad bike and water ski or try your luck at the casino. It also has plenty of fine dining options while scintillating shows and events take place all the time. As it only lies two hours drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg, the luxury resort makes for a great getaway. Boulders Penguin Colony As Boulders Beach is located so close to Cape Town, you must go and see its adorable African penguins. Here you can watch the entire colony nest, feed, play and swim about without a care in the world. Since the first two breeding pairs arrived at the beach in 1982, the tiny birds’ numbers have swelled considerably. Around 3,000 now inhabit its sheltered sands and hulking great granite boulders. From its boardwalk, you can see the colony of black-and-white birds bustle about bask in divine views over False Bay. Although a bit pricey for international visitors, the fee does go to protecting their natural habitat and raising awareness about the endangered African penguins. Ride the Blue Train An unforgettable (yet expensive) way to see more of the country is to book a lavish suite aboard the Blue Train. As it is advertised as a ‘five-star hotel on wheels’, expect to pay top dollar for its elegant lounges, fine dining cars and butler service. One of the world’s most luxurious train journeys, the 1,600 kilometer-long line connects Cape Town to Pretoria. Since 1923, countless presidents, politicians and even members of royal families have ridden along the historic route. While relaxing in its carpeted compartments, you can see some of South Africa’s most spellbinding scenery outside the window. In some suites, guests can even sit and soak in a bubble bath as the train trundles along the tracks Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Straddling the border between SA and Botswana is the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park; one of the world’s largest wildlife preserves. Its endless desert landscapes and golden grasslands are home to massive herds of wildebeest and springbok. Here too you can also spy some of the cunning lions, cheetahs and leopards that prey on them. As it lies largely within the southern Kalahari Desert, the park is quite arid. Only sparse vegetation and dried out river beds punctuate its rolling dunes and open plains. Despite its inhospitable nature, KTP is a haven for local wildlife. This is thanks to its hundred or so waterholes that giraffes, gemsbok and eland all congregate around. The only park of its kind in Africa, it was founded in 2000 to protect animals and birds migrating between the two countries. Although you may not see as much wildlife as in Addo and Kruger, the park is still well worth visiting. This is because its bleak but beautiful scenery makes sightings even more special. Apartheid Museum, Johannesburg A harrowing place to visit, the Apartheid Museum covers a hugely important yet horrific part of South Africa’s past. The well-done displays and oral testimonies really highlight the daily atrocities and inhumanity of the racist system. Only opened in 2001 (just seven years after multiracial elections were finally allowed), it occupies a concrete complex in the center of Johannesburg. Once you walk through its racially-segregated entrance, you’ll find rooms packed with photos, videos and artifacts to explore. These chronicle the rise and fall of Apartheid, how races were classified and just what the country’s constitution now includes. Its exhibits will evoke a wide range of emotions, leaving you exhausted but upbeat at the end. As Apartheid’s impact is still sadly seen (and felt) wherever you go in SA, you really have to spend at least half a day here. This will help you better understand all the peoples and places you visit. iSimangaliso Wetland Park Another spot to enjoy for completely different reasons is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park along the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal. After two and a half hours drive from Durban, its idyllic bays, beaches and reefs really are a treat to explore. Home to Africa’s largest estuarine system, its name fittingly means ‘a miracle’ or ‘something wondrous’ in the Zulu language. We certainly found its beauty captivating as savannas and mangrove forests border pristine beaches and waters teeming with life. Here you can see huge numbers of hippos and crocodiles as well as the odd leopard, white rhino and elephant. Playful dolphins and pods of whales can sometimes also be spotted just offshore. Whale-Watching in Hermanus If you want to see more of the majestic mammals, then Hermanus is one of the best places to head. From atop of the popular seaside town’s craggy cliffs, visitors often see whales migrating all along Walker Bay. Memorable boat trips and sea kayak excursions to get an even closer look are also popular things to do in Hermanus. Located just off the Garden Route, the cute little town lies around ninety minutes’ drive southeast of Cape Town. From as early as June through til December, southern right, humpback and minke whales can all be sighted. Watching them slowly swim along its dramatic coastline is an amazing experience you won’t forget anytime soon. Other than sightseeing cruises and walking along its surrounding cliffs, you can visit the Old Harbour Museum and Whale Museum. The town also hosts the annual Hermanus Whale Festival. This celebrates the start of the calving and mating season that occurs in its shallow waters and sandy coves. Robben Island Certainly the most famous historic site in South Africa, Robben Island is where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years. Now a museum, it offers up a fascinating look at the lives of the inmates during Apartheid. On tours, it is usually ex-prisoners themselves who actually take you around the cell blocks. Discovered by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488, the isolated island was later fortified and used as a prison by the Portuguese, British and Dutch. From 1961, the South African government kept political prisoners here who opposed Apartheid. They were sadly often beaten, fed poor food and forced to work in quarries, particularly in the early years. While the tours conducted by the former political dissidents sound super interesting, we didn’t manage to make it ourselves. On our last day in Cape Town, bad weather meant our short ferry from the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront was unfortunately cancelled. Just be aware this can happen if you’re on a tight schedule. Blyde River Canyon In a country awash with stunning landscapes, scenery and nature, the Blyde River Canyon still manages to stand out. Part of the Mpumalanga province, it is often visited alongside the nearby Kruger National Park by tourists traveling up from Johannesburg. Stretching 26 kilometers in length, the colossal canyon is named after the winding river that runs through it. Coating its steep sides and sweeping slopes are vast swathes of subtropical forest. Twinkling waterfalls also course their way down its stupendous rock formations. For the best panoramas of the canyon and river, head to either the Pinnacle Rock or God’s Window viewpoints. From up high, you can look out over distinctive rocky outcrops such as the Three Rondavels and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. For a different perspective, hike and horseback ride along the canyon floor or enjoy a relaxing cruise along the river. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve Just inland from both St. Lucia and the iSimangaliso Wetlands is another popular park to hit up: the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Mostly hilly, it boasts the Big 5 and one of the largest remaining white rhino populations in the world. The oldest nature reserve in Africa, it was established back in 1895 in what is now central KwaZulu-Natal. Thought to be a royal hunting ground during the days of Shaka, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi is renowned for its rich wildlife and world-class conservation efforts. Much less crowded than Kruger, it contains large numbers of lions, leopards and cape buffaloes. The stars of the show though have to be its wonderful white rhinos. Staying at the rustic Mpila Camp or luxury Rhino Ridge lodge overnight enables you to see even more amazing animals. Wake up early and head out to see everything from hyenas and hippos to crocodiles, cheetahs and wildebeest. Cape Winelands As South Africa is famed for its reds, whites and roses, make sure to take a trip around the Cape Winelands. Covering a large part of the Western Cape, all its fertile farms and vineyards produce some absolutely superb wines. At the heart of the picturesque area is the historic university town of Stellenbosch which is also well worth visiting. Thanks to its hot dry summers and cool wet winters, the region is perfect for growing grapes. Countless top-class wineries coat its plains with tours often taking you around a handful in one go. These allow you to enjoy your time at the attractive estates and not have to worry about driving back. The chic J.C Le Roux pairs some fine sparkling wines with creative food combinations, as does the award-winning Beyerskloof. Wherever you go, you’re guaranteed delicious drinks in a gorgeous setting. On top of all this, you can enjoy outstanding views of the Cape Fold Mountains rising above the region in the distance. Drive the Garden Route After seeing Cape Town and Stellenbosch, many people spend about a week driving along the delightful Garden Route. One of the top things to do in South Africa, it takes you past magnificent coastal scenery and peaceful little seaside towns. From Mossel Bay in the Western Cape, the perfectly paved road meanders its way 170 kilometres to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. While the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains border it to one side, the other looks out over the ocean. Lining its shores are beautiful beaches, lagoons and tidal pools. As there is so much to do, everyone has a different itinerary. Stops at Plettenburg Bay’s beaches are almost a given though as is whale-watching and ambling around charming coastal towns. Knysna and Nature’s Valley are pretty popular as are shark cage diving trips and hiking Tsitsikamma National Park’s numerous trails. Durban’s Golden Mile A legendary stretch of sand, the Golden Mile is one of the main places in Durban where people relax and enjoy some exercise. Lining its long promenade are dozens of hotels and eateries as well as swimming pools, skate parks and surf spots. Bordered by the central business district, its wide, sandy beaches extend six kilometres or so in length. Overlooking them are lots of high-rises that mostly date to the seventies. Some arresting Art Deco architecture can still also be spied however alongside the busy boardwalk down below. For decades, tourists have flocked here for its flashy entertainment complexes and fun, family-friendly attractions. These include the excellent uShaka Marine World aquarium and Durban Funland amusement park. There is also the Suncoast Casino if you want to try your luck at some table games of slot machines. Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town In contrast to the Golden Mile, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront positively sparkles before your eyes. Immaculately maintained, the shopping and entertainment complex has a lively yet laidback feel. Adding to its appeal is the shimmering sea before it and iconic Table Mountain rising in the background. As one of Cape Town’s largest tourist attractions and most visited destinations, the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront invokes images of the earliest days of the harbor. Located right in the heart of Cape Town, you’ll find hundreds of upmarket shops and restaurants along with an excellent art museum, aquarium and African crafts market. Besides shopping, dining and enjoying some of its live entertainment, you can watch the boats come and go or snap photos of its picture-perfect waterfront. From here, you can hop on harbour tours and take trips to Robben Island. Drakensberg Mountains Reaching between 2,000 and 3,482 meters in height are the massive and majestic Drakensberg Mountains. One of the most rugged and wild parts of South Africa, it is known for its jaw-dropping peaks, buttes and death-defying drops. Meaning ‘Dragons’ Mountains’ in Afrikaans, the absolutely enormous escarpment stretches over a thousand kilometers in length. As well as encircling the central South African plateau, it forms the border with the landlocked Kingdom of Lesotho. Countless trails crisscross its steep slopes and sweeping valleys. Some of the most popular places to head are the awe-inspiring Amphitheater cliffs and Cascades series of waterfalls. The ginormous mountain range is also home to Tugela Falls which is impressively the second-highest waterfall in the world. Its dramatic 947 meter drop and all the stunning views make the arduous hike more than worth it. Table Mountain One of the most recognizable landmarks in South Africa, the marvelous Table Mountain towers over Cape Town and its coastline. Famed for its distinctive flat-topped plateau, it offers up some great hiking, rock climbing and wildlife viewing. The panoramas from its summit are also out of this world. Now protected as a national park, its prominent plateau is flanked by the equally arresting Devil’s Peak and Lion’s Head. Together with Signal Hill, they form the colossal City Bowl which creates a breathtaking backdrop to the coastal city. Getting the cableway down is an even more memorable experience. As it actually rotates, you enjoy unrivaled views over Cape Town, Table Bay and even Robben Island in the distance. Although it descends over a thousand meters to the city below, the ride only lasts five minutes in total. Kruger National Park Another of South Africa’s most popular attractions is the incredible Kruger National Park in the very northeast of the country. Its confines contain a staggering number of animals with the Big 5 regularly sighted amidst its scenic savanna, woods and grasslands. Now one of Africa’s largest game reserves, it was established in 1926 with Zimbabwe and Mozambique both bordering the park. It encompasses fourteen different ecozones, each of which have their own fauna, flora and landscapes for you to explore. On unforgettable hikes and safaris, you are almost sure to spot some of the thousands of lions, leopards, elephants and rhinos that inhabit its territory. Crocodiles and hippos can also be seen in its reflective lakes and rushing rivers. Dozens of camps are dotted about the park should you want to stay even longer. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

SOUTH AFRICAN CULTURE - South African Culture, Customs, and Traditions The culture of South Africa is one of the most diverse in the world. The country boasts of an impressive eleven official languages and other several recognized languages, with each of the group having its own vibrancy and culture. A substantial majority of the South Africans still live in the rural areas where cultural traditions have survived. However, urbanization and adoption of new technology across the country have led to the decline in the traditional cultures. English and other foreign languages are slowly replacing the native languages. South African culture is not homogeneous but is rather a collection of cultures with different cultures being predominant in different regions. Some of the prominent cultures of South Africa include the Khoikhoi and San culture, Zulu, Ndebele, Xhosa , and Sotho cultures among other cultures. These cultures blend beautifully to give the country its unique identity on the globe. The People of South Africa South Africa has a population of approximately 55 million people comprising of diverse culture, religion, origin, and languages. Africans or South Africans and Bantu-speaking people form the major part of the population (approximately 35 million). Some ethnic groups are unique to South Africa while others like Basotho crossed the border into the country. Some of the major ethnic South Africans include Zulu, Basotho, Venda, Xhosa, Tsonga, Khoikhoi, Ndebele, and San. South Africa also hosts a number of refugees and asylum seekers, especially from Zimbabwe , Democratic Republic of Congo , and Somalia . The majority of refugees live in major cities including Pretoria, Durban, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. View More South African Languages The population of South Africa is composed of people from different backgrounds, speaking different languages. Eleven languages are considered the country’s official languages. The first official languages were English and Dutch. The majority of South Africans can speak more than one language. The language spoken by the majority of the people, especially native South Africans is Zulu which is spoken by 23% of the population followed by Xhosa and Afrikaans at 16% and 14% respectively. Zulu is the language of the Zulu people who number 10 million. It is understood by 50% of the total population. The Zulu language became an official language in 1994. The Xhosa language is spoken by 8 million people as the first language and over 11 million as a second language. The majority of Xhosa speakers live in Eastern Cape Province. Afrikaans evolved from the Dutch language and has adopted some words from other languages such as German and Khoisan. English is the most popular second language of the South Africans and the most commonly spoken language in the country. South African Tradition South African tradition is not homogenous but a blend of different traditions and cultures practiced by different ethnic groups in the country. Here are some examples of traditions and cultures as practiced by major ethnic groups in the country. Khoikhoi and San Khoikhoi and San were the original inhabitants of present-day South Africa. The KhoiSan were known as the “Bushmen” and were skilled hunters and trackers. Their tracking skills are still necessary for the fight against poachers. They are mainly nomads who live in desert regions of South Africa Zulus The Zulus are known for their shield-bearing warriors under the leadership of Shaka. They are also famous for their beadworks, grass huts, and basketry. The belief of the Zulu people is based on ancestral spirits which appear mainly in dreams and a supreme being who is rarely involved in the activities of the mortal. Use of magic is common among the Zulus and any tragedy or illness is blamed on the evil spirit. Xhosa Xhosa culture is popular for the complex dressing that portrays a person’s social status, position in the society, and whether they are married or not. They also have a strong oral tradition with stories of ancestral heroes. Ancestral worship is a common practice and young men have to undergo a rite of passage. Stick fighting is a common sport among the Xhosa among the young men looking after the cattle. Women mainly tend the crops and look after the home. Ndebele Ndebele are known for the skilled women who decorate their houses in beautiful geometric designs. The skills are hereditary and women are tasked with the responsibility of teaching their daughters. The shapes used in the decoration are inspired by their fashioned beadwork. Ndebele women are distinguished from other South African women by the neck rings and the striking traditional blankets. Sotho The culture of the Sotho people differs from those of the Ndebele, Xhosa, and Zulus in several ways, especially on how they organize their villages. The Sotho homes are organized into villages rather than scattered settlements. The villages are further organized into age-sets. Each of the age-set is given a specific responsibility and the age-set graduate from one responsibility to another. They also allow their sons to marry from their kin, especially from the maternal side. Their traditional folk art includes pottery making, beadwork, decoration of houses, and weaving. Venda The Venda culture and tradition is built on mythical beliefs and water. They believe that lakes and rivers are sacred and that rains are controlled by Python God. Lake Fundudzi is one of the sacred places among the Venda and hosts the annual rites. Traditional healers known as Sangoma are believed to have access to the spirits and ancestors. Venda’s art has also been influenced by the belief in the spirit world. Cattle are considered a sign of wealth while agriculture is the main economic activity. Modern Day South African Tradition The younger generation from the above cultures is relocating to the city in search of a “better” life. However, in the city, they tend to abandon their traditions and culture for the western culture and lifestyle. Over time, a unique culture that combines the western culture and the traditional cultures have been developed. This new culture is evident in art, music, and food View More Culture of South Africa South Africa is known for its ethnic and cultural diversity. Almost all South Africans speak English to some degree of proficiency, in addition to their native language, with English acting as a lingua franca in commerce, education, and government. South Africa has twelve official languages, but other indigenous languages are spoken by smaller groups, chiefly Khoisan languages . Members of the middle class, who are predominantly white and Indian but whose ranks include growing numbers of other groups, have lifestyles similar in many respects to that of people found in Western Europe , North America , Australia and New Zealand . The Apartheid state legally classified South Africans into one of four race groups , determined where they could live , and enforced segregation in education, work opportunities, public amenities and social relations. Although these laws were abolished by the early 1990s, the apartheid racial categories remain ingrained in South African culture, with South Africans continuing to classify themselves, and each other, as belonging to one of the four defined race groups (blacks, whites, Coloureds and Indians) making it difficult to define a single South African culture that doesn't make reference to these racial categories View More Art Main article: Art of South Africa Eland , rock painting , Drakensberg , South Africa The oldest art objects in the world were discovered in a South African cave. Dating from 75,000 years ago, these small drilled snail shells could have no other function than to have been strung on a string as a necklace. South Africa was one of the cradles of the human species. One of the defining characteristics of the human species is the creation of art (from Latin "ars", meaning worked or formed from basic material). The scattered tribes of Khoisan peoples moving into South Africa from around 10,000 BC had their own fluent art styles seen today in a multitude of cave paintings. They were superseded by Bantu and Nguni peoples with their own vocabularies of art forms. In the 20th century, traditional tribal forms of art were scattered and re-melded by the divisive policies of apartheid . New great forms of art evolved in the mines and townships: a dynamic art using everything from plastic strips to bicycle spokes. The Dutch-influenced folk art of the Afrikaner Trekboer and the urban white artists earnestly following changing European traditions from the 1850s onwards also contributed to this eclectic mix, which continues to evolve today. One form of art developed during the period of apartheid. This new characterisation was termed "township art" and became common in the 1960s and 1970s. This art style tended to depict scenes from everyday life of poor black individuals in South Africa.[8] Common visual elements in this art style are dilapidated houses, women washing clothes, penny whistlers, and black mother-and-child tableaux. Oracles of the Pink Universe by Simphiwe Ndzube, 2021 Contemporary South Africa has a vibrant art scene, with artists receiving international recognition. The recent "Figures and Fictions" exhibition of South African photography at the Victoria and Albert Museum in London included the work of Mikhael Subotzky , Zanele Muholi , David Goldblatt , Zwelethu Mthethwa and Guy Tillim . Contemporary South African artists whose work has been met with international acclaim include Marlene Dumas , William Kentridge and John Smith. South African art is the visual art produced by the people inhabiting the territory occupied by the modern country of South Africa . The oldest art objects in the world were discovered in a South African cave. Archaeologists have discovered two sets of art kits thought to be 100,000 years old at a cave in South Africa. The findings provide a glimpse into how early humans produced and stored ochre – a form of paint – which pushes back our understanding of when evolved complex cognition occurred by around 20,000 – 30,000 years. Also, dating from 75,000 years ago, they found small drilled snail shells which could have no other function than to have been strung on a string as a necklace. South Africa was one of the cradles of the human species. The scattered tribes of Khoisan and San peoples moving into South Africa from around 10000 BC had their own art styles seen today in a multitude of cave paintings. They were superseded by Bantu and Nguni peoples with their own vocabularies of art forms. In the present era, traditional tribal forms of art were scattered and re-melded by the divisive policies of apartheid . New forms of art evolved in the mines and townships : a dynamic art using everything from plastic strips to bicycle spokes. In addition to this, there also is the Dutch -influenced folk art of the Afrikaner Trek Boers and the urban white artists earnestly following changing European traditions from the 1850s onwards, making for an eclectic mix which continues to evolve today. Paleolithic rock art Main article: San rock art San rock paintings, Perdekop Farm, (Mossel Bay , South Africa) The pre-Bantu peoples migrating southwards from around the year 30,000 BC were nomadic hunters who favoured caves as dwellings. Before the rise of the Nguni peoples along the east and southern coasts and central areas of Africa these nomadic hunters were widely distributed. It is thought they entered South Africa at least 1000 years ago. They have left many signs of life, such as artwork (San paintings) depicting hunting, domestic and magic-related art. There is a stylistic unity across the region and even with more ancient art in the Tassili n'Ajjer region of northern Africa, and also in what is now desert Chad but was once a lush landscape. The figures are dynamic and elongate, and the colours (derived probably from earthen and plant pigments and possibly also from insects) combine ochreous red, white, grey, black, and many warm tones ranging from red through to primary yellow. Common subjects include hunting, often depicting with great accuracy large animals which no longer inhabit the same region in the modern era, as well as: warfare among humans, dancing, domestic scenes, multiple images of various animals, including giraffes, antelope of many kinds, and snakes. The last of these works are poignant in their representation of larger, darker people and even of white hunters on horseback, both of whom would supplant the San peoples. Many of the "dancing" figures are decorated with unusual patterns and may be wearing masks and other festive clothing. Other paintings, depicting patterned quadrilaterals and other symbols, are obscure in their meaning and may be non-representational. Similar symbols are seen in shamanistic art worldwide. This art form is distributed from Angola in the west to Mozambique and Kenya , throughout Zimbabwe and South Africa and throughout Botswana wherever cave conditions have favoured preservation from the elements. Contemporary art in South Africa The contemporary art scene in South Africa is as diverse and vibrant as the population and vast cultures in the country. Contemporary artists in South Africa have adopted new media technologies to produce varied and creative bodies of work, as seen in the work of Dineo Seshee Bopape and CUSS Group. Their art gives insight into the pressing issues of South African society. On a global scale, contemporary South African art is relevant and sought-after. A charcoal and oil on canvas work by leading South African contemporary artist William Kentridge was sold on auction for R3,5 million in London in 2012. Black art post-apartheid The Bantu Education Act of 1955 barred Black South Africans from receiving formal art training during the years of apartheid and as a result, the artistic movements that had originated from this community have, until recently, been distinctly classified as “craft” rather than “art.” Informal art centers, that were funded by European states, became one of the few avenues in which Black South Africans could receive some form of artistic development. Throughout this time period from 1947 to the mid-1990s, the first practitioners to receive this informal training began passing down their knowledge to younger generations of practitioners. However, the traditional canon of African art, categorized as “fine art” had been formed in the 20th century by European and U.S. art audiences. South Africa's inequality gap is larger than that of other countries in the world so the audience for art is primarily the rich and not those who are subject to the artistic expression, giving these higher socio-economic groups a gatekeeper status in deciding what is classified as art. After the Soweto Riots of 1976, a new social consciousness emerged that retaliated against the government's policy of segregation and effectively reexamined the classification of certain Black South African artworks. One of the first artistic styles to receive critic attention was Venda sculpting because it aesthetically appealed to white patrons while also maintaining its “artistic manifestations of ethnic diversity.” These sculptures would be considered “transitional art” rather than “craft” and would gain access into fine art galleries. Other Black artistic expressions such as beadwork, photography, and studio arts have also begun to be slowly integrated into canonical South African art forms. The Johannesburg Biennale's Africus (1995) and Trade Routes (1997) had a significant impact on the cultural awareness of new South African art. These events were among the first exhibitions that revealed the “new South African art” to the international community, but also other local South Africans. This gave Black South African artists a new platform to express the effects to which apartheid had influenced society. In the post-apartheid regime, artists have now been given an apparatus to protest social issues such as inequality, sexuality, state control over the personal realm, and HIV/AIDS. However, the emphasis to embody many of these social issues within Black South African art has a led to a stereotype that many young artists are now trying to escape. International pressure has been said to once again demand a level of ‘authenticity’ within South African art that portrays discourse on the topic of apartheid. Scholar Victoria Rovine goes as far as to state that “these exhibitions represent a South Africa that seeks liberation not from apartheid itself but from apartheid as an already predictable subject for artistic production.” Furthermore, although South African art is not always political, conversations stemming from its interpretation are rarely apolitical and the high demand for apartheid symbols by private collectors have raised concerns over the collection of the art for the sake of nostalgia. See also Culture of South Africa List of South African artists South Africa Outline of South Africa View More Architecture See also: Architecture of Johannesburg and Cape Dutch architecture Gateway to the Castle of Good Hope , the oldest building in South Africa Old Dutch church in Ladismith The architecture of South Africa mirrors the vast ethnic and cultural diversity of the country and its historical colonial period. In addition, influences from other distant countries have contributed to the variety of the South African architectural landscape. Herbert Baker , among the country's most influential architects, designed the Union Buildings in Pretoria . Other buildings of note include the Rhodes memorial and St George's Cathedral in Cape Town , and St John's College in Johannesburg . Cape Dutch architecture was prominent in the early days (17th century) of the Cape Colony , and the name derives from the fact that the initial settlers of the Cape were primarily Dutch. The style has roots in medieval Holland, Germany, France and Indonesia. Houses in this style have a distinctive and recognisable design, with a prominent feature being the grand, ornately rounded gables, reminiscent of features in townhouses of Amsterdam built in the Dutch style . The rural landscape of South Africa is populated with traditional and European-influenced African architecture . View More Literature Main article: Literature of South Africa Olive Schreiner , the author of The Story of an African Farm (1883) There are 11 national languages in South Africa. South Africa's unique social and political history has generated a rich variety of literatures, with themes spanning pre-colonial life, the days of apartheid, and the lives of people in the "new South Africa". Many of the first black South African print authors were missionary-educated, and many wrote in either English or Afrikaans . One of the first well known novels written by a black author in an African language was Solomon Thekiso Plaatje 's Mhudi , written in 1930. Notable white English-language South African authors include Nadine Gordimer who was, in Seamus Heaney 's words, one of "the guerrillas of the imagination", and who became the first South African and the seventh woman to be awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 1991. Her novel, July's People , was released in 1981, depicting the collapse of white-minority rule. Athol Fugard , whose plays have been regularly premiered in fringe theatres in South Africa, London (The Royal Court Theatre ), and New York City. Olive Schreiner 's The Story of an African Farm (1883) was a revelation in Victorian literature: it is heralded by many as introducing feminism into the novel form. Alan Paton published the acclaimed novel Cry, the Beloved Country in 1948. He told the tale of a black priest who comes to Johannesburg to find his son, which became an international best-seller. During the 1950s, Drum magazine became a hotbed of political satire, fiction, and essays, giving a voice to urban black culture. Afrikaans-language writers also began to write controversial material. Breyten Breytenbach was jailed for his involvement with the guerrilla movement against apartheid. Andre Brink was the first Afrikaner writer to be banned by the government after he released the novel A Dry White Season about a white South African who discovers the truth about a black friend who dies in police custody. John Maxwell (JM) Coetzee was also first published in the 1970s, and became internationally recognise in 1983 with his Booker Prize -winning novel Life & Times of Michael K . His 1999 novel Disgrace won him his second Booker Prize as well as the 2000 Commonwealth Writers' Prize . He is also the recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2003. English writer J. R. R. Tolkien , author of The Hobbit , The Lord of the Rings and The Silmarillion , was born in Bloemfontein in 1892. Poetry Main article: South African poetry South Africa has a rich tradition of oral poetry . Several influential African poets became prominent in the 1970s such as Mongane Wally Serote , whose most famous work, No Baby Must Weep, gave insight into the everyday lives of black South Africans under apartheid. Another famous black novelist, Zakes Mda , transitioned from poetry and plays to becoming a novelist in the same time period. His novel, The Heart of Redness won the 2001 Commonwealth Writers Prize and was made a part of the school curriculum across South Africa. View More Cinema Main article: Cinema of South Africa While many foreign films have been produced about South Africa (usually involving race relations), few local productions are known outside South Africa itself. One exception was the film The Gods Must Be Crazy in 1980, set in the Kalahari . This is about how life in a traditional community of San (Bushmen) is changed when a Coke bottle, thrown out of a plane, suddenly lands from the sky. The late Jamie Uys , who wrote and directed The Gods Must Be Crazy, also had success overseas in the 1970s with his films Funny People and Funny People II, similar to the TV series Candid Camera in the US. Leon Schuster 's You Must Be Joking! films are in the same genre, and hugely popular among South Africans. Schuster's most successful film internationally is Mr Bones, which was also the best performing film locally at the time of its release, grossing 35m USD. This was surpassed by the sequel, Mr Bones 2: Back from the Past. The most high-profile film portraying South Africa in recent years was District 9 . Directed by Neill Blomkamp , a native South African, and produced by Peter Jackson , the action/science-fiction film depicts a sub-class of alien refugees forced to live in the slums of Johannesburg in what many saw as a creative allegory for apartheid . The film was a critical and commercial success worldwide, and was nominated for Best Picture at the 82nd Academy Awards . Another notable film that was produced in South Africa is Chappie . Other notable exceptions are the film Tsotsi , which won the Academy Award for Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards in 2006 as well as U-Carmen e-Khayelitsha , which won the Golden Bear at the 2005 Berlin International Film Festival . View More Music Main article: Music of South Africa Enoch Sontonga There is great diversity in music from South Africa. Many black musicians who sang in Afrikaans or English during apartheid have since begun to sing in traditional African languages, and have developed unique styles called Kwaito and Amapiano . Of note is Brenda Fassie , who launched to fame with her song "Weekend Special", which was sung in English. More famous traditional musicians include Ladysmith Black Mambazo , while the Soweto String Quartet performs classic music with an African flavour. White and Coloured South African singers are historically influenced by European musical styles. South Africa has produced world-famous jazz musicians, notably Hugh Masekela , Jonas Gwangwa , Abdullah Ibrahim , Miriam Makeba , Jonathan Butler , Chris McGregor , and Sathima Bea Benjamin . Afrikaans music covers multiple genres, such as the contemporary Steve Hofmeyr and the punk rock band Fokofpolisiekar . Crossover artists such as Verity (internationally recognised for innovation in the music industry) and Johnny Clegg and his bands Juluka and Savuka have enjoyed various success underground, publicly, and abroad. Don Clarke who wrote Sanbonani, a local hit for P J Powers , and Hotline in 1986 wrote much of the music for Leon Schuster 's films including Till You're Free Again which he recorded for the film Frank and Fearless in 2018. Rap-rave group Die Antwoord have also found international success. The South African music scene includes Kwaito and Amapiano , new music genres that had developed in the mid-1980s and late 2010s, and have since developed to become a popular socio-economic form of representation among the populace. However, some argue that the political aspects of Kwaito have since diminished after Apartheid, and the relative interest in politics has become a very minor aspect of daily life. Others argue that in a sense, Kwaito is in fact a political force that shows activism in its apolitical actions. Today, major corporations like Sony , BMG , and EMI have appeared on the South African scene to produce and distribute Kwaito music. Due to its popularity, as well as the general influence of DJs, who are among the top 5 most influential types of people within the country, Kwaito has taken over radio, television, and magazines. South African rock music is a very popular subculture, especially within the Johannesburg region. The alternative rock and metal band Seether gained international popularity in the early 2000s, with five of their albums achieving Gold or Platinum certification in the United States. Four other rock bands, KONGOS , Civil Twilight , Prime Circle , the Parlotones and have also achieved success abroad in the late 2000s. While metal bands such as Vulvodynia have achieved moderate success in the 2020s. View More Cuisine Main article: South African cuisine An array of traditional South African cuisine The cuisine of South Africa is heavily meat-based and has spawned the distinctively South African social gathering known as a braai . A variation of the barbecue, braais often feature boerewors or spicy sausages, and mielies (maize ) or Mielie-meal , often as a porridge, or pearl millet , a staple food of black South Africans. Pastries such like koeksisters and desserts like melktert (milk tart) are also universally popular. Meat on a traditional South African braai Indian food like curry is also popular, especially in Durban with its large Indian population. Another local Indian Durban speciality is the "bunny", or bunny chow , which consists of a hollowed-out loaf of white bread filled with curry. The Portuguese community has also made its mark, with spicy peri-peri chicken being a favourite. The South African Portuguese-themed restaurant chain Nando's now has restaurants in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia, Ireland, New Zealand, Malaysia, Kenya and the United Arab Emirates. Bunny Chow Close-up view of a plate of Bunny ChoW No culinary journey in South Africa is complete without trying a “bunny”. Don’t worry, it’s not an actual rabbit. A bunny chow is a hollowed-out half or quarter loaf of bread filled with curry, typically served with a bit of salad, or sambal, on the side. It originated in Durban, South Africa, in the 1940s, and was created by Indian migrant workers as a convenient and transportable lunch. The loaf can be filled with various curries such as chicken, beef, mutton, bean, or vegetable, depending on personal preference. The bread serves as both a “container” for the curry and as an accompaniment to be eaten with it! Bunny chows are eaten throughout the country these days, and has become a street food classic that’s enjoyed by people from all walks of life. Bobotie Bobotie with some yellow rice served with a salad Considered by many to be South Africa’s national dish, there are many versions of bobotie, most based on treasured recipes that have been passed down through generations. It’s believed that the first recipe for bobotie dates back to a 1609 Dutch cookbook. After it made its way to South Africa, it was adopted and refined – or arguably perfected – by the Cape Malay community, ultimately turning it into a South African dish. Bobotie is made from savoury spiced minced meat (beef, lamb, pork, chicken, or even ostrich) that’s baked with an egg and milk topping. Various spices, curry powder, bay leaves, apricot jam, dried fruits, and nuts are added, depending on the recipe. You typically eat it with slightly sweet yellow rice with raisins added to it, desiccated coconut, blatjang (chutney), and sambals. Biltong Three different types of biltong on a wooden platter | Photo credit: Getty Images Biltong is a quintessential and hugely popular snack with meat-loving South Africans. In fact, it’s gained popularity worldwide for its delicious, salty taste. The word biltong is derived from the Dutch words “bil”, meaning meat or rump, and “tong”, meaning tongue, which is often the shape of the pieces of meat used to make biltong. The meaty snack has its origins in the Great Trek era, when Dutch settlers, or Voortrekkers, moved from the Cape Colony into the interior of South Africa. They needed a reliable way to preserve meat during their long journeys, and viola – biltong was born! It’s superficially similar to American beef jerky, but that’s where the common ground ends. To make it, skilled butchers marinate strips of beef in a mixture of vinegar, salt, sugar, and spices like pepper and coriander, depending on personal taste. The marinated meat is then hung out to air-dry. Today, biltong remains a beloved South African snack, cherished for its unique flavour and versatility. It’s available in every butcher shop, corner café, petrol station, and supermarket, and you can even try venison options like kudu and gemsbok (oryx). Potjiekos Top view of a pot of potjiekos | Photo credit: Getty Images Potjiekos is another dish that was developed by the Voortrekkers during the Great Trek. It’s a stew-like South African dish cooked outdoors over an open fire in a round, three-legged cast-iron pot, known locally as a potjie (little pot). It’s an extremely versatile dish that people adapt to personal preferences and tastes. As with many South African dishes, everyone has their own recipes and techniques. It’s also an efficient and delicious way of preparing a large amount of food with minimal effort. In essence, potjiekos is a slow-cooked stew, featuring a mix of vegetables, meat, and spices. It sits atop hot coals for hours, simmering to perfection in its own juices. A wide variety of meats are suitable for a potjie, but people often opt for less expensive cuts. Potjiekos is famous for the range of delicious and complex flavours it develops and the exquisite tenderness of the meat cooked this way. Enjoying a potjie with friends and relatives perfectly embodies the spirit of the communal sharing of food so integral to South Africa’s food culture and cuisine. The South African Braai: Pap en Vleis/Shisa Nyama Spread of a typical braai with meat, braaibroodjies, and corn | Photo credit: Getty Images In Afrikaans, “pap en vleis” means maize porridge served with meat. “Shisa nyama” is the Zulu equivalent, with “shisa” meaning hot or burnt (i.e. cooked over an open fire) and “nyama” meaning meat. However, no matter where you go in South Africa, people call it braai. Whether you try it at a friend’s house or at a shisa nyama restaurant, the essence remains the same: it’s flame-grilled meat. However, it’s also South Africa’s favourite excuse to get together for social gatherings. Depending on who’s cooking, the meat is served with pap, cornbread, or another starch, along with chakalaka, a spicy relish, or more conventional sides like potato salad and garlic bread. Another local favourite is mielies (corn on the cob). At any given South African braai, you might come across lamb, boerewors (South African sausage), beef, chicken, pork, kudu, springbok, eland, warthog, ostrich, or even seafood. Often, the meat is marinated beforehand in the braai chef’s secret basting. The South African braai is an indelible part of South Africa’s food culture, resonating perfectly with the country’s love of good food enjoyed with family and friends. Vetkoek Mini vetkoek with mince curry filling | Photo credit: Getty Images A delightful treat, vetkoek or “fat cake”, is a traditional South African pastry, it’s a South African dish that you absolutely must try. Originally made as a way to use up leftover bread dough, it’s become a much-loved dish on its own, similar to the Dutch oliebol and the Xhosa amagwinya. Vetkoek is essentially a deep-fried bread dough ball best served hot. It can be served on its own, often just sprinkled with sugar, but it’s also served cut open and filled with delicious toppings. These include savoury mince mixtures, curries, cheese, butter, tuna and mayonnaise, or jam for a sweet version. Ideally, vetkoek should be crispy on the outside and delectably soft inside! Umngqusho, Isitambu, or Samp and Beans Bowl of samp and beans on a wooden platter | Photo credit: Getty Images Umngqusho, a highly prized staple in traditional Xhosa culture, is extremely nutritious and packed with flavours. Reputedly one of Nelson Mandela’s favourite dishes, samp and beans is made from slowly cooked sugar beans and crushed maize kernels, known as samp. It’s flavoured with chilli, onions, leeks, stock blocks, and butter or fat, and is a comforting and satisfying meal. Often served as a meal on its own, it can also be paired with other dishes like chicken, beef, mutton, or lamb stews. It’s traditionally served with umleqwa, a “hardbody chicken”, or lamb curry. Chakalaka Traditional South African chakalaka, a popular spicy side dish or relish | Photo credit: Getty Images This spicy, delicious, and versatile vegetable relish is reputed to have originated in Johannesburg. As the story goes, migrant mine workers from Mozambique used various ingredients like tomatoes, beans, and chilli to create a flavoursome Portuguese-style relish to eat with their pap. Many variations of the dish exist, with different versions including carrots, green peppers, onions, cabbage, and even butternut and sweetcorn. Flavourings like garlic and curry paste are used to add some oomph, and it can be served hot or cold. Make sure to ask how spicy it is before you take a bite – some chefs can be a little too generous with the chilli! It can be served with bread, rice, pap, and other starches, and as an accompaniment to stews and curries, adding a spicy kick to every bite. Melktert Traditional South African melktert | Photo credit: Getty Images For many South Africans, traditional melktert or milk tart conjures up images of home and childhood comfort