SouthAfrica.com | Explore and Discover South Africa | Hotel, Travel and Tour Guide

Time 2020-07-14 06:09:25

Web Name: SouthAfrica.com | Explore and Discover South Africa | Hotel, Travel and Tour Guide

WebSite: http://www.southafrica.com

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The Rainbow Nation South Africa is named because the country is geographically comprised of the southernmost section of the African continent.  Travelers to this remote corner of Africa’s southern tip marvel at its historical significance and are captivated by its geography, sheer beauty and cultural diversity.  The people of South Africa are passionate about their culture, innovative spirit, hospitality and friendliness.South Africa is home to some of the planet s most unique topography spanning from famous beaches attracting tourists and world class surfers to some of the world’s most coveted national parks and  historical sites.  The country also offers visitors with ecotourism excursions and safaris into nature and game reserves to see the iconic wildlife of Africa including elephants, giraffes, lions and many other endangered species.  For visitors seeking to savor the culinary arts, be sure to plan a trip to South Africa’s wine country and fine dining establishments. South Africa Country Profile South Africa is the most southern country in Africa and occupies the southern tip of the African continent.  Historically, the country was formerly comprised of four British colonies that were called the “Union of South Africa”.  Today, its official name is the Republic of South Africa in English but there is an official name for each of the country’s 11 main languages.  South Africa has the second largest economy in Africa after Nigeria.South Africa has the fifth largest population and is the 9th largest in area at 1,219,000 km2.  The country shares its border with Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe.  South Africa has a remarkably smooth 2,500 km (1600 miles) of coastline shared with the South Atlantic and Indian Oceans.  Distance from the south to the northeast corner of the country is about 1800 km (1200 mi) and between 1,000 km and 1,300 km (620 mi to 810 mi) from northern to the southern border at its widest point.In South Africa, the President is the head of the government and the head of state whose tenure depends on the decision of Parliament. However, the constitution is the supreme law of the land and all three branches of government, the executive, legislative and judicial.  South Africa is divided into 9 regions, with the Limpopo province being the largest.  The county is further comprised of  8 metropolitan municipalities, 44 district municipalities, and 205 local municipalities. Below is our country profile containing facts and information to familiarize you with South Africa.Common English Country Name: South AfricaOfficial Names: Republic of South Africa (10 official names each based on indigenous language)National Anthem: Lord Bless Africa (”Nkosi Sikelel iAfrika ) / Die Stem van Suid-Afrika (1997)National Symbols: Springbok, Blue Crane, King Protea flower, Real Yellowwood (tree)Historical and Colloquial Name: “Mzani” meaning southCountry Motto: “Unity in Diversity”Formation: Independence from United Kingdom, established as a Republic in 1961Government: Devolved Parliamentary LegislatureLocation: AfricaCapital: Pretoria (Executive), Bloemfontein (Judicial), and Cape Town (Legislative)Largest City (Population): JohannesburgSelect Cities: Durban, Port Elizabeth, Cape Town, Glasgow (largest), Aberdeen, Dundee, Paisley, East KilbrideNationality: South AfricanPrimary Ethnicity: Black, Colored, White, AsianMajor Religions: African Independent Church, Pentecostal and Evangelical, Roman CatholicPopulation: 58,800,000 (2019 estimate)Life Expectancy: 60 years for males and 67 years for females (World Rank #153)Partial List of Major Languages: Ndebele, Northern Sotho, Sotho, Tsonga, Zulu, AfrikaansArea: 1,219,100 Km² (470,700 mi²)Points of Interest: Kruger National Park, Cape Town, The Drakensberg, The Garden RouteHighest Point: Mafadi with an elevation of 3,450 m (11,320 ft)Lowest Point: Sea levelLongest River: Orange River with alength of 2,200 km (1,400 miles)Largest Lake: Lake Chrissie 9 km (6 mi) in length and 3 km (2 mi) in widthClimate: Cool and Wet. July is the hottest month (11 °C), January is the coldest (4 °C)Average Temperature: 20 °C (68°F)Coordinates: Latitude: 31°18′34″ S and Longitude: 18°21′25″ ECurrency: South African Rand (ZAR)Driving Side: LeftTime Zone: Greenwich Mean Time (UTC) +2Internet TLD: .za (top-level domain)Calling code: +27 South Aferica Travel What currency is used in South Africa?South Africa’s official currency is the Rand which is common