- Western Cape
- Cape Town
- Cape West Coast
- Cape Winelands
- Cape Overberg
- Cape Karoo
- Cape Garden Route
- Northern Cape
- Eastern Cape
- Free State
- KwaZulu-Natal
- Battlefields
- Drakensberg
- Zululand
- Kruger
- Mpumalanga
- Limpopo
- Waterberg
- Gauteng
- Johannesburg
- North West
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THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA Facts About The Country GEOGRAPHY South Africa is a large country, covering an area of 1219 090 km2 (472 281 sq miles) and occupies the southernmost part of the African continent. The distance from the Limpopo River in the north to Cape Agulhas in the south is approximately 2000 km, while that from Durban in the east to Port Nolloth in the west is 1500 km. Broadly divided, the country falls into three topographical areas: a narrow coastal strip, large inland plateau and a escarpment consisting of impressive mountain ranges and hills. Dominating this mountainous escarpment is the Drakensberg range. Most of the country lies to the south of the Tropic of Capricorn with Cape Town almost on the same latitude as Sydney (Australia), and Johannesburg more or less on the same latitude as Brisbane (Australia). National Boudaries The country is bordered by Namibia (North West), Botswana (North), Zimbabwe (North), Mozambique (North East) and Swaziland (North East). Lesotho is completely surrounded by South Africa. The Atlantic and southern Indian Oceans form the western, southern and eastern boundaries. Major Harbours Cape Town Port Elizabeth East London Richard’s Bay Durban Saldanha Bay (The only natural harbour along the country’s 3000 km coastline)
Major Rivers The Orange River is the country’s longest river, originating in the highlands of Lesotho. Flowing in a northwesterly direction for approximately 2100 km (1300 miles), it flows into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay. The Orange River forms the South African border with Namibia. The Vaal River has it’s origins near the Swaziland border and flows in a south-westerly direction across the country to the Northern Cape where it joins the Orange River. The Limpopo River forms the boundary between South Africa and Zimbabwe. The river flows into the Indian Ocean in Mozambique. The Nine Provinces The provinces are the Western Cape, Eastern Cape, Northern Cape, Free State, Kwazulu Natal, Gauteng, Mpumalanga, Northern Province and the North West Province. Statistical Information Western Cape Capital: Cape Town (also legislative capital of the country) Principal Languages: Afrikaans, English, IsiXhosa Population: (27 April 1994) – 3 633 077 Area (km2): 129 370
Eastern Cape Capital: Bishop Principal Languages: isiXhosa, Afrikaans, English Population: (27 April 1994) – 6 436 790 Area (km2): 169 580 Northern Cape Capital: Kimberley Principal Languages: Afrikaans, Setswana and isiXhosa Population: (27 April 1994) – 737 0306 Area (km2): 361 830 Free State Capital: Bloemfontein (Judicial capital of South Africa) Principal Languages: Sesotho, Afrikaans, isiXhosa Population: (27 April 1994) – 2 726 840 Area (km2): 129 480 Kwazulu Natal Capital: Uncertainty exists as to whether the capital will be Pietermaritzburg or Ulundi Principal Languages: isiZulu, English, Afrikaans Population: (27 April 1994) – 8 505 338 Area (km2): 92 100 Gauteng Capital: Pretoria (Administrative capital of South Africa) Principal Languages: Afrikaans, isiZulu, English Population: (27 April 1994) – 6 869 103 Area (km2): 17 010 Mpumalanga Capital: Nelspruit Principal Languages: Siswati, isiZulu, Afrikaans Population: (27 April 1994) – 2 921 559 Area (km2): 79 490 Northern Province Capital: Pietersburg Principal Languages: Sesotho sa Leboa, Shangaan Population: (27 April 1994) – 5 201 630 Area (km2): 123 910 North West Capital: Mmabatho Principal Languages: Setswana, isiXhosa, Sesotho Population: (27 April 1994) – 3 252 991 Area (km2): 116 320 Gauteng although the smallest by area, is the most densely populated of the 9 provinces and has the second largest number of inhabitants. Kwazulu Natal has the largest number of people.