food enjoyed with loved ones. It’s a South African sweet pastry that can be served with tea or coffee, or as a dessert after a meal. Many South African bakers have jealously-guarded secret family recipes that originated in the Dutch colonial era in South Africa. The main components of a melktert are a sweet pastry crust and a deliciously creamy custard filling made from milk, sugar, and eggs. It can be served hot or cold, but is traditionally served cold with a generous sprinkling of cinnamon. Melktert is a much-loved staple at every church fête, home industries outlet, and supermarket in South Africa. We even have a National Melktert Day on 27 February! Koeksisters Sweet koeksisters covered in syrup | Photo credit: Getty Images This is a diabolically sweet and addictive treat for serious sugar fans only! Koeksisters are twisted or braided deep-fried doughnut-like pastries. After deep-frying, the pastries are soaked in ice-cold syrup that has been left in the fridge overnight, which includes cinnamon, lemon, and ginger. This process ensures maximum absorption of the syrup while the outside of the koeksister remains crispy. Koeksisters have a rich history dating back to the arrival of Dutch settlers in 1652. The name koeksister is derived from the Dutch/Afrikaans word “koek”, meaning cake. It’s interesting to note that another spicy and delicious, often coconut-covered version called “koe’sister”, exists in the Cape. This can be traced back to Indonesian, Malay, and Arabian culinary traditions. Both of these delectable sweet pastries have become deeply entrenched cultural icons in South African cuisine. Has this glimpse into South Africa’s cuisine and culinary traditions piqued your interest and awakened a desire to see – and taste – South Africa for yourself? We wouldn’t blame you. At Discover Africa, after all these years, we’re still amazed at the wealth of experiences South Africa has to offer its visitors. Whatever your dream safari holiday, rest assured that South Africa’s varied cuisine will enrich any South African trip. Wine Main article: South African wine South Africa has developed into a major wine producer, with some of the best vineyards lying in valleys around Stellenbosch , Franschhoek , Paarl and Barrydale . South African wine has a history dating back to 1659, and at one time Constantia was considered one of the greatest wines in the world. Access to international markets has unleashed a burst of new energy and new investment. Production is concentrated around Cape Town , with major vineyard and production centres at Paarl , Stellenbosch and Worcester . There are about 60 appellations within the Wine of Origin (WO) system, which was implemented in 1973 with a hierarchy of designated production regions, districts and wards. WO wines must be made 100% from grapes from the designated area. "Single vineyard" wines must come from a defined area of less than 5 hectares. An "Estate Wine" can come from adjacent farms, as long as they are farmed together and wine is produced on site. A ward is an area with a distinctive soil type and/or climate, and is roughly equivalent to a European appellation. View More Education Main article: Education in South Africa The heart of the Rhodes University campus Learners have twelve years of formal schooling, from grade 1 to 12. Grade R is a pre-primary foundation year. Primary schools span the first seven years of schooling. High School education spans a further five years. The Senior Certificate examination takes place at the end of grade 12 and is necessary for tertiary studies at a South African university . Public universities in South Africa are divided into three types: traditional universities, which offer theoretically oriented university degrees; universities of technology (formerly called "Technikons "), which offer vocational oriented diplomas and degrees; and comprehensive universities, which offer both types of qualification. Public institutions are usually English medium, although instruction may take place in Afrikaans as well. There are also a large number of other educational institutions in South Africa – some are local campuses of foreign universities, some conduct classes for students who write their exams at the distance-education University of South Africa and some offer unaccredited or non-accredited diplomas. Public expenditure on education was at 6.1% of the 2016 GDP. Under apartheid , schools for blacks were subject to discrimination through inadequate funding and a separate syllabus called Bantu Education which was only designed to give them sufficient skills to work as labourers. Redressing these imbalances has been a focus of recent education policy; see Education in South Africa: Restructuring . See also: Matriculation in South Africa ; High school in South Africa Scouting South Africa has also had a large influence in the Scouting movement, with many Scouting traditions and ceremonies coming from the experiences of Robert Baden-Powell (the founder of Scouting) during his time in South Africa as a military officer in the 1890s-1900s. Scouts South Africa (then known as Boy Scouts of South Africa) was one of the first youth organisations to open its doors to youth and adults of all races in South Africa. This happened on 2 July 1977 at a conference known as Quo Vadis View More Society Gender roles Main article: Women in South Africa Further information: Feminism in South Africa Sexual orientation Main article: LGBT rights in South Africa South Africa enacted same-sex marriage laws in 2006 allowing full marriage and adoption rights to same-sex couples. Although the Constitutional and legal system in South Africa theoretically ensures equality, social acceptance is generally lacking, especially outside of urban areas. Lesbian women from smaller towns (especially the townships ) are often victims of beating or rape. This has been posited, in part, to be because of the perceived threat they pose to traditional male authority. Although evidence of hatred may influence rulings on a case-by-case basis, South Africa has no specific hate crime legislation; human rights organisations have criticised the South African police for failing to address the matter of bias-motivated crimes. For example, the NGO ActionAid has condemned the continued impunity and accused governments of turning a blind eye to reported murders of lesbians in homophobic attacks in South Africa; as well as to so-called "corrective" rapes , including cases among pupils, in which cases the male rapists purport to raping the lesbian victim with the intent of thereby "curing" her of her sexual orientation. Science and technology Main article: Science and technology in South Africa Several important scientific and technological developments have originated in South Africa. The first human-to-human heart transplant was performed by cardiac surgeon Christiaan Barnard at Groote Schuur Hospital in December 1967. Max Theiler developed a vaccine against Yellow Fever, Allan McLeod Cormack pioneered x-ray Computed tomography , and Aaron Klug developed crystallographic electron microscopy techniques. These advancements were all (with the exception of that of Barnard) recognised with Nobel Prizes . Sydney Brenner won most recently, in 2002, for his pioneering work in molecular biology . Mark Shuttleworth founded an early Internet security company Thawte , that was subsequently bought out by world-leader VeriSign . Elon Musk was born in South Africa. South Africa has cultivated a burgeoning astronomy community. It hosts the Southern African Large Telescope , the largest optical telescope in the southern hemisphere. South Africa is currently building the Karoo Array Telescope as a pathfinder for the $20 billion Square Kilometer Array project to be built in South Africa and Australia. View More Sports Main article: Sport in South Africa The Springboks in a bus parade after winning the 2007 Rugby World Cup The Proteas at the Oval in 2008 The most popular sports in South Africa are association football , rugby , and cricket . Other sports with significant support are field hockey , swimming , athletics , golf , boxing , tennis , netball and softball . Although association football commands the greatest following among the youth , other sports like basketball , surfing , judo and skateboarding are becoming increasingly popular. Famous combat sport personalities include Baby Jake Jacob Matlala , Vuyani Bungu , Welcome Ncita , Dingaan Thobela , Corrie Sanders , Gerrie Coetzee , Brian Mitchell and Dricus du Plessis . Footballers who have played for major foreign clubs include Lucas Radebe and Philemon Masinga , (both formerly of Leeds United ), Quinton Fortune (Atlético Madrid and Manchester United ), Benni McCarthy (also first-team coach at Manchester United ) (Ajax Amsterdam , F.C. Porto , Blackburn Rovers and West Ham United ), Aaron Mokoena (Ajax Amsterdam, Blackburn Rovers and Portsmouth ), Delron Buckley (Borussia Dortmund ) and Steven Pienaar (Ajax Amsterdam and Everton ). South Africa has also produced 1979 Formula One World Champion, Jody Scheckter , along with his son, two time Indycar Series race winner, Tomas Scheckter , who led the most laps in both his first two Indianapolis 500 starts during the 2002 and 2003 running of the race. In MotoGP , notable racers include Brad Binder and his younger brother, Darryn Binder . Durban Surfer Jordy Smith won the 2010 Billabong J-Bay competition making him the No. 1 ranked surfer in the world. Famous cricket players include Herschelle Gibbs , Graeme Smith , Dale Steyn , Jonty Rhodes , Jacques Kallis , JP Duminy , Quinton de Kock , Faf du Plessis , Keshav Maharaj , Kagiso Rabada , David Miller and AB de Villiers , etc. Most of them have also participated in the Indian Premier League . South Africa has also produced numerous world class rugby players, including Francois Pienaar , Joost van der Westhuizen , Danie Craven , Frik du Preez , Naas Botha , Bryan Habana , Siya Kolisi , Cheslin Kolbe , Duane Vermeulen , Eben Etzebeth and Makazole Mapimpi . South Africa hosted and won the 1995 Rugby World Cup and won the 2007 Rugby World Cup in France as well as the 2019 Rugby World Cup in Japan, and the 2023 Rugby World Cup , again in France. It followed the 1995 Rugby World Cup by hosting the 1996 African Cup of Nations , with the national team going on to win the tournament. It also hosted the 2003 Cricket World Cup , the 2007 World Twenty20 Championship , and it was the host nation for the 2010 FIFA World Cup , which was the first time the tournament was held in Africa. FIFA president Sepp Blatter awarded South Africa a grade 9 out of 10 for successfully hosting the event. In 2004, the swimming team of Roland Schoeman , Lyndon Ferns , Darian Townsend and Ryk Neethling won the gold medal at the Olympic Games in Athens, simultaneously breaking the world record in the 4x100 freestyle relay. Penny Heyns won Olympic Gold in the 1996 Atlanta Olympic Games . Swimmer Tatjana Smith (née Schoenmaker) won gold and silver medals at both the Olympic Games and the Commonwealth Games. In golf, Gary Player is generally regarded as one of the greatest golfers of all time, having won the Career Grand Slam , one of five golfers to have done so. Other South African golfers to have won major tournaments include Bobby Locke , Ernie Els , Retief Goosen , Trevor Immelman and Louis Oosthuizen . View More View More BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

GAUTENG Gauteng Some of South Africa’s largest cities are in Gauteng, including Johannesburg and Pretoria. This province is the economic hub of South Africa. Gauteng is the smallest but wealthiest of South Africa’s provinces . It is the most densely populated of the provinces. The province borders the Free State Province , Limpopo , Mpumalanga and the North-West Province. Towns and Cities The main cities are Johannesburg, Pretoria, Centurion, Midrand, Germiston, Roodepoort, Krugersdorp, Kempton Park and Vereeniging. The main towns include Heidelberg, Magaliesburg, Soweto and Vanderbijlpark. Gauteng (/xaʊˈtɛŋ/ khow-TENG , Sotho: [xɑ́.úˈtʼèŋ̀] ; Sotho-Tswana for 'place of gold'; Zulu : eGoli or iGoli [îːˈɡóːlì] ) is one of the nine provinces of South Africa . Situated on the Highveld , Gauteng is the smallest province by land area in South Africa . Although Gauteng accounts for only 1.5% of the country's land area, it is the most populous province in South Africa , with more than a quarter (26%) of the national population; the provincial population was approximately 16.1 million, according to mid-year 2022 estimates. Highly urbanised, the province contains the country's largest city, Johannesburg . Gauteng is the wealthiest province in South Africa and is considered the financial hub of South Africa; the financial activity is mostly concentrated in Johannesburg. It also contains the administrative capital, Pretoria , and other large areas such as Midrand , Vanderbijlpark , Ekurhuleni and the affluent Sandton . The largest township, Soweto, is also found in this province. Politically, it is the closest contested province between the ANC and the DA in South Africa. Etymology The name Gauteng is derived from Sotho-Tswana gauta, meaning 'gold'. There was a thriving gold industry in the province following the 1886 discovery of gold in Johannesburg . In Sesotho , Setswana and Sepedi the name Gauteng was used for Johannesburg and surrounding areas long before it was adopted in 1994 as the official name of the province. History A snippet of text showing the Sesotho word "Gaudeng" (modern Gauteng) in Jacottet's A practical method to learn Sesuto: with exercises and a short vocabulary , published in 1906 Gauteng was formed from part of the old Transvaal Province after South Africa's first multiracial elections on 27 April 1994. It was initially called Pretoria –Witwatersrand –Vereeniging (PWV) and was renamed "Gauteng" on the 28th of June 1995, the same day two other provinces were renamed. The term "PWV" describing the region existed long before the establishment of a province by that name,with the "V" sometimes standing for "Vaal Triangle " rather than Vereeniging. At the Sterkfontein caves, some of the oldest fossils of hominids have been discovered, such as Mrs. Ples and Little Foot . Events in this area were not written down until the 19th century; information from before that time is lost or difficult to confirm. The first records are from the early 19th century, when settlers originating from the Cape Colony defeated chief Mzilikazi and started establishing villages in the area. The city of Pretoria, established in 1855 as the capital of the South African Republic , witnessed rapid growth until the discovery of gold in the Witswatersrand area in 1886, which led to the founding of Johannesburg.[12] [15] Despite slower development compared to Johannesburg, Pretoria maintained significance, notably due to its pivotal role in the Second Boer War . The nearby town of Cullinan gained international acclaim in 1905 when the largest diamond ever discovered, the Cullinan Diamond , was mined there. Many events crucial to the anti-apartheid struggle happened in present-day Gauteng, such as the Freedom Charter of 1955, Women's March of 1956, Sharpeville massacre of 1960, the Rivonia Trial of 1963 and 1964, the little Rivonia Trial of 1964, the Soweto Uprising of 1976 and Sharpeville Six of 1984. The Apartheid Museum documents this era. Law and government Gauteng is governed by the Gauteng Provincial Legislature , a 73-person unicameral legislature elected by party-list proportional representation . The legislature elects one of its members as Premier of Gauteng to lead the executive, and the Premier appoints an Executive Council of up to 10 members of the legislature to serve as heads of the various government departments. The provincial government is responsible for the topics allocated to it in the national constitution , including such fields as basic education, health, housing, social services, agriculture and environmental protection. The most recent election of the provincial legislature was held on 8 May 2019 , and the African National Congress (ANC) won 50.19% of the vote and a 37-seat majority in the legislature. The official opposition is the Democratic Alliance , which won 27.45% of the vote and 20 seats. Other parties represented are the Economic Freedom Fighters with eleven seats and the Freedom Front Plus with three seats. The Inkatha Freedom Party and African Christian Democratic Party hold one seat each.[16] Premier David Makhura of the ANC was re-elected as premier on 22 May 2019, at the first meeting of the legislature after the general election.Makhura resigned from the position on 6 October 2022 and Panyaza Lesufi of the ANC was elected to replace him. In the 2024 South African general election , held on 29 May, the ANC received 34% of the vote, while the DA received 28%. The Gauteng Division of the High Court of South Africa , which has seats in Pretoria and Johannesburg, is a superior court with general jurisdiction over the province. Johannesburg is also home to the Constitutional Court , South Africa's highest court, and to a branch of the Labour Court and Labour Appeal Court . Geography The undulating hills that form part of the rural areas in the province just north of Johannesburg. Although Gauteng is a heavily urbanised province, much of its area is extensively cultivated for agriculture. Gauteng's southern border is the Vaal River , which separates it from the Free State . It also borders on North West to the west, Limpopo [10] to the north, and Mpumalanga [10] to the east. Gauteng is the only landlocked province of South Africa without a foreign border. Most of Gauteng is on the Highveld , a high-altitude grassland (circa 1,500 m or 4,921 ft above sea level). Between Johannesburg and Pretoria , there are low parallel ridges and undulating hills, some part of the Magaliesberg Mountains and the Witwatersrand . The north of the province is more subtropical , due to its lower altitude and is mostly dry savanna habitat. Witwatersrand area Further information: Witwatersrand In the southern half of Gauteng, the Witwatersrand area is an older term describing a 120 km wide oblong-shaped conurbation from Randfontein in the West to Nigel in the East, named after the Witwatersrand , a geologically and economically important series of low ridges and their associated plateau that greater Johannesburg developed on. This area is also often referred to simply as "Witwatersrand", "the Rand" or "the Reef" (archaic, after the gold reefs that precipitated the development of the area), and was the "W" in PWV, the initial name for Gauteng. It has traditionally been divided into the three areas of East Rand (governed by the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality ), Central Rand (approximately today's Johannesburg Municipality ) and West Rand Climate The climate is mostly influenced by altitude. Even though the province is at a subtropical latitude, the climate is comparatively cooler, especially in Johannesburg , at 1,700 m (5,577 ft) above sea level (Pretoria is at 1,330 m or 4,364 ft). Most precipitation occurs as brief afternoon thunderstorms; however, relative humidity never becomes uncomfortable. Winters are crisp and dry with frost occurring often in the southern areas. Snow is rare, but it has occurred on some occasions in the Johannesburg metropolitan area Cities and towns Cities and towns See also: List of cities and towns in Gauteng Alberton Atteridgeville Benoni Boksburg Bronkhorstspruit Brakpan Carletonville Centurion Cullinan Edenvale Ga-Rankuwa Germiston Hammanskraal Heidelberg Henley on Klip Johannesburg Kempton Park Krugersdorp Mabopane Mamelodi Magaliesburg Meyerton Midrand Nigel Parkhurst Pretoria Randburg Randfontein Roodepoort Rosebank Sandton Soshanguve Soweto Springs Tembisa Vanderbijlpark Vereeniging Administrative divisions Gauteng municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in Gauteng The Gauteng Province (as of May 2011) is divided into three metropolitan municipalities and two district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into six local municipalities : District municipalities Sedibeng District Emfuleni Lesedi Midvaal West Rand District Merafong City Mogale City Rand West City Metropolitan municipalities Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality (Pretoria ) Johannesburg Metropolitan Municipality Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality The former Metsweding district consisting of Nokeng Tsa Taemane and Kungwini in the North of the province was incorporated into Tshwane in 2011. Demographics Population density in Gauteng <1 /km² 1–3 /km² 3–10 /km² 10–30 /km² 30–100 /km² 100–300 /km² 300–1000 /km² 1000–3000 /km² >3000 /km² Dominant home languages in Gauteng Afrikaans English Ndebele Xhosa Zulu Pedi Sotho Tswana Swati Venda Tsonga No language dominant As of the 2022 census , Gauteng had a population of 15,099,422, an increase of 23.0% from the last census in 2011 . Despite being the smallest province by area, it has the highest population of any South African province, with 24.3% of the total South African population. As of 2022, there are 5,318,665 households in Gauteng. The population density is 831/km2. The density of households is 155.86/km2. About 22.1% of all households are made up of individuals. The average household size fell slightly between the 2011 census and 2022 census, from 3.1 to 2.8 persons. The province's age distribution was 23.6% under the age of 15, 19.6% from 15 to 24, 37.9% from 25 to 44, 15.0% from 45 to 64, and 4.0% who are 65 years of age or older. The median age is 27 years. For every 100 females there are 101.2 males. For every 100 females age 18 and over, there are 102.3 males. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE Languages Languages According to the 2022 census , in Gauteng, the most spoken languages at home were: Zulu : 23.1% of residents, Sesotho : 13.1%, Sepedi : 12.6%, Setswana : 10.4%, English : 9.2%, Afrikaans : 7.7%, Xitsonga : 7.0%, IsiXhosa : 6.7%, IsiNdebele : 3.1%, Tshivenda : 2.4%, SiSwati : 0.9%, South African Sign Language : 0.02%, Other languages: 4.3%. Religion 86.1% of residents are Christian, 4.3% have no religion , 1.6% are Muslim, 0.1% are Jewish, and 0.7% are Hindu . 6.0% stated Traditional African religions as their faith. Educational Attainment 8.4% of residents aged 20 and over have received no schooling, 11.2% have had some primary, 5.5% have completed only primary school, 34.3% have had some high education, 28.0% have finished only high school, and 12.6% have an education higher than the high school level. Overall, 40.6% of residents have completed high school. Economic Status 56.1% of housing units have a telephone and/or mobile phone in the dwelling, 41.5% have access to a phone nearby, and 2.3% have access that is not nearby or no access. 82.8% of households have a flush or chemical toilet. 84.2% have refuse removed by the municipality at least once a week and 2.6% have no rubbish disposal. 47.2% have running water inside their dwelling, 83.6% have running water on their property, and 97.5% have access to running water. 73.2% of households use electricity for cooking, 70.4% for heating, and 80.8% for lighting. 77.4% of households have a radio, 65.7% have a television, 15.1% own a computer, 62.1% have a refrigerator , and 45.1% have a mobile phone. 25.8% of the population aged 15–65 is unemployed. The median annual income of working adults aged 15–65 is R 23 539 ($3,483). Males have a median annual income of R 24 977 ($3,696) versus R 20 838 ($3,083) for females. According to the 2022 census , in Gauteng, the most spoken languages at home were: Zulu : 23.1% of residents, Sesotho : 13.1%, Sepedi : 12.6%, Setswana : 10.4%, English : 9.2%, Afrikaans : 7.7%, Xitsonga : 7.0%, IsiXhosa : 6.7%, IsiNdebele : 3.1%, Tshivenda : 2.4%, SiSwati : 0.9%, South African Sign Language : 0.02%, Other languages: 4.3%. Religion 86.1% of residents are Christian, 4.3% have no religion , 1.6% are Muslim, 0.1% are Jewish, and 0.7% are Hindu . 6.0% stated Traditional African religions as their faith. Educational Attainment 8.4% of residents aged 20 and over have received no schooling, 11.2% have had some primary, 5.5% have completed only primary school, 34.3% have had some high education, 28.0% have finished only high school, and 12.6% have an education higher than the high school level. Overall, 40.6% of residents have completed high school. Economic Status 56.1% of housing units have a telephone and/or mobile phone in the dwelling, 41.5% have access to a phone nearby, and 2.3% have access that is not nearby or no access. 82.8% of households have a flush or chemical toilet. 84.2% have refuse removed by the municipality at least once a week and 2.6% have no rubbish disposal. 47.2% have running water inside their dwelling, 83.6% have running water on their property, and 97.5% have access to running water. 73.2% of households use electricity for cooking, 70.4% for heating, and 80.8% for lighting. 77.4% of households have a radio, 65.7% have a television, 15.1% own a computer, 62.1% have a refrigerator , and 45.1% have a mobile phone. 25.8% of the population aged 15–65 is unemployed. The median annual income of working adults aged 15–65 is R 23 539 ($3,483). Males have a median annual income of R 24 977 ($3,696) versus R 20 838 ($3,083) for females. Life expectancy Life expectancy Gauteng is the province with the second highest life expectancy in the country in 2019 with females having a life expectancy of 69 years and males having a life expectancy of 64 years. Urban conurbation Historically described as the PWV complex, the urban conurbation of Gauteng, referred to as the Gauteng City Region, contains the major urban populations of Johannesburg (7,860,781 as of 2011), Pretoria (1,763,336), Vereeniging (377,922), Evaton (605,504) and Soshanguve (728,063), coming to an urban population of over 11 million. Thomas Brinkhoff lists a "Consolidated Urban Area" in Gauteng as having a population of 13.1 million as of January 2017. The future governmental plans for the region indicate the gradual urbanisation and consolidation towards the creation of a megalopolis that connects these metros. The GCRO is a collaboration between the Universities of Johannesburg and Witwatersrand, the city of Johannesburg, Gauteng Provincial Government, and SALGA-Gauteng. The GCRO's purpose is to collect information and create a database on the Gauteng City Region to provide to government, lawmakers and civil society an informed understanding of the fastest urbanizing region in Southern Africa. Economy Main article: Economy of Gauteng Gauteng is considered the economic hub of South Africa and contributes heavily in the financial, manufacturing, transport, technology, and telecommunications sectors, among others. It also plays host to a large number of overseas companies requiring a commercial base in and gateway to Africa . Gauteng is home to the Johannesburg Stock Exchange , the largest stock exchange in Africa. Some of the largest companies in Africa and abroad are based in Gauteng, or have offices and branches there, such as Vodacom , MTN , Neotel , Microsoft South Africa and the largest Porsche Centre in the world. Although Gauteng is the smallest of South Africa's nine provinces—it covers a mere 1.5% of the country's total land area, the province is responsible for a third of South Africa's gross domestic product (GDP). Gauteng generates about 10% of the total GDP of sub-Saharan Africa and about 7% of total African GDP. Gauteng has the highest GDP and GDP per capita of all South Africa's provinces. Gauteng is also the province with the most taxpayers and the highest average taxable income per taxpayer according to the South African Revenue Service . Transport Sandton Gautrain Station in August 2010 SANRAL , a parastatal, is responsible for the maintenance, development and management of all national road networks in South Africa.. SANRAL is responsible for instituting the Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project, which was met with a lot of opposition due to the tolling of Gauteng motorists. Many important national routes run through Gauteng such as the N1 , N3 , N4 , N12 , N14 and the N17 . Johannesburg is quite dependent on freeways for transport in and around the city. The R21 , R24 , R59 , M1 and M2 all run through Johannesburg while the R80 connects Pretoria Central to Soshanguve. The Gauteng Freeway Improvement Project led to a large decrease in traffic congestion when construction finished 2011–2012. Cape Town , for the first time in decades, is now the most congested city in South Africa. PUTCO , the largest commuter bus operator in South Africa, services the Gauteng area extensively. The bus rapid transit system Rea Vaya also serves to transport people from Johannesburg's southern neighbourhoods into and around the CBD . In an interview, Parks Tau stated that by 2040, Johannesburg will be dominated by pedestrians and public transport as opposed to the use of private transport or informal transport, such as minibus taxis. Gautrain and Metrorail both service the province's public transport sector where trains are concerned and Gautrain offers a bus service that transports commuters to and from various train stations and predetermined bus stops. Metrorail trains are considered one of the most cost-effective methods of transportation in and around Gauteng. The O. R. Tambo International Airport , Rand Airport , Lanseria International Airport , Wonderboom Airport and Grand Central Airport are located in Gauteng. There is a large informal transport sector in Gauteng, consisting of thousands of minibus taxis , which many of the urban and rural population makes use of. However, it is noted that taxis are often unsafe as their drivers ignore the rules of the road and the vehicles are often not roadworthy . The City of Johannesburg stated that: "major initiatives are under way to completely reform the taxi industry and provide more comfort and safety to customers." In March 2017, it is reported that Gauteng alone has 4,7 million registered vehicles under the "GP" abbreviation via the eNatis system. Education University of Pretoria 's Old Arts Building Gauteng is a large center of learning in South Africa, and it has many universities and educational institutions of higher learning. Universities Monash University South Africa Campus Tshwane University of Technology University of Johannesburg Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University University of Pretoria University of South Africa University of the Witwatersrand Vaal University of Technology Colleges African Leadership Academy CTI Education Group Damelin Lyceum College Midrand Graduate Institute Rabbinical College of Pretoria St Augustine College of South Africa Milpark Education Stadio In 2002, the Gauteng Department of Education founded an initiative called Gauteng Online in an attempt to get the entire province to utilize a wide assortment of electronic and telecommunications systems. In 2007, this initiative was handed over to the Gauteng Department of Finance. In the 2013 national budget speech, it was announced that the Gauteng Department of Education would be granted over R 700 million to improve education and to alleviate issues concerning the overcrowding in schools, a shortage in teaching staff and transport for poor pupils. In 2017/2018, the Gauteng Provincial government spent R 42.4 billion on education which accounted for 38% the province's total expenditure. Conservation Although Gauteng province is dominated by the urban areas of Johannesburg and Pretoria, it has several nature reserves. Gauteng is home to the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site which includes the Sterkfontein caves and the Wonder Cave Kromdraai . Johannesburg is home to the largest human-made urban forest in the world. Botanical gardens Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden Johannesburg Botanical Garden Pretoria National Botanical Garden Nature reserves Rietvlei Nature Reserve Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve Groenkloof Nature Reserve Dinokeng Game Reserve Private and municipal reserves Kromdraai Conservancy Krugersdorp Nature Reserve Rietvlei Nature Reserve Wonderboom Nature Reserve Provincial reserves The Maropeng visitors centre at the Cradle of Humankind Main article: Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Land Affairs There are 5 provincial reserves managed by the Gauteng Department of Agriculture, Conservation, Environment and Land Affairs: Abe Bailey Nature Reserve Alice Glockner Nature Reserve Marievale Bird Sanctuary Roodeplaat Nature Reserve Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve Sport Loftus Versfeld Stadium, one of Gauteng's various stadia and venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Gauteng is home to many stadiums and sporting grounds, notably Soccer City , Ellis Park Stadium , Odi Stadium , Loftus Versfeld Stadium , Lucas Moripe Stadium , Giant Stadium , Orlando Stadium , Johannesburg Stadium , the Wanderers Stadium and SuperSport Park . Several teams from Gauteng play in the country's top-level association football (more commonly referred to as soccer) league, the Premier Soccer League (PSL), including Mamelodi Sundowns , SuperSport United , Kaizer Chiefs and Orlando Pirates . The national squad Bafana Bafana 's home stadium is Soccer City in Johannesburg. During the 2010 FIFA World Cup , the first ever world cup held by an African nation, Gauteng's stadia hosted many games. The first ever FIFA world cup match on African soil took place at Soccer City on 11 June 2010. Along with Soccer City, Loftus Versfeld Stadium and Ellis Park Stadium hosted matches in Gauteng. Rugby , or more accurately rugby union , is a popular sport in South Africa, and in Gauteng in particular. Two rugby teams from Gauteng participate in the Southern Hemisphere Super Rugby championship: the Pretoria -based Bulls , and the Johannesburg -based Lions (previously the Cats). Three Gauteng-based teams play in the country's domestic competition, the Currie Cup : the Blue Bulls from Pretoria, the Golden Lions from Johannesburg and the Falcons from the East Rand . In 1995, South Africa hosted the 1995 Rugby World Cup and proceeded to win the tournament at Ellis Park Stadium on 24 June 1995. The events surrounding the world cup formed the basis of the story for the movie Invictus . Many South African universities take part in the Varsity Rugby league. Of these, the Gauteng universities include the University of Pretoria, the University of Johannesburg and the University of the Witwatersrand. Cricket is also widely popular among all cultural groups in the country, and is the only sport to feature in the top two among all of South Africa's major ethnic/racial groups. The Highveld Lions represent both Gauteng and North West in the country's three domestic competitions—the first-class SuperSport Series , the List A one-day MTN Domestic Championship and the Twenty20 Standard Bank Pro 20 Series . Many marathons take place in Gauteng, such as the Gauteng Marathon, the Arwyp Medical Centre 15 km Nite Race and the Trisport Joburg City Triathlon. Gauteng's favourable weather conditions throughout the year make it an ideal hub for sports and other out door activities. This makes golf , horse racing and swimming very popular. The Vaal River facilitates water sports in the forms of jet skiing, water skiing and motor boating.[82] Adventure sports are also quite popular in Gauteng, particularly skydiving, paragliding and hang-gliding. The amusement park Gold Reef City is situated in Gauteng,as is the Johannesburg Zoo [84] and the Pretoria Zoo . Botanical gardens in the province include the Pretoria and Walter Sisulu national botanical gardens maintained by the South African National Botanical Institute as well as the Johannesburg and Manie van der Schijff botanical gardens. The Ticketpro Dome and the Gallagher Convention Centre , which are both popular events and expos venues, are also located within Gauteng. The province also has a Formula One racetrack, the Kyalami Circuit . The most recent F1 race at the venue was in 1993. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

HISTORY & PLACES A history of the South African Constitution 1910-1996 … The New Constitution was negotiated between May 1994 and October 1996 in the country's first democratically elected … dispensation was not new, and was in fact as old as SouthAfrica itself. The Constitution was not a product solely of negotiation in the Constitutional Assembly. Experiences in other parts ofthe world played a role in its development, and many of its provisions are the realisation of years of struggle and are imbued with historical significance. Thehistoryof this constitutional development spans nine decades between two major milestones, both peace treaties that ended … Click Here uMkhonto weSizwe (MK) in exile … Introduction Following British victory in theSouth African War , the Union ofSouthAfrica was forged in 1910 under the British Commonwealth. 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Issues in the Transition from Apartheid to Democracy in … ‘Wash Me Black Again’: African Nationalism, the Indian Diaspora, and Kwa-Zulu Natal, 1944-1960 by Jon Soske … ‘Wash Me Black Again’: African Nationalism, the Indian Diaspora, and Kwa-Zulu Natal, 1944-1960 Jon Soske Doctor of Philosophy Graduate Department ofHistory University of Toronto 2009 ABSTRACT My dissertation combines a critical historyofthe Indian diaspora’s political … Webinar Programme: Red Lives. Convenor: Arianna Lissoni … Dawood Seedat: The Communist who insisted that there was 'no middle road to freedom’ by Goolam Vahed Department ofHistory University of KwaZulu-Natal - vahedg@ukzn.ac.za One ofthe most remarkable figures ofthe Communist Party of … Bibliographical note and further reading … From the book: A Documentary Historyof Indian South Africans edited by Surendra Bhana and Bridglal Pachai For the serious researcher investigating any aspect ofthe … Chapter 5 - The Indian Tobacco Workers Strike of 1920: A Socio-Historical Investigation by Evangelos A. Mantzaris … From: Labour Struggles in SouthAfricaThe Forgotten Pages 1903 - 1921 by Evangelos A. Mantzaris The struggle of tobacco workers in SouthAfrica is a topic much neglected by historians and social scientists alike. In Johannesburg and … in Cape Town in 1906, which resulted in the workers establishing the first socialist-oriented co-operative society in thehistoryofSouth African Labour is the best example of this militancy. 1 In this paper we will examine the struggles ofthe … Address on Accepting an Honarary Doctorate from the Russian Academy of Sciences Moscow, 30 April 1999 … It is indeed a very special honour to receive not one Honorary Doctorate but two, and not from one prestigious institution of learning but two! I will always cherish this association with the great intellectuals of a renowned tradition of scientific endeavour. I will do so knowing that it is no personal … the imposed divisions of centuries to live out together the consequences ofthe profound but simple fact that, complex as history may have made our society, we are one people with one destiny. In doing so they are opening the way to knowledge in … THE FIRST SETTLERS 1497 - 1699 1497 24 December, A flotilla of three Portuguese ships under the command of Capt Vasco da Gama sailed up the eastern seaboard of southern Africa, and moored overnight in the lee of a … Stavenisse , reached the bay. The following day it managed to sail over the sand bar at its entrance, thereby becoming thefirst ship to moor in the Bay of Natal. Timeline: Durban 1700 - 1899 1736 A hunting party headed by Hermanus Hubner journeyed … hippo tusks, buffalo hides, cattle and grain. 7 August, At a meeting with Fynn and Farewell, Shaka granted the English settlers an area about Port Natal of about 6500 km² in extent. Upon his return, on 24 August, Farewell hoisted the Union … THE GREAT TREK Great Trek 1835-1846 … TheGreatTrek was a movement of Dutch-speaking colonists up into the interior of southern Africa in search of land where they could establish their own homeland, independent of British rule. … December 16 and the Construction of Afrikaner Nationalism … The date, December 16, holds a special significance in South African history. On this day in 1838, the Voortrekkers fought a … abolition of slavery that sparked a unique event that would transform the former Dutch colonists into a new ‘volk’ – theGreatTrek ). The British outlawed slavery in 1834. Without slaves, the burghers could not survive as farmers, and the Dutch Cape … BATTLE OF BLOOD RIVER December 16 and the Construction of Afrikaner Nationalism … The date, December 16, holds a special significance in South African history. On this day in 1838, the Voortrekkers fought a battle for survival against Dingaan’s Zulu army, and were victorious. Later, the day was commemorated as part ofthe Afrikaner nationalist project. This article traces some ofthe main events that make up the history ofthe Afrikaner … Dundee … TheBattleofBloodRiver Heritage Site in KwaZulu-Natal represents a unique way of Historic storytelling because there are 2 separate … Political changes from 1750 to 1820 … Britain takes control ofthe Cape Once revolutionary armies of France invaded Holland in 1795, the British feared that the French would take … Under the directive of Andries Hendrik Potgieter, the trekkers attacked the Ndebele group. The Voortrekkers won thebattle against the Ndebele warriors and the Ndebele moved north of Limpopo. A group of trekkers led by Piet Retief split from … ANGLO ZULU WAR The Prince Imperial of France dies in the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879 … Joseph Napoleon, who studied in England at the Royal Military Academy and joined the British forces, was killed in the Anglo-ZuluWar when he and a British reconnaissance party were attacked by about forty Zulus in the vicinity of Itelezi Mountain and … Prince Eugene Napoleon is killed during Anglo-Zulu War … Joseph Napoleon, who studied in England at the Royal Military Academy and joined the British forces, was killed in the Anglo-ZuluWar when he and a British reconnaissance party were attacked by about forty Zulus in the vicinity of Itelezi Mountain and … Click Here Click Here Click Here Click Here ANGLO BOER WAR Small Title First Anglo Boer War … Causes of the War The First Anglo-Boer is also known as the First Transvaal War of Independence because the conflict arose between the … (ZAR). The Boers had some help from their neighbours in the Orange Free State. There were several causes of the First Anglo-BoerWar. The expansion of the British Empire. Problems within the Transvaal government. The British annexation of the … Second Anglo-Boer War - 1899 - 1902 … 'South African War ( a.k.a. the Anglo-BoerWar) remains the most terrible and destructive modern armed conflict in South Africa’s history. … both Black and White'. - Gilliomee and Mbenga (2007). The Causes A number of interrelated factors led to the Second Anglo-BoerWar. These include the conflicting political ideologies of imperialism and republicanism, the discovery of gold on … SIENER VAN RENSBURG Small Title … Jacobus Hercules de la Rey was the sixth child of Adrianus Johannes and Adriana (van Rooyen). He was born near Winburg on 22 October 1847. After the Battle of Boomplaats, the British confiscated their farm … War I and openly expressed his desire for the restoration of the Boer republic. On August 2nd many burghers congregated at SienervanRensburg's house where the seer told them he had seen a vision of a world on fire, bulls fighting, and blood pouring from a … GENERAL DE LA REY Small Title General De la Rey releases General Lord Methuen after his wounds are treated … Towards the end of the Second South African War (Anglo-Boer War 2), GeneralDeLaRey released General Lord Methuen after his wounds were treated. After only travelling 29 kilometres Methuen's party was … General De la Rey protests British mistreatment of women and children … diseases and in many instances, death. The scorched earth policy had been implemented by March 1901. On 16 August 1901, DelaRey, a Boer general, had protested against the inhumane conditions to which women and children in the camps were being exposed. This … THE VOORTREKKERS Small Title The Battle - Andries Pretorius and his men advance … After the fall of Port Natal Port Natal Andries Pretorius arrived from Graaff-Reinet. On 25 November 1838 Pretorius took over leadership as Commandant-General of theVoortrekkers in Natal. He immediately re-organised theVoortrekkers and started to prepare a retaliatory attack on the Zulu. … Timeline of Land Dispossession and Segregation in South Africa 1800-1899 … The nineteenth century was a period of several events whose socio-political and economic impact profoundly changed South Africa and the African continent. Colonial conquest and rapid land dispossession was accelerated during this period. Conversely, fierce resistance was launched by African people in response to their loss of land, livestock and political power. As voortrekkers moved away from the Cape Colony to escape British rule, they fought, seized and occupied land while … Click Here Click Here Click Here Click Here VOORTREKKER MONUMENT The Voortrekker Monument is located just South of Pretoria, in South Africa. This massive granite Structure is prominently located on a Hilltop, and was Built to commemorate the Voortrekkers who left the Cape Colony between 1835 and 1854. The idea to Build a Monument in Honour of God, was first discussed on 16 December 1888, when President Paul Kruger of the South African Republic attended the Day of the Covenant Celebrations at Blood River in Natal. However, the movement to actually Build such a Monument only started in 1931 when the Sentrale Volks Monument Komitee (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 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 the then-prime minister D. F. Malan. The total construction cost of the Monument was about £ 360,000, most of which was contributed by the South African Government. SOUTH AFRICAN FLAGS This article lists the flags of the various colonies and states that have existed in South Africa since 1652, as well as other flags pertaining to South Africa, including governmental, military, police and provincial flags. Historical flags (1652–1928) See also: South Africa Red Ensign Many flags were used in South Africa prior to political unification in 1910. The original Dutch East India Company colony at the Cape of Good Hope (1652–1795) flew the Dutch flag, with the VOC logo in the centre. This flag was also flown during the period of Batavian Republic rule (1803–06). The Boer Republics , i.e. the Orange Free State (1854–1902), the South African Republic (1857–1902), Stellaland (1882–85), Goshen (1883–85), the Nieuwe Republiek (1884–88), and the Klein Vrystaat (1886–1891) had their own flags. Several derived from the Dutch flag. The British colonies that existed in the 19th century flew the British flags, and from the early 1870s some, i.e. Natal , Cape Colony , and later the Orange River Colony and the Transvaal , added their own colonial flag badges. The Union of South Africa, formed in 1910, initially used a red ensign defaced with a badge depicting the Union coat of arms. The first South African national flag, introduced in 1928, superseded it. SOUTH AFRICAN CULTURE Guest Houses and Art Galleries. The spectacular Swartberg Pass , is one of the most dramatic and scenic Mountain Passes in SouthAfrica! (This Pass starts just outside Town.) HISTORY Founded in 1762, Prince Albert's History is deeply rooted in South … was voted the Western Cape winner in the prestigious: ' kykNET Kwêla & Rapport - ‘Town of the Year’ , competition. ART AND CULTURE The Town reflects a rich blend of cultures, including influences from the early Khoisan People , Dutch Settlers The culture of South Africa is one of the most diverse in the world. The country boasts of an impressive eleven official languages and other several recognized languages, with each of the group having its own vibrancy and culture. A substantial majority of the South Africans still live in the rural areas where cultural traditions have survived. However, urbanization and adoption of new technology across the country have led to the decline in the traditional cultures. English and other foreign languages are slowly replacing the native languages. SOUTH AFRICAN TRIBES South Africa is a diverse country with a rich cultural heritage. One of the fascinating aspects of this heritage is the presence of numerous tribes across the nation. These tribes have played a significant role in shaping the country’s history, culture, and social fabric. Let’s explore some of the notable tribes in South Africa: Zulu The Zulu tribe is one of the largest and most prominent ethnic groups in South Africa. With an estimated population of over 11 million, the Zulu people have a rich and powerful history. Known for their warrior culture and vibrant traditions, the Zulu tribe has a strong sense of identity and community. Click Here Click Here Click Here Click Here South Africa’s top 10 incredible attractions 1) Table Mountain Sitting at 1,085m above sea level, you’re guaranteed incredible sunset views of Cape Town and surrounds on the new 7 Wonders of the World – the magnificent Table Mountain. ... 2) Cradle of Mankind ... 3) Robben Island ... 4) The Cape Winelands ... 5) The Drakensberg Mountains ... 6) The Kruger National Park ... 7) Soweto ... 8) Blyde River Canyon ..