represented by the symbols (ZAR; R, or “rand”) and comprised of banknotes and coins. The most famous coin from South Africa is the Krugerrand- a highly desirable gold coin that comes in 4 denominations with the one-ounce piece sought by collectors world-wide.Where should I visit when in South Africa?While in South Africa consider visiting the Western Cape with its magnificent beaches or explore such memorable destinations as Umhlanga Rocks, or one of the many game reserves such as the one at Hluhluwe Imfolozi reserves, or one of South Africa’s heritage sites such as Mapungubwe.When is the best time of year to travel to South Africa?The climate of South Africa varies more than most sub-Saharan countries in Africa due to its higher elevations. It has a high amount of sunshine. Rainfall is about half the global average. Temperatures are influenced by its significantly sized coastal regions where cold and warm currents create different climatic conditions. Freezing temperatures at high altitudes are quite common in winter. Here are some examples of temperature differences: Johannesburg 26°C (78 °F) to 4 °C (39.2 °F); Bloemfontein 31°C (87 °F) to -2 °C (28.4 °F), Richard’s Bay 29°C (84.2 °F) to 12 °C (53.6 °F).Depending on your activities, for most travelers the tourist season generally falls in four categories. Hiking and outdoor enthusiasts find April-June as the best season while beach goers and enjoy the months of December through February. Be sure to bring the appropriate clothing and plan accordingly.What are some of the activities and things to do in South Africa?Excursions abound with tour operators offering many single and multi-day packages that include scenic flights over Plettenberg Bay to the Knysna Heads; adventure tours less than one hour outside of Johannesburg at Lion Rhino Park; historical tours of the Battlefields at KwaZuluNatal. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy many outdoor activities such as open water and shore fishing. For the thrill seekers there are tour operators offering famous cage and scuba diving adventures where you can see great whites in their natural habitat. Surfing at many coastal cities attracts world famous events and instruction at academies located in the Western Cape at Jeffrey’s Bay and Muizenberg.What are some of the “must see” South African destinations?Visitors can choose a wide range of activities and destinations. South Africa offers world-class beaches, golf courses, safaris, ecotours, and camping facilities for all interests and age groups. Outdoor enthusiasts can secure off the beaten path tours and explore a diverse landscape offering unique travel experiences. The interior section of South Africa is filled with many beautiful landscapes and historical treasures. Some of our favorite sites are the Nelson Mandela Museum, the Mala Mala Game Reserve, Cradle of Humankind,and Robben Island.How expensive is South Africa?South Africa offers many excellent choices of accommodations throughout the country. Depending on the region or city that you will be visiting, travelers have many options ranging from youth hostels and rooms, to mid-priced and luxury hotels. Budget and last-minute travelers have plenty of choices at all ends of the pricing spectrum with lower season prices ranging between USD$20 and USD$40 a night for modest, yet tidy rooms.For luxury travelers, hotels in the larger cities such as Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg can cost upwards of USD225 to $$450 a night- depending on the season. For visitors interested in Safari’s, travel and tour packages (group or private rooms) offer a variety of options depending on whether you are camping or seeking mid-range or luxury options. In South Africa, you should be prepared to spend between $175 and $1400 a day exclusive of airfare and travel day expenditures.Every travel budget should also take into consideration the cost of meals, ground transportation, park and entrance fees for exhibits and museum as well as entertainment which can cost $100 a day per person. Pricing for flight sand car hire is very competitive, and generally in the traveler’s favor but will vary based on seasonal demand and dates of travel.Do I need a visa to visit South Africa?Depending on your citizenship and country of origin, a visa and other travel documentation may be required to visit or study in Scotland. At present, no visa is currently required if you are British (or a part of the United Kingdom (UK) or if you are from within the EU. However, with the heightened possibility of the UK leaving the EU (Brexit) travelers from other countries should need to check with UK immigration. We are using cookies to make the website better. 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