Climate and temperatures South Africa is located in the southern hemisphere , the seasons are therefore the reverse of those in the northern hemisphere. December and January are the main summer holiday months. During May and June, autumn brings warm days and relatively cool nights. From the beginning of July to the end of September, you can expect cold conditions in most regions of the country, with snow on the high mountain peaks. South Africa has low average annual rainfall of 464 mm (world average 857 mm), with most of the country receiving less than 500 mm of rain per annum. The higher mountainous areas of the country have an annual rainfall of up to 2000 mm, dropping to a mere 50 mm along the west coast. Most of the country’s rain falls during the summer months (October - March). The country periodically experiences extended periods of severe drought. Population Demographics Statistics South Africa has estimated that the size of the South African population in 1995 was approximately 41,5 million people. More than three quarters of all South Africans are African, while fewer than one in seven are white. Approximately one in every ten South Africans are coloured and one in every thirty is Indian. (The totals of the percentages in all relevant figures may not, as a result of rounding, add up to exactly 100 %). Half of the entire South African population lives in urban areas, while the rest lives in the non-urban, rural areas of the country. The province with the highest number of inhabitants is KwaZulu Natal, while the province with the lowest number is the Northern Cape. The Northern Province has the largest proportion of non-urban inhabitants, followed by the Eastern Cape. Gauteng has the smallest proportion of non-urban inhabitants, followed by the Western Cape. In KwaZulu Natal, the most populous province, of the population reside in rural areas. Languages South Africa currently has 11 official languages. English is one of these, and is spoken throughout the country. In addition to English and Afrikaans there is 9 different tribal groups. These languages fall into 4 groups, namely the Tsonga, the Venda, the Nguni (Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele and Siswati) and the Sotho (Sepedi, Sesotho and Setswana). South Africa’s National Anthem History Nkosi sieklel iAfrica was written as a hymn by Enoch Mankayi Sontonga in 1897. The African National Congress (ANC) adopted Nkosi Sikelel iAfrica as it’s anthem in 1925. Sung over the years at gatherings, protest meetings, conferences and funerals, this inspiring and moving song came to symbolize hope, unity and commitment to a just society. Die Stem van South Africa was written by CJ Langenhoven in 1918 and set to music in 1921. It was officially sung for the first time at the hoisting of the National flag in 1928, and became the only official national anthem of South Africa in 1957. In 1994, as the South African government transformed itself, it was decided that both anthems should be adopted by the Rainbow Nation. It is with great pride that this new anthem is sung by a unified nation. Nkosi Sikelel iAfrica Nkosi sikelel iAfrica Maluphakanyisw uphondo lwayo Yizwa imithandazo yethu Nkosi siekelela Thina lusapho lwayo Morena boloka sechaba sa heso O fedise dintwa le matshwenyaho O se boloke , o se boloke Sechaba sa heso sechaba sa South Africa, South Africa Die Stem Uit die blou van onse hemel Uit die diepte van ons see Oor ons ewige gebergtes Waar die kranse antwoord gee Sounds the call to come together And united we shall stand Let us live and strive for freedom In South Africa our land
Historical Milestones
100 000 BC San (bushman) hunter gatherers replaced by agro-pastoralists (farmers) (Khoikhoi) 20 000 BC Khoikhoi migration down the west coast 300 AD Establishment of early Iron Age communities in northern and eastern regions of the country. 500 AD Southward migration of Bantu speaking tribes 1487 Bartholomew Diaz (Portuguese Explorer) rounds the Cape of Good Hope 1652 6 April – Jan Van Riebeeck establishes a settlement at the Cape on behalf of the Dutch East India Company 1688 French Huguenot settlers arrive at the Cape of Good Hope 1690 Exploration of the hinterland by groups of “Trekboers” contact with the Khoikhoi 1779 First frontier war between settlers and the Xhosa 1795 First British annexation of the Cape 1803 The Cape returns to Batavian rule 1806 Second British annexation of the Cape 1809 First pass laws introduced (Hottentot Proclamation) 1816 Shaka Succeed Senzangakhona as King of the Zulus 1820 British Settlers arrive in Algoa Bay 1828 Zulu chief Shaka assassinated by his half brothers, Mhlangana and Dingane 1834 Slavery abolished 1834 – 1835 The Great Trek begins from the Cape Colony 1836 The Ndebele defeated by the Voortrekkers at the Battle of Vegkop 1838 Zulus defeated by the Voortrekkers at Blood River 1843 Natal proclaimed as a British colony 1846 Swazi king Mswati grants land to the Voortrekkers in the Eastern Transvaal 1852 Independence granted to the Transvaal at the Sand River Convention 1854 Establishment of the Republic of the Orange Free State (Bloemfontein Convention) 1856 Establishment of the Representative Government in Natal 1860 Arrival of Indian migrant workers 1867 Discovery of diamonds at Hopetown in the Northern Cape