South African films This is a chronology of major films produced in South Africa or by the South African film industry . There may be an overlap, particularly between South African and foreign films which are sometimes co-produced; the list should attempt to document films which are either South African produced or strongly associated with South African culture. Please see the detailed A-Z of films currently covered on Wikipedia at Category:South African films . Afrikaans Movies Afrikaans Movies Play Video Share Whole Channel This Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Search videos Search video... Now Playing The Millennium Menace (1999) (HD 1080p) 01:22:41 Play Video Now Playing Klein Karoo 2 ( Movie ) #Tim Theron #Leandie du Randt #Nicole Fortuin #Bennie Fourie 01:37:37 Play Video Now Playing Platteland Full Movie 02:01:29 Play Video 1911 The Great Kimberley Diamond Robbery Adventure English South Africa's first dramatic feature. 1916 De Voortrekkers Harold Shaw Dick Cruickshanks , Goba Historical epic South Africa's Afrikaner The Birth of a Nation depicts Boer pioneers' northward expansion An Artist's Dream Denis Sanbry Dick Cruickshanks Romantic drama Animation 1919 Allan Quatermain Lisle Lucoque Ray Brown, George Taylor Adventure 1931 Sarie Marais Joseph Albrecht Billy Mathews Afrikaans First South African film with sound 1948 Die kaskenades van Dr. Kwak Pierre de Wet Pierre de Wet, Gert van den Bergh, Paula Styger ComedyAfrikaans 1949 African Jim Donald Swanson Daniel Adnewmah, Dolly Rathebe , The African Inkspots, Sam Maile, Dan Twala Kom saam, vanaand Afrikaans Sarie Marais Francis Coley Johann Nell, Helen Faul, Anna Cloete AfrikaansRemake of 1931 film of the same title 1950s Zonk! 1951 Alles sal Regkom Pierre de Wet Al Debbo Daar doer in die bosveld J amie Uys ComedyAfrikaans The Magic Garden Song of Africa 1952 Altyd in my drome Pierre de Wet Al Debbo Musical comedy Afrikaans 1955 Matieland! Pierre de WetSteyn de Jager, Wynona Cheyney, Frederik Burgers Romantic comedy Afrikaans 1956 Come Back, Africa Lionel Rogosin Bloke Modisane , Miriam Makeba DocumentaryEnglish, Fanakalo , Afrikaans , Zulu Die Wildeboere J.O.O. OlwagenRiaan Fouche, Valerie Ferreira Romantic comedy Afrikaans 1960s6 Doodkry is min Jamie Uys Jan Bruyns, Sann de Lange, Tommie Meyer Drama Afrikaans Written by Jamie Uys 1962 Lord Oom Piet Jamie Uys , Bob Courtney, Madeleine Usher Comedy English/Afrikaans 1963 The Anatomy of Apartheid Antony Thomas Documentary English Kimberley Jim Emil Nofal Jim Reeves , Madeleine Usher , Clive Parnell Musical comedy English Death Drums Along the River Lawrence Huntington Richard Todd , Marianne Koch , Albert Lieven Crime adventure English English-West German co-production by Harry Alan Towers 1965 Dingaka Jamie Uys Ken Gampu , Stanley Baker , Juliet Prowse , Bob Courtney Drama Afrikaans, English All the Way to Paris Jamie Uys Jamie Uys , Joe Stewardson , Emil Nofal ComedyEnglish Ride the High Wind / African Gold David Millin Darren McGavin , Maria Perschy Coast of Skeletons Robert Lynn Richard Todd , Dale Robertson , Heinz Drache Crime adventureEnglish-West German co-production by Harry Alan Towers Sandy the Seal Robert Lynn Marianne Koch , Heinz Drache Animal dramaEnglish-West German co-production by Harry Alan Towers The Second Sin David MillinGert van den Bergh , John Hayter, James WhiteActionEnglish The Naked Prey Cornel Wilde Cornel Wilde, Ken Gampu , Patrick Mynhardt Adventure English, Afrikaans , Nguni languages Co-produced with U.S. 1966 1967 Kruger Miljoen eIvan Hall Ge Korsten, James White, Bob Courtney Action, War Afrikaans, English maybe a musical as well??? After You, Comrade Jamie Uys Seven Against the Sun David Millin Gert van den Bergh, John Hayter, Brian O'Shaughnessy Drama, WarEnglish The Cape Town Affair Robert D. Webb Claire Trevor , James Brolin , Jacqueline Bisset Drama, Thriller EnglishRemake of 1953 film Pickup on South Street The Jackals Robert D. WebbVincent Price , Diana Ivarson, Robert Gunner Adventure, Western English Remake of 1948 film Yellow Sky 1968 Oupa for Sale Richard Daneel Arthur Swemmer, Bill Brewer, Wena Naudé ComedyAfrikans, English Die Ruiter in die nag (Rider in the Night) Jan Perold Johan van Heerden, Brian O'Shaughnessy, Willie van Rensburg Drama, War English, Afrikaans Dr Kalie I van Hall Siegfried Mynhardt, Willie de Groot, Wena Naudé English, Afrikaans Majuba: Heuwel van Duiwe David Millin Anthony James, Kerry Jordan, Reinet Maasdorp War English, Afrikaans 1969 Dirkie (Lost in the Desert) Jamie Uys Wynand Uys, Jamie Uys, Pieter Haup fleisch Adventure Afrikaans, English Danie Bosman: Die verhaal van die Grootste Komponis Elmo De Witt Franz Marx, Min Shaw, Siegfried Mynhardt Drama Music Afrikaans Writer was Gilbert Gibson and producer Tommie Meyer Geheim van Nantes Dirk de Villiers Pieter Hauptfleisch, Nic de Jager, Leonie Ross Drama, Romance Afrikaans Producer was Tommie Meyer and writer was AP du Plessis Katrina Jans Rautenbach Katinka Heyns , Jill Kirkland , Don Leonard Drama, RomanceEnglish, Afrikaans 1970s Satan's Harvest George Montgomery, Tippi Hedren, Matt Monro Action Lost in the Desert Jamie Uys Wynand Uys , Jamie Uys, Pieter Hauptfleisch Adventure English, Afrikaans VickiI van Hall Sandra Britz , Leonie Ross , Johan Esterhuizen Romance Afrikaans Filmed in South Africa - Durban , Margate ; Rhodesia Shangani Patrol David Millin Brian O'Shaughnessy , Will Hutchins War Filmed in Rhodesia Stop Exchange Howard Rennie Arthur Swemmer, Charles Vernon, Ian Yule Comedy English 1972 Kaptein Caprivi Albie Venter Will Sealie, Norman C. Smith, Ken Hare Adventure, War Afrikaans, English Leatherlip Stuart Pringle Tim Hughes, Evon de Meistre, Bill Brewer, Tony Jay, Richard Loring, Eben Nel Adventure English Pikkie Sias Odendaal Leonora Nel, Pietie Meyer, Gabriel Bayman Drama Afrikaans Producer was Tommie Meyer and writer Beverley Peirce Those Naughty Angels Neil Hetherington Family Adventure English 1973 Aanslag op Kaprivi I van Hall Will Sealie, Ken Hare, Jannie Hanzen War Afrikaans Mr Kingstreet's War John Saxon , Tippi Hedren War Die Voortrekkers David Millin History, War Afrikaans Snip en Rissiepit Elmo de Witt Rod Alexander, Rika Sennett, Pieter Haupt fleisch Drama, Romance Afrikaans 1974 Animals Are Beautiful People Jamie Uys Paddy O'Byrne Comedy-documentary English Boesman and Lena Ross Devenish Athol Fugard Dans van die Flamink Ivan Hall Rod Alexander , Gaby Gertz , Anele Jonker , Sandra Britz Afrikaans Dooie Duikers deel nie Marius Wyers Funeral for an Assassin Ivan Hall Vic Morrow Crime English Ongewenste Vreemdeling Pens en Pootjies Dirk de Villiers , Joe Stewardson Al Debbo , Marié du Toit , Don Leonard , Joe Stewardson ComedyAfrikaans No Gold for a Dead Diver Harald Reinl Horst Janson , Monika Lundi , Hans Hass Jr, Marius Weyers , Sandra Prinsloo Adventure English West German co-production 1975 Dingetjie is Dynamite Tobie Cronje Eendag op 'n Reëndag Jans Rautenbach Katinka Heyns, Regardt van den Bergh, Mees Xteen, Mrga van Rooy, Jana Cilliers Drama, Romance Afrikaans My Liedjie van Verlange Will Roberts Will Roberts, Barry Trengove, Zuna Viljoen, Nerina Ferreira, Sann de Lange Drama, Music Afrikaans Based on the radio serial by C.F. Beyers-Boshoff Vreemde Wêreld Jürgen Goslar Sandra Prinsloo , Marius Weyers , Wolfgang Kieling Thriller Afrikaans West German co-production 1976 e'Lollipop Muntu Ndebele , Norman Knox Springbok Tommie Meyer Eckard Rabe , Percy Sieff, Sybel Coetzee Drama Afrikaans Jan Scholtz was the writer Albino Jürgen Goslar Trevor Howard , Christopher Lee , James Faulkner , Sybil Danning , Horst Frank Thriller , War English Filmed in Rhodesia during the Rhodesian Bush War Killer Force Val Guest Telly Savalas , Peter Fonda , Christopher Lee , Maud Adams , O. J. Simpson Thriller English 1977 Karate Olympiad / Kill or Be Killed I van Hall James Ryan (actor) Tigers Don't Cry Peter Collinson Anthony Quinn , Simon Sabela [fr ], John Phillip Law Forty Days Franz MarxPiero von Arnim, Ben Kruger, Annelisa Weiland Comedy, Drama Funeral for an Assassin Ivan HallVic Morrow, Peter van Dissel, Gaby Getz Drama English, Afrikaans Night of the Puppets Daan Retief Zoli Marki, Anna Cloete, Leonie Ross Plekkie in die Son William Faure Jana Cilliers, Regardt van den Bergh, Eckard Rabe Drama Afrikaans Grensbasis 13 Elmo De Witt Danie Joubert War Based on the opening skirmishes of the South African Border War 1980s The Gods Must Be Crazy Jamie Uys N!xau , Sandra Prinsloo , Marius Weyers , Louw Verwey Comedy English, Afrikaans, Juǀʼhoan , Ungwatsi Kiepie en Kandas Jan Scholtz Marigolds in August Ross Devenish Winston Ntshona , John Kani , Athol Fugard Drama English Entered in 30th Berlin International Film Festival 1981 Kill and Kill Again Ivan Hall James Ryan , Anneline Kriel Martial arts film My Country My Hat David Bensusan Regardt van den Bergh Nommer Asseblief Henk Hugo 1983 Siener in die Suburbs Francois Swart Marius Weyers , Louis van Niekerk, Sandra Prinsloo DramaAfrikaans Funny People II Jamie Uys Wolhaarstories Bromley Cawood Leon Schuster Geel Trui vir 'n Wenner Franz Marx Ben Kruger , Ray Storm , Claudia Turgas , Deon van Zyl , Dulsie van den Bergh 1984 Flashpoint Africa Francis Megahy Gayle Hunnicutt , Siegfried Rauch , James Faulkner Adventure English Boetie Gaan Border Toe Regardt van den Bergh Arnold Vosloo , Eric Nobbs, Frank Dankert Comedy, War Afrikaans You're in the Movies Emil Nofal Alain D. Woolf, Alan Field, Hal Orlandini Comedy English, Afrikaans 1985 Boetie Op Manoeuvres Regardt van den BerghArnold Vosloo, Janie du Plessis, Ian RobertsComedy, WarAfrikaans, English Jantjie Kom Huis Toe Dirk de VilliersCedwyn JoelWarAfrikaansFirst direct-to-television film released by SABC King Solomon's Mines J. Lee Thompson Richard Chamberlain , Sharon Stone , Herbert Lom , John Rhys-Davies Master Harold...and the Boys Michael Lindsay-Hogg Matthew Broderick , John Kani , Zakes Mokae DramaWritten by Athol Fugard , adapted from his 1982 play of the same title Nag van Vrees Jim Murray , Stanley Roup Skating on Thin UysPieter-Dirk Uys Pieter-Dirk UysComedy Vyfster: Die Slot Sias Odendaal Patrick Mynhardt Wie Die Laaste Lag Koos Roets You Gotta Be Crazy Emil Nofal Bill Flynn , Amanda Forrow 1986 Jock of the Bushveld Gray Hofmeyr Jocelyn Broderick , Michael Brunner Family film; based on the novel Liewe Hemel Genis William Egan Mountain of Hell David Bensusan Outlaw of Gor John Cardos Place of Weeping Darrell Roodt You Must Be Joking! Elmo De Witt Rina Hugo , Carike Keuzenkamp , Kallie Knoetze , Janine Pretorius , Leon Schuster , Mike Schutte Hidden Camera 1987 Across the Rubicon Lionel FriedbergPieter-Dirk Uys DocumentaryEnglish An African Dream John SmallcombeKitty Aldridge, John Kani , Dominic Jephcott DramaEnglish Kill Slade Bruce MacFarlane Murphy's Fault Robert Smawley No Hard FeelingsCharles Norton Nukie Sias Odendal , Michael Pakleppa Glynis Johns, Steve Railsback, Ronald FranceEnglish Operation Hit Squad Tonie van der Merwe Platoon Leader Aaron Norris Tony Pierce, Robert F. Lyons, Michael DudikoffVietnam War dramaEnglish Die Posman Anthony Wilson Skeleton Coast John Cardos Ernest Borgnine , Robert Vaughn , Arnold Vosloo Mercenary war dramaEnglish Tenth of A Second Darrell Roodt Tusks Tara Erica Moore 'n Wereld Sonder Grense Frans Nel Scot Scott WarAfrikaansGarnered controversy for its depiction of the South African Border War White Ghost Beau Davis Action, Adventure, WarEnglish You Must Be Joking! Too Leon Schuster , Lizz Meiring Hidden Camera Saturday Night at the PalaceRobert DaviesBill Flynn, John Kani , Paul SlabolepszyDramaEnglish Vengeance CopsIvan HallChris du Toit, Helga van Wyk, Dawid van der WaltAction, Crime Shaka Zulu 1988 Alien from L.A. Albert Pyun Accidents Gidi Amir Action/Thriller Act of Piracy John "Bud" CardosGary Busey , Belinda Bauer, Ray Sharkey Any Man's Death A Private Life (Jack & Stella) Francis Gerard Bill Flynn, Jana Cilliers Fiela se Kind Katinka Heyns Shaleen Surtie-Richards , Dalene Matthee Laser Mission Robbie Simpson Last Samurai Paul Mayersburg Let the Music Be Frans Nel Love Me Leave Me Alan Birkinshaw , Charles Marriott Lucky Strikes Back Joe Stewardson Lucky Dube The Most Dangerous Woman Alive Chris Marnham Mapantsula Oliver SchmitzThomas Mogotlane, Marcel van Heerden, Thembi MtshaliCrime, DramaScreened at the 1988 Cannes Film Festival Nightslave John Parr Lynda Marshall, Dominique Moser, Denis SmithHorrorEnglish Options Camilo Vila Out on Bail Brian Hessler , Gordon Hessler Paradise Road (Traitors) Jan Scholtz Quest for Love Helen Nogueira Jana Cilliers, Sandra Prinsloo Red Scorpion Joseph Zito Dolph Lundgren , T. P. McKenna , M. Emmet Walsh ActionEnglish Space Mutiny David Winters Cameron Mitchell Sci Fi Considered one of the best spoofs on Mystery Science Theater 3000 [1] [2] Terminal Bliss Jordan Alan Thrilled to Death Chuck Vincent Van der Merwe P.I. Regardt van den Bergh Anneline Kriel , Regardt van den Bergh Whispers Robert Bergman You're Famous Yehuda Barkan Hidden Camera Israeli co-production The Zambezi Kid Denis Scully 1989 A Dry White Season Euzhan Palcy Donald Sutherland , Janet Suzman , Zakes Mokae DramaEnglish Africa Express Bruce McFarlanePatrick Dollaghan, Karen Mayo-Chandler, Russel SavadierEnglish Passing Through: Woni Spotts, The First Black Woman to Travel to Every Country and Continent (1989 film)Nolan DavisWoni SpottsEnglish The Emissary Jan Scholtz[3] Ted Le Plat, Terry Norton, Robert Vaughn , André Jacobs , Patrick Mynhardt , Hans Strydom , Ken Gampu , Brian O'Shaughnessy , and Peter Krummeck [3] [4] [5] [6] ThrillerEnglishMade entirely in South Africa. Killer Instinct David Lister Joanna Weinberg Lambarene Gray Hofmeyr The Gods Must Be Crazy II Jamie Uys Have You Seen Drum Recently? Jürgen Schadeberg Miriam Makeba The Native Who Caused all the Trouble Manie van Rensburg Odd Ball Hall Jackson Hunsicker Oh Schucks.... It's Schuster! Leon Schuster Leon Schuster Okavango (Wild Country) Wayne Crawford , Danie Odendaal , Percival Rubens On the Wire Elaine Proctor Prey for the Hunter John Parr That Englishwoman Dirk de Villiers Veronica Lang Voices in the Dark Vincent Cox Lucky Dube Warriors from Hell Ronnie Isaacs Windprints David Wicht Marius Weyers 1990s TitleDirectorCastGenreLanguageNotes 1990 Agter Elke Man Franz MarxSteve Hofmeyr , Dulcie van den Bergh , Illse Roos, Annelize van der RystDramaAfrikaansA follow-up film to the South African TV series of the same name Circles in a Forest Regardt van den Bergh Ian Bannen , Brion James , Joe Stewardson Drama Nag van die 19de Oh Shucks! Here Comes UNTAG Leon Schuster Leon Schuster 1991 A.W.O.L. The Angel, the Bicycle and the Chinaman's Finger American Kickboxer Frans NelJohn Barrett, Keith Vitali , Brad Morris, Gavin Hood , Ted Le PlatAction, DramaEnglish 1992 Jock of the Bushveld Road to Mecca Sarafina! Darrell Roodt Leleti Khumalo , Whoopi Goldberg , Miriam Makeba , John Kani English Sweet 'n Short Leon Schuster Leon Schuster 1993 Friends Elaine Proctor Entered into the 1993 Cannes Film Festival There's a Zulu On My Stoep Leon SchusterLeon Schuster To the Death Darrell Roodt John Barrett, Michel Qissi, Robert Whitehead, Michelle BestbierActionEnglishSequel to American Kickboxer 1994 Ipi TombiTommie Meyer Jan-Michael Vincent , Henry Cele , O'Neil JohnsonDrama, MusicEnglishMovie of musical written by Bertha Egnos and Gail Lakier Redemption: Kickboxer 5 Kristine PetersonMark Dacascos , James Ryan, Geoff Meed, Greg LatterActionEnglishFinal installment of the original Kickboxer franchise. 1995 Cry, The Beloved Country Darrell Roodt James Earl Jones , Richard Harris , Charles S. Dutton EnglishBased on novel of the same name by Alan Paton Soweto Green: This is a 'Tree' Story David Lister John Kani , L. Scott Caldwell , Sandra Prinsloo , Casper de Vries Comedy, RomanceEnglish, Zulu, Afrikaans 1996 Anna 1997 Danger Zone Billy Zane , Robert Downey Jr. US and CAN Jump the Gun Panic Mechanic Leon Schuster 1998 African Violet Paljas Katinka Heyns 5 MNET All-Africa Film Awards, South African submission to 70th Academy Award for Best Foreign Film The Sexy GirlsRussell ThompsonJamie Bartlet, Tina Schouw, Ivan Lucas, Denise Newman, Peter Butler, Sylvia Esau, Nazley EssopThrillerEnglishApollo Film Festival 2001: Best Feature Film 1999 Aces Africa After the Rain Ross KettlePaul Bettany, Louise Lombard, Ariyon BakareDrama, Romance Millennium Menace Leon SchusterLeon Schuster, Desmond DubeComedyEnglish, Afrikaans The Man Who Would Kill Kitchener François Verster DocumentaryBiography of Fritz Joubert Duquesne . 1999 NTVA Silver Stone & Stone Craft Award A Reasonable Man Gavin Hood Gavin Hood, Nigel Hawthorne , Janine EserCrime drama thriller 2000s Angels in a Cage Jeremy Crutchley , Sylvaine Strike Apostles of Civilised Vice Zackie Achmat Hijack Stories Oliver Schmitz Tony Kgoroge , Rapulana Seiphemo Screened at the 2001 Cannes Film Festival Inside Out Long Night's Journey into Day: South Africa's Search for Truth & Reconciliation Glory Glory Paul Johannsen , Steven Bauer , Amanda Donohoe , Gideon Emery , Ana Alexander 2001 Mr Bones Leon Schuster Leon Schuster, David Ramsey , Faizon Love , Robert Whitehead , Jane Benney ComedyHighest-grossing film in South Africa on release. Diamond Cut Diamond Darrell Roodt Gary Daniels , Nick Boraine , Gideon Emery 2002 Amandla!: A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony Documentary Promised Land The Sorcerer's Apprentice David Lister Robert Davi , Kelly Le Brock , Gideon Emery A Lion's Trail François VersterDocumentary 2003 Adrenaline Amandla!: A Revolution in Four-Part Harmony God Is AfricanAkin OmotosoDramaEnglish Red Water Charles Robert Carner Lou Diamond Phillips , Kristy Sawnson , Gideon Emery Stander Bronwen HughesThomas Jane, David O'Hara, Dexter Fletcher, Ashley Taylor, Marius WeyersAction, Biography, CrimeEnglish State of Denial Wooden Camera 2004 Boy called Twist Kim Engelbrecht Cape of Good Hope Mark Bamford Debbie Brown , Eriq Ebouaney , Nthathi Moshesh , Gideon Emery Drum Taye Diggs A Case of Murder Clive Morris Steve Hofmeyr , Candice Hillebrand , Gideon Emery , Anthony Fridjhon , Ben Kruger , Nicky Rebello , Ramalao Makhene Forgiveness Zane Meas , Arnold Vosloo , Quanita Adams Gums and Noses Craig FreimondComedyEnglish Max and Mona Oh Shucks, I'm Gatvol! Leon Schuster Leon Schuster, Alfred Ntombela , Gerry the Clown , Bill Flynn The Story of an African Farm David Lister Yesterday Darrell Roodt , Leleti Khumalo Nominated for Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 77th Academy Awards Vadertjie Langbeen Hotel Rwanda Terry George Don Cheadle , Sophie Okonedo , Joaquin Phoenix History, DramaEnglish, French, KinyarwandaNominated for 3 Oscars, 18 wins & 38 nominations 2005 34 SouthMaganthrie PillayAz Abrahams, Rassol Hendriks, Ricardo Marnewick, LeeAnn Sayster, Marguerita Freeks, Stephan Roach, Oscar PetersenRoad MovieEnglish1st film to be directed by a black woman in South Africa. Opened at Pan African Film Festival, Sound Design by Albert Edmund Lord III EngagementCaroline Nicou Romantic comedy In My Country Mama Jack Leon Schuster Leon Schuster Red Dust Straight Outta BenoniTrevor ClarenceBrendan Jack, Gavin Williams, Colin Moss, Brett Goldin , Danny K ComedyEnglish The Flyer Revel FoxMarcel van Heerden, Ian Van Der Heyden, Craig Palm, Kim Engelbrecht Adventure, DramaEnglish Tsotsi Gavin Hood Presley Chweneyagae , Ian Roberts , Zola , Terry Pheto Afrikaans, English, Sotho, Tsotsitaal, Tswana, ZuluWon Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film at the 78th Academy Awards U-Carmen eKhayelitsha Mark Dornford-May Won Golden Bear at the 55th Berlin International Film Festival 2006 Angels in the Dust Louise HogarthCon Cloete, Marion Cloete DocumentaryEnglish Bunny Chow J ohn Barker David Kibuuka, Kim Engelbrecht , Kagiso Lediga , Joey Yusef Rasdien, Jason Cope ComedyEnglishAlso billed as Bunny Chow Know Thyself and Bunny Chow: Know Thyself Don't Touch Number Ten Faith Like Potatoes Regardt van den Bergh Frank Rautenbach , Hamilton Dlamini Inspirational/Docu-Drama Son of Man Mark Dornford-May Running Riot Koos RoetsBill Flynn , Paul Slabolepszy Comedy Sekalli le Meokgo (Eng: Meokgo and the Stickfighter)Teboho MahlatsiMduduzi Mabaso, Terry PhetoDramaShort film 2007 Anner House Big Fellas Counting Headz: South Afrika's Sistaz in Hip Hop Vusi Magubane & Erin Offer Documentary Footskating 101 Ouma se Slim Kind Quinne Brown Poena is koning Tengers Michael Rix Animation 2008 50 Years! Of Love? Karin Slater , Steven Bartlo Documentary English Bakgat! Hansie Jerusalema Mr Bones 2: Back from the Past Gray Hofmeyer Leon SchusterComedyHighest-grossing film in South Africa on release. Skin Triomf Michael RaeburnLionel Newton, Vanessa Cooke, Eduan van Jaarsveldt, Paul LuckhoffDramaEnglish, AfrikaansBased on the novel by Marlene van Niekerk The World Unseen Shamim Sarif Lisa Ray , Sheetal Sheth Drama 2009 District 9 Neill Blomkamp Sharlto Copley Science fiction Nominated for Best Film at the 82nd Academy Awards Invictus Clint Eastwood Morgan Freeman , Matt Damon Drama non-fiction Jozi Shirley Adams Oliver Hermanus Denise Newman DramaEnglishReceived Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actress Award at the South African Film and Television Awards The Chameleon 2010s Bakgat! 2 The Cradock Four David ForbesMatthew Goniwe, Fort Calata, Sparrow Mkonto, Sicelo MhlauliDocumentaryA France-South Africa coproduction about the Cradock Four ; winner of best South African documentary at the 2010 Durban International Film Festival Egoli: Afrikaners is PlesierigBromley CawoodDavid Rees, Darren Kelfkens, Leandie du Randt , Christine Basson, Shaleen Surtie-Richards DramaEnglish, AfrikaansAlso known as Egoli: The Movie; based on the long-running South African TV show, Egoli: Place of Gold Five Roads to Freedom: From Apartheid to the World Cup Robin Benger & Jane Thandi Lipman Documentary I now pronounce you Black and White Oliver RodgerTyrel Meyer, Tina Jaxa, Nik RabinowitzComedy, RomanceEnglish JakhalsdansDarrell Roodt Theuns Jordaan, Elizma Theron, Janke Bruwer DramaAfrikaans Schuks Tshabalala's Survival Guide to South Africa Gray HofmeyrLeon Schuster, Alfred Ntombela, Sean Higgs ComedyEnglish, Afrikaans The Unforgiving Al OrrRyan Macquet, Craig Hawks, Claire OppermanHorrorEnglish Long StreetRevel FoxSannie Fox, Roberta Fox, David Butler LieflingBrian WebberLika Berning, Bobby van Jaarsveld, Elize Cawood MusicalAfrikaans Eternity Life, Above All Oliver Schmitz Drama Northern SothoWinner of Best Feature Film at the 5th annual South African Film and Television Awards Spud Donovan MarshJohn Cleese , Troye Sivan Comedy, DramaEnglish Visa/Vie Elan GamakerMélodie Abad, David Isaacs, Keren Tahor Comedy, RomanceFrench, English, Xhosa 2011 Beauty (Skoonheid) Oliver Hermanus Deon Lotz , Charlie Keegan DramaAfrikaans, EnglishCompeted in the Un Certain Regard at Cannes ; awarded Queer Palm at the Cannes Film Festival and Best Film at the 2012 South African Film and Television Awards The Bang Bang Club Steven Silver Taylor Kitsch , Ryan Phillippe , Malin Åkerman DramaEnglishco-produced with Canada Getroud Met RugbyAfrikaans How To Steal 2 Million Charlie VundlaJohn Kani , Hlubi Mboya, Menzi Ngubane, Terry Pheto , Rapulana Seiphemo The Imam and I Khalid ShamisDocumentaryEnglishPartly animated documentary about the director's maternal grandfather and anti-apartheid activist Imam Abdullah Haron LuckyAvie Luthra Sihle Dlamini, Jayashree Basavaraj DramaEnglish, Hindi, Zulu Man on GroundAkin OmotosoDramaEnglish, Zulu, Southern Sotho, Yoruba Mad CowMichael Wright, Michael J. RixEnglish Paradise Stop Jann Turner Rapulana Seiphemo, Kenneth Nkosi, Vusi KuneneComedyEnglish, Northern Sotho Night Drive Platteland Sean ElseAfrikaans 'n Saak van Geloof Diony KempenRobbie Wessels, Lelia Etsebeth, Riana NelDramaAfrikaans Skeem Timothy Greene Wandile Molebatsi, Kurt Schoonraad, Lilani Prinsen Comedy, CrimeEnglish State of ViolenceKhalo MatabaneFana Mokoena, Presley Chweneyagae, Neo NtlatlengDrama TokoloshKevin SinghGerald Beddeker, Willem Stephanus Beyers, Andrew DevadasHorrorEnglish Viva Riva! Djo Tunda Wa Munga Patsha Bay , Manie Malone, Diplome AmekindraDrama, ThrillerFrench, Lingala 2012 Adventures in Zambezia Wayne ThornleyJeremy Suarez , Abigail Breslin , Jeff Goldblum , Leonard Nimoy , Samuel L. Jackson Animation, Adventure, FamilyEnglishWon the Best South African Feature Film at the Durban International Film Festival in 2012. Won Best Animation at the South African Film and Television Awards and Best Animation at the 9th Africa Movie Academy Awards . Nominated for Best Music Score at 2013 South African Film and Television Awards and nominated for Best Music in an Animated Feature Production and best Voice Acting in an Animated Feature Production at the 2013 Annie Awards in California. Safe House Daniel Espinosa Denzel Washington , Ryan Reynolds Action thriller filmEnglishAmerican made film entirely filmed and set in Cape Town. Dredd 3D Pete Travis Karl Urban , Lena Headey , Olivia Thirlby Combat CoppositesOliver RodgerRob van Vuuren , Siv Ngesi ComedyEnglish Semi SoetJoshua RousAnel Alexander, Nico Panagiotopoulos, Sandra VaughnRomanceAfrikaans Mad BuddiesGray HofmeyrLeon Schuster, Kenneth Nkosi, Alfred NtombelaComedy Otelo Burning Sara Blecher Jafta Mamabolo Thomas Gumede, Sihle XabaDramaEnglish, Zulu Material Craig FreimondRiaad Moosa , Vincent Ebrahim Comedy, DramaEnglish Agter Die LigteNicholas Costaras, Joe Niemand Afrikaans Pretville Klein Karoo Regardt van den BerghTim Theron, DonnaLee Roberts , Hykie BergRomanceAfrikaans, English Sleeper's WakeBarry BerkDeon Lotz ThrillerEnglish Die Wonderwerker Katinka HeynsElize Cawood, Marius Weyers, Anneke Weidemann BiographyAfrikaans Verraaiers (Traitors)Paul EilersGys de Villiers, Viljie Maritz, Andrew Thompson WarAfrikaans Wolwedans in die skemer Jozua MalherbeRolanda Marais, David Louw, Gérard Rudolf, Desiré Gardner, Lelia Etsebeth, Jacques Bessenger ThrillerAfrikaans 2013 Angel of the Skies Christopher-lee dos Santos Nick van der Bijl, Ryan Dittmann, Jason Glanville, Brad Backhouse, Lillie Claire, Adam Boys,War, DramaEnglishNominated for Best Wardrobe and Makeup at 2014 SAFTA awards. As Jy Sing André OdendaalBobby van Jaarsveld , Leah van Niekirk, Bok van Blerk , Karlien van Jaarsveld, Katlego Maboe Comedy, Drama, MusicalAfrikaans Die Ballade van Robbie de Wee Darrell Roodt Neil Sandilands, Marno van der Merwe DramaAfrikaans Fanie Fourie's Lobola Henk PretoriusEduan van Jaarsveldt, Zethu Dlomo, Jerry Mofokeng Comedy, RomanceZulu, English, Afrikaans Four Corners Ian Gabriel Brendon Daniels , Jezriel Skei, Lindiwe Matshikiza Crime, ThrillerAfrikaans, EnglishAlso known as Die Vier Hoeke iNumber Number Donovan MarshSdumo Mtshali, Presley Chweneyagae, Israel Makoe , Owen Sejake Action, Crime, DramaReceived Best Director, Best Screenwriter and Best Editor Awards at the 2015 South African Film and Television Awards . Also known as Avenged Khumba Anthony SilverstonJake T. Austin , Steve Buscemi , Loretta Devine , Laurence Fishburne , Richard E. Grant Animation, Adventure, FamilyEnglishWon Best Animation at the Zanzibar International Film Festival and at the Africa Movie Academy Awards . Won Best Music Composition of a Feature Film and Best Animation at the 2014 South African Film and Television Awards . Won Best Feature at the Annecy Animation Festival 2013 A Lucky ManGordon ClarkLevi du Plooy, Jarrid Geduld, Keenan ArrisonDocumentary Drama Mandela: Long Walk to Freedom Justin Chadwick Idris Elba , Naomie Harris , Tony Kgoroge History, DramaAfrikaans, English, XhosaNominated for Golden Globe Awards and Critics' Choice Awards Musiek vir die AgtergrondSalmon de JagerJohn-Henry Opperman, Lizelle de Klerk, Brümilda van Rensburg , Ian Roberts , Neil SandilandsDrama, Music, RomanceAfrikaans, English Of Good ReportJahmil X.T. QubekaMothusi Magano, Petronella TshumaThrillerAfrikaans[14] To the Power of AnneRobert Anthony HaynesAnne Power, Ryan Flynn, Wim VorsterEnglish Shotgun GarfunkelJohnny BarbuzanoBryan van Niekerk, Asher Mikkel Stoltz, Eduan van JaarsveldtEnglish Jimmy in PienkHanneke SchutteLouw Venter, Terence Bridget, Gys de Villiers, Tinarie van Wyk LootsComedyAfrikaans Spud 2: The Madness ContinuesDonovan MarshJohn Cleese , Troye Sivan Comedy, DramaEnglish Zulu Jérôme Salle Orlando Bloom , Forest Whitaker , Tanya van Graan CrimeEnglishco-produced with France 2014 Faan se TreinKoos RoetsWillie Esterhuizen, Deon Lotz , Marius Weyers , Cobus Rossouw, Anel Alexander DramaAfrikaans, English Hollywood in my HuisCorne van RooyenChristia Visser , Edwin van der Walt, Nicola HanekomComedy, Family, RomanceAfrikaans, English KonfettiZaheer Goodman-BhyatLouw Venter, Nico Panagio, Casey B. Dolan, Kim Engelbrecht, Casper de Vries Drama, ComedyAfrikaans, English Leading Lady Henk PretoriusKatie McGrath , Bok Van Blerk , Gil Bellows Romantic ComedyEnglish, Afrikaans Love the One You Love Jenna Cato Bass Francis Chouler , Nelson Das Neves, Chiedza Mhende Comedy, Drama, Mystery, RomanceEnglish, Xhosa Pad na jou hartJaco SmitIvan Botha , DonnaLee Roberts Adventure, RomanceAfrikaans Spud 3: Learning to FlyJohn BarkerJohn Cleese , Troye Sivan , Caspar Lee Comedy, DramaEnglish The Two of Us Ernest NkosiDramaZuluAlso known as Thina Sobabili: The Two of Us Die WindpompEtienne FourieRoland Reed, Leandie du Randt, Marga van Rooy, Ian Roberts , Etienne Fourie Drama, Fantasy, RomanceAfrikaans 2015 Abraham (2015 film) Jans RautenbachDJ Mouton, Chantel PhilipusDramaAfrikaansMusic Riku Lätti Assignment Laszlo BeneNick Boraine , Jonathan Pienaar, Sandi Schultz, David Dennis Drama, ThrillerEnglish AyandaSara BlecherFulu Mugovhani, Sihle Xaba DramaEnglish Bond of Blood Christopher-lee dos Santos Marno van der Merwe, Sarah Kozlowski, Damian BerryDrama, FaithEnglish Ballade vir 'n Enkeling Quentin KrogArmand Aucamp, Jacques Bessenger, Zak Hendrikz DramaAfrikaans Chappie Neill BlomkampHugh Jackman , Sigourney Weaver , Sharlto Copley , Dev Patel Action, Sci-Fi, ThrillerEnglish Dis ek, Anna Sara BlecherCharlene Brouwer, Marius Weyers , Nicola Hanekom, Izel Bezuidenhout, Morne VisserDramaAfrikaans Dis Koue Kos, SkatEtienne FourieSean Cameron Michael , Frank Opperman , Anna-Mart van der Merle, Deon Lotz Comedy, Drama, RomanceAfrikaans The Endless River Oliver Hermanus Nicolas Duvauchelle , Crystal-Donna Roberts , Darren Kelfkens, Denise NewmanDramaEnglishCo-produced with France Hear Me Move Scottnes L. SmithNyaniso Dzedze, Wandile Molebatsi, Makhaola Ndebele Drama The Jakes Are Missing Neal Sundstrom, Denny Y. Miller, FigjamMampho Brescia, Pop Jerrod, Mpho Sebeng, Jody Abrahams, Nomzamo Mbatha Comedy, RomanceEnglish Last Ones Out Howard FyvieGreg Kriek, Christia Visser, Tshamano SebeAdventure, Drama, ThrillerEnglish Necktie YouthSibs Shongwe-La MerBonko Cosmo Khoza, Sibs Shongwe-La Mer, Colleen Balchin DramaEnglish, Zulu, Afrikaans 'n Pawpaw Vir My Darling Koos RoetsDeon Lotz , Deirdre Wohlhuter, Jana Nortier ComedyAfrikaans Die Pro Andre VeltsEdwin van der Walt , Reine Swart DramaAfrikaansBased on a novel by Jeanne Goosen Somer SonClinton LubbeReynald Slabbert, Juanita de Villiers, Bok van Blerk, Hanna Grobert, Reine Swart Romantic ComedyAfrikaans Strikdas Stefan NieuwoudtLeandie du Randt, Gys de Villiers, Kaz McFadden ComedyAfrikaans Tell Me Sweet Something Akin OmotosoThomas Gumede, Maps Maponyane Romance, ComedyEnglish TreurgrondAndre FrauensteinSteve Hofmeyr , Erica Wessels , Shaleen Surtie-Richards DramaAfrikaans TrouvoeteDarrell Roodt Lika Berning, Bouwer Bosch, Charlie Bouguenon, Paul du Toit, Stefan Ludik RomanceAfrikaans While You Weren't LookingCatherine StewartTerence Bridgett, Tina Jaxa DramaEnglish, Xhosa, Afrikaans 2016 AlchemistDavid SikhosanaDramaEnglish Alison Uga Carlini Alison Botha, Christia Visser, Zak Hendrikz, Francois Maree, De Klerk Oelofse Documentary, DramaEnglish Blood and Glory Sean ElseCharlotte Salt, Andre Jacobs, Josh Myers, Nick Cornwall, Greg Kriek, Deon Lotz Drama, WarAfrikaans, EnglishAlso known as Modder en Bloed Dora's Peace Konstandino Kalarytis Khabonina Qubeka , Danny Keogh , Hlubi Mboya , Ronnie Nyakale, Paballo Koza Action, Crime, DramaEnglish, Zulu Free State Salmon de JagerNicola Breytenbach, Andrew Govender, Leleti Khumalo , Deon Lotz , Mangesh Desai, Paul Ellers Drama, Family, RomanceAfrikaans, English Happiness is a Four-Letter Word Thabang MoleyaRomance, DramaEnglishBased on the Commonwealth Prize -winning novel by Nozizwe Cynthia Jele Jonathan: Die MovieSalmon de JagerRikus de Beer, Beáte Opperman, Paul Eilers, Brümilda van Rensburg ComedyAfrikaans Jou Romeo Andre WeltsRuan Wessels, Elani Dekker, Christopher van der Westhuizen, Row-Lean, Ruan Blum RomanceAfrikaans Kalushi Mandla DubeThabo Rametsi, Thabo Malema, Welile Nzuza Biography, Drama, ThrillerEnglishAlso known as Kalushi: The Story of Solomon Mahlangu Mignon "Mossie" van WykDarrell Roodt Erica Wessels, Paul du Toit, Deanre Reiners, Elzette Maarschalk, Tanika Fourie DramaAfrikaans Mrs. Right GuyAdze UgahDineo Moeketsi, Lehasa Moloi, Thapelo Mokoena, Tau Maserumule, Thando Thabethe RomanceEnglish My Father's War Craig GardnerEdwin van der Walt, Stian Bam, Erica Wessels, Fumani Shilubana DramaEnglish Nobody's Died Laughing Willem OelofsonPieter-Dirk Uys , Desmond Tutu , Vincent Ebrahim , Charlize Theron , F. W. de Klerk DocumentaryEnglishA documentary about the life of actor, comedian, and activist Pieter-Dirk Uys Noem My Skollie Daryne JoshuaDann-Jacques Mouton , Sandi SchultzDramaAfrikaansEnglish title: Call Me Thief Shepherds and Butchers Oliver Schmitz Steve Coogan , Andrea Riseborough , Robert Hobbs, Deon Lotz , Garion Dowds DramaEnglish, AfrikaansBased on the novel by Chris Marnewick Sink Brett Michael InnesAnel Alexander , Shoki Mokgapa, Jacques Bessenger, Amalia Uys , Asante Mabuza, Diaan Lawrenson DramaAfrikaansBased on the novel 'Rachel weeping' by Brett Michael Innes Sy Klink soos Lente Corne van RooyenAmalia Uys , Stiaan Smith, Bennie Fourie, James Cunningham, William Dunster, Bouwer BoschRomance, ComedyAfrikaans, English Twee Grade van Moord Gerrit SchoonhovenSandra Prinsloo , Marius Weyers , Shaleen Surtie-Richards DramaAfrikaans, English UitvluchtRegardt van den Bergh Albert Maritz, Carel Trichardt, Clara Joubert, Clyde Berning, Jill Levenberg , Stian Bam Drama, RomanceAfrikaans, English Vaya Akin Omotoso Warren Masemola, Harriet Manamela, Zimkhitha Nyoka, Phuti NakeneDramaZulu Verskietende Ster Darrell Roodt Hykie Berg, Deanre Reiners, Jana Strydom , Hannes van Wyk, Hanli Rolfes DramaAfrikaans Vir Altyd Jaco SmitLaré Birk, Ivan Botha , Elize Cawood, Nicky de Kock, Donnalee Roberts RomanceAfrikaans Vir die Voëls Quentin KrogSimoné Nortmann , Francois Jacobs, Lara Kinnear, Bennie Fourie, Elize Cawood, Neels van Jaarsveld, Nicola Hanekom RomanceAfrikaans The Whale CallerZola MasekoAmrainn Ismail-Essop, Sello Maake Ka-Ncube DramaEnglish Wonder Boy for President John Barker Kagiso Lediga , Ntosh Madlingzi, Tony Miyambo, Thishiwe Ziqubu ComedyEnglish Taking Earth Grant HumphreysRonan Quarmby, Brad Richards, Dick Sorenson, Marco Torlage and Barbara Harrison Sci FiEnglishProduced by Digital Forces, Grant Humphreys, Grant Knight , Michael Harrison 2017 AsinamaliMbongeni Ngena Drama, MusicalZuluAdapted from the play of the same name[16] Beyond the River Craig FreimondLemogang Tsipa, Grant Swanby, Israel Sipho Matseke Zulu , Emily Child DramaEnglish, Zulu BypassShane VermootenNatalie Becker , Hakeem Kae-Kazim , Greg Kriek, Deon Lotz ThrillerEnglish Catching FeelingsKagiso Lediga Kagiso Lediga , Pearl Thusi , Andrew Buckland, Akin Omotoso , Precious Makgaretsa Comedy, Drama, RomanceEnglish Finders KeepersMaynard KraakDalin Oliver, Neels Van Jaarsveld, Lise Slabber, Grant Swansby ComedyEnglish Five Fingers for Marseilles Michael MatthewsSesotho High Fantasy Jenna Bass Qondiswa James, Nala Khumalo, Francesca Varrie Michel, Liza Scholtz Comedy Hoener met die Rooi Skoene Koos RoetsLida Botha, Deon Lotz , Lizz Meiring, Dorette Potgieter Comedy, DramaAfrikaans Jagveld (English release title: Hunting Emma)Byron DavisLeandie du Randt, Neels van Jaarsveld, Tim TheronActionAfrikaans Johnny Is Nie Dood NieChristiaan Olwagen Rolanda Marais, Albert Pretorius, Ilana Cilliers, Ludwig Binge, Roelof Storm DramaAfrikaans Kalushi: The Story of Solomon MahlanguMandla DubeThabo Rametsi, Thabo Malema, Welile Ndzunza, Jafta Mamabolo, Louw Venter, Gcina Mhlophe, Fumani Shilubana, Pearl Thusi Biography, Drama, ThrillerEnglish Kampter reinLuhann JansenLouw Venter, Juanita de Villiers, Josias Moleele, Reine SwartComedyAfrikaans, English Keeping Up with the Kandasamys Jayan MoodleyJailoshini Naidoo , Maeshni Naicker, Mishqah Parthiephal , Madhushan Singh ComedyEnglishThe last film produced by Junaid Ahmed (together with Helena Spring) before his death in 2016. KrotoaRoberta DurrantCrystal-Donna Roberts , Armand Aucamp, Jacques Bessenger, Brendan Daniels, Deon Lotz DramaAfrikaans Liewe Kersfeesvader Etienne FourieMila Guy , Morné Visser, Adrienne Pearce , Milan Murray, Dean John Smith, Melt Sieberhagen, June van MerchDrama, ComedyAfrikaans The Little Kings Darrell James RoodtJustin Strydom, Jonathan Taylor, Lisa-Marie Schneider Drama, SportEnglish Meet the Radebes Simon MakwelaLuthuli Diamini, Mary Makhatho, Jolene Martin-Morgan, Nicholas NkunaDrama, ComedyEnglish Last Broken Darkness Christopher-lee dos Santos Sean Cameron Michael , Brandon Auret , Suraya Santos, Jonathan Pienaar , Brendan Murray, Ryan KrugerSci-fi, DramaEnglishWon best screenplay and best lead actor at Boston Sci Fi festival in 2017. Won best cinematography at South African Society of Cinematographers awards. ( SASC Visible spectrum gold award) in 2017. Nominated for best film, best sound design, best lead actress, best lead actor at 2020 South African indie film awards. Won best cinematography at 2020 South African indie film awards. Released theatrically in the USA in 2021 as 'Broken Darkness' by Vertical Entertainment . Oliver Tambo: Have You Heard from JohannesburgConnie Field DocumentaryEnglish Die Rebellie van Lafras VerweySimon BarnardTobie Cronjé, Chantell Phillipus, Cobus Visser, Albert Pretorius, Neels Van Jaarsveld, Lionel Newton DramaAfrikaansAlso known as Lafras Verwey She Is King Gersh KgamediKhabonina Qubeka, Aubrey Poo, Gugu Zulu, Khanyi Mbau, Mandisa Nduna MusicalEnglish Strike a Rock Aliki SaragasPrimose Sonti, Thumeka Magwangqana Documentary TessMeg RickardsChristia Visser, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Brendon Daniels , Dann-Jacques MoutonDramaAfrikaans Van Der MerweBruce LawleyRob van Vuuren , Chanelle de Jager, Reine Swart , Matthew Baldwin, Ian Roberts ComedyAfrikaans, English VaselinetjieCorné van RooyenMarguerite van Eeden , Nicole Bond, Shaleen Surtie-Richards , Royston Stoffels DramaAfrikaans, English Vuil WasgoedMorné du ToitBennie Fourie, Bouwer Bosch, Tim Theron, Nico Panagio, Stiaan SmithCrimeAfrikaans WinniePascale LamcheWinnie MandelaDocumentaryFor this film, Lamche won the Directing Award for World Cinema - Documentary at the 2017 Sundance Film Festival The Wound (Inxeba)John Trengove Nakhane Touré, Bongile Mantsai, Niza Jay Ncoyini, Thobani MseleniDramaXhosa, Afrikaans, English The Black Moses Moksh production (production company) | Trevor Shezi (director) TBADramaZulu, Afrikaans, English 2018 AyaKhalid EL-JelailatiDanica De La Rey, Richard Gau, Charlie Bouguenon, Keketso Montshiwa ThrillerEnglish Baby Mamas Stephina ZwaneSalamina Mosese, Kay Smith, Thembisa Mdoda, Dineo Ranaka ComedyEnglish Cut-Out Girls Nicola HanekomAtlanta Johnson, Keziah Gabriel, Cody Mountain, Meghan Oberholzer Drama, ThrillerEnglish Dominee TienieSalmon de JagerFrank Opperman, Henrietta Gryffenberg, Thapelo Makoena, Carel Nel, Deon Lotz Drama Ellen: The Ellen Pakkies Story Daryne JoshuaJill Levenberg , Jerrid Geduld, Elton Landrew, Clint BrinkDramaAfrikaans, EnglishAlso known as Ellen: The Story of Ellen Pakkies Farewell Ella Bella Lwazi Mvusi Jay Anstey, Sello Maake Ka-Ncube, Lionel Newton, Katlego Danke, Mary-Anne Barlow, Noluthando MejeDramaEnglish Frank & FearlessGray Hofmeyr Leon Schuster , Themba Ntuli, Kenneth Nkosi, Khanyi Mbau , Jennifer SteynComedy KanarieChristiaan OlwagenSchalk Bezuidenhout, Hannes Otto, Germandt Geldenhuys , Gérard Rudolf , Jacques Bessenger, Beer Adriaanse Drama, Musical, WarAfrikaansAlso known as Canary Mayfair Sara Blecher Ronak Patani, Rajesh Gopie, Wayne Van Rooyen, Jack Devnarain, Kelly-Eve Koopman, Ameera PatelAction, Crime, DramaEnglish Meerkat MaantuigHanneke SchutteAnchen du Plessis, Rika Sennett, Pierre van Pletzen, Themba Ntuli Drama, Science Fiction, FantasyAfrikaansAlso known as Meerkat Moonship Number 37 Nosipho DumisaIrshaad Ally, Monique Rockman, Ephraim Gordon, Danny Ross, Deon Lotz ThrillerAfrikaans RaaiselkindAndre VeltsDiaan Lawrenson, Deon Lotz , Anrich Herbst DramaAfrikaans The Recce Johannes Ferdinand Van ZylGreg Kriek, Christia Visser, Elsabé Daneel, Marius Weyers, Maurice Carpede Drama, WarAfrikaans, EnglishIdlewild International Film Festival 2019, Best Foreign Feature Drama, Idyllwild International Festival of Cinema, Best Actor - Feature Sew the Winter to My Skin Jahmil X. T. QubekaEzra Mabengeza, Kandyse McClure , Peter Kurth, Zolisa Xaluva, Bok Van Blerk Action, AdventureAfrikaans, English, Xhosa StroomopIvan BothaDonnaLee Roberts , Simoné Nortmann, Ilse Klink , Chanelle de Jager, Carla Classen, Armand AucampAction, AdventureAfrikaans, English Table Manners Leli MakiDiaan Lawrenson, Renate Stuurman, Neels Van Jaarsveld, Thabo Malema, Fiona Ramsey Comedy, DramaEnglish Thys & TrixQuentin KrogLeandie du Randt , Bouwer Bosch, Brendon Daniels Action, Adventure, ComedyAfrikaans The Tokoloshe Jerome PikwanePetronella Tshuma , Kwande Nkosi, Dawid Minaar, Harriet Manamela , Mandla Shongwe, Yule MasitengHorror, ThrillerEnglish, Zulu When Babies Don't Come Molatelo Mainetje-BossmanMolatelo Mainetje-BossmanDocumentary FeatureKhelobedu, English WonderlusJohan CronjeBeer Adriaanse, Marvin-Lee Beukes, Mila Guy, Edwin Van Der Walt, Simoné Nortmann Comedy, Drama, RomanceAfrikaans 2019 An Act of Defiance Jean van de VeldePeter Paul Muller, Antoinette Louw, Sello Motloung DramaEnglish Ander MensQuentin KrogBennie Fourie, Marlee van der Merwe, Frank Opperman, James BorthwickComedyAfrikaans Back of the Moon Angus GibsonRichard Lunkunku, Moneoa Moshesh, Lemogang Tsipa DramaZulu Bhai's Cafe Maynard KraakMehboob Bawa, Suraya Rose Santos, Siv Ngesi Romantic comedy, MusicalEnglishIn the style of Bollywood Buddha in Africa Nicole Schafer Enock Alu BiographyEnglish, Chinese Mandarin Deep End Eubulus TimothyCarishma Basday, Greg Kriek, Suraya-Rose Santos, Mahendra Raghunath, Robin SinghDrama, Romance, SportEnglish Fiela se Kind (2019)Brett Michael InnesZenobia Kloppers, Luca Bornman, Wayne Smith, Wayne van Rooyen, Cindy Swanepoel, Drikus Volschenk DramaAfrikaans Flatland Jenna Cato Bass Faith Baloyi, Nicole Fortuin , Izel Bezuidenhout DramaEnglish, Afrikaans Griekwastad Jozua MalherbeArnold Vosloo , Alex van Dyk, Tim Theron, Jody Abrahams Crime, DramaAfrikaansDramatisation of a true story The Harvesters Etienne Kallos Brent Vermeulen , Alex Van Dyk, Juliana Venter, Morne Visser DramaAfrikaans, EnglishOriginal title: Die Stropers Kandasamys: The Wedding Jayan MoodleyJailoshini Naidoo, Maeshni Naicker, Madhushan Singh, Mishqah ParthiephalRomance Kings of Mulberry Street Judy NaidooAaqil Hoosen, Shaan Nathoo, Neville Pillay, Rizelle Januk, Thiru NaidooComedyEnglish Knuckle CityJahmil X. T. QubekaBongile Mantsai, Thembekile Komani, Patrick Ndlovu, Faniswa Yisa, Siv Ngesi Drama, CrimeXhosaSouth Africa's entry for the 92nd Academy Awards (2020) in Best International Feature Film category[18] The Last Victims Maynard KraakSean Cameron Michael, Kurt Egelhof, Marno van der Merwe, Ashish Gangapersad, Jacobus Van Heerden, Mark Mulder Drama, Mystery, ThrillerEnglishInspired by true events film, has won 18 awards and 8 nominations around the world from 12 film festivals. The world Premiere was at Pan African Film Festival , Hollywood in 2019. Liewe LisaHendrik CronjeElani Dekker, Hendrik Cronje, Zane Meas, Barbara-Marie Immelman, Albert MaritzRomanceAfrikaans Love Lives HereNorman MaakeThando Thabethe, Lungile Radu, Andile Gumbi , Nomalanga Shozi, Zola NombonaRomanceEnglish Losing Lerato Sanele zuluConnie Chiume , Patrick Mofokeng , Ayanda Borotho , Tshimollo Modupe, Samela Tyelbooi and Kagiso Modupe Drama, Action, CrimeEnglish & AfrikaansNetflix film MatwetweKagiso LedigaAnastasia Augustus, Lungile Cindi, Mbeko Cindi, Karabo Dikolomela, Neo ErasmusAdventure, Comedy, DramaAlso known as Wizard Moffie Oliver Hermanus Kai Luke Brümmer , Ryan de Villiers Drama, Romance, WarAfrikaans, English The Seagull (Die Seemeeu)Christiaan OlwagenSandra Prinsloo , Marius Weyers , Gerben Kamper, Alyzzander Fourie, Deon Lotz DramaAfrikaans SkemersonPhilip RademeyerPietie Beyers, Elize Cawood, Anneke WeidemannDramaOriginal music score by Riku Lätti 8 ( The Soul Collector )Harold HölscherTshamano Sebe, Inge Beckmann, Garth Breytenbach, Keita LunaHorror, Fantasy, PeriodEnglish, TswanaOriginally entitled 8, British Horror Film Festival , UK.Best Feature Film, International Independent Film Awards, Best Narrative Feature, Seattle International Film Festival, Best Feature Film The Story of Racheltjie de BeerMatthys BoshoffStian Bam, Antoinette Louw, Marius Weyers , Sandra Prinsloo , Zonika de Vries DramaAfrikaans 3 Days to Go Bianca IsaacLeeanda Reddy , Lillette Dubey, Jailoshini Naidoo , Kajal Bagwandeen DramaEnglish Zulu Wedding Lineo SekeleoaneNondumiso Tembe, Darren Dewitt Henson, Carl Payne, Pallance Dladla RomanceEnglish 2020s Barakat Amy Jephta Vinette Ebrahim, Joey Rasdien, Mortimer Williams, Quanita Adams , Keeno Lee Hectormade Family dramaAfrikaans, EnglishFirst South African Muslim film My Father the Mover Julia JanschMthuthuzeli Stoan GalelaDocumentaryXhosaWinner of Best Documentary Short at 19th Annual Tribeca Film Festival Parable Beer AdriaanseJane de Wet , Michael Richard, Jay Hlatshwayo, Carla Classen, Thapelo Aphiri, Danny MeakerHorrorEnglishTV film RageJaco BouwerNicole Fortuin , Jane de Wet , Tristan de Beer, Carel Nel, Sihle Mnqwanzana, Shalima Mkongi, David ViviersHorrorAfrikaansTV film Stam Louw Venter Inge Beckmann, Gideon Lombard, Tarryn Wyngard, Niza Jay ThrillerAfrikaans Toorbos Rene van RooyenElani Dekker, Stiaan Smith, Ivan Abrahams, Ira Blanckenberg, Clare Marshall, Gretchen Ramsden DramaAfrikaansSouth Africa's entry for the 93rd Academy Awards (2021) in the Best International Feature Film category[18] Triggered Alastair OrrLiesl Ahlers, Reine Swart , Russell Crous, Cameron Scott, Steven John Ward, Suraya Rose Santos, Paige Bonnin, Kayla Privett, Michael Lawrence Potter Action, HorrorEnglish Die SMSMarshin CupidoChanelle de Jager, Lara Hattingh, Paul du Toit. Francois CoertzeThrillerFirst South African Feature Film directed by a director younger than 21 years old Vergeet My Nie Andre FeltsMarguerite van Eeden , Sean-Marco Vorster, Kenley Swart, Pietie Beyers, Amalia Uys, Fiona Ramsay RomanceAfrikaans, English 2021 Angeliena Uga Carlini Euodia Samson, Tshamano Sebe, Thapelo Mokoena , Colin Moss Comedy dramaEnglishNetflix film Briefly (Vlugtig)Marinus GubitzArno Greeff , Jane de Wet , Ernst van WykPsychological dramaAfrikaansFeature-length adaptation of the 2017 short film Daryn's GymBrett Michael InnesClifford Joshua Young, Carla Classen, Natasha Sutherland , Siv Ngesi , William Harding, Hlubi Mboya, Ayanda SeokaComedyEnglish, Xhosa Gaia Jaco BouwerMonique Rockman, Carel Nel, Alex van Dyk, Anthony Oseyemi HorrorEnglish, Afrikaans Glasshouse Kelsey Egan Jessica Alexander , Anja Taljaard, Hilton Pelser , Adrienne Pearce , Kitty Harris, Brent Vermeulen Dystopian, Sci-fi, ThrillerEnglish Good Life Bonnie RodiniErica Wessels, Sven Ruygrok, Jennifer Steyn , Michele Maxwell, Adam Neill, Leon Clingman, Joe Vaz, Danielle Cagnetta, Kiroshan Naidoo DramaEnglish Good Madam (Mlungu Wam)Jenna Cato Bass Chumisa Cosa, Nosipho Mtebe Thriller dramaEnglish, Xhosa I Am All Girls Donovan MarshErica Wessels, Hlubi Mboya , Deon Lotz , Mothusi Magano Mystery thrillerEnglishNetflix film Indemnity Travis Taute Jarrid Geduld , Gail Mabalane , Andre Jacobs, Louw Venter , Nicole Fortuin , Abdu Adams, Hlomla Dandala Action Kaalgat KarelMeg Rickards Christia Visser , Schalk Bezuidenhout Comedy, RomanceAfrikaans Little Big Mouth Gray Hofmeyr , Ziggy HofmeyrNay Maps, Amanda du-Pont , James Borthwick FamilyEnglishNetflix film Love, Lies and Hybrids Amanda LaneMeghan Oberholzer , Shamilla Miller , Alexander , RomanceEnglishTV film Umakoti WethuNozipho Nkelemba Fulu Mugovhani , Melusi Mbele, Kwanele Mthethwa, Duduzile Ngcobo DramaVenda, Zulu, EnglishShowmax film 2022 1960King Shaft, Michael MutomboZandile Madliwa, Sanda Shandu , Ivy Nkutha, Anele MatotiPeriod dramaEnglish African Moot Shameela Seedat DocumentaryEnglish, French, Portuguese, Swahili Amandla Nerina De Jager Lemogang Tsipa, Thabo Rametsi , I srael Matseke-Zulu DramaEnglish, Afrikaans, ZuluNetflix film Girl, Taken François Verster , Simon Wood DocumentaryEnglishIrish co-production Late Bloomer Amy Jephta Nicole Fortuin , Danny Ross, Monique Rockman, Tankiso Mamabolo, Kate PinchuckShowmax film Silverton Siege [20] Mandla Dube Noxolo Dlamini , Thabo Rametsi , Stefan Erasmus , Arnold Vosloo , Tumisho Masha , Michelle Mosalakae , Elani Dekker Action-thrillerEnglishNetflix film Sodium Day Riaz SolkerComing-of-age The Umbrella Men John Barker Jaques De Silva, Shamilla Miller , Keenan Arrison , Bronté Snell, Abduragman Adams, June van Merch, Kagiso Lediga , Joey Yusuf Rasdien Crime comedyEnglish, Afrikaans Wild is the Wind Fabian MedeaMothusi Magano , Frank Rautenbach , Chris Chameleon , Mona Monyane , Izel Bezuidenhout, Phoenix Baaitse, Deon Coetzee CrimeEnglishNetflix film You're My Favourite PlaceJahmil X.T. Qubeka Coming-of-age, road movieEnglish, XhosaAlso known as Valedictory 2023 The Honeymoon Bianca IsaacKajal Bagwandeen , Tumi Morake , Minnie Dlamini ComedyEnglish Kings of Mulberry Street: Let Love Reign Judy NaidooShaan Nathoo, Liam Dunpath, Hamish Kyd, Riyaad Nakooda, Kogie Naidoo, Kimberley Arthur FamilyEnglish 2024 Heart of the Hunter Mandla DubeBonko Khoza, Connie Ferguson , Tim Theron, Nicole Fortuin , Masasa Mbangeni, Sisanda Henna, Peter Butler, Deon Coetzee Netflix film See also List of Afrikaans-language films 1898 Pres. Paul Kruger filmed in front of his house in Pretoria, on his way to the council. 1916 De Voortrekkers (first Afrikaans film) 1931 Moedertjie (first full-length film with Afrikaans dialogue) Sarie Marais, musical (first South African film with sound) 1938 Bou van ’n Nasie, documentary (second film with Afrikaans dialogue) 1942 Lig van 'n Eeu, documentary 1944 Donker Spore, drama 1946 Geboortegrond, drama Die wildsboudjie, comedy Die Skerpioen, drama Pikkie se Erfenis, drama 1947 Pantoffelregering, comedy Simon Beyers, drama 1948 Die kaskenades van Dr. Kwak, comedy 1949 Sarie Marais, drama Kom saam, vanaand, musical (first musical in Afrikaans) 1950 Hier's ons weer, comedy 1951 Alles sal regkom, comedy Daar Doer in die Bosveld , comedy (first South African film in colour) 1952 Altyd in my drome, musical Hans-die-Skipper, drama Vyftig-vyftig, comedy Die Leeu van Punda Maria 1953 Inspan, adventure, drama 1954 ’n Plan is ’n Boerdery, romantic comedy Daar Doer in die Stad, drama, comedy 1955 Vadertjie

NORTH WEST North West (South African province) North West (Tswana : Bokone Bophirima; Afrikaans : Noord-Wes [ˈnuərt.vɛs] ) is a province of South Africa . Its capital is Mahikeng . The province is located to the west of the major population centre of Gauteng and south of Botswana . History North West was incorporated after the end of apartheid in 1994, and includes parts of the former Transvaal Province and Cape Province , as well as most of the former bantustan of Bophuthatswana . It was the scene of political violence in Khutsong , Merafong City Local Municipality in 2006 and 2007, after cross-province municipalities were abolished and Merafong Municipality was transferred entirely to North West. Merafong has since been transferred to Gauteng province in 2009. This province is the birthplace of prominent political figures: Lucas Mangope , Moses Kotane , Ahmed Kathrada , Abram Onkgopotse Tiro , Ruth Mompati , J. B. Marks , Aziz Pahad , and Essop Pahad , among others. Law and government The Provincial Government consists of a premier , an executive council of ten ministers, and a legislature. The provincial assembly and premier are elected for five-year terms, or until the next national election. Political parties are awarded assembly seats based on the percentage of votes each party receives in the province during the national elections. The assembly elects a premier, who then appoints the members of the executive council. The premier of North West Province as of 7 September 2021 is Bushy Maape of the African National Congress . He replaced Job Mokgoro as premier after Mokgoro resigned in August 2021. Geography Hamerkop Kloof between Rustenburg and Pretoria on north-facing slopes of Magaliesberg Much of the province consists of flat areas of scattered trees and grassland. The Magaliesberg mountain range in the northeast extends about 130 km (about 80 miles) from Pretoria to Rustenburg . The Vaal River flows along the southern border of the province. Climate Temperatures range from 17° to 31 °C (62° to 88 °F) in the summer and from 3° to 21 °C (37° to 70 °F) in the winter. Annual rainfall totals about 360 mm (about 14 in), with almost all of it falling during the summer months, between October and April. Borders North West borders the following districts of Botswana : Kgatleng – far northeast South-East – northeast Southern – north Kgalagadi – northwest Domestically, it borders the following provinces: Limpopo – northeast Gauteng – east Free State – southeast Northern Cape – southwest North West Province is traversed by the northwesterly line of equal latitude and longitude. Municipalities Municipalities Main article: List of municipalities in the North West North West Province districts and local municipalities The North West Province is divided into four district municipalities . The district municipalities are in turn divided into 18 local municipalities : District municipalities Bojanala Platinum District Moretele Madibeng Rustenburg Kgetlengrivier Moses Kotane Dr Ruth Segomotsi Mompati District Naledi Mamusa Greater Taung Kagisano-Molopo Lekwa-Teemane Ngaka Modiri Molema District Mahikeng Ratlou Tswaing Ditsobotla Ramotshere Dr Kenneth Kaunda District JB Marks Matlosana Maquassi Hills Cities and towns Population 200,000+ Mahikeng Klerksdorp Rustenburg Population 50,000+ Potchefstroom Population 25,000+ Brits Orkney Lichtenburg Population 10,000+ Bloemhof Christiana Coligny Koster Letsopa Ledig Mogwase Ottosdal Schweizer-Reneke Stilfontein Ventersdorp Vryburg Wolmaransstad Zeerust Population < 10,000 Mmakau Mothibistad Reivilo Economy The Bridge of Time facing the Entertainment Centre, Sun City The mainstay of the economy of North West Province is mining, which generates more than half of the province's gross domestic product and provides jobs for a quarter of its workforce. The chief minerals are gold, mined at Orkney and Klerksdorp ; uranium, mined at Klerksdorp; platinum , mined at Rustenburg and Brits ; and diamonds, mined at Lichtenburg , Christiana , and Bloemhof . About 85% of all money-making activities take place between Klerksdorp and Potchefstroom. The economic heart of the province is Klerksdorp. The northern and western parts of the province have many sheep farms and cattle and game ranches. The eastern and southern parts are crop-growing regions that produce maize (corn), sunflowers, tobacco, cotton, and citrus fruits. The entertainment and casino complex at Sun City and Lost City also contributes to the provincial economy. The majority of the province's residents are Tswana people who speak Tswana , as in neighbouring Botswana . Smaller groups include Afrikaans , Sotho , and Xhosa speaking people. English is spoken primarily as a second language. Most of the population belong to Christian denominations. (Figures according to Census 2001 released in July 2003). According to the 2007 community survey 90.8% of the province's population was Black (mostly Tswana -speaking), 7.2% as White (mostly Afrikaans speaking), 1.6% as Coloured and 0.4% as Asian . The 2007 community survey showed the province had a population of just over 3 million. The province's white population is very unevenly distributed. In the southern and eastern municipalities, the white percentage in double figures such as the Tlokwe and Matlosana where the white percentages were 27% and 12% respectively. The province has the lowest number of people aged 35 years and older (5.9%) who have received higher education. Since 1994 the number of people receiving higher education has increased. After the disbanding of the bantustans , many people migrated to the economic centres of Cape Town and Gauteng . Education The province had two universities: the North-West University , which was formerly called the University of Bophuthatswana (founded in 1979), in Mmabatho ; and Potchefstroom University for Christian Higher Education (founded in 1869; became a constituent college of the University of South Africa in 1921 and an independent university in 1951). These two universities have now merged and the new institution is called North-West University. As part of the Department of Education's proposed plans for higher education, the existing four higher learning institutions will be merged to form two. During 2003, as part of the Year of Further Education and Training project, three mega institutions, Taletso, ORBIT and Vuselela, were established to provide technical and vocational training to the youth. These institutions have been incorporated into many of the former education and technical colleges and manpower centres. Sports Basketball North West Eagles (Potchefstroom ) Rugby union Platinum Leopards (Rustenburg ) Soccer Platinum Stars (dissolved) (Rustenburg) Netball North West Flames (Potchefstroom) Softball Generations Softball club (Klerksdorp ) BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

PLACES TO VISIT IN SOUTH AFRICA It’s no secret that South Africa is one of the world’s top Big 5 safari destinations. You could come here only to go on safari and think South Africa was the best country ever. But wait – there’s so much more to this fascinating realm perched at Africa’s southernmost tip. South Africa’s ethnic and cultural diversity influences its cuisine and art in exciting, unexpected ways. Its scenery is stunning, from wave-crashed shorelines and wildflower-carpeted deserts to wildlife-filled bushveld and tropical forests. The country has cosmopolitan cities, charming wine towns and important cultural traditions. Apartheid’s struggles are faced head-on at several important sights. You can hike, surf, kayak, fish, whale watch, horseback ride, dive with sharks and crocodiles and stargaze under some of the planet’s darkest skies. The only problem is how to even begin planning a visit to this immensely blessed, multifaceted land. Start planning your trip with this list of the top things to do in South Africa. PLACES TO VISIT Walk among the wildflowers of Namaqua Most of the year, the remote region known as Little Namaqualand is parched, a seemingly sunbaked wasteland in South Africa’s Northern Cape. But for a short period in July, as winter rains begin to fall, the area bursts to life with billions of blooms. Endless carpets of flowers in every hue cover its diverse topography, from deserty plains to fertile valleys to towering mountains. But what truly sets this spectacle apart is the sheer variety of flowers; more than 3500 species grow here, more than half rare or endemic, meaning they live nowhere else on Earth. The most iconic is the Arctotis, commonly called the African daisy. Gazania glows with hot yellow and orange petals, and Carpobrotus, commonly known as pigface, creeps along the ground. The best places to take in the ephemeral flowery show are Richtersveld , with a backdrop of yawning canyons and jagged mountains; Skilpad Wildflower Preserve west of Kamieskroon, part of the bigger Namaqua National Park , a fabulous spot to gaze at the famed Nama daisies; and the 14,973-hectare (37,000-acre) Goegap Nature Reserve outside Springbok, with some 600 indigenous plant species. Planning tip: Accommodations in the park (primarily campsites and chalets) are in high demand during this short blooming season. Either book reservations as soon as they open (usually 11 months in advance), or find places to stay in the nearby towns of Kamieskroon and Garies. Spot the Big 5 and other wildlife in South Africa’s parks As the early morning sun rises over the bushveld, a herd of elephants thunders past, a leopard enjoys a snack up in a tree, and a lion stalks its prey. These are the joys of going on safari in South Africa, where you have an excellent chance of spotting the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) in national parks and wildlife preserves across the country. Kruger National Park is the prime game park, with 19,485 sq km (7523 sq mi) of bushveld, tropical forests, savannah and mountains teeming with more than 140 mammal species. Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape is the world’s first “Big 7” Conservation Area, home to the traditional Big 5, plus the unique marine additions of the great white shark and southern right whale. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa’s oldest game reserve. It was founded to conserve and repopulate Africa’s rhinos , so this park is hands down the best place in South Africa to see these one-horned, short-legged megafauna. In all, South Africa has 19 national parks and countless private game reserves, each offering an unforgettable wildlife experience where no two days are ever the same. Planning tip: Plan your trip from June to September for optimal wildlife viewing. Animals tend to gather at watering holes during these drier, cooler months. The views from the top of Table Mountain are unmissable. Hike or ride up Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain The flat-topped Table Mountain stands watch over Cape Town , a 1085m (3560ft) natural landmark of sandstone and granite adored for its breathtaking views from the top: glittering Table Bay, historic Robben Island and all of Cape Town’s City Bowl sprawl at your feet. Dozens of trails wind up Table Mountain’s flanks, opening up valleys of fynbos (the local floral kingdom), shady forests and waterfalls. The most popular (and heavily trafficked) is Platteklip Gorge Trail, a 2.8km (1.8 miles) uphill push that is nature’s answer to the StairMaster, offering view after breathtaking view the higher you go. Avoid the crowds with 1.5km (0.9-mile) Kloof Corner, a dramatic and somewhat hair-raising trek that rewards with fabulous views of Lion’s Head, the 12 Apostles and the Cape Town City Bowl. The difficult 2.5km (1.5 miles) India Venster Trail follows the route beneath the aerial cable car, up the mountain’s frontal face. Of course, you can just take the cable car, a quick five-minute ride to the top. Planning tip: Many trails in South Africa limit how many hikers can be on them simultaneously, so book your spot ahead of time and hike with a group for safety (some longer trails actually require that you're not alone). Learn from South Africa’s apartheid past in Johannesburg South Africa has made steps in atoning for its apartheid past through education at various sites. Johannesburg ’s Apartheid Museum is a sobering but enlightening place to start. Exhibits take you through the history of apartheid using videos, documents and photographs. At the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum in Soweto, spoken testimonies, videos and photographs detail the tragic story of a 12-year-old student who became the first victim of police fire in 1976 when students protested the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. Nearby, Nelson Mandela lived in a humble, four-room house, which today is the Mandela House Museum , showcasing family photos and personal belongings and providing insight into the beloved anti-apartheid leader who, after 27 years in prison, became South Africa’s first democratically elected president. The Cape Winelands make up one of the world's most impressive wine regions. Taste Pinotage in the Cape Winelands When the Dutch colonized South Africa some 350 years ago, the Dutch East India Company established a provisioning station for its ships. Since these ships needed wine the Company partnered with the French, and soon vineyards draped the valleys in the fertile region now known as the Cape Winelands . Over the years, the art of wine-making has been fine-tuned, including the perfection of Pinotage, South Africa’s signature red wine that’s a rustic cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Today, in independent South Africa, the Cape Winelands reigns as one of the world’s finest wine regions. Within it is a patchwork of vineyards and hundreds of wine estates, farm markets, little museums, gastronomic restaurants and three main wine towns dating from the 17th century: Franschhoek , settled by French Huguenots; Stellenbosch , filled with Cape Dutch architecture; and Paarl, colonized by 23 families from Stellenbosch. Excellent places to sample Pinotage include Delheim, on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain outside Stellenbosch, and Lanzerac , established in 1692 near Stellenbosch with stunning views of mountains, vineyards and oak-shaded gardens. Detour: If you need a break from all the wine tastings, take a drive (or bike ride) outside Paarl on Bainskloof Pass. This scenic mountain pass features almost 30km (19 miles) of unforgettable vistas and a caravan park at its halfway point. Get lost on the Wild Coast Sea breezes, crashing waterfalls, emerald valleys and footprint-free, cliff-fringed beaches define the untrammeled realm of the Wild Coast , a fittingly named 250km-long (155-mile) sweep of coastline fronting the Indian Ocean in the Eastern Cape . This is the place to get away from it all, soaking in the solitude of pristine nature, where you’ll see more cows than people. Be warned: the roads are full of potholes, and gas stations are far and few between, but that’s what keeps the less intrepid away. You can hike, swim, ride horseback, canoe, surf or just catch the rays on your own private beach. The hike to Hole in the Wall along the coast is a three-hour foray across undulating hills and through local villages, ending at the fabled rock arch with its swimming lagoon. The Xhosa River is a canoeing paradise with sparkling clear waters and bright Xhosa huts along its banks. Mirror-smooth Jbay Lagoon draws SUPers, kayakers and canoers. The Xhosa people have lived in this enchanted land for centuries, and you’ll see their turquoise rondavels dotting the lush green hills. This is also the birthplace of anti-apartheid revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela, and several small museums in Mthatha and Quno are open to visitors. Detour: Take a hike on one of Dwesa Nature Reserve 's walking trails through pristine forests, grasslands and coastline. It's a paradise for a wide variety of wildlife – including around 290 bird species. Southern right whales can be spotted on their migration from Antarctica. Go whale watching by land or sea Some 37 species of whales and dolphins frequent South Africa’s shores, so it’s no wonder whale-watching is a popular activity. You can hop on a boat from plenty of places along the country’s three coastlines to view these behemoths in their watery haunts. But here’s a twist: in some places, you don’t even have to step on a boat to see a whale – you can see them up close from the shore. Watch whales from the shore in Lambert’s Bay, Yzerfontein and Plettenberg Bay , but the most celebrated land-based viewing spot is Hermanus , about 100km (62 miles) east of Cape Town. Between June and November, southern right whales stop by on their annual migration from Antarctica, and right off the coast, they splash, breach and lobtail (slap their flippers and tail against the water). The town even has a whale crier who blows a kelp horn when whales approach the shore. Immerse yourself in Zulu history The Zulus reigned between 1816 and 1897 in much of present-day KwaZulu-Natal as one of Africa’s most prominent empires. Despite their fierce fighting abilities, the British defeated them in the 1870s, and their kingdom was integrated into the Union of South Africa. But their culture remains strong – they are South Africa’s largest ethnic group – and the Zulu royal family is still active, reigning (but not ruling) in KwaZulu-Natal. You can experience Zulu culture by visiting the Battlefields Region in the province’s northwest, where the Zulus fought 63 battles against a succession of invading forces. Monuments and museums such as Blood River and Isandlwana commemorate these clashes. Bask in the sun on Durban's Golden Mile With more than 320 sunny days a year, Durban is a much-loved playground of golden-sand beaches lapped by the Indian Ocean’s azure waters. An expanse of sun-soaked paradise dubbed the Golden Mile (although it’s more like four miles) runs from uShaka Beach in the south to Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World in the north and offers beaches and beachy activities for everyone. Beginners can surf from South and Addington beaches, and fishers can drop a line at Bay of Plenty Beach . Other stretches of sand, such as Umhlanga Rocks just slightly north of the Golden Mile, have a lively vacation vibe. If you want to picnic or just hang out with your travel companions, Blue Lagoon is a fabulous choice. A promenade runs along much of the Golden Mile, with Zulu artisans selling their wares and runners, walkers, cyclists and skateboarders catching the rays. Explore the evolution of humanity Deep beneath Gauteng ’s highveld (high plateau), 20th-century researchers discovered two distant relatives of all humankind in the region’s labyrinthine limestone caves: Mrs Ples, the 2.1-million-year-old skull of an Australopithecus Africanus (a precursor to the genus Homo) and Little Foot, a nearly complete, three-million-year-old Australopithecus skeleton. Then, in 2015, a new species of human relative was uncovered, Homo naledi, whose placement in the evolutionary chain is still unknown. Ride the Blue Train Sit back and soak in the golden age of travel aboard the Blue Train , a five-star hotel-on-wheels ranked as one of the world’s great rail journeys. Since this train came about during colonial times, when 19th-century British diamond and gold magnates demanded luxury, expect warm birch paneling, plush leather seating and full silver service at gourmet five-course meals. The Blue Train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town, with two nights onboard. While you’ll enjoy the best of service and decor, it’s the scenery outside the windows that will dazzle the most: cactus-dotted desert, rocky mountains, vineyard-dotted hills, lush valleys and a front-row seat for Africa’s famous sunsets. Meals, drinks, Monte Cristo cigars and even a personal butler come with the hefty price. Planning tip: Book your Blue Train ride during the low season (Nov–Aug) for significantly lower fares. PLACES ALSO TO VISIT Follow the enchanting Garden Route Take a scenic road trip through seaside villages, glittering beaches and misty mountains along the Garden Route , which some call the Garden of Eden. You can drive the 200km (125 miles) straight through, from Mossel Bay to Storms River, but this is one to take your time dipping into. Scuba dive to see Knysna seahorses, surf crashing waves, hike shadowy forests, see elephants in the wild, bungee jump into a plunging gorge, or simply plunk down on an empty beach. Good bases are Plettenberg Bay and Knysna . A minimum of four days is recommended, though you could seriously spend weeks here. Detour: Make a Saturday morning pit stop at Wild Oats Community Farmers Market for fresh produce, baked goods, breakfast and more, just 1.5km (1 mile) east of Sedgefield. The market is a beloved Garden Route stop. Stop at Boulders Beach on your way to Cape Point to see African penguins. Drive from Cape Town to Africa’s southwesternmost point The Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge at historic Cape Point – aka the Cape of Good Hope – about 65km (40 miles) south of Cape Town. It’s thrilling to stand on this wind-blown, jagged landmass jutting into the sea, the southwesternmost point in Africa, observing the roiling waves and indigo waters as far as the eye can see. These treacherous waves have been the bane of seafarers for centuries, causing hundreds of shipwrecks. For spectacular views, jump on the Flying Dutchman Funicular or walk the steps to the 86m (285ft) lighthouse-topped summit. Planning tip: Don’t rush your journey here. A drive from Cape Town reveals along the way dazzling beaches, cliffside vistas, fishing villages, and miles and miles of remote bushveld inhabited by zebras, ostriches and baboons. The African penguin colony at Boulders Beach is one of only two land-based penguin colonies in the world. Sample Cape Town’s culinary heritage Throughout Cape Town’s long history of colonization and immigration, a parade of cultures has taken root, each contributing its unique traditions and customs. The most obvious – and cherished – result is the city’s diverse, innovative cuisine. Many call Cape Town the foodie capital of South Africa. You’ll find dishes influenced by the British, French, Indians, Dutch, Asians, Africans and more. The Cape Malay, for example, is a community influenced by southern African, Asian (especially Indonesian) and Dutch cultures; they’re known for their variety of spice-infused bredies (stews), curries, savory snacks and porrings (a warm pudding). Braai – derived from the Dutch word braden, meaning "to roast" – has become ubiquitous throughout the country. But braai is much more than barbecuing meat: it’s a social event where friends and family gather. Many township tours offer a traditional braai experience. Local chefs are taking note of this rich cultural heritage. Chef Luke Dale-Roberts’ three award-winning Cape Town restaurants – Test Kitchen , Pot Luck Club and Shortmarket Club – are prime examples, with their innovative twists on traditional fare. Planning tip: Making restaurant and hotel reservations will be much easier if you avoid traveling during the peak Christmas and Easter seasons. Go on a sky safari in the Karoo The Karoo’s sparsely populated landscapes are immense by day, and its skies are just as vast by night. In this magical semi-desert realm – encompassing nearly 500,000 sq km (1.9 million sq miles) within Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and the Free State – the stars pierce some of the Earth’s darkest, cleanest skies, seemingly so close you can reach out and touch them. It’s no wonder that the South African Astronomical Observatory , the southern hemisphere’s largest, is found here. You can take a guided tour by day, but the nighttime stargazing safaris are the major draw. Planning tip: The charming, historic town of Prince Albert is a good stargazing base. The Ultimate South Africa - Amazing Places to Visit Go on a Self-Drive Safari in Kruger National Park When I hear travellers talking about Kruger National Park, their eyes get all dreamy, and the excitement starts to bubble out of them. Before you know it, you’ll be stuck in a conversation about all the incredible wildlife sightings they’ve had, the best roads to see the Big 5 and where they once spotted an elusive pack of wild dogs. Serving up 20,000 square kilometres, and a high density of game, Kruger National Park is a great all-round safari destination. But if you want to make it easier on yourself to spot wildlife, plan your trip to South Africa over the winter months. Besides the excellent day drive, the adventure potential here is limitless. Sign up for a guided walking safari to see all the things you’d normally miss from your car or spend a night sleeping in one of the hides! Read More: Visiting Kruger National Park: Everything You Need to Know Hike Up Table Mountain Table Mountain is probably one of the world’s most photographed Seven Wonders. With the city of Cape Town nestled around its base, the mountain is an iconic sight of South Africa. While most people take the cable car up to the top for sunset, I encourage you to hike up Table Mountain. Yes, your glutes will be on fire, and your quads will be screaming bloody murder, but once you make it to the top, all that pain will be a distant memory. My favourite hiking trail up Table Mountain is Kasteelport. There is this cool rock that looks like a surfboard, and you can sit in it! If that’s a bit too out of your comfort zone, you can get the same adrenaline rush by tackling some rock climbing routes or abseiling off the mountain! Read More: 12 Best Hiking Trails in Cape Town With Jaw-Dropping Views Hike Lion’s Head for Sunrise or Sunset Lion’s Head is Cape Town’s most popular hike and for a good reason. Once you conquer the chain ladders, the steep incline and scramble over some rocks, you’ll have an epic 360-view of the city below. To escape the crowds, summit the mountain for sunrise (especially if you’re visiting in the busy summer months!) I also highly recommend using the Windy App to check if there will be cloud cover. I’ve completed the hike only to summit into a cloud with zero views. Don’t make the same mistakes. For a sunset Lion’s Head hike in summer, you’ll need to get up pretty early to grab a spot. It’s one of the best spots for a sundowner, and the summit will be busy. Another thing to do in Cape Town is the full moon hike up Lion’s Head. You’ll need a headlamp to get safely back down, but watching the moon rise over the Mother City is spectacular! Read More: Lion’s Head Hike in Cape Town: Full Hiking Guide Top Places to Stay in South Africa Karoo Desert Lodge in the Freestate Old Mac Daddy Airstream Trailers in Elgin Teniqua Treetops in Knysna Nima Lodge in Wilderness Drive the Panorama Route Known as one of the most incredible road trips in South Africa, the Panorama Route deserves a spot at the top of your bucket list. It’s where you’ll find iconic natural wonders like the Blyde River Canyon – the largest green canyon in the world! Other highlights include Pinnacle Rock and God’s Window where you can see all the way to Mozambique on a clear day and tons of waterfalls. My personal favourite is Lison Falls. It’s the most impressive waterfall in South Africa and the hike down was 100% worth getting bitten by ants. Read More: The Best of the Panorama Route South Africa: 2-Day Itinerary Get Day Drunk in the Cape Winelands For all you wine addicts out there, the Cape Winelands requires no introduction. South Africa is the 10th largest producer of wine and produces 3.4% of the world’s favourite alcoholic beverage. With many of the best wines made in the Cape Winelands, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a bad glass of vino. So what’s the best way to get day drunk appreciate South Africa’s wine heritage? With the Franschhoek Wine Tram! All you need to do is pick a route, and you’ll make your way around the valley. You can also opt for the door-to-door transfer from Cape Town so you can get as lit appreciate the vintages as much as you want without the responsibility of operating a car. Some of my favourite wine farms in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek are Boschendal (a beautiful place to stay as well), Neetherlingshof (try the Caracal, it’s life-changing) and Babylonstoren (home to the most Instagrammable garden). Fun fact to help you win the next quiz night: Pinotage is the only grape unique to South Africa. It’s a hybrid of pinot noir and cinsault and was invented at Stellenbosch University in 1925. Conquer the Otter Trail As a raging fangirl of hiking adventures and swoon-worthy nature, the Otter Trail is at the top of my South Africa bucket list. With a waiting list of 12 months and all the best spots selling out faster than boerie rolls on a hot summer’s day, I am beyond excited that I finally got a spot for January 2019! The Otter Trail is the best multi-day hike in South Africa. It’s also the oldest trail in the country and the most popular (hence the year-long wait). To tackle the trail, you’ll need to clear out five days in your schedule to complete the 45km. You can also try your luck by regularly checking for cancellations if you’re the type that hates planning things in advance. Visit the Colourful Bo-Kaap Neighbourhood The Bo-Kaap (formerly known as the Malay Quarter) is the oldest residential area in Cape Town. The neighbourhood is famous for its colourful houses, cobbled streets, and Cape Malay culture. It’s also one of the most Instagrammable places in Cape Town. While you’re there, stop by the Bo-Kaap Museum. You’ll learn about the area’s fascinating history, and how many of the residents (who are descendants of slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia, and other parts of Africa) ended up in Cape Town during the 16th and 17th centuries. Go to Hole in the Wall One of my favourite gems along South Africa’s East Coast is the hippy paradise of Coffee Bay. Not only does it have a rad name (just don’t expect to find good coffee here), but it’s home to Hole-in-the-Wall. Local Xhosa legend says that the unique geological feature is a gateway to their ancestors. The story goes that a beautiful girl fell in love with one of the sea people. However, her father wasn’t too happy about the union and forbade her from seeing him again. So like most teen romcoms, the sea people used a giant fish to ram a hole through the cliff, and the girl joined her man in the ocean, never to be seen again. If you want to explore rural South Africa at its finest, make sure you pack a spare tyre. The roads in Coffee Bay aren’t great, and the chances of you getting a puncture are high. Jump Off The Highest Bungee Bridge in the World Bloukrans is the highest commercial bungee jump in the world. It’s 216 meters high! I’m not sure I could ever do it. I’m an Earth sign, and I’m fond of my feet being on the ground 24/7. But if this is the kind of adrenaline rush you’re looking for, it’s one of the best places to visit in South Africa! It’s definitely one of the best things to do along the Garden Route. Plus, you get a certificate to show everyone that you have bigger balls than me. Tsitsikamma National Park Tsitsikamma National Park captured my imagination the minute I saw a picture of its suspension bridges for the first time on Instagram. “What?! This place is in South Africa!? Take me there right now!