1879 21 January – Battle of Isandhlwana (British / Zulu). Worst defeat of the British army since Crimean war. 23 January – Battle of Rorker’s Drift 11 VC’s awarded to British troops 4 July – Zulu army finally defeated at Ulundi 1880 Start of First War of Independence between Britain and the Transvaal Republic 1881 Battle of Majuba 1886 Discovery of gold on the Witwatersrand. Proclamation of Johannesburg 1893 Arrival of Gandhi in South Africa 1896 Legislation passed, limiting Indian immigration 1899 Outbreak of the South African War (Anglo-Boer-War) 1902 Peace of Vereeniging signed Transvaal and Orange Free State Republics become British colonies 1910 31 May – Founding of the Union of South Africa 1912 Founding of the African National Congress (ANC) 1913 Black land ownership limited to tribal areas (Native Land Act) 1914 Founding of the National Party (NP) South Africa enters the First World War 1918 Launching of Anti-pass campaign 1920 The South African Indian Congress founded 1921 Formation of Afrikaner Broederbond 1922 Display of the South African Communist Party banner at the Rand miners stike 1925 Afrikaans declared as second official language 1936 Blacks removed from common voters roll (Cape) Passing of Native Trust and Land Act passed 1939 South Africa enters Second World War 1948 NP (Dr DF Malan) defeats United Party (Gen JC Smuts) in a general election 1949 Banning of racially mixed marriage 1950 Passing of Population Registration, Group Areas, Separate Representation of Voters, Suppression of Communism and Immorality Acts 1952 Launching of Defiance Campaign by ANC 1953 Passing of Bantu Education Act and Separate Amenities Act 1955 Congress of the people adopts freedom charter 1956 Coloureds removed from the voters roll 1958 JG Strydom succeeded as prime minister by Dr Hendrik Verwoerd 1959 Formation of the Pan-Africanist Congress (Robert Sobukwe) 1960 Sharpeville – 69 people killed in a demonstration against pass laws Banning of ANC and PAC 1961 South Africa becomes a Republic Armed struggle policy adopted by ANC Founding of Umkhonto We Sizwe (Spear of the nation) 1963 ANC activists arrested at Liliesleaf farm 1964 Ending of the Rivonia Trail – Nelson Mandela, Walter Sisulu and others imprisoned for life 1966 Assassination of Prime Minister HF Verwoerd BJ Vorster becomes Prime Minister 1969 Formation of the South African Students Organisation (SASO) by Steve Biko, marking the beginning of Black Consciousness Movement 1972 Founding of the Black people’s Convention (BPC) 1975 Inkatha Yenkululeku Yesizwe (Zulu cultural movement revived by Manfosuthu Buthelezi) 1976 16 June – Outbreak of the Soweto riots, spreading to the rest of the country 1977 UN Security Council mandatory arms embargo imposed Steve Biko dies in detention 19 October – Banning of a number of political organizations 1978 Information Scandal – BJ Vorster resigns as Prime Minister Succeeded by PW Botha 1979 Formation of the Azanian People’s Organization (Azapo) 1980 Senate replaced by President’s Council 1983 PW Botha’s reforms, extending separate racial franchise to coloured and Indian minorities (Africans excluded), approved by a white referendum Launching of the United Democratic Front (UDF) 1984 Establishment of the Tricameral Parliament with separate assemblies of whites, coloured and Asians PW Botha appointed as executive state president 1985 Formation of the congress of Trade Unions (Cosatu) 1986 Sanctions imposed by the US Congress Scrapping of pass laws, Mixed Marriage Act and influx control 1989 Signing of Harare Declaration outlining the ANC’s pre-negotiating position Resignation of PW Botha Succeeded by FW De Klerk the NP wins the general election De Klerk becomes State President Walter Sisulu and 7 other political prisoners are released 1990 February Unbanning of the ANC, PAC and the South African Communist Party (SACP) 11 February – Nelson Mandela released after 27 years in prison March Independence of Namibia May Signing of the Groote Schuur Minute, paving the way for negotiations on majority rule
June Repealing of the Separate Amenities Act August Signing of the Pretoria Minute Armed struggle suspended by the ANC December Amnesty granted to political prisoners 1991 June Repealing of the 1913 and 1936 Land Acts, Group Areas Act, Population Registration Act and other apartheid laws September Signing of National Peace Accord December Signing of the Declaration of Intent at the Convention for a Democratic South Africa 1992 March Government’s reform process endorsed by a Whites only referendum June Boipatong massacre – 39 people killed Talks between ANC and the government suspended September Signing of the Record of Understanding – parties agreeing to an interim, democratically elected government of national unity 1993 January Phasing out of Own affairs administrations April Resuming of negotiations at Codesa – 26 parties participating Assassination of Chris Hani May Formation of the Afrikaner Volksfront to negotiate self determination for Afrikaners August Scrapping of compulsory white national service system September Passing of the Transitional Executive Council Bill October Lifting of UN sanctions November Acceptance of the Transitional constitution – making provision for a non-racial multiparty democracy, three tiers of government and a justifiable Bill of Rights in a unitary South Africa December South Africa’s new constitution is endorsed by parliament, signaling the end of apartheid and the birth of a new South Africa. 