“ It’s without a shadow of a doubt my favourite place along the Garden Route and needs to be on your South Africa bucket list. Get here as early as possible to have the bridges to yourself, and don’t leave without hiking the first 6KM of the Otter Trail – it’s breathtaking! Read More: The Ultimate South Africa Travel Guide Valley of Desolation Smack dab in the centre (sort of) is one of South Africa’s most impressive natural wonders, the Valley of Desolation. Located in Camdeboo National Park, the Dolerite columns rise 120 metres from the valley floor are the result of volcanic and erosive forces. Getting here is a bit off the beaten track, but it’s one of the must-see places in South Africa. You can stay over in Graaf Reinet and use it as 3h detour from Oudtshoorn if you’re planning a Garden Route road trip. Get here as the gates open to catch the end of the sunrise or stop by for sunset. It’s an absolute dream! Swim With Penguins at Boulders Beach Yip. You read that right. You can swim with penguins in South Africa! Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to a large colony of African penguins and is home to a small yet insanely beautiful beach in South Africa. If you can handle the freezing Atlantic waters, you can spend an afternoon swimming with some new animal friends. Just don’t touch these guys. They can and will bite! For those like me that can’t swim, shower or bath in water temperatures that aren’t close to boiling, you can sit on the beach and relax. Or climb some boulders and take a selfie or two with a sunbathing penguin. This is what dreams are made of! Explore Cape Point Every time I come back from a day at Cape Point, I’m an overwhelmed mess. It’s one of the most beautiful places in South Africa, and I could easily geek out for hours about how much I love this place. Firstly, there is SO much to see and do: • Hike up to the lighthouse (or use the Flying Dutchman funicular) • Discover the historical monuments to Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias • Spot migrating whales (June to October) • Walk the shipwreck trail to view some of the 26 shipwrecks around Cape Point • Relax on the gorgeous beaches Secondly, there are two overnight hiking trails that I’m hoping to cross off my South Africa bucket list in the next couple of months. You don’t have to ask me twice to hike through the smallest but richest of the world’s six floral kingdoms! Hike Tugela Falls – Africa’s Highest Waterfall Tugela Falls is the highest waterfall in Africa and the second highest in the world! It’s one of my favourite hikes in the Drakensberg and is easily doable as a day hike. If you want to get the most out of the experience, camp on top of the falls. I did this for the first time in February 2019, and waking up to the sunrise on Tugela Falls and seeing the Drakensberg Amphitheatre was nothing short of incredible. The viewpoint at Magwa Falls! See the Epic Magwa Falls Don’t limit your waterfall chasing in South Africa to Tugela Falls. If you’re planning a road trip around the country, stop by the impressive Magwa Falls. It’s the second-highest waterfall in South Africa and is taller than Victoria Falls! While a trip to the falls is doable self-guided, you can also sign up for a tour. You’ll get to see Magwa Falls, Frasier and Angel Falls, the largest tea plantation in Africa and visit the cultural village of Mbotyi. You can also sign up for an overnight experience that includes horse riding trips to Waterfall Bluff and Cathedral Rock. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Kirstenbosch is one of the most beautiful gardens in Africa and one of the great botanical gardens in the world. With a title like that, you know it won’t disappoint! Set against the Eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the UNESCO World Heritage Site sprawls across 528 hectares. It’s home to 125 bird species and 7000 species of plants from southern Africa! One of the byproducts of being one of the best things to do in Cape Town is that the gardens are incredibly easy to reach, even if you don’t have a car. You can call an Uber, sign up for hop-on-hop-off bus tours or use the public Golden Arrow buses. If you’re in Cape Town for the summer, don’t miss out on the Kirstenbosch summer concerts! The gardens play host to some of the biggest names in the South African music industry, and it’s always a jol*! *South African slang for a lit party Drive-Up Sani Pass Want to go on a 4×4 adventure like no other? Put your driving skills to the test and drive to the top of Sani Pass. It’s not called the mother of Southern Africa mountain passes for nothing. The hairpin turns are terrifying and had me questioning why I didn’t have a will drawn up. Can you tell I’m a wee bit dramatic? Once you make it to the top, you’ll be in Lesotho (don’t forget your passport) and at a summit altitude of 2876m! While you’re in Lesotho, you might as well stay at Sani Lodge Backpackers and wake up to an unforgettable sunrise. Go Whale Watching in Hermanus Hermanus is one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. So it’s not surprising that it’s one of the top things to do in South Africa if you happen to be around from June to October. Book a whale-watching boat tour that will get you as close and personal as possible to these gentle giants. Or you can wander around the Hermanus Cliff Path. The whales come into the bay, and I’ve seen quite a few from the shore without my binoculars! AfrikaBurn At the end of April, the desolate desert landscape of Tankwa, Karoo is transformed into the setting of AfrikaBurn. People from all over the country and the world arrive dressed in their most outrageous, creative and awe-inspiring outfits. Epic art installations are put up, and some of the wildest installations come to life before the gigantic structures light up the night sky. You can also expect mutant vehicles that look they belong in a Mad Max film! Rocking the Daisies Rocking the Daisies is one of South Africa’s biggest and best music festivals. It brings out international headliners and features South African musicians from a variety of genres. The best way that I can describe this festival is that it’s South Africa’s version of Coachella. Visit Addo National Park and See the Big 7 Addo National Park has a special place in my heart. It’s the third-largest park in South Africa and boasts one of the largest elephant populations in the world. But what I love most about the park is that it’s expanded its boundaries to become the only park in the world where you can find the Big 7 – elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard, southern right whale and the great white shark! Stay at Kagga Kamma Kagga Kamma is one of the best places to stay in South Africa. Situated in the awe-inspiring Cederberg, the property’s claim to fame are its incredible open-air star suites and cave rooms. I’ve gushed about Kagga Kamma on my romantic getaways in South Africa roundup, and I tell everyone I know about it, but I have yet to visit. I’m hoping to change that before the end of 2019 because I need to go to sleep with the milky way above me. The star suites have no ceiling (I don’t know how my insectophobia is going to maintain its cool), and there’s a gorgeous outdoor bath. It’s the ultimate destination if you’re into astrophotography or seeing how many shooting stars you can count in a single night. Flower Season in West Coast National Park While Provence in France has lavender fields that have taken over the Internet, Cape Town has West Coast National Park. During August and September, the park opens up its Postberg region to visitors. Here you’ll find fields upon fields of gorgeous wildflowers in a mesmerising rainbow of colours. While I haven’t managed to get my timing perfectly right (last year I made it to the West Coast when only a handful of flowers were still blooming), I dream of the moment when I can frolic in these fields. Visit Namaqualand One of my dream destinations that I have yet to cross off my South Africa bucket list is Namaqualand . It’s the creme-de-la-creme of the country’s wildflower season. Located 6 hours from Cape Town and 12 hours from Johannesburg, Namaqua’s semi-desert landscape transforms into a carpet of colours during springtime. Fun Fact: It’s estimated that over 3,500 species of plants live here, and 1,000 are found nowhere else on Earth! Oh, and keep an eye out for the world’s smallest species of tortoise – the Namaqualand speckled padloper (s’cute!) Try South African Food South Africa is home to an abundance of delicious food experiences. Whether you’re vegan, vegetarian or you eat anything that moves, you’ll find something delicious that you’ll be dreaming about for years. Some of the best South African dishes you should include on your gastronomy bucket list include: • Bunny Chow • Biltong • Vetkoek • Koeksisters • Melktart • Pap • Mopani Worms • Bobotie • Potjiekos • Chakalaka And, of course, no trip to South Africa is complete without at least ONE traditional South African braai. Eat at One of the Top Restaurants in the World Cape Town is known worldwide as South Africa’s premier foodie destination. The Mother City is where you’ll find incredible fine dining experiences by some of the top chefs in the country. One of the most popular restaurants is The Test Kitchen in Woodstock. It’s run by chef Luke Dale-Roberts and is considered one of the best restaurants in the world! Bookings fill up months in advance so if you want to indulge your tastebuds, plan ahead! Another gastronomic experience you don’t want to miss out on is La Colombe. It’s also on the list of top global restaurants and pairs its dishes with excellent wines while overlooking the Silvermist Wine Estate. Hang Out in Muizenberg Busy and vibrant, Muizenberg is a seaside town that’s packed with fun, adventure and gorgeous photo ops. A visit to Cape Town’s east coast is a must, all the better if you combine it with a trip to its neighbours, Kalk Bay and St James. As for activities, you can spend your day joining the hordes of beachgoers sunbathing on Muizenberg Beach. Or you can learn how to surf (Muizies is one of the best spots in Cape Town for beginners), or you can snap up a storm in front of the colourful beach houses. From there, you can take the train down the coast and visit the quirky boutiques of Kalk Bay, sip on cocktails at Cape 2 Cuba and indulge in some delicious ice cream from The Ice Cafe. Go Surfing at Jeffreys Bay When I was a kid, I spent a large portion of my pocket money buying Salt Water Girl magazine. As a landlocked Joburger, I dreamed of catching a wave, looking hot in a wet suit and attracting all the surfer dudes to my yard. Flash forward a decade later, and my surfing attempts have yielded nothing short of a disaster. But there is something alluring about Jeffreys Bay that makes me forget about how bad my previous wipeouts were, and I somehow end up with a surfboard back in my hand. Home to the best righthand surf break in the world, there’s no better place to catch a wave in South Africa. International surfers flock here in droves to ride the legendary waves and live out their ultimate Blue Crush dreams. Track Cheetahs on Foot Without a doubt, one of the coolest things I’ve done in South Africa is tracking wild cheetahs on foot. Your first thought reading that sentence was either: “This bisch is crazy” or “OMFG!! Where do I sign up!?” If you’re the latter, you can follow in my footsteps by visiting Samara Private Game Reserve. Situated in the heart of the Great Karoo in the Eastern Cape, it’s within easy driving distance of the Garden Route and the Cape Winelands. The cheetahs are 100% wild. Guests do not get to touch any of the animals on the reserve, and the Big Cats don’t go under any training. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

NIGHT CLUBS IN SOUTH AFRICA South Africa has a vibrant nightlife and all the major cities offer something different. From beach bar clubs, such as Cafe Caprice or Deco Dance in Seapoint, Cape Town to rooftop nightcaps at San Deck in Sandton - South Africa has it all! Johannesburg From hipster bars and dancing clubs, to historic pubs and bar districts, Johannesburg is sure to show you a good time. The only challenge is that nightlife areas are spread across the city, although this just adds to the variety offered in the City of Gold. Cape Town Although Cape Town is filled with many bars and restaurants, there are some which can be classed as exceptional. Asoka is a high-end bar and a good place to start your night. It attracts famous DJs, while the Atlantic Seaboard is the crème de la crème of nightlife experiences in Cape Town. Here you get to party with a sea view! Here are some more of the country’s top night spots to keep you partying long into the night... Cubaña Latino Cafe, Port Elizabeth Perhaps it’s time for a Latino and Cuban experience at Port Elizabeth’s authentic Cubaña Latino Cafe. Cubaña is one of 11 well-established Cubaña cafes situated around South Africa. The vibe is warm and welcoming, guaranteed to get you in a party mood. Cubaña Latino Cafe has a strict smart-casual dress code, so don’t forget to show up looking your best, ready for a night of fun. Where: 49 Beach Road, Humewood, Port Elizabeth Contact: +27 41 582 5282 Club Galaxy, Cape Town The Mother City’s best-known club has ruled Cape Town’s club scene since the late 1970s. The club turns 36 this year, and its long-lived success can be attributed to its high regard for quality in music programming, promotions and service excellence. Club Galaxy boasts a custom-built sound system, four dance floors and nine bars. The club is open Thursday to Saturdays with regular sundown sessions on Fridays, making it the perfect place to kick-off the weekend. Where: College Road, Rylands, Western Cape Contact: +27 21 637 9132 or email: superclub1978@gmail.com Taboo, Johannesburg Located in the richest square mile on the African continent – Sandton – is Taboo, a nightclub that offers a glamorous and luxurious escape from everyday life. The best local and international DJs and artists provide all night entertainment. Taboo has a hip-hop dance floor (Luxe Taboo); an intimate VIP lounge – named after one of the world’s finest vodkas – that’s the epitome of luxury (Grey Goose Lounge); an upstairs dance floor pumping only the best house music (Plush Taboo); and an outside chill-out area where you can swim in one of the two pools, or relax and sip your drink at one of the bars. Where: 24 Central, corner Fredman Drive and Gwen Lane, Sandton Contact: +27 11 783 2200 or email: info@taboo.co.za Great Dane, Johannesburg Great Dane has quickly established itself as a favourite amongst the creative crowd, young professionals and hipsters. It’s an inner city hotspot that combines two of life’s great pleasures: gourmet hotdogs and great tunes. Think mismatched, quirky vintage lanterns, wooden chairs, exposed brick walls and a floor made of five cent coins. Where: 34 De Beer St Johannesburg, Gauteng 2000 Contact: 011 403 1136 Fiction, Cape Town It’s all about the music at Fiction. Fiction is ideally located on Cape Town’s Long Street, making it easily accessible for partygoers. Expect to party all night to techno, nu-rave, indie and almost any other kind of alternative music you can think of. Fiction is also a great platform for underground DJs to showcase their music. The club boasts a revamped dance floor that can now accommodate 200 people. Fiction is open Tuesday to Friday from 9pm to 4am. Tuesdays are student nights, and Wednesday nights (Equinox Wednesdays) are dedicated to progressive and techno-hybrid music pumping from the speakers.Where: 226 Long Street, Cape Town City Centre Contact: +27 21 422 0400 or email: hello@fictionbar.com South Africa offers a great night out and there are many other places to explore besides what was mentioned above. From Long Street in Cape Town, to the bustling city life of Braamfontein in Johannesburg, there really is something for everyone. Top nightclubs in Johannesburg with the best nightlife experience Thursday, December 15, 2022 at 9:20 AM by Priscillah Mueni Jackline Wangare 9 min read Are you a lover of urban nightlife, and are in Johannesburg or planning to visit the city? Then you are probably looking for some great nightclubs to sample the city’s nightlife. Johannesburg, commonly as Jozi among the locals, is among the most vibrant South African cities. It is home to numerous nightclubs that cater to different audiences and vary in music collection, age limits, food and beverages, and numerous other aspects. Which are the best nightclubs in Johannesburg today? night clubs in Braamfontein, Johannesburg A photo of revelers in a nightclub. Photo: pexels.com, @Jerome Govender Source: UGC Johannesburg is believed to be the heart of entertainment in South Africa. The hype associated with the city attracts people from other places in and out of the country. Top nightclubs in Johannesburg, South Africa. Here is a look at the best night clubs in Johannesburg, South Africa. 1. Truth Featuring top local and international DJs, Truth has been on the South African entertainment scene for over a decade now. Musically, one can expect a wide range of electronic music across the club’s multiple dance floors. Read also How Paris cinemas are surviving This incredibly popular nightclub is located along Old Pretoria Road in Midrand. Overall, Truth’s vibe is unbeatable, and parties typically go on until the early hours of the morning. 2. Randlords This fantastic club is situated in the heart of Johannesburg and offers a great view of the skyline and an amazing atmosphere to go with it. It is situated 22 floors above the ground, providing an unrivalled view of the city. Randlords is widely regarded as one of the top night clubs in Braamfontein, Johannesburg. The club’s walls are predominantly made from glass, giving a feel of an uninterrupted view. Just imagine the hype of sipping on your favourite cocktail while looking at the city's beautiful lights at night, that is Randlords for you. The nightclub is on the 22nd floor of South Point Towers, 41 de Korte Street, Braamfontein. 3. Kong Read also Who is Konka Soweto owner? Everything to know about the restaurant and club Kong in Rosebank is the brainchild of nightclub mogul Stephane Cohen who certainly knows how to put on a night of great music. This trail-blazing club is situated in the heart of Rosebank and has been designed with sound in mind. For those looking for good music, Kong should be among the best venues to consider when in Jo’burg. The music that the club plays is enough reason to love the venue. The nightclub is located along Cedar Road and Willow Road in Fourways. 4. Sir James Van Der Merwe hip-hop nightclubs in Johannesburg Performers in a nightclub. Photo: pexels.com, @Matteo Petralli Source: UGC This club is a part of Katy’s Palace and was established by a man named, as you might guess, Sir James Van Der Merwe. The club draws inspiration from great Indian palaces and provides beautiful views of the Sandton skyline. The club caters to Johannesburg’s urban elite and has a well-appointed guest area that hosts parties, weddings, and other private functions. The club is usually open every Wednesday Night Read also Top 15 list of cities in South Africa with the best sights and activities 5. 86 Public Pizzeria This trendy restaurant, known for its delicious pizzas by day, transforms into one of the best hip-hop nightclubs in Johannesburg after dinner. Their craft beer options are considerably well priced, as well as an extensive cocktail menu. 86 Public Pizzeria is a great option for a Friday night out. 6. Harem Harem is situated in Rosebank in Johannesburg and opens its doors at 10 pm till late. This Jo’burg hotspot hosts both local and international artists and has a well-balanced music collection that includes African house, hip-hop and other types of music from all over Africa. The club is found along 160 Jan Smuts Avenue, Corner 7th Ave & Design District. 7. Madison Avenue Rivonia Madison Avenue Rivonia is one of Johannesburg's most superb venues offering relaxed lounge seating, a great vibe, and a wide range of drinks. The venue is particularly alluring for those who love house music. You can check it out at 19 Wessel Road, Johannesburg. Read also Tragedy strikes at Propaganda club: Find out who owns the club and more 8. E.S.P Night Club E.S.P Night Club has been at the forefront of underground clubbing for over 23 years. Regarded as South Africa's longest-running nightclub, E.S.P's motto has always been ‘For Superior Clubbing’. If you wish to meet international DJs, especially in the house and trance genres, this is the perfect location to go to. It is also one of the oldest entertainment spots in the city. You can check out E.S.P Night Club at 84 Oxford Street in Ferndale. 9. The Good Luck Bar If you are in pursuit of fun, good music, good food, and a couple of bottles, this is the location to go to. This is, without a doubt, one of the top 10 nightclubs in Johannesburg. The bar is situated along 1 Fox street in Johannesburg. 10. Ace + Pearl Fine Wine Bar If you are the kind that loves wines, you might want to have a taste of this place because that is what it is all about. The minimalist interior design of the location makes you want to focus on the drinks that the venue serves. Read also In-depth details of the most expensive houses in South Africa The venue has an amazing view of Johannesburg's downtown, a humming ambience, a nice collection of jazz and blues, and the unmistakable sips and clinks of wine glasses. Ace + Pearl is located in Albans Square in Randburg. 11. The Landmark night clubs in Braamfontein, Johannesburg A DJ in a nightclub. Photo: pexels.com, @Gaby Tenda Source: UGC This is one of the best night clubs in Sandton and is known for its great cocktails and wines. The club’s Facebook page describes it as a ‘world-class cocktail Bar with an Italian influence and a uniquely South African flavour.' The Landmark bar is found at Bryanston Shopping Centre in Sandton. 12. Champagne Bar by Veuve Clicquot Situated in Tsogo Sun Hotel in Rosebank, Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar gives a highlight ofJohannesburg's nightlife. It is one of the funkiest places for partying in Johannesburg. Its location is ideal, as it provides the best views of the city. 13. Kitchener's Pub This club’s website describes it as ‘The sex*est club in Jo’burg since 1906. Local pub by day and legendary parties by night.’ Kitchener's Pub is an interesting location to check out if you are looking for a youthful entertainment spot in Johannesburg. Read also 15 best castles in Africa that you should visit Kitchener's Pub is located along 71 Juta street in Johannesburg. 14. Churchill's Bar Are you looking for recommendations for an ambient location with a touch of British decor and vibe? If so, you might want to try out Churchill's Bar. The venue attracts the trendsetters and on-the-rise go-getters of Johannesburg's thriving chic scene. Churchill’s Bar has an enviable selection of the finest cigars, single malts, premium whiskeys, and champagnes. 15. Chicago’s Piano Bar The club describes itself as a ‘1920’s Gatsby themed ‘adult party playground’. If you are looking for an old-school entertainment spot in the city, then this is one of the best ones to check out. The atmosphere in the venue resonates with an elegant wine-and-dine kind of vibe. The age limit for this club is 21 years old. The bar area is situated downstairs whereas the cigar bar is one floor above. There are also a couple of pool tables and big screens that will guarantee you a good time while at the venue. Read also A grand list of the top luxury hotels in South Africa Chicago’s Piano Bar is situated on Duiker Street in Randpark Ridge. 16. The Milk Bar Situated right in the middle of Kamerville, Milk Bar is a tranquil location that you might miss out on if you are not keen. During the day, it is a fully functional coffee shop, whereas, at night, it turns into a vibrant bar. The venue is named after Abu's Milk Bar in downtown Addis Ababa. Its playful décor, hand-painted barbershop signs, and colourful African upholstery reflect the cafe-bar's casual and friendly atmosphere. This old-school venue is situated along 6 Desmond Street in Kamerville. 17. The Bohemian nightclubs in Johannesburg, South Africa People enjoying music in a nightclub. Photo: pexels.com, @Ronê Ferreira Source: UGC If you are a fan of live music, then this is one of the best Johannesburg clubs to visit. The club hosts some of the most talented local artists and DJs. The venue also serves the best drinks at fair prices. You can check out The Bohemian along 167 Perth Road in Westdene. Read also A list of the 15 top museums in Cape Town 18. Rumours Lounge Strydompark Located in the city's Weltevreden, this comfortable resort offers comfortable lounge-style accommodations and an excellent selection of alcoholic beverages. At night, various Rock n Roll bands perform in the location, keeping guests entertained till almost dawn. The venue also has an amazing selection of food served on location, so you do not have to worry about drinking your favourite cocktail on an empty tummy. The venue is situated on the corner Weltevreden Road and Valley Lane in Strydompark, Randburg. 19. SIX Cocktail Bar This club is found in a restaurant and cocktail bar setting, renowned for its six-hour-long happy hour. The other thing that makes it liked is the wide variety of cocktails that it serves. You can try out the bar by by checking it out on 57th street Melville. 20. The Living Room Situated in the vibrant precinct of Maboneng, the Living Room is a unique blend of the natural and the urban. The venue’s unique rooftop jungle is the ideal place to hold any celebration. The venue hosts all sorts of functions from public parties to weddings to press launches and so much more. Read also 15 best budget outdoor and indoor wedding venues in Cape Town 21. Taboo This nightclub caters to an elite client base by providing entertainment of the highest calibre. The musical experience is delivered by only the best local and international DJs and artists. The club’s magnificent halls overlook the gorgeous Sandton skyline. A big plus for most is the cigar lounge which shows off the venue’s more relaxed side. Taboo is definitely among the best night clubs in Sandton. 22. The Sands The Sands is one of the most loved clubs in Sandston. It is known for hosting the most popular music and fashion events in the country. Its open-plan design makes it stand out from most entertainment joints in Johannesburg. Over the years, The Sands has hosted some of Johannesburg’s top product, fashion, corporate and celebrity events. 23. Mesh Club hip-hop nightclubs in Johannesburg A colourful nightclub. Photo: pexels.com, @Mikechie Esparagoza Source: UGC This is another place that is different from your ordinary clubbing places. During the day, it serves as a private members’ club, while at night, it is a lounge that serves the best cocktails. According to the club’s management, Mesh is ‘a space where entrepreneurs, creatives and captains of industry can gather in an exciting environment to meet, work, connect and socialize.’ Read more: https://briefly.co.za/38002-top-25-nightclubs-johannesburg-nightlife-experience.html Top Night Clubs In South Africa Top Night clubs In South Africa – The nightlife in South Africa varies depending on the city or town you are in. In larger cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town, there are many bars, clubs, and restaurants that stay open late and offer a variety of entertainment options. In smaller towns and rural areas, the nightlife may be more limited. However, many places in South Africa have a strong cultural and artistic scene, with live music and theater performances taking place in the evenings. Additionally, there are a number of casinos and other gambling venues in the country. Top Night clubs In South Africa South Africa is known for its vibrant nightlife and there are many nightclubs that cater to different tastes and preferences. Here are some of the top nightclubs in South Africa: Taboo Nightclub: Located in Sandton, Johannesburg, Taboo is one of the most popular nightclubs in the country. It has a large dance floor and a VIP area and is known for its lively atmosphere and great music. The club regularly hosts international DJs and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. Capital: This club is located in Pretoria and is known for its stylish decor and high-energy atmosphere. It has several rooms with different music genres and regularly hosts local and international DJs. The club also has a VIP area and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. The VIP Room: This club is located in Cape Town and is known for its luxurious atmosphere and high-end clientele. The club has a VIP area and is known for its great music and lively atmosphere. It is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. Truth: This club is located in Johannesburg and is known for its trendy atmosphere and great music. It has several rooms with different music genres and regularly hosts local and international DJs. The club also has a VIP area and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. Club Vegas: This club is located in Durban and is known for its lively atmosphere and great music. The club regularly hosts local and international DJs and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. The Sands: This club is located in Cape Town and is known for its stylish decor and high-energy atmosphere. It has several rooms with different music genres and regularly hosts local and international DJs. The club also has a VIP area and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. The Living Room: This club is located in Pretoria and is known for its trendy atmosphere and great music. It has several rooms with different music genres and regularly host local and international DJs. The club also has a VIP area and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. The Waiting Room: This club is located in Johannesburg and is known for its stylish decor and high-energy atmosphere. It has several rooms with different music genres and regularly hosts local and international DJs. The club also has a VIP area and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. The Club: This club is located in Durban and is known for its lively atmosphere and great music. The club regularly hosts local and international DJs and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. The Lounge: This club is located in Cape Town and is known for its trendy atmosphere and great music. It has several rooms with different music genres and regularly hosts local and international DJs. The club also has a VIP area and is a popular spot for celebrities and high-end clientele. These are just some of the top nightclubs in South Africa, there are many other great clubs across the country that cater to different tastes and preferences. It’s important to note that most of these clubs have dress codes and cover charges, so it’s best to check ahead of time. Also, with the current situation of the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s best to check for the guidelines and restrictions of the clubs before visiting them. Exploring South Africa’s Nightlife: A Vibrant Experience for Tourists afri September 30, 2024 South Africa is not just famous for its stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history; it also boasts a nightlife scene that is both vibrant and diverse. From the bustling streets of Cape Town and Johannesburg to the serene beachfront bars of Durban, South Africa offers a plethora of nightlife options for travelers seeking excitement after the sun sets. This comprehensive guide will delve into the best nightlife destinations across the country, unique experiences, and essential tips for tourists looking to immerse themselves in South Africa’s after-dark culture. The Appeal of South Africa’s Nightlife The nightlife in South Africa is a rich tapestry woven from its diverse cultures, traditions, and modern influences. With a mix of trendy bars, lively clubs, and unique cultural experiences, the country’s nightlife caters to a wide range of tastes. Whether you are looking to dance the night away, enjoy live music, or savor delicious local cuisine, South Africa has something for everyone. Top Nightlife Destinations in South Africa 1. Cape Town: The Mother City’s Vibrancy Cape Town is renowned for its picturesque scenery and cosmopolitan vibe. Its nightlife is equally impressive, offering a mix of options from upscale lounges to lively dance clubs. Clubbing Hotspots: Venues like Fiction, The Waiting Room, and Club 31 are popular choices for those looking to experience Cape Town’s nightlife. These clubs often feature local and international DJs, themed nights, and stunning views of the cityscape. Trendy Bars and Rooftops: For a more relaxed evening, head to Sky Bar or The Silo Rooftop Bar, where you can enjoy expertly crafted cocktails while taking in panoramic views of Table Mountain and the harbor. These bars often host special events, making them ideal for socializing. Live Music Venues: Music lovers should not miss The Cape Town Jazz Café and The Rainbow, which regularly showcase talented local musicians. These venues provide an intimate setting to enjoy everything from jazz to contemporary African music. 2. Johannesburg: The City of Gold Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and its economic powerhouse. The nightlife here is as diverse as the city itself, featuring a mix of upscale venues and local hangouts. Clubs and Lounges: Popular clubs like Taboo, The Living Room, and Café Rose are known for their energetic atmospheres and themed parties. These venues frequently host events featuring some of South Africa’s top DJs and artists. Street Markets and Food Halls: Johannesburg is also famous for its vibrant street markets. Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein transforms into a lively evening spot, offering food stalls, craft beer, and live entertainment in a festive atmosphere. Cultural Hotspots: Explore the township of Soweto for a unique cultural experience. Here, you can enjoy traditional music and dance performances at venues like Vilakazi Street, home to Nelson Mandela’s former residence. 3. Durban: A Beachfront Paradise Durban is known for its warm weather and beautiful beaches, making it an ideal location for a laid-back nightlife experience. Beachfront Bars: Enjoy a cocktail at bars like Café Jaded or The Victoria Street Market, which offer a relaxed ambiance with stunning ocean views. The beachfront often hosts live music events and night markets, adding to the vibrant atmosphere. Cultural Experiences: Visit uShaka Marine World, where you can enjoy dining experiences combined with live performances of traditional Zulu music and dance, providing a delightful glimpse into local culture. Clubbing by the Coast: Dance the night away at clubs like The Boiler Room or Café Vacca Matta, which feature local and international acts in a lively, beachfront setting. 4. Pretoria: The Capital’s Emerging Scene Pretoria may not be as well-known for nightlife as its larger counterparts, but it has a burgeoning scene that’s worth exploring. Pubs and Craft Beer: Enjoy a night out at places like The Beerhouse and Capitol Craft, where you can sample a variety of local craft beers in a cozy atmosphere. Cultural Events: Pretoria hosts various cultural events and performances at venues like The State Theatre, which features local plays, musical performances, and art exhibitions. These events offer a unique opportunity to engage with South Africa’s artistic community. Unique Nightlife Experiences in South Africa 1. Night Food Tours One of the best ways to explore South Africa’s culinary scene is through nighttime food tours. Cities like Cape Town and Johannesburg offer guided tours that take you to local eateries, food markets, and street vendors, where you can sample traditional dishes such as bobotie, biltong, and potjiekos. These tours often combine delicious food with cultural insights, making for a memorable evening. 2. Night Safaris For a truly unique experience, consider going on a night safari in one of South Africa’s renowned national parks. Some lodges and reserves offer guided night drives, allowing you to witness the nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat. This adventure adds a thrilling twist to your South African experience and provides an opportunity to see animals that are rarely active during the day. 3. Cultural Festivals Throughout the year, South Africa hosts various cultural festivals that celebrate music, dance, and food. Events like the Cape Town International Jazz Festival and the Durban July not only highlight local talent but also attract international artists, creating a vibrant atmosphere that is perfect for visitors. Practical Tips for Enjoying South Africa’s Nightlife 1. Best Time to Visit The best time to experience South Africa’s nightlife is during the warmer months, from November to March. The pleasant weather makes it ideal for outdoor events, beach parties, and street markets. 2. Safety Considerations While South Africa is an exciting place to enjoy nightlife, it’s essential to stay safe. Here are some tips: Travel in Groups: Exploring nightlife spots with friends or fellow travelers can enhance safety and make the experience more enjoyable. Stay in Well-Lit Areas: Stick to well-populated and well-lit streets, especially when moving between venues. Use Reliable Transport: Opt for reputable taxi services or rideshare apps like Uber to ensure safe transportation at night. 3. Dress Code Dress codes can vary significantly depending on the venue. While upscale clubs may require smart casual attire, many bars and casual lounges have a more relaxed dress code. Always check ahead to ensure you’re appropriately dressed. 4. Currency and Payments Many establishments accept credit cards, but it’s advisable to carry some cash, especially for local markets or smaller venues. ATMs are widely available in urban areas. Why Experience South Africa’s Nightlife? South Africa’s nightlife offers a vibrant mix of culture, music, and culinary experiences that provide a deeper understanding of the country’s diverse heritage. Here are a few reasons to include nightlife in your travel plans: Cultural Immersion: Engaging with local music and dance allows you to experience the rich cultural tapestry of South Africa. Diverse Entertainment Options: From live music to food markets, South Africa offers a range of activities that cater to various interests, ensuring that every traveler finds something enjoyable. Welcoming Atmosphere: South Africans are known for their hospitality, making it easy for tourists to feel at home while exploring the nightlife. Conclusion South Africa’s nightlife is a dynamic and enriching experience that complements its stunning landscapes and rich history. From the vibrant clubs of Cape Town to the cultural festivities in Durban, there’s something for everyone to enjoy after the sun sets. As you plan your trip to this incredible country, be sure to set aside time to explore its nightlife, where unforgettable memories await. With a blend of music, dance, and culinary delights, your nights in South Africa will be as captivating as your days. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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SHOPPING IN SOUTH AFRICA In the past, a shopping center in South Africa was simply a place to go and purchase what you needed before leaving. Nowadays, however, shopping centers have evolved into sophisticated recreation centers, similar to those found in other developed societies. There are numerous shopping malls in South Africa that are home to a wide variety of retail stores and are visited by customers from different parts of the country. While South Africa has many sophisticated malls in various locations, some are larger than others. This article will explore the largest shopping malls in South Africa. Diamond Pavilion Shopping Mall Shop 11, Diamond Pavilion Mall, Oliver Road, Kimberley website SHOPRITE Convenience-Store Shop 14, Cnr Barkley Road Seochoareng 221A Area 1318 Erf 21983, 221 Barkly Rd, Galeshewe, Kimberley · website routenplaner Ackermans Kimberley Diamond Pavillion Bekleidungsgeschäft Shop 28 Diamond Pavilion Mall, Oliver Rd, Kimberley website routenplaner TRUWORTHS Bekleidungsgeschäft Shop 72 Diamond Pavilion Mall, Oliver Rd, Kimberley website routenplaner Sportsmans Warehouse North Cape Mall Sportbekleidung Cnr Constantia Ave & Memorial Rd, Shop 5, North Cape Shopping Mall, Kimberley Fourways Mall in Johannesburg Fourways Mall in Johannesburg Fourways Mall is a large shopping center located in the Fourways suburb of Johannesburg, South Africa. It was built in 1994 and has undergone several renovations and expansions since then. The mall currently has a retail space of 178,000 square meters, making it the largest mall in South Africa. Fourways Mall is a popular destination for shoppers, offering a wide range of retail options and entertainment choices. It is owned by Accelerate Property Fund and has approximately 400 stores, including clothing, electronics, home goods, and more. The mall also has 8,000 parking bays for convenience. Fourways Mall is open from 9 am to 8 pm every day except for Sundays, when it closes at 5 pm. It is a well-known landmark in South Africa and attracts a large number of shoppers from different parts of the country. Menlyn Park Shopping Centre Menlyn Park Shopping Centre Menlyn Park Shopping Centre is a premier destination for a top-class shopping experience. It is no surprise that the shopping centre has received numerous awards for its exceptional service since it opened. With over 500 stores and more than 8,000 parking bays, Menlyn Park Shopping Centre offers a wide range of shopping options and convenient parking. The centre also has 16 parking entrances, ensuring that it is easily accessible for all visitors. Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends, home decor, or electronics, Menlyn Park Shopping Centre has something for everyone. If you are in the area, be sure to visit this renowned shopping centre and experience the best in retail and entertainment. Gateway Theatre of Shopping Gateway Theatre of Shopping Gateway Theatre of Shopping is not only one of the largest shopping malls in South Africa, but it is also one of the biggest in the world. Located in Umhlanga Rocks, north of Durban, the mall features over 400 stores and 70 eateries. At Gateway Theatre of Shopping, visitors can shop at both well-known international brands and local South African retailers. The mall offers a wide range of options for shopping and dining, making it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. If you are in the area, be sure to visit this impressive mall and experience the best in retail and dining. Canal Walk in Cape Town Located in Cape Town, Canal Walk is one of the largest shopping malls in South Africa. Established in 2000, the mall has worked hard to become one of the most popular in the country, with over 400 stores currently operating there. Canal Walk offers a mix of local and international products and daily leisure and entertainment options for customers. With a wide range of stores and activities, this mall is a popular destination for shopping, dining, and entertainment. If you are in the Cape Town area, be sure to visit Canal Walk and explore all it has to offer. Sandton City South Africa Sandton City is a large shopping mall located in the northern side of the province at Sandton Central Management District in Johannesburg, South Africa. It is one of the biggest malls in the country, with over 300 top-notch local and international retail stores. Visitors can shop at Sandton City from 09:00 to 20:00 on Mondays to Saturdays, and from 09:00 to 18:00 on Sundays and on public holidays. The mall offers a wide range of shopping options, including fashion, home decor, electronics, and more. It is a popular destination for both tourists and locals looking for a high-quality shopping experience. In addition to its retail offerings, Sandton City also features a range of amenities, including a food court, cinema, and entertainment options. It is a well-known landmark in Johannesburg and attracts a large number of shoppers from different parts of the country. Eastgate Shopping Centre Eastgate Shopping Centre, situated in the eastern suburbs of Johannesburg, is a popular destination for shoppers in South Africa. Its extensive array of over 300 diverse retail outlets offers customers the opportunity to find almost anything they need or want, from clothing and electronics to home goods and more. In addition to the wide range of shopping options, Eastgate Shopping Centre also provides a variety of activities and amenities to keep visitors entertained and comfortable. With free WiFi available throughout the center, customers can easily stay connected while they shop, whether they are browsing the latest fashion trends or looking for the perfect gift. Additionally, the presence of several kid-friendly activities makes Eastgate Shopping Centre a great choice for families, offering something for everyone to enjoy. The Pavilion The Pavilion is a renowned shopping destination located in Westville, known for its stunning European architectural design. Since its inception in 1993, it has been a staple in the Durban community and remains one of the first and most popular malls in the area. Currently owned by Pareto, The Pavilion is dedicated to providing an exceptional shopping experience for its visitors. With its beautiful design and wide range of retail outlets, it is no wonder that The Pavilion is considered one of the largest and most attractive malls in South Africa. Whether you are in search of the latest fashion trends or simply looking to spend a day out with friends and family, The Pavilion is the perfect place to shop and relax. Mall of Africa Mall of Africa is a premier shopping destination located in Gauteng, South Africa. As the largest shopping mall in the continent to be built in a single phase, it is home to an impressive array of over 300 retail outlets and international brands. Whether you are looking for the latest fashion trends, seeking out unique gifts, or simply want to spend a day out with friends and family, Mall of Africa has something for everyone. With its convenient hours of operation from 09:00 to 20:00 on Mondays through Saturdays, and from 10:00 to 20:00 on Sundays and public holidays, it is easy to plan a visit to this impressive shopping center. So why wait? Head over to Mall of Africa today and discover all that this premier shopping destination has to offer. Centurion Mall Centurion Mall is a popular open-air shopping centre located in the Gauteng province of South Africa. It boasts a wide range of stores and is known for its unique and well-designed layout. With its prime location and wide array of shopping options, Centurion Mall has become a go-to destination for residents and visitors alike. In addition to its retail offerings, the mall also features a number of dining and entertainment options, making it a complete destination for a day out. Whether you're looking to shop for the latest fashion trends, grab a bite to eat, or simply enjoy some leisure time, Centurion Mall has something for everyone. Westgate in Johannesburg Westgate Mall is a premier shopping destination located in the West Rand region of Johannesburg, South Africa. Managed by Pareto Limited Group, the mall features a wide variety of stores that cater to a diverse range of customers. Whether you're looking for fashion, home goods, electronics, or anything else, you'll likely find it at Westgate Mall. In addition to its impressive selection of retail options, Westgate Mall is also known for its well-organized layout, which makes it easy for shoppers to find what they're looking for. The mall is a popular destination for families as well, with a variety of recreational and entertainment options available. From playgrounds and arcades to food courts and movie theaters, there's always something to do at Westgate Mall. Whether you're looking to shop, eat, or simply relax, this bustling mall has something for everyone. Related posts: Top 10 Cheapest Laptops in South Africa (2024) List of Gucci Stores in South Africa (2024) List Of Hardware Stores In South Africa The Biggest Mall in South Africa: A Shopper’s Paradise The Biggest Mall in South Africa: An Ultimate Guide What Is the Biggest Mall in South Africa? The Ultimate Guide to Menlyn Park Shopping Centre Explore the Biggest Mall in South Africa – A Shopper’s Paradise Shopping In South Africa: Top Markets & Malls In The Country Whether it be the African Craft Market of Rosebank, where things you only get in South Africa are available, or the Neighbourgoods Market Johannesburg, which has some of the best options for souvenirs, shopping in South Africa is not an easy task! There are plenty of opportunities from big brands to local artists who allure you with art, design, with a pinch of tradition and culture. You will find places that have some typical south African things, while the others may specialise in global products! Places For Shopping In South Africa Here are the top 9 places for the most ultimate shopping experience in South Africa that will add immensely to your vacation. So, scroll through and take notes about where you ought to stop b by and shop! Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Well worth of being at the top of this list, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, more commonly known as V&A Waterfront is a paradise for shopaholics. Everything from the big fashion brands, to local markets are part of this centre which is the best for shopping in Cape Town, South Africa. Not to mention its restaurants that serve delicious multi-cuisine food. While here, do indulge in a little seafood! It would also be interesting to note that there are a number of quirky shops that you can explore if you want cheap things to buy in South Africa. Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM Location: 19 Dock Rd, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa Must Read: 6 Alluring Lakes In South Africa For A Delightful Encounter With Nature! Fourways Mall One of the popular shopping centres in South Africa, Fourways Mall is a wonderful place to enjoy, relax, as well as rejuvenate. It has a lush golf field where you can enjoy a game, and more than 170 shops and centres offering a wide variety of items. Sparkling jewellery and South African chain stores are some of the best features of this mall. Head here for an elite, posh shopping experience! Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM from Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 3 PM on Sunday Location: William Nicol Dr & Fourways Boulevard, Fourways, Johannesburg, 2055, South Africa Melrose Arch Set in one of the luxurious areas of the town, there is nothing mediocre about the Melrose Arch. enough to be called a city, it has multiple shops, boutiques, and showrooms offering exquisite items of fashion, body care, and even jewellery. Lavish restaurants with extensive menus and specialising in different cuisines can be found here, making this destination perfect for a full day trip. Keep a lookout for any events, as this also serves as a venue to some of the best music concerts and other performances here. Timings: NA Location: 60 Melrose Blvd, Melrose North, Johannesburg, 2076, South Africa Suggested Read: 15 Best Restaurants In South Africa To Enjoy Ultimate Culinary Delight Sandton City When it comes to shopping in South Africa, Sandton City is a must! Renowned for being one of the fanciest places in the country, brands like Gucci, Armani, Lacoste, and Mont Blanc have found solid ground at this centre. Apart from these there are some posh multi cuisine restaurants too which are great for an official meeting, or even a romantic dinner. Move around, and the nightlife in this area is quite exciting. Timings: 9 Am to 8 PM from Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM on Sunday Location: Unit U61a, Sandton City, 83 Rivonia Rd, Sandhurst, Sandton, 2196, South Africa Suggested Read: 15 Best Places To Visit In Mozambique To Quench Your Wanderlust Gateway Theatre of Shopping Often claimed to be one of the best entertainment centres in the country, Gateway Theatre of Shopping is a catalogue of more than 380 elite stores. Fashion boutiques like Pringle and Sissy Boy, along with some other quirky options give the guests the best shopping experience in South Africa. Indoor games, recreational activities, restaurants and fast food joints are only some of the additional perks of this place, other that the stores. The centre also has a Skate Park designed by none other than, Tony Hawk! Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Thursday, 9 AM to 9 PM on Friday and Saturday, 9 AM to 6 PM on Sunday Location: Gateway Ave, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga, 4319, South Africa Suggested Read: Table Mountain National Park: The Surreal Beauty Of South Africa The Pavillion For all those looking for some South Africa shopping tips, you are bound to come across this name. Famous for being one of the largest shopping malls in the country, you can spend an entire day here, amongst shopping, food, and entertainment. With almost 290 stores, this mall is ever expanding. It is the perfect place to go window shopping with friends, or even a fun filled day with family and children. You will find everything from fragrances and body care products, to fashion garments and accessories. Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM Location: Jack Martens Dr, Dawncliffe, Westville, 3611, South Africa Suggested Read: 10 Best Places To Visit In Bloemfontein For An Authentic South African Experience Riverside Mall Leading on the list of best shopping malls in South Africa, is Riverside Mall. Located at a perfect spot by the White River, and close to the famous Kruger National Park, it is also one of the top places to grab some souvenirs on your way. They have a huge collection of stores, approximately 140 or even more! And the 650,000 people who visit it per month are a testimony to their quality. Timings: 9 AM to 6 PM from Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 3 PM on Sunday and Public Holidays Location: Nelspruit, 1200, South Africa Suggested Read: Destination Of The Month: 8 Experiences Presenting The Best Of South Africa In August Canal Walk Rightfully named, the Canal Walk is a shopping centre built around a canal! Innovatively built, and a treat to experience, there are various types of shopping stores that make this centre one of the best South African markets. It is the third largest shopping areas in the country, and is perfect for tourists, as well as locals. Families and friends often come here for a day out, which is the best way to enjoy all that it offers. Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM Location: Canal Walk, Century Blvd, Century City, Cape Town, 7441, South Africa Cavendish Square Cavendish Square is one of the fancy shopping areas with the top international as well as national brands showcasing their best in the sparkly glass showrooms. Along with these, there are also a few chic coffee shops perfect for a quick bite overlooking the streets, and a few entertainment centres like cinema halls too. For those of you who are looking for exclusive South African products, there are a few crafty shops near the Dreyer Street Market which may be worth a visit! Timings: 9 AM to 7 PM from Monday to Saturday, 9 AM to 5 PM on Sunday Location: 1 Dreyer St, Claremont, Cape Town, 7708, South Africa Further Read: Tsitsikamma National Park: A Guide To Explore South Africa’s Spectacular Wilderness And so here we are! Add the best of the above, that interests you the most, to your itinerary, and have a fabulous shopping experience on your South Africa trip with TravelTriangle! The raw material used to make goods like souvenirs that you buy in South Africa come from the natural resources that are abundant in this region. Watch our South Africa travel video to find out what these natural resources are. Disclaimer: TravelTriangle claims no credit for images featured on our blog site unless otherwise noted. All visual content is copyrighted to its respectful owners. We try to link back to original sources whenever possible. If you own the rights to any of the images, and do not wish them to appear on TravelTriangle, please contact us and they will be promptly removed. We believe in providing proper attribution to the original author, artist or photographer. Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice. Frequently Asked Questions About Shopping in South Africa What can you buy in South Africa? There are a lot of things you can buy in South Africa and here are some of the most unique SA souvenirs that the locals recommend, Zulu ceremonial spoons, Kalahari salt, Old World wine, Africa-shaped pendant, Local leather backpack, Rooibos Tea, Pichulik earrings, and Pink Lady gin. What is famous in South Africa? There are a lot of things that are famous here in South Africa. Here are some of the top-rated tourist attractions in South Africa. You have the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga and Limpopo Provinces, Cape Town, Western Cape, Kgalagadi (Kalahari) Transfrontier Park, Northern Cape, Stellenbosch, Western Cape, The Drakensberg, KwaZulu-Natal, The Garden Route, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal, and Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Mpumalanga. What can I buy in Johannesburg? The most bought souvenirs in Johannesburg are, a Johannesburg sky-line mug from Love Jozi, artisanal spirits from Time Anchor Distillery, gold jewelry from Henriette Botha, leather jacket from Vintage Zionist, African craft from the Rosebank Sunday Market, Mandela memorabilia, and the Ndebele art from Lesedi Cultural Village. What should I wear in South Africa? Well, you can dress light in South Africa if you have come for a holiday. You can wear a shirt, blazer, jeans or trousers for men. There are dresses for women. Aim for neutral and earthy toned colors rather than flashy ones. Are things cheaper in South Africa? South Africans do have a weak economy and several products are cheaper to buy in South Africa. The fruits, furniture, pieces of bread and cereals are all cheap in South Africa. What is the famous food in South Africa? You have goat, beef, chicken, mutton, and other meats mostly. There is a special braai, “pap and vleis”, which is maize meal and grilled meat every Sunday. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

Highlights of South Africa Tour Highlights Cape Town - Begin your adventure in South Africa's 'Mother City' with a township tour before departing for the Western Cape Fish River Canyon - Admire this colossal canyon, which scars the Earth for 160km, second only in size to the USA's Grand Canyon Namib-Naukluft National Park - Climb to the top of Dune 45 for tremendous views, discover barren Deadvlei and marvel at Sesriem Canyon Swakopmund - Relax in this coastal German colonial town with free time to sit by the pool, go skydiving, dolphin-watching or surfing Etosha National Park - Search for the wildlife which gathers around the limited watering holes in this barren salt pan Okavango Delta - Paddle traditional mokoro canoes through this biodiverse wetland and enjoy an optional scenic flight Chobe National Park - Cruise the Chobe River in search of hippos, elephants and crocodiles, then game drive in search of lions and leopards Livingstone - End your journey on the Zambian side of cascading Victoria Falls, with an included visit to this natural wonder It’s no secret that South Africa is one of the world’s top Big 5 safari destinations. You could come here only to go on safari and think South Africa was the best country ever. But wait – there’s so much more to this fascinating realm perched at Africa’s southernmost tip. South Africa’s ethnic and cultural diversity influences its cuisine and art in exciting, unexpected ways. Its scenery is stunning, from wave-crashed shorelines and wildflower-carpeted deserts to wildlife-filled bushveld and tropical forests. The country has cosmopolitan cities, charming wine towns and important cultural traditions. Apartheid’s struggles are faced head-on at several important sights. You can hike, surf, kayak, fish, whale watch, horseback ride, dive with sharks and crocodiles and stargaze under some of the planet’s darkest skies. The only problem is how to even begin planning a visit to this immensely blessed, multifaceted land. Start planning your trip with this list of the top things to do in South Africa. Namaqua in the Northern Cape is alive with blooms in July. Ilse Oberholzer/Getty Images 1. Walk among the wildflowers of Namaqua Most of the year, the remote region known as Little Namaqualand is parched, a seemingly sunbaked wasteland in South Africa’s Northern Cape. But for a short period in July, as winter rains begin to fall, the area bursts to life with billions of blooms. Endless carpets of flowers in every hue cover its diverse topography, from deserty plains to fertile valleys to towering mountains. But what truly sets this spectacle apart is the sheer variety of flowers; more than 3500 species grow here, more than half rare or endemic, meaning they live nowhere else on Earth. The most iconic is the Arctotis, commonly called the African daisy. Gazania glows with hot yellow and orange petals, and Carpobrotus, commonly known as pigface, creeps along the ground. The best places to take in the ephemeral flowery show are Richtersveld , with a backdrop of yawning canyons and jagged mountains; Skilpad Wildflower Preserve west of Kamieskroon, part of the bigger Namaqua National Park , a fabulous spot to gaze at the famed Nama daisies; and the 14,973-hectare (37,000-acre) Goegap Nature Reserve outside Springbok, with some 600 indigenous plant species. Planning tip: Accommodations in the park (primarily campsites and chalets) are in high demand during this short blooming season. Either book reservations as soon as they open (usually 11 months in advance), or find places to stay in the nearby towns of Kamieskroon and Garies. 2. Spot the Big 5 and other wildlife in South Africa’s parks As the early morning sun rises over the bushveld, a herd of elephants thunders past, a leopard enjoys a snack up in a tree, and a lion stalks its prey. These are the joys of going on safari in South Africa, where you have an excellent chance of spotting the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant) in national parks and wildlife preserves across the country. Kruger National Park is the prime game park, with 19,485 sq km (7523 sq mi) of bushveld, tropical forests, savannah and mountains teeming with more than 140 mammal species. Addo Elephant National Park in the Eastern Cape is the world’s first “Big 7” Conservation Area, home to the traditional Big 5, plus the unique marine additions of the great white shark and southern right whale. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park in KwaZulu-Natal is South Africa’s oldest game reserve. It was founded to conserve and repopulate Africa’s rhinos , so this park is hands down the best place in South Africa to see these one-horned, short-legged megafauna. In all, South Africa has 19 national parks and countless private game reserves, each offering an unforgettable wildlife experience where no two days are ever the same. Planning tip: Plan your trip from June to September for optimal wildlife viewing. Animals tend to gather at watering holes during these drier, cooler months. The views from the top of Table Mountain are unmissable. Justin Paget/Getty Images 3. Hike or ride up Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain The flat-topped Table Mountain stands watch over Cape Town , a 1085m (3560ft) natural landmark of sandstone and granite adored for its breathtaking views from the top: glittering Table Bay, historic Robben Island and all of Cape Town’s City Bowl sprawl at your feet. Dozens of trails wind up Table Mountain’s flanks, opening up valleys of fynbos (the local floral kingdom), shady forests and waterfalls. The most popular (and heavily trafficked) is Platteklip Gorge Trail, a 2.8km (1.8 miles) uphill push that is nature’s answer to the StairMaster, offering view after breathtaking view the higher you go. Avoid the crowds with 1.5km (0.9-mile) Kloof Corner, a dramatic and somewhat hair-raising trek that rewards with fabulous views of Lion’s Head, the 12 Apostles and the Cape Town City Bowl. The difficult 2.5km (1.5 miles) India Venster Trail follows the route beneath the aerial cable car, up the mountain’s frontal face. Of course, you can just take the cable car, a quick five-minute ride to the top. Planning tip: Many trails in South Africa limit how many hikers can be on them simultaneously, so book your spot ahead of time and hike with a group for safety (some longer trails actually require that you're not alone). 4. Learn from South Africa’s apartheid past in Johannesburg South Africa has made steps in atoning for its apartheid past through education at various sites. Johannesburg ’s Apartheid Museum is a sobering but enlightening place to start. Exhibits take you through the history of apartheid using videos, documents and photographs. At the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum in Soweto, spoken testimonies, videos and photographs detail the tragic story of a 12-year-old student who became the first victim of police fire in 1976 when students protested the imposition of Afrikaans as the medium of instruction in schools. Nearby, Nelson Mandela lived in a humble, four-room house, which today is the Mandela House Museum , showcasing family photos and personal belongings and providing insight into the beloved anti-apartheid leader who, after 27 years in prison, became South Africa’s first democratically elected president. The Cape Winelands make up one of the world's most impressive wine regions. Roopam Dey/EyeEm / Getty Images 5. Taste Pinotage in the Cape Winelands When the Dutch colonized South Africa some 350 years ago, the Dutch East India Company established a provisioning station for its ships. Since these ships needed wine the Company partnered with the French, and soon vineyards draped the valleys in the fertile region now known as the Cape Winelands . Over the years, the art of wine-making has been fine-tuned, including the perfection of Pinotage, South Africa’s signature red wine that’s a rustic cross between Pinot Noir and Cinsault. Today, in independent South Africa, the Cape Winelands reigns as one of the world’s finest wine regions. Within it is a patchwork of vineyards and hundreds of wine estates, farm markets, little museums, gastronomic restaurants and three main wine towns dating from the 17th century: Franschhoek , settled by French Huguenots; Stellenbosch , filled with Cape Dutch architecture; and Paarl, colonized by 23 families from Stellenbosch. Excellent places to sample Pinotage include Delheim, on the slopes of Simonsberg Mountain outside Stellenbosch, and Lanzerac , established in 1692 near Stellenbosch with stunning views of mountains, vineyards and oak-shaded gardens. Detour: If you need a break from all the wine tastings, take a drive (or bike ride) outside Paarl on Bainskloof Pass. This scenic mountain pass features almost 30km (19 miles) of unforgettable vistas and a caravan park at its halfway point. 6. Get lost on the Wild Coast Sea breezes, crashing waterfalls, emerald valleys and footprint-free, cliff-fringed beaches define the untrammeled realm of the Wild Coast , a fittingly named 250km-long (155-mile) sweep of coastline fronting the Indian Ocean in the Eastern Cape . This is the place to get away from it all, soaking in the solitude of pristine nature, where you’ll see more cows than people. Be warned: the roads are full of potholes, and gas stations are far and few between, but that’s what keeps the less intrepid away. You can hike, swim, ride horseback, canoe, surf or just catch the rays on your own private beach. The hike to Hole in the Wall along the coast is a three-hour foray across undulating hills and through local villages, ending at the fabled rock arch with its swimming lagoon. The Xhosa River is a canoeing paradise with sparkling clear waters and bright Xhosa huts along its banks. Mirror-smooth Jbay Lagoon draws SUPers, kayakers and canoers. The Xhosa people have lived in this enchanted land for centuries, and you’ll see their turquoise rondavels dotting the lush green hills. This is also the birthplace of anti-apartheid revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela, and several small museums in Mthatha and Quno are open to visitors. Detour: Take a hike on one of Dwesa Nature Reserve 's walking trails through pristine forests, grasslands and coastline. It's a paradise for a wide variety of wildlife – including around 290 bird species. Southern right whales can be spotted on their migration from Antarctica. wildestanimal/Getty Images 7. Go whale watching by land or sea Some 37 species of whales and dolphins frequent South Africa’s shores, so it’s no wonder whale-watching is a popular activity. You can hop on a boat from plenty of places along the country’s three coastlines to view these behemoths in their watery haunts. But here’s a twist: in some places, you don’t even have to step on a boat to see a whale – you can see them up close from the shore. Watch whales from the shore in Lambert’s Bay, Yzerfontein and Plettenberg Bay , but the most celebrated land-based viewing spot is Hermanus , about 100km (62 miles) east of Cape Town. Between June and November, southern right whales stop by on their annual migration from Antarctica, and right off the coast, they splash, breach and lobtail (slap their flippers and tail against the water). The town even has a whale crier who blows a kelp horn when whales approach the shore. 8. Immerse yourself in Zulu history The Zulus reigned between 1816 and 1897 in much of present-day KwaZulu-Natal as one of Africa’s most prominent empires. Despite their fierce fighting abilities, the British defeated them in the 1870s, and their kingdom was integrated into the Union of South Africa. But their culture remains strong – they are South Africa’s largest ethnic group – and the Zulu royal family is still active, reigning (but not ruling) in KwaZulu-Natal. You can experience Zulu culture by visiting the Battlefields Region in the province’s northwest, where the Zulus fought 63 battles against a succession of invading forces. Monuments and museums such as Blood River and Isandlwana commemorate these clashes. You will be sure to find yourself a spot on Durban's lengthy coastline. Diriye Amey/500px 9. Bask in the sun on Durban's Golden Mile With more than 320 sunny days a year, Durban is a much-loved playground of golden-sand beaches lapped by the Indian Ocean’s azure waters. An expanse of sun-soaked paradise dubbed the Golden Mile (although it’s more like four miles) runs from uShaka Beach in the south to Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World in the north and offers beaches and beachy activities for everyone. Beginners can surf from South and Addington beaches, and fishers can drop a line at Bay of Plenty Beach . Other stretches of sand, such as Umhlanga Rocks just slightly north of the Golden Mile, have a lively vacation vibe. If you want to picnic or just hang out with your travel companions, Blue Lagoon is a fabulous choice. A promenade runs along much of the Golden Mile, with Zulu artisans selling their wares and runners, walkers, cyclists and skateboarders catching the rays. 10. Explore the evolution of humanity Deep beneath Gauteng ’s highveld (high plateau), 20th-century researchers discovered two distant relatives of all humankind in the region’s labyrinthine limestone caves: Mrs Ples, the 2.1-million-year-old skull of an Australopithecus Africanus (a precursor to the genus Homo) and Little Foot, a nearly complete, three-million-year-old Australopithecus skeleton. Then, in 2015, a new species of human relative was uncovered, Homo naledi, whose placement in the evolutionary chain is still unknown. You can explore this significant archaeology at the Cradle of Humankind, about an hour northwest of Pretoria. Entertaining, world-class exhibitions provide context at the Maropeng visitor center, and you can go beneath the earth to the excavation site at Sterkfontein Caves . Hark back to travel's golden age with a journey on South Africa's Blue Train. Michael Heffernan/Lonely Planet 11. Ride the Blue Train Sit back and soak in the golden age of travel aboard the Blue Train , a five-star hotel-on-wheels ranked as one of the world’s great rail journeys. Since this train came about during colonial times, when 19th-century British diamond and gold magnates demanded luxury, expect warm birch paneling, plush leather seating and full silver service at gourmet five-course meals. The Blue Train travels between Pretoria and Cape Town, with two nights onboard. While you’ll enjoy the best of service and decor, it’s the scenery outside the windows that will dazzle the most: cactus-dotted desert, rocky mountains, vineyard-dotted hills, lush valleys and a front-row seat for Africa’s famous sunsets. Meals, drinks, Monte Cristo cigars and even a personal butler come with the hefty price. Planning tip: Book your Blue Train ride during the low season (Nov–Aug) for significantly lower fares. 12. Follow the enchanting Garden Route Take a scenic road trip through seaside villages, glittering beaches and misty mountains along the Garden Route , which some call the Garden of Eden. You can drive the 200km (125 miles) straight through, from Mossel Bay to Storms River, but this is one to take your time dipping into. Scuba dive to see Knysna seahorses, surf crashing waves, hike shadowy forests, see elephants in the wild, bungee jump into a plunging gorge, or simply plunk down on an empty beach. Good bases are Plettenberg Bay and Knysna . A minimum of four days is recommended, though you could seriously spend weeks here. Detour: Make a Saturday morning pit stop at Wild Oats Community Farmers Market for fresh produce, baked goods, breakfast and more, just 1.5km (1 mile) east of Sedgefield. The market is a beloved Garden Route stop. Stop at Boulders Beach on your way to Cape Point to see African penguins. iStockphoto/Getty Images 13. Drive from Cape Town to Africa’s southwesternmost point The Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge at historic Cape Point – aka the Cape of Good Hope – about 65km (40 miles) south of Cape Town. It’s thrilling to stand on this wind-blown, jagged landmass jutting into the sea, the southwesternmost point in Africa, observing the roiling waves and indigo waters as far as the eye can see. These treacherous waves have been the bane of seafarers for centuries, causing hundreds of shipwrecks. For spectacular views, jump on the Flying Dutchman Funicular or walk the steps to the 86m (285ft) lighthouse-topped summit. Planning tip: Don’t rush your journey here. A drive from Cape Town reveals along the way dazzling beaches, cliffside vistas, fishing villages, and miles and miles of remote bushveld inhabited by zebras, ostriches and baboons. The African penguin colony at Boulders Beach is one of only two land-based penguin colonies in the world. 14. Sample Cape Town’s culinary heritage Throughout Cape Town’s long history of colonization and immigration, a parade of cultures has taken root, each contributing its unique traditions and customs. The most obvious – and cherished – result is the city’s diverse, innovative cuisine. Many call Cape Town the foodie capital of South Africa. You’ll find dishes influenced by the British, French, Indians, Dutch, Asians, Africans and more. The Cape Malay, for example, is a community influenced by southern African, Asian (especially Indonesian) and Dutch cultures; they’re known for their variety of spice-infused bredies (stews), curries, savory snacks and porrings (a warm pudding). Braai – derived from the Dutch word braden, meaning "to roast" – has become ubiquitous throughout the country. But braai is much more than barbecuing meat: it’s a social event where friends and family gather. Many township tours offer a traditional braai experience. Local chefs are taking note of this rich cultural heritage. Chef Luke Dale-Roberts’ three award-winning Cape Town restaurants – Test Kitchen, Pot Luck Club and Shortmarket Club – are prime examples, with their innovative twists on traditional fare. Planning tip: Making restaurant and hotel reservations will be much easier if you avoid traveling during the peak Christmas and Easter seasons. 15. Go on a sky safari in the Karoo The Karoo’s sparsely populated landscapes are immense by day, and its skies are just as vast by night. In this magical semi-desert realm – encompassing nearly 500,000 sq km (1.9 million sq miles) within Western Cape, Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and the Free State – the stars pierce some of the Earth’s darkest, cleanest skies, seemingly so close you can reach out and touch them. It’s no wonder that the South African Astronomical Observatory , the southern hemisphere’s largest, is found here. You can take a guided tour by day, but the nighttime stargazing safaris are the major draw. Planning tip: The charming, historic town of Prince Albert is a good stargazing base The highlights of South Africa South Africa is a multifaceted travel destination and is peppered with countless tourist highlights. This selection provides an overview of the country's most popular destinations. We will be happy to advise you on putting together your own individual tour. Cape Town and Cape Peninsula Cape Town, the "Mother City" and oldest city in South Africa, is the starting or ending point for most travelers to explore the Rainbow Nation. Cape Town is rightly considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world and offers many historic buildings, first-class restaurants, countless shopping opportunities, great beaches and varied landscapes. The main attraction is the city's landmark: Table Mountain. A cable car or various hiking trails take you up the 1000 meters to the top, from where you can get the best overview of the city with a breathtaking view. The last cable car only descends after sunset, making Table Mountain the perfect place for an unforgettable sundowner. However, the mountain is often closed due to bad weather. Visitors to Cape Town should therefore take the first opportunity they get and not wait until the last day. The tourist heart of the city beats on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Countless stores and restaurants invite you to linger and stroll around. The ferry to Robben Island, the former prison island during the apartheid era, also departs from here. The high-security camp, where Nelson Mandela also spent a long time, is now a museum and former prisoners bring visitors closer to the history of the struggle for freedom and independence. A stroll through the center of Cape Town is also worthwhile. Sights such as the flea market on Green Market Square, the Castle of Good Hope, Cityhall and Company's Garden are within easy walking distance of the Waterfront. Most of the museums are also located around Company's Garden. The colorful Bo-Kaap district is a popular photo motif. Trendy people swear by the trendy De Waterkant district. For sun-seekers, Cape Town offers a variety of beaches. The most famous Atlantic beaches can be found at Clifton, Camps Bay and in the suburbs of Bloubergstrand, Llandudno, Hout Bay and Noordhoek. However, the cold Atlantic current means that not everyone enjoys swimming. The water in the Indian Ocean at False Bay is somewhat warmer. There are beautiful beaches in Gordons Bay, Strand, Muizenberg, St. James, Fishhoek and Simons Town. The latter is also home to Boulders Beach, which has become famous for its penguin colony. Here you can watch the penguins on footbridges built through the dunes and even swim with them in one section. You should also definitely visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve south of Cape Town with Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. As well as being the most south-westerly point in Africa, the Cape Peninsula is home to interesting flora and fauna. Other highlights include Chapmans Peak Drive (one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world, connecting Noordhoek and Hout Bay), the old wine region of Constantia, the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens and the creative Woodstock district with its Saturday Old Biscuit Mill Market and some of the city's best restaurants. You should allow at least three days for the "Mother City", but even in two weeks Cape Town and its surroundings will never be boring. Wine regions The most famous South African wine regions of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek are only around 50 km from Cape Town. While Paarl is only of interest to wine connoisseurs, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch in particular offer plenty of sights for those who are not quite so interested in wine. Stellenbosch is the second oldest town in South Africa and has a beautiful historic center in the Cape Dutch architectural style. Thanks to the local university, the town is very lively and offers many boutiques and cafés. Countless wineries are lined up here. The regions have joined together in so-called wine routes. While the producers of fine wines tend to be small and cozy, other wineries offer a wide range of tourist attractions such as restaurants, parks and amusements. If you don't want to stay overnight in the wine regions, you can also experience the area on day trips from Cape Town. There are also more and more up-and-coming wine-growing areas in many other regions of the Western Cape, e.g. in Robertson or near Hermanus. However, all wine regions have one thing in common: they are home to by far the best restaurants in the country, some of which are world-renowned. Walküste and Overberg From June to November, there are good to very good whale watching opportunities along the entire coast of South Africa, even from land. In the area from Hermanus (around 100 km east of Cape Town) to De Hoop National Park, there are particularly large numbers of whales very close to the coast. This is why this section is often referred to as the Whale Coast. Hermanus is a very touristy place and offers countless hotels, guest houses, restaurants, cafés and stores. In the whale season, the town is bursting at the seams. Despite all the hustle and bustle, the whale sightings from the countless cliffs of the steep coast are breathtaking. Nowhere else in South Africa do the impressive marine mammals come so close to the coast. But Hermanus has much more to offer, so a visit outside the whale season makes perfect sense. The Hemel-En-Aarde Valley is the country's most up-and-coming wine region. The Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers beautiful walks through the fynbos vegetation with magnificent sea views. Grotto Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches in the region. Things are much quieter in the small coastal town of Arniston, which is one of the visual highlights of the area and offers two unique attractions: the traditional fishing village of Kassiesbaai and the Waenhuiskrans Cave. The white sandy beaches are endless and whale watching (seasonal) from the dunes is wonderful. Highlights of the area are the De Hoop and De Mond nature reserves. Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point in Africa with its striking lighthouse, is also nearby. But the hinterland of the Whale Coast, the Overberg district, is also interesting. If you have some time, you should use the local regional roads instead of the N2 between Swellendam and Somerset West. There are endless farms, up-and-coming wineries, cozy little villages, secluded nature reserves, mighty mountain ranges and unique curiosities such as the last hand-operated floating pontoon over the Breede River near Malgas. Little Karoo and Karoo semi-desert Much more exciting than driving along the coast on the N2 is the route via the famous Route 62, the old connecting road between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth, which exudes a Wild West atmosphere. The similarity in name to the American Route 66 is therefore not entirely coincidental. The most beautiful part of Route 62 is between Montagu and Oudtshoorn. The route is well developed and actually always empty. You won't get much faster on the busy N2, but Route 62 is significantly more beautiful. Oudtshoorn is the "ostrich capital" of South Africa and the jewel of the Little Karoo semi-desert. There are many ostrich farms here in the dry interior and, more recently, some interesting wineries. The Cango Caves, a huge stalactite cave landscape, are definitely worth a visit. Oudtshoorn itself offers plenty of restaurants and stores. The Karoo National Park is located near Beaufort West. This unique landscape is home to antelopes, mountain zebras, rhinos and around 200 different bird species. Graaff-Reinet is the heart of the Karoo. The fourth oldest town in South Africa is a living museum and architecturally more than interesting. Over 200 buildings are listed as historical monuments. The Valley Of Desolation in the nearby Camdeboo Nature Reserve is also famous for its bizarre rock formations - a paradise for hikers. The Mountain Zebra National Park near Cradock is one of the most scenic parks in the region and is home to the rare Cape mountain zebra as well as lions, buffalo and various species of antelope. Garden Route The Garden Route is certainly one of South Africa's best-known attractions. However, nobody knows exactly where it actually starts or ends and who gave it its name. In any case, you will look in vain for flowering gardens or anything similar. Nevertheless, nature has clearly left its mark on this area. Fynbos vegetation alternates with dense pristine forests, river and lake landscapes and beautiful stretches of coastline. The most beautiful part of the Garden Route lies between Wilderness and the Tsitsikamma National Park. Wilderness, with the national park of the same name, does not really live up to its name. Even at the height of summer, it is unusually green here and seldom scorching hot. The beaches are endless and mostly deserted. The national park invites you to go hiking. The flora and fauna are unique. In short: the ideal place to relax and linger. Segdefield is the big unknown on the Garden Route for tourists from overseas. South Africans tend to spend their vacations here. The large Wild Oats Farmers Market is held on Saturday mornings, where many local products from the surrounding farms and galleries are sold. The beaches are unique. The hinterland is characterized by large lake landscapes and dense forests. Knysna, on the other hand, is much busier. The tourist town is inviting with many restaurants, cafes, boutiques and stores. Boat trips to the famous lagoon and the Featherbed Nature Reserve depart from the waterfront, and in the whale season also to the open sea. Knysna is the "Oyster Capital" of South Africa, famous for its excellent oysters. Nearby Buffalo Bay is ideal for a day at the beach. The dense forests of the hinterland are ideal for hiking. Plettenberg Bay is one of the wealthiest places in the country. Many wealthy Johannesburgers have built their vacation villas on the beach here. There are great swimming opportunities at the mouth of the Keurbooms River. The river also offers good leisure activities such as fishing, canoeing and more. The Crags is home to some very interesting animal sanctuaries. In Monkeyland you can walk through the jungle with various free-roaming primates. Birds Of Eden is the largest free-flight aviary in the southern hemisphere. Tenikwa and Jukani are breeding stations for big cats. Tsitsikamma National Park and Addo Elephant Park The Tsitsikamma National Park marks the beginning of the Eastern Cape province. In the western part of the park, Nature's Valley, there are many excellent hiking trails along the secluded beaches and through the pristine forests. To best enjoy the beauty of these surroundings, you should leave the N2 and drive through the valley on the old R102. The Natures Valley is one of the highlights of the region. The eastern part of Tsitsikamma is much more touristy. There are also many hiking trails in the Storms River Restcamp. The Suspension Bridge, a large suspension bridge over the Storms River, is a popular photo motif. Boat trips can be booked on the river into the pristine forests. The Tsitsikamma National Park is the largest contiguous primeval forest in South Africa. It is home to some of the so-called Big Trees, yellowwood trees that are over 800 years old and over 40 meters high. Addo Elephant Park is the westernmost of the state national parks and is home to the "Big Five", i.e. lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard. However, the big cats are only found in small numbers. The entire Eastern Cape is malaria-free, which is particularly interesting for families with children. The park now extends to the coast, making it the only "Big Seven" national park in South Africa where you can also spot whales (seasonally) and great white sharks. There are some interesting private game reserves at Addo and further east, some of which are home to the Big Five. The accommodation prices here are expensive to very expensive, but you have a much more exclusive bush experience than in the state-run and rather overcrowded Addo. Some of the private reserves also offer day safaris at quite affordable rates. Sunshine Coast Jeffreys Bay and St. Francis Bay with its many thatched cottages are popular seaside resorts on the Sunshine Coast, which stretches from Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha) to East London. Port Elizabeth is the fifth largest city in South Africa and oscillates between busy industrial city and sunny vacation paradise. It is said to have the most hours of sunshine per year in the whole country. PE, as the locals call their city, has some good shopping opportunities and beautiful city beaches along Algoa Bay. There are also some interesting historical buildings to visit. Grahamstown is a pretty town with many old buildings from the Victorian and Georgian era. Several interesting museums can be visited here. Hogsback in the Amatola Mountains is still an absolute insider tip. The mountain world and the pristine forests are breathtaking. Hiking trails lead to various waterfalls. You feel like you've been transported to Middle-earth, which is why it was long rumored that JRR Tolkien was born here. It is now known that he was born in Bloemfontein, but this does not detract from the beauty of the area. East London marks the end point of the Sunshine Coast, which is well developed for tourism. The harbor town on the Buffalo River has an interesting old town center and some beautiful city beaches. Nearby Cintsa, the gateway to the Wild Coast, offers pure beach life. Wild Coast On the "wild coast" between East London and Durban, you can experience an authentic South Africa. The security situation is much better than you might read in some older travel guides. The people are friendly, the landscape is unique and the secluded beaches are among the most beautiful in the whole of South Africa. This is why the Wild Coast is one of the highlights of the country, even though - or perhaps because - the tourist infrastructure here is still in its infancy. There are only a few and generally very basic accommodations and the coast is usually only accessible via cul-de-sacs. For this reason, the area of the Xhosa tribe, to which Nelson Mandela also belonged, was long reserved for adventurers. Nevertheless, the main traffic arteries of the Wild Coast, the N2 and R61, are now in relatively good condition. However, they wind their way over many hills and through many villages. You should allow considerably more time for this route than for overland journeys in other areas of South Africa. Coffee Bay is one of the most beautiful places on the coast, about 80 km from the N2 and can be reached via a paved road. The bay is well sheltered, so swimming is possible without any problems even in heavy seas (caution: no shark nets). Nearby is the natural stone bridge "Hole In The Wall", an attraction in the region, which you can also hike to from Coffee Bay. By car, there is a 20 km drive on a dirt road, but this can be managed with a normal car. Port St. Johns is the largest town on the coast and can be reached via the tarred R61. The harbor town in a spectacular location on the Mzimvubu River offers unique beaches as well as some restaurants and accommodation. An insider tip is the Mkambati Nature Reserve, which is home to wildebeest, bucks, antelopes and some rare bird species. The beaches of nearby Port Grosvenor are a paradise. Both attractions can only be reached via unpaved roads, which are difficult to drive on in a normal car. Durban and surroundings Durban is the lively metropolis of the province of KwaZulu-Natal and a melting pot of cultures. A particularly large number of South Africans of Indian origin live here alongside Zulus and whites. The city center and the Golden Mile beach promenade have unfortunately left their best days behind them. You should move around with caution, especially in the evening. The uShaka Marine World on South Beach is an entertainment center with an aquarium, water slide park, restaurants and stores. Things are quieter north and south of Durban on the coast. Here, one vacation resort follows another, some of which have grown enormously in recent years. Umhlanga Rocks is a safe and popular place for vacationers. There are many restaurants, a shopping center and accommodation here. The same applies to Ballito and Umdloti. Lesotho The Kingdom of Lesotho, which is completely surrounded by South Africa, is one of the highest countries in the world and is also known as the "Roof of Africa". The parts of the country lie at an altitude of between 1400 and 2000 meters, with some mountain peaks even exceeding 3000 meters. The high plateaus are criss-crossed by river valleys and inselbergs. Lesotho is a sovereign state with its own entry requirements. The infrastructure is quite rudimentary. Only a few roads can be used by normal cars. The tourist offer is also manageable. However, those who embark on the Lesotho adventure will be rewarded with magnificent nature and plenty of unspoiled nature. In the South African winter from June to August, it can sometimes snow heavily. Lesotho therefore has the only ski area in southern Africa with cross-country ski trails, pistes, lifts and ski huts. Drakensberg Mountains The Drakensberg is an impressive mountain range along the eastern border between South Africa and Lesotho. Great nature reserves invite you to go hiking. The highlight of the southern Drakensberg is the Sani Pass, the only southern connection between the two countries. The pass can only be accessed by four-wheel drive vehicles, but there are guided day tours from Himeville and Underberg. The northern Drakensberg Mountains are much more impressive and therefore preferable for a short stay. The Royal Natal National Park with its famous amphitheater is the highlight of this region, but Cathedral Peak and Champagne Castle are also worth a visit and offer many hiking trails. A good starting point for exploring the northern Drakensberg is the small town of Bergville. Zululand The region around the small towns of St. Lucia, Hluhluwe and Mkuze offers countless highlights. Zulu culture, Big Five game reserves, secluded beaches and endless lake landscapes offer a wealth of attractions. There is a slight risk of malaria here in northern KwaZulu-Natal. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stretches from the cozy tourist town of St. Lucia to the Mozambican border. On boat trips, you can experience hippos, crocodiles and the unique birdlife at the confluence of salt and fresh water. The beaches are endless and deserted. The Eastern Shore Section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park offers a unique beach and bush experience. This unique evergreen sanctuary stretches from the small town of St. Lucia up to the unique beach of Cape Vidal and is home to hippos, elephants, rhinos, antelopes, leopards and impressive birdlife. The Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is the oldest wildlife park in South Africa and perhaps the most beautiful of all. The park is divided into the northern Hluhluwe section and the southern Imfolozi section. Thanks to the subtropical climate, it is always lush and green here, even in the dry season. The population of white and black rhino is particularly noteworthy, but you can also marvel at the rest of the Big Five here. Sodwana Bay is South Africa's diver's paradise and is easy to reach thanks to the paved road. Nevertheless, this sun-drenched gem has so far been spared mass tourism. The beaches here just before the Mozambican border are unique and even in winter it can get really hot here. The other game reserves in the region are also worth a visit, e.g. the Mkuze or Ithala Game Reserve. The Ndumo Pan in the Mkuze Game Reserve is beautiful, a unique swamp and lake landscape with an abundance of birds. However, there is much less big game here. For a shorter stay, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park are preferable. In Zululand, you can also visit some reconstructed traditional Zulu villages, so-called kraals. However, these are mostly nothing more than fairground events. Eswatini The Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) borders South Africa and Mozambique and offers an authentic African experience. To continue your journey between Zululand and the Kruger Park, you can also take the N2 south around Eswatini, but crossing the country offers an interesting facet to a trip to South Africa. The kingdom is a sovereign state with its own entry requirements. The center of the small country is the Ezulwini Valley with the two towns of Mbabane and Manzini. The valley offers many hiking and other activities. It is also home to the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to antelopes, zebras, giraffes, crocodiles and hippos. The locals are gifted artisans and souvenirs are usually cheaper here than in South Africa. While the mountainous part in the south-west of the country is considered malaria-free, the north-eastern lowlands bordering Mozambique have a slight risk of malaria. Kruger Park and Panorama Route One of the largest and most famous national parks in South Africa is, of course, Kruger Park. It lies on the borders with Mozambique and Zimbabwe and covers an area roughly the size of the Netherlands. For a short stay, the southern part of the park is preferable due to its abundance of animals. There are paved and unpaved roads for self-drivers. However, everyone should take at least one guided game drive in an open off-road vehicle with a local ranger - a first-class safari experience. The best time of year for safaris is the South African winter between May and October, as this is the dry season. The grass is low, the trees have few leaves and the animals are forced to come to the waterholes to drink. Ideal observation opportunities. During the day it is pleasantly warm at 20°C to 25°C and almost always sunny. During this time, the risk of malaria is low. In the period from November to March it rains more often (mostly at night) and it is very warm to hot. The risk of malaria is higher during this time. The Panorama Route leads through the most beautiful sections of the northern foothills of the Drakensberg and is one of the visual highlights of any visit to South Africa. The area around the Blyde River Canyon offers breathtaking views, countless waterfalls, bizarre rock formations and historic sites such as the former gold mining town of Pilgrim's Rest. Highlights such as God's Window, the Three Rondavels, Long Tom Pass, the Mac Mac Pools and no less than the end of the world (World's End) are very close to each other and can be admired on a round trip. Small towns such as Sabie or Hazyview invite you to linger. In the higher part of the Panorama Route (Highveld), where most of the sights are located, there is no risk of malaria. Other game reserves and national parks in the northeast On the western border of the Kruger Park are the so-called Private Game Reserves. In contrast to the state-run Kruger Park, only overnight guests have access here. You stay in luxurious lodges and experience the beautiful flora and fauna on guided game drives under expert guidance. In good weather, dinner is served in the open air around a campfire. The best known (and most expensive) private reserve in the Kruger Park is Sabi Sand, but there are also some cheaper alternatives of similar quality. Most reserves have the Big Five. The risk of malaria is similar to Kruger Park. Other interesting game reserves and national parks in the north-east can be found in the region around the Waterberge in the province of Limpopo. The best known are the state-owned Marakele National Park and the private reserves Welgevonden and Entabeni. The Pilanesberg National Park on the site of a former volcanic crater is very beautiful and only about an hour and a half's drive from Johannesburg. The Madikwe Game Reserve is located on the border with Botswana. All of these reserves and national parks are home to the Big Five, are malaria-free and therefore ideal for families. Johannesburg, Pretoria and Soweto Johannesburg is the country's business center and is usually the start or end point of a trip to South Africa for tourists. Unfortunately, the security situation in the city center and some suburbs is still not ideal, but there are some bright spots, such as the up-and-coming artists' district of Maboneng. The best way to experience the sights of the "City Of Gold" is on a guided tour. The northern suburbs around Rosebank and Sandton are quite quiet with many restaurants and shopping centers. There are several theme and amusement parks, such as Gold Reef City, a former gold mine with a funfair attached. Pretoria (Tshwane) is the capital of the country and is steeped in history. There are some interesting buildings and monuments to visit here, for example the Union Buildings, Church Square or the Voortrekker Monument. There are also some good museums to visit. A highlight of the city is the Jakaranda blossom in October, when entire streets are transformed into purple flowering avenues. About an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria are the Sterkfontein Caves, known as the Cradle of Humankind. Fossils of the oldest human species that lived over two million years ago were discovered in this UNESCO World Heritage Site. They are among the oldest hominin finds in the world. Soweto is the largest township in South Africa with over one million inhabitants. Even though there are now some up-and-coming and more affluent districts here, corrugated iron huts without electricity or running water still predominate. Culturally, Soweto is very much on the up. There are pubs, restaurants and nightclubs, and even some hotels and guesthouses have now opened here. However, tourists should only visit Soweto in the company of locals who know the area or on a guided tour. Then, however, a visit to the township is a real cultural experience. Northern Cape The Northern Cape on the border with Namibia and Botswana is South Africa's largest province in terms of area and part of the vast Kalahari Desert ecosystem. The region's best-known national park is the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, which was created by merging the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park in South Africa and the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana. The protected area, which is twice the size of Kruger Park, is very pristine and should only be explored with a four-wheel drive vehicle. Kgalagadi means "land of thirst". The sparse flora and fauna have adapted to the prevailing conditions. In addition to smaller mammals, it is mainly big cats such as lions, leopards or the rare African wild cats and antelopes such as elands and oryxes that can be observed. The Augrabies Falls National Park, where the Orange River cascades over a width of 135 meters, is more easily accessible. In addition to a number of big cats and antelope species, the park is also home to giraffes and zebras. Another attraction is Moon Rock, a massive and impressive rock formation. With a length of almost 2200 km, the mighty Orange River is the second longest river in southern Africa and transforms parts of the otherwise dry surroundings into a green paradise, so that even wine-growing is possible in Upington, for example. The Namaqualand around the small town of Springbok is transformed into an endless sea of colorful flowers during the Wild Flower Season in the South African spring from August to September. For this travel time, the few accommodations should be booked as early as possible. West Coast About 300 km north of Cape Town lie the Cederberg Mountains, an area that is still relatively undeveloped for tourism. This natural paradise was named after an endemic species of cedar tree, which is now very rare. The small town of Clanwilliam is a good base from which to explore the region. However, there are also some remote luxury lodges in the middle of endless nature. The center is the Cederberg Wilderness Area with an area of over 70,000 hectares, a gem for hikers with a thirst for adventure. In the South African summer it is very hot, in winter snow can fall on the mountains, which are up to 2000m high. Incidentally, the famous rooibos tea, which only grows here, comes from the Cederberg. The almost northern European-looking west coast offers some interesting fishing villages, which have so far only played a role for the locals in terms of tourism. Good food, with lots of seafood of course, is the main attraction here, along with all kinds of water sports. Small and interesting places are Lamberts Bay, Elands Bay and Yzerfontein, while Langebaan and Paternoster are somewhat busier. The latter is the gourmet stronghold of this coastal region; the Wolfgat Restaurant, which seats just 20 people, was named the best restaurant in the world in 2019. One highlight is the easily accessible West Coast National Park, located around an hour and a half's drive northwest of Cape Town, which is one of the largest protected areas on South Africa's coasts with an area of over 30,000 hectares. White sandy beaches, crystal blue sea and lush fynbos vegetation are the visual eye-catcher, enhanced by the wildflower bloom in the months of August to September. In the South African winter months from June to November, whales are drawn to the shallow lagoons. Mammals such as various antelope species and zebras as well as impressive birdlife can also be observed. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

GENOCIDE IN SOUTH AFRICA South African farm attacks From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia South African farm attacks (Afrikaans : plaasaanvalle) are violent crimes, including murder, assault and robbery, that take place on farms in South Africa . The attacks target both white and black farmers. The term has no formal legal definition, but such attacks have been the subject of discussion by media and public figures in South Africa and abroad. Unsubstantiated claims that such attacks on farmers disproportionately target whites are a key element of the white genocide conspiracy theory and have become a common talking point among white nationalists worldwide. However, there are no reliable figures that suggest that white farmers are being targeted in particular or that they are at a disproportionate risk of being killed. The Government of South Africa and other analysts say that farm attacks are part of a broader crime problem in South Africa and do not have a racial motivation Terminology and definition South African statutory law does not define a "farm attack" as a specific crime. Rather, the term is used to refer to a number of different crimes committed against persons specifically on commercial farms or smallholdings . According to the South African Police Service (SAPS) National Operational Co-ordinating Committee: Attacks on farms and smallholdings refer to acts aimed on the persons of residents, workers and visitors to farms and smallholdings, whether with the intent to murder, rape, rob or inflict bodily harm. In addition, all actions aimed at disrupting farming activities as a commercial concern, whether for motives related to ideology, labour disputes, land issues, revenge, grievances or intimidation, This definition excludes "social fabric crimes", that is those crimes committed by members of the farming community on one another, such as domestic or workplace violence, and focuses on outsiders entering the farms to commit specific criminal acts. Dina Pule , the safety and security Member of the Executive Council (MEC) for Mpumalanga Province , has disagreed with this definition and has said that "farm attacks" included only those cases "where farm residents were murdered and not cases of robberies or attempted murders". Human Rights Watch has criticised the use of the term "farm attacks", which they regard as "suggesting a terrorist or military purpose", which they do not believe is the primary motivation for most farm attacks. Findings The phenomenon, and the extent to which it is politicised, has been the focus of a number of investigations. The 2003 Report Of The Special Committee Of Inquiry Into Farm Attacks by the SAPS found that most incidents were driven by a desire for material gain and that "very few cases have political overtones." There is insufficient data to reliably estimate a murder rate for South African farmers.South African government data indicated between 58 and 74 murders on farms annually in the period 2015–2017; out of an annual murder count of 20,000 total murders in South Africa; these figures are broadly consistent with figures collected by the Transvaal Agricultural Union (TAU), a farmers' union.Due to the problems associated with counting the number of South African farmers and farm murders, it is unclear whether farmers are at greater risk of being murdered than other South Africans. Data released by the South African government in 2018 showed that the number of farm attacks had increased between 2012 and 2018, but that the number of murders on farms had decreased year by year during the period. During the same year farming organisation AgriSA reported on police statistics which suggested that the murder rate on farms had declined to the lowest level in 20 years, to a third of the level recorded in 1998. AfriForum has questioned the accuracy of police statistics. Motives Further information: Crime in South Africa According to the South African government, the chief motive for attacks is robbery.A Committee of Inquiry into Farm Attacks was appointed in 2001 by the National Commissioner of Police. The purpose of the committee was to "inquire into the ongoing spate of attacks on farms, which include violent criminal acts such as murder, robbery, rape, to determine the motives and factors behind these attacks and to make recommendations on their findings". Monetary theft occurred in most of the attacks firearms were stolen in 23.0%, and 16.0% of farm attacks involved vehicular theft The committee noted that "there is a common misconception that in a large proportion of farm attacks little is stolen"and "various items are stolen by far in the majority of cases and, in those cases where nothing is taken, there is almost always a logical explanation, such as that the attackers had to leave quickly because help arrived." The Natives' Land Act , adopted in 1913, restricted black South Africans' ownership of land and the right to legally rent land to around 10% of South Africa. The modern discontent among black South Africans has caused populists to call for a confiscation of white-owned farms in the north.The EFF political party, founded by Julius Malema, demands redistribution of the land and wealth, alongside pressure for land expropriation without compensation.As of March 2011, 31 million hectares or 25% of the 122 million hectares surface area of South Africa were in the hands of the State. The remaining 91 million hectares or 75% of the surface area was privately owned.Proponents of the theory that farm attacks disproportionately target whites point to racial hostility as a result of this situation as a motive for the attacks. Johan Burger, a senior researcher at the Institute for Security Studies (ISS), has said that attacks were typically motivated not by race but by greed. The South African Police Service (SAPS) declared in 1998 that there had been no evidence at the time of systematic organised attacks, although the matter was being looked into by special investigators resulting in the Report Of The Special Committee Of Inquiry Into Farm Attacks (2003). Statistics Recorded farm attacks (4,308) and farm murders (806) from 2010 to the end of August 2023 The SAPS stopped releasing homicide statistics on farm murders in 2007 instead merging them with all homicide figures, this has increased the difficulty of accessing reliable statistics on the phenomenon with most studies since relying on data from the Transvaal Agricultural Union of South Africa (TAUSA) instead. Johan Burger of the Institute for Security Studies has stated that statistics provided by the TAUSA significantly under reports the number of violent attacks on farmers as they are not informed of incidents on smallholdings. Attacks on smallholdings account for up to 40% of violent incidents classified as 'farm attacks.' This, Burger argues, indicates that statistics on farm attacks since 2007 likely under report the phenomenon. In 2003 the Freedom Front political party stated that farmers were "being murdered at a rate of 274 per 100,000" whilst the national murder rate was 61 per 100,000 people. The Freedom Front also alleged that Afrikaners specifically were being singled out for attacks. According to media reports, as of December 2011, approximately 3,158–3,811 South African farmers have been killed in these attacks.Self-reported data from the TAUSA state that 1,544 people were killed in farm attacks from 1990 to 2012. In 2012, Reuters reported that the number of farmers of European descent had decreased by one third since 1997, and that news headlines about farm killings provided incentive for them to sell their properties. A 2012 report by the South African Institute of Race Relations estimated that farmers were between 2 and 3 times more likely to become victims of homicides than other members of society. In January 2019, AfriForum stated that the number of murders on farms had decreased between 2017 and 2018, which it attributed to improved self-defence by farmers. AfriForum reported a doubling in the number of attacks in the Western Cape for the first half of the 2019, to 16 attacks over the period, relative to the same period in 2018, although this change took place against a backdrop of an increased crime rate in the Western Cape. According to South African police statistics, there were 21,325 murder victims in 2019 of which 49 were white farmers. During the South Africa's hard lockdown early in the COVID-19 pandemic , crime, including rural crime, decreased. The opposition Democratic Alliance (DA) political party claimed that they increased once the lockdown restrictions were lifted.[49] Agriculture organisations the TAUSA, and Free State Agriculture stated that attacks and murders had increased over the full year in 2020. Criticism of response Gideon Meiring, chairperson of the TAUSA's safety and security committee, criticised the South African Police Service for failing to prevent farm attacks, stating that the police "are not part of the solution but part of the bloody problem". Meiring has assisted farming communities in setting up private armed patrols in their area. Kallie Kriel of AfriForum accused politicians, including Agriculture Minister Lulu Xingwana and her deputy Dirk du Toit , of inciting hatred against farmers, saying "Those who inflame hate and aggression towards farmers have to be regarded as accomplices to the murders of farmers." In particular, Kriel condemned claims that violence against farm workers by farmers was endemic. Johan Burger of the Institute for Security Studies has said that the government's dismantling of the commando system had created a vacuum which the current rural safety plan was not addressing adequately. Defence Minister Mosiuoa Lekota said that the military commando personnel were "unwilling to serve a black government and were hostile to democracy in South Africa", adding that "former commando members were politically indoctrinated and supplied with weapons and training to spy on blacks in their areas, making this military structure wholly unsuited to the new South Africa." While Human Rights Watch has described a general trend of escalation in "farm attacks" since 1994, and noted a lack of government response to them, its 2001 study found that the failures of the government response disproportionately affected black farm residents. "In practice, however, the plan has significantly increased insecurity for black residents of and visitors to commercial farming areas, as they have become the targets of sometimes indiscriminate "anti-crime" initiatives ... In addition, the rural protection plan has largely failed to respond to crime committed against black farm residents, in particular crime committed by white farm owners." Prevention While the police are supposed to regularly visit commercial farms to ensure security, they say they cannot provide effective protection due to the wide areas that need to be covered and a lack of funding. 'Farmwatch' groups have been formed with the intention of filling this protection gap. These groups use radio to coordinate mutual assistance between farmers, local Commando volunteers , and private security companies . The particular mix of groups that operate has varied by area, with wealthier farmers being more likely to employ private security firms. The police and these groups are linked together as part of the Rural Protection Plan, created in 1997 by President Nelson Mandela .[40] Some white farmers have undertaken self-defence training, with some farmers trained by an Israeli special forces veteran. In 2003 the government began disbanding commando units, saying they had been "part of the apartheid state's security apparatus".[56] A 2013 study from the University of the Free State concluded that this disbanding compromised rural security, as police have prioritised South Africa's urban crime problems. Protest action The Witkruis Monument outside Polokwane , a series of crosses erected in memory of murdered South African farmers[58] A spike in violent attacks on farmers in February 2017 led to one of the country's largest prayer meetings being held on 22–23 April 2017 in Bloemfontein , attracting over 1,000,000 participants. Following the murder of Klapmuts farmer Joubert Conradie in October 2017, a protest convoy was organised on 30 October 2017. Known as #BlackMonday the convoy ran from Stellenbosch to Cape Town and attracted an estimated 10,000 protesters.The protest convoy was criticised by the South African Police Service for disrupting traffic. The protest convoy was also criticised by the ANC and the EFF for the display by some protesters of the old South African flag and alleged that the protesters were only concerned about the death of white farmers and did not include black members of the farming community. These photos were later confirmed to have been used out of context and inappropriately linked to the protests by Nickolaus Bauer, a reporter from eNCA . The eNCA released an official apology regarding the untruthful reporting. The Nelson Mandela Foundation also criticised the event for being polarising, describing the protesters' "expressions of 'us' and 'them'" as "worrisome". In October 2020, protesters stormed Senekal Magistrates Court, where two suspects were being held for the murder of farm manager Brendin Horner . A police vehicle was also overturned and set on fire. One man was arrested for setting the vehicle ablaze. There is a wall of remembrance outside the town of Bothaville dedicated to farmers who lost their lives during farm attacks. Reactions Following a spate of attacks in the Western Cape in late 2018, the Western Cape branch of the African National Congress (ANC) issued a condemnation of all farm attacks and called on the police to increase efforts to catch perpetrators and prevent attacks. The FF+ has continuously campaigned against farm attacks in South Africa. International reactions The Suidlanders , a survivalist Afrikaner group preparing for a race war predicted by Boer "prophet" Siener van Rensburg has taken credit for publicising the issue internationally after undertaking a tour of the United States in 2017. Australia After an Australian journalist was given a guided tour of South Africa by Afriforum, stories about attacks on white farmers appeared in News Corp Australia newspapers claiming that white South Africans were "trapped like frogs in boiling water" and that the South African government was "notoriously corrupt" and "potentially complicit" in the attacks and stating that the farmers were being "persecuted" because of their race. In March 2018, Australia 's Minister for Home Affairs , Peter Dutton , proposed fast-tracking white South African farmers as refugees , stating that "they need help from a civilised country", amid pressure by the South African Australian community for a special immigration intake for their family members. Far-right marchers from the Australian Liberty Alliance in Perth carried signs exhorting the Australian government to "let the right ones [white South Africans] in",and MPs Andrew Hastie and Ian Goodenough headlined a rally in Perth, which was also attended by far-right extremist Neil Erikson ,while senator Fraser Anning and MP Andrew Laming appeared at a Brisbane rally that was also attended by members of the far-right group, the Proud Boys . Dutton's proposal reportedly got support from some of his party's backbenchers and Liberal Democrat Senator David Leyonhjelm ; however, Leyonhjelm later clarified that he thought that South African farmers could be admitted under existing family reunification and skilled visa programmes, and that he did not believe that they qualified as refugees. The Australian High Commissioner was subjected to a démarche by the South African Department of International Relations & Co-operation , which expressed offence at Dutton's statements, and demanded a retraction, stating that "there is no reason for any government in the world to suspect that a section of South Africans is under danger from their own democratically elected government". Afrikaner groups including AfriForum and the Suidlanders, who took credit for Dutton's offer, rejected the idea of Afrikaners becoming refugees. Australia's ruling Coalition MPs subsequently stated that white farmers were entitled to apply for humanitarian visas, without necessarily meeting the definition of "refugees", describing the situation as difficult and unique but without calling for a special category of visa to be created. The Australian government effectively retracted Dutton's offer by responding to the démarche with a letter that "satisfied" the South African foreign ministry,[ with the South African government officially welcoming the letter and stating again that "...no one is being persecuted in South Africa, inclu Australian government was looking at "several" individual cases that may qualify for humanitarian visas, stating that his critics were "dead to me". In April 2018, it emerged that Dutton's department had previously blocked asylum applications by a white farmer, and another white South African woman on the basis that "the vast majority of crimes against whites are not racially motivated", and on the basis that there was no evidence of racial persecution, with the decisions upheld by the Administrative Appeals Tribunal . AfriForum toured Australia in October 2018 to "raise awareness" of farm attacks, appearing on Sky News Australia program Outsiders , where a member was interviewed by Ross Cameron and Rowan Dean, and they met Andrew Hastie and delivered a presentation before the Parliament of Western Australia . United States In August 2018, Fox News host Tucker Carlson commented that the South African government had disproportionately targeted white farmers during its ongoing land reform efforts due to anti-white racism. He also criticised political "elites", who are purportedly concerned about racism, but "paying no attention" to the "racist government of South Africa". However, BBC News , CBS News , Associated Press , PolitiFact , The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal described Carlson's segment as false or misleading.[7] [8] [9] [15] [16] [105] [106] President Ramaphosa had proposed a constitutional amendment that would allow some land to be expropriated without compensation; however, that amendment had not yet been voted upon as of August 2018. Following Carlson's segment, President Donald Trump instructed Secretary of State Mike Pompeo to study the South Africa land and farm seizures and expropriations and the large scale killing of farmers closely, tweeting: "South African Government is now seizing land from white farmers". Trump's tweet was denounced as "misinformed" by the South African government, which stated that it would address the matter through diplomatic channels.[15] Political officers of the American embassy in South Africa investigated the claims, consulting farmers, police, and academics for further information. In a cable sent to the State Department, they concluded that there was "no evidence that murders on farms specifically target white people or are politically motivated" and that "[s]ome journalists and lobby groups have simplified complex land disputes to serve their own ends". AfriForum took credit for Carlson and Trump's statements, stating that it believed that its campaign to influence American politics had succeeded. In 2018, Afriforum leaders also embarked on a tour of the US to "raise awareness" about farm attacks in South Africa and land expropriation. White genocide conspiracy theory Further information: White genocide conspiracy theory The claim of a white genocide in South Africa has been promoted by right-wing groups in South Africa and the United States and is a frequent talking point among white nationalists. There are no reliable figures that suggest that white farmers are at greater risk of being killed than the average South African. Some Black South Africans have sought to seize privately owned land which they have made claims to; however, South African police have stopped such attempts at appropriating land. Fact checkers have widely identified the notion of a white genocide in South Africa as a falsehood or myth. The government of South Africa and other analysts maintain that farm attacks are part of a broader crime problem in South Africa , and do not have a racial motivation. The Afrikaner rights group AfriForum claim that some attacks are racially motivated. Racist vitriol is an element in some of the murders of white farmers. According to genocide studies and prevention professor Gregory Stanton , "early warnings of genocide are still deep in South African society, though genocide has not begun". GENOCIDE OF SOUTH AFRICA How did genocide become a crime and why is South Africa accusing Israel of committing it? THE HAGUE, Netherlands (AP) — In the aftermath of World War II and the murder by Nazi Germany of 6 million Jews in the Holocaust , the world united around a now-familiar pledge: Never again. A key part of that lofty aspiration was the drafting of a convention that codified and committed nations to prevent and punish a new crime, sometimes called the crime of crimes: genocide. The convention was drawn up in 1948, the year of Israel’s creation as a Jewish state. Now that country is being accused at the United Nations’ highest court of committing the very crime so deeply woven into its national identity. The reason the genocide convention exists “is related directly to what the (Nazi) Third Reich attempted to do in eliminating a people, the Jewish people, not only of Germany, but of Eastern Europe, of Russia,” said Mary Ellen O’Connell, a professor of law and international peace studies at Notre Dame University’s Kroc Institute. Now, in response to Israel’s devastating military offensive in Gaza that was triggered by murders and atrocities perpetrated by Hamas militants on Oct. 7, South Africa has gone to the International Court of Justice and accused Israel of genocide. Israel rejects the claim and accuses Pretoria of providing political cover for Hamas . South Africa also asked the 17-judge panel to make nine urgent orders known as provisional measures. They are aimed at protecting civilians in Gaza while the court considers the legal arguments of both sides. First and foremost is for the court to order Israel to “immediately suspend its military operations in and against Gaza .” On Friday , the court’s American president, U.S. judge Joan E. Donoghue, will read out its decision at a public hearing. Here is more information about the crime of genocide and other cases in the past. What is genocide? The 1948 Convention on the Prevention and Punishment of the Crime of Genocide, defines the crime as acts “committed with intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group, as such.” It lists the acts as killing; causing serious bodily or mental harm; deliberately inflicting conditions of life calculated to bring about the group’s physical destruction in whole or in part; imposing measures intended to prevent births; and forcibly transferring children. The text is repeated in the Rome Statute, the founding treaty of the International Criminal Court, as one of the crimes under its jurisdiction, along with war crimes, crimes against humanity and the crime of aggression. The ICC prosecutes individuals and is separate to the International Court of Justice, which rules in disputes between nations. WATCH: Experts give 2 perspectives on accusations Israel is committing genocide in Gaza In its written filings and at a public hearing earlier this month, South Africa alleged genocidal acts by Israel forces including killing Palestinians in Gaza, causing serious mental and bodily harm, and deliberately inflicting conditions meant to “bring about their physical destruction as a group.” Israel has vehemently taken issue with South Africa’s claims, arguing that it is acting in self-defense against what it calls the genocidal threat to its existence posed by Hamas. How do you prove genocide? As well as establishing one or more of the underlying crimes listed in the convention, the key element of genocide is intent — the intent to destroy, in whole or in part, a national, ethnical, racial or religious group. It’s tough to prove. “The most important thing is that whatever happens is done with the specific intent to destroy a group, so there’s no plausible alternative reason why those crimes have been committed,” said Marieke de Hoon, an associate professor of international law at the University of Amsterdam. READ MORE: Nelson Mandela’s support for Palestinians endures with South Africa’s genocide case against Israel Said O’Connell: “Can you show that the widespread killing of these people was intended by the government? Or … was the government waging a war and during that war large numbers of this particular group died, but that was not the intent of the government?” At public hearings earlier this month and in its detailed written submission to the ICJ, South Africa cited comments by Israeli officials that it claimed demonstrate intent. Malcolm Shaw, an international law expert on Israel’s legal team, called the comments South Africa highlighted “random quotes not in conformity with government policy.” Has the ICJ ever ruled before on genocide? In 2007, the court ruled that Serbia “violated the obligation to prevent genocide” in the 1995 Srebrenica massacre, when Bosnian Serb forces rounded up and murdered some 8,000 mostly Muslim men and boys in the Bosnian region. Two other genocide cases are currently on the court’s docket. Ukraine filed a case shortly after Russia’s invasion nearly two years ago that accuses Moscow of launching the military operation based on trumped-up claims of genocide and that Russia was planning acts of genocide in Ukraine. In that case, the court ordered Russia to halt its invasion, an order that Russia flouted. Another case involves Gambia , on behalf of Muslim nations, accusing Myanmar of genocide against the Rohingya Muslim minority . Gambia filed the case on behalf of the Organization of Islamic Cooperation. Both Gambia and South Africa have filed ICJ cases in conflicts they are not directly involved in. That’s because the genocide convention includes a clause that allows individual states — even uninvolved ones — to call on the United Nations to take action to prevent or suppress acts of genocide. Have other international courts prosecuted genocide? Two now defunct U.N. tribunals — for the former Yugoslavia and Rwanda — both dealt with genocide, among other crimes. The Yugoslav court convicted defendants including former Bosnian Serb leader Radovan Karadzic and his military chief Gen. Ratko Mladic on genocide charges for their involvement in the Srebrenica massacre. The Rwanda tribunal , headquartered in Arusha, Tanzania, was the first international court to hand down a genocide conviction when it found Jean Paul Akayesu guilty of genocide and other crimes and sentenced him to life imprisonment in 1998. He was convicted for his role in Rwanda’s 1994 genocide, when militants from the Hutu majority slaughtered some 800,000 people, mostly minority Tutsis. The tribunal convicted 62 defendants for their roles in the genocide. WATCH: Military experts discuss Israel’s use of unguided bombs and harm to civilians in Gaza The International Criminal Court has charged ousted Sudanese leader Omar al-Bashir with genocide in the Darfur region . He has not been handed to the court to stand trial. Al-Bashir’s government responded to a 2003 insurgency with a campaign of aerial bombings and unleashed militias known as Janjaweed, who are accused of mass killings and rapes. Up to 300,000 people were killed and 2.7 million were driven from their homes. A hybrid domestic and international court in Cambodia convicted three men members of the Khmer Rouge whose brutal 1970s rule caused the deaths of an estimated 1.7 million people. Two of them were found guilty of genocide. South African Farm Murders Pass 3,000; ‘Kill The Boer, Kill The Farmer’ Incites Genocide http://www.rightpundits.com/?p=5938 on 21.06.2010 um 18:45 Since the end of apartheid in 1994 there have been over 3,000 white South African farmers murdered in what some are calling genocide. “Kill the boer, kill the farmer” is a popular slogan/song which was made popular by ANC member of Parliament Peter Mokaba who died in 2002. At his funeral the slogan was chanted, in the days that followed six farms were attacked leaving death behind. A 57 year old farmer named Pieter Cillier was gunned down in front of his children bringing the South African farm murders back into the proverbial light; although you won’t hear much about it on the evening news or in the newspapers. Is this a matter of selective reporting? Some of the tactics being employed against white South African farmers are due to the revolutionary speeches of a man named Julius Malema. He is the president of the African National Congress Youth League (ANCYL) and feels that the ANC isn’t doing enough to deliver on promises of the country’s liberation struggles. Malema just last week used the slogan “kill the boer, kill the farmer” while speaking to a group of students at Johannesburg University. Malema recently made a trip to Zimbabwe to discuss and share “youth empowerment and revolutionary tactics.” Sound familiar? Imagine the outcry if whites in South Africa were targeting black farmers for annihilation. There would be 24/7 coverage of each and every killing. Imagine if whites in any country chanted a slogan or sang a song which advocated the killing of anyone or anything. With all of the hand ringing here about hate speech and violent acts, maybe we should take a hard look at the white South African farm murders to get a good idea of exactly what real hate speech and violence is. Unfortunately the politically correct media (world and national) refuse to adequately cover what’s going on in South Africa. “Kill the boer, kill the farmer” started as a rallying cry, it’s now precipitating genocide as an apathetic world community watches. Farm Murder, Anti-Apartheid Song Stoke Racial Tensions in South Africa http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/africa/Farm-Murder-Anti-Apartheid-Song-Stoke-Racial-Tensions-in-South-Africa-91714504.html on 21.06.2010 um 18:44 In South Africa, racial tensions have been heightened in some sectors of society following the murder of white supremacist leader Eugene Terre'Blanche. Two black farm workers have been charged with his murder, but Terre'Blanche's supporters blame the killing on what they say is hate speech by the youth leader of the ruling African National Congress. The killing of the leader of the Afrikaner Resistance Movement (AWB), Eugene Terre'Blanche, drew thousands of sympathizers from across South Africa to his funeral in this conservative farm community in Northwest Province, west of Johannesburg. Two black farm workers were charged with murder amidst a tense faceoff between whites and blacks outside the town courthouse. Most white South Africans reject Terre'Blanche's extreme right-wing views. But his death brought a show of support for white farmers, who say 3,000 of their group have been killed since the end of apartheid 16 years ago. Academic studies say most farm murders are criminally motivated. But Terre'Blanche's supporters like Kurt Helfer say they are meant to drive white farmers from their land, and they accuse the black-led government of doing nothing to stop them. "We will have to stand together as one nation, especially all the whites, as it looks like all of our lives are in danger. So we will definitely have to do something," said Helfer. Some blame Terre'Blanche's murder on the youth leader of the ruling African National Congress, Julius Malema, who recently revived an anti-apartheid song with the refrain, "Shoot the Boer," or white farmer. ANC senior leaders have told Malema to drop the song. Emotions were also high in the nearby township, Tshing, where black farm workers were airing their grievances before trade-union leaders. The workers complain that some white farmers pay them a fraction of the minimum wage, make them work seven days a week, beat them or do not pay them at all. And they say the government and unions do nothing about it. Local resident Pule Plaatjie says relations between the races have improved since the end of apartheid, but Terre'Blanche's group has remained racist. "The relationship between blacks and whites it has been changed. There [are] many differences. But really here in Ventersdorp, people, like those who are in the AWB, they do not want to change," noted Plaatjie. A young leader from the Communist Party, Themba Mbatha, says relations between blacks and whites are better in some ways. "To a certain degree we have mended our relations," said Mbatha. "It is easier now to relate with some of the white people. But at same time it is worse because what happened is that apartheid only died institutionally, in terms of being implemented by government." Kerwin Lebone of Johannesburg's Institute of Race Relations says centuries of racial conflict could not fade away in the mere 16 years since the end of apartheid. "Nothing can be worse than what was in the past in [before] 1994. They are certainly better. And a lot of things are improving. It is just that it is our society that has come from such a history of racial hatred that each and every little incident will always be highlighted and blown out of proportion," explained Lebone. The frictions go beyond rural communities. In the cities, well-off whites and blacks bunker behind walls fearing criminals in a society with one of the widest gaps between rich and poor in the world. More than half of young blacks are unemployed. Yet, young Afrikaners say they cannot find jobs because equal opportunity policies favor the hiring of blacks. Lebone says much of the tension is due to poverty and rising anger over the lack of improvement in living conditions for most South Africans. But he says most South Africans do not want conflict. "There will never be another race war in South Africa," added Lebone. "I think people have learned from the past and we respect each other enough [too much] to go back to the horror of the past." He concludes that despite the legacy of racial hatred in the country, most South Africans want to live together in peace. Farm Murder, Anti-Apartheid Song Stoke Racial Tensions in South Africa http://www1.voanews.com/english/news/africa/Farm-Murder-Anti-Apartheid-Song-Stoke-Racial-Tensions-in-South-Africa-91714504.html on 21.06.2010 um 18:43 In South Africa, racial tensions have been heightened in some sectors of society following the murder of white supremacist leader Eugene Terre'Blanche. Two black farm workers have been charged with his murder, but Terre'Blanche's supporters blame the killing on what they say is hate speech by the youth leader of the ruling African National Congress. The killing of the leader of the Afrikaner Resistance Movement (AWB), Eugene Terre'Blanche, drew thousands of sympathizers from across South Africa to his funeral in this conservative farm community in Northwest Province, west of Johannesburg. Two black farm workers were charged with murder amidst a tense faceoff between whites and blacks outside the town courthouse. Most white South Africans reject Terre'Blanche's extreme right-wing views. But his death brought a show of support for white farmers, who say 3,000 of their group have been killed since the end of apartheid 16 years ago. Academic studies say most farm murders are criminally motivated. But Terre'Blanche's supporters like Kurt Helfer say they are meant to drive white farmers from their land, and they accuse the black-led government of doing nothing to stop them. "We will have to stand together as one nation, especially all the whites, as it looks like all of our lives are in danger. So we will definitely have to do something," said Helfer. Some blame Terre'Blanche's murder on the youth leader of the ruling African National Congress, Julius Malema, who recently revived an anti-apartheid song with the refrain, "Shoot the Boer," or white farmer. ANC senior leaders have told Malema to drop the song. Emotions were also high in the nearby township, Tshing, where black farm workers were airing their grievances before trade-union leaders. The workers complain that some white farmers pay them a fraction of the minimum wage, make them work seven days a week, beat them or do not pay them at all. And they say the government and unions do nothing about it. Local resident Pule Plaatjie says relations between the races have improved since the end of apartheid, but Terre'Blanche's group has remained racist. "The relationship between blacks and whites it has been changed. There [are] many differences. But really here in Ventersdorp, people, like those who are in the AWB, they do not want to change," noted Plaatjie. A young leader from the Communist Party, Themba Mbatha, says relations between blacks and whites are better in some ways. "To a certain degree we have mended our relations," said Mbatha. "It is easier now to relate with some of the white people. But at same time it is worse because what happened is that apartheid only died institutionally, in terms of being implemented by government." Kerwin Lebone of Johannesburg's Institute of Race Relations says centuries of racial conflict could not fade away in the mere 16 years since the end of apartheid. "Nothing can be worse than what was in the past in [before] 1994. They are certainly better. And a lot of things are improving. It is just that it is our society that has come from such a history of racial hatred that each and every little incident will always be highlighted and blown out of proportion," explained Lebone. The frictions go beyond rural communities. In the cities, well-off whites and blacks bunker behind walls fearing criminals in a society with one of the widest gaps between rich and poor in the world. More than half of young blacks are unemployed. Yet, young Afrikaners say they cannot find jobs because equal opportunity policies favor the hiring of blacks. Lebone says much of the tension is due to poverty and rising anger over the lack of improvement in living conditions for most South Africans. But he says most South Africans do not want conflict. "There will never be another race war in South Africa," added Lebone. "I think people have learned from the past and we respect each other enough [too much] to go back to the horror of the past." He concludes that despite the legacy of racial hatred in the country, most South Africans want to live together in peace. Farm murder: Two in court http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Farm-murder-Two-in-court-20100331 on 21.06.2010 um 18:39 Johannesburg - Two men have appeared in the Modimolle Magistrate's Court for the attack on and killing of a farmer early this month, Limpopo police said. Albert van Deventer, 63, was accosted by three men who shot him in the head while he was busy in the garden on March 13 at Langewater, said Ronel Otto in a statement. Steven Sibeko, 28, and Frans Monyamane, 32, were arrested on Monday in Mamelodi and appeared in court on Tuesday. They are facing charges of armed robbery and murder. They were remanded in custody and would be back in court on April 8. Otto said the provincial Hawks had managed to arrest 14 people for different farm attacks and killings in the province since December 2009. All the cases were still pending. Deputy Provincial Commissioner Dibero Molatjana, in charge of the Hawks in the province, congratulated the policemen for the arrests. "These members worked long and tiring hours, often sacrificing time with their families to track down the suspects," she said S.Africa: 2 White Women shot dead in 2 Hjackings - One was a former Journalist http://www.africancrisis.co.za on 21.06.2010 um 18:32 This is hideous - they just shoot the women in their cars. The terrorism and callousness of our criminals no know bounds. Jan] By Sharika Regchand & Jeff Wicks Two women were killed in a double hijacking attempt on Sunday night. Former journalist Elaine Anderson was shot dead in what police believe was a botched hijacking in Pietermaritzburg. Anderson, who was in her late 50s, was on her way home from a church service in Woodlands when she was killed. Police spokesperson Henry Budhram said it appeared that two men had confronted her while she was driving. One of the gunmen shot Anderson through the passenger window. She lost control of her car and it crashed into a barrier. The two men then went on to find their next victim. They spotted Patricia Patrick and tried to hijack her, shooting her in the head. Netcare 911 spokesperson Chris Botha said that after she was shot, Patrick also lost control of her vehicle and drove over an embankment. "Paramedics tried to stabilise the critically injured woman. She was placed on a ventilator and taken to the Netcare St Anne's hospital. She died soon afterwards." Anderson worked at The Witness for 15 years, first as a photographer then as a reporter. She was known by her colleagues for being kind, considerate and caring. No details were available for Patrick. The suspects are still at large. S.Africa: 2 White Women shot dead in 2 Hjackings - One was a former Journalist http://www.africancrisis.co.za on 21.06.2010 um 18:32 This is hideous - they just shoot the women in their cars. The terrorism and callousness of our criminals no know bounds. Jan] By Sharika Regchand & Jeff Wicks Two women were killed in a double hijacking attempt on Sunday night. Former journalist Elaine Anderson was shot dead in what police believe was a botched hijacking in Pietermaritzburg. Anderson, who was in her late 50s, was on her way home from a church service in Woodlands when she was killed. Police spokesperson Henry Budhram said it appeared that two men had confronted her while she was driving. One of the gunmen shot Anderson through the passenger window. She lost control of her car and it crashed into a barrier. The two men then went on to find their next victim. They spotted Patricia Patrick and tried to hijack her, shooting her in the head. Netcare 911 spokesperson Chris Botha said that after she was shot, Patrick also lost control of her vehicle and drove over an embankment. "Paramedics tried to stabilise the critically injured woman. She was placed on a ventilator and taken to the Netcare St Anne's hospital. She died soon afterwards." Anderson worked at The Witness for 15 years, first as a photographer then as a reporter. She was known by her colleagues for being kind, considerate and caring. No details were available for Patrick. The suspects are still at large. BACK TO THE TOP OF THE PAGE

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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