1994 January More than 7 million people living in the former homelands regain South Africa citizenship March Handling over of Walvis Bay to Namibia April First democratic, non-racial elections won by the ANC May 10 May – Inauguration of Nelson Mandela as South Africa’s first democratically elected president. South Africa joins the OAU Arms embargo lifted by the UN Security Council June South Africa rejoins Commonwealth and reclaims it’s seat in the UN General Assembly August The Constitutional Assembly begins drawing up South Africa’s final constitution December Rejoining UNESCO after 40 years 1995 March Scrapping of the financial rand June Death penalty declared unconstitutional November Formation of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission under the chairmanship of Archbishop Desmond Tutu 1996 April Truth and Reconciliation Commission starts hearings May NP withdraws from the Government of National Unity December President Mandela signs the final constitution 1997 February Senate replaced by the National Council of Provinces September FW De Klerk resigns as leader of the NP and retires from politics December Thabo Mbeki succeeds Nelson Mandela as ANC president 1998 January Official diplomat relations established with the People’s Republic of China July 80th Birthday of Nelson Mandela Marriage of Nelson Mandela to Graca Machel, widow of former Mozambican president September SA troops sent to Lesotho to quell anti-government uprising November Truth and Reconciliation Commission report filed December World’s earliest human skeleton estimated to be 3.5 million years old – is discovered at Sterkfontein Caves near Krugersdorp HISTORICAL REMEMBRANCE Architecture South Africa has a rich and varied architectural heritage, influenced by all it’s people. Styles range from the simple khoisan shelters constructed from branches and grass and the different types of mud and grass huts of the rural African people to the plain dwellings of the early cattle-farming pioneers, from wattle-and-daub huts to thatched-roof structures with white washed walls and artistic gables. Especially striking is the Victorian architecture found in some rural towns, the functional and attractive styles of the Malay Quarter in Cape Town and the ornate Cape Dutch homesteads of the Western Cape. Museums South Africa’s museums are a major source of information and material evidence of the history, culture and national heritage of the nation. Major museums include the South African Museums and the South African National Art Gallery in Cape Town, the Transvaal and African Window in Pretoria, the National English Literature Museum in Grahamstown, the Afrikaans Language Monument in Paarl, and the South African National Museum if Military History in Johannesburg.
Almost every town in South Africa boasts it’s own museum and descriptions of most of these can be found under the category “Historical View” in each town. SOUTH AFRICA’S CULTURAL HERITAGE Cultural Profile South Africa has a fascinating mix of cultures with African, Eastern and Western influences reflected in most areas of society. There are many fascinating forms of dance, music, song and theatre from every cultural group, both traditional and contemporary. Festivals, concerts and performances reflecting lifestyles and regional interests are numerous. The country’s cuisine and that of many other countries may be enjoyed in South African restaurants. Finally there is the wealth of art and crafts produced by talented South African artists and offered for sale in craft centres, galleries, open-air markets and even on street corners. Cultural Tourism Cultural Tourism is that segment of tourism through which the history and cultural activities of nations can be explored and experienced at firsthand. Travel in Europe, the Middle East, the Far East and many other destinations is largely as a result of “cultural curiosity”. The World Tourism Organisation (WTO) has indicated that cultural tourism is one of the fastest growing forms of tourism, estimated at approximately 10 % per annum.
Cultural Attractions While traditional sights such as Table Mountain, game parks and wildlife, beaches and scenic routes are highly popular, heritage products such as Gold Reef City, Shakaland, Pilgrim’s Rest, the wine routes, township tours and Robben Island feature high on the popularity list. Each of these attractions are described under each city or town where it is located and further information may be obtained from the IU Information Centre. WILDLIFE,CONSERVATION AND ECO-TOURISM A large number of the world’s most famous game parks and nature reserves are located in Southern Africa, and South Africa is especially renowned for it’s abundant wildlife and spectacular scenic beauty. The country boasts a network of well-managed game parks and nature reserves, located throughout the country and along it’s 3000 km coastline. National Parks and Nature Reserves Nowhere in any one country in Africa will you find such a rich variety of wildlife as in South Africa’s National Parks. The national parks (of which 11 offer overnight facilities) sustain an astonishing variety of insect-, reptile-, bird-, amphibian-, marine- and mammal life. Located across the country, from the Southern Cape to the Limpopo River in the North, park habitats range from mountain to marshland and coastal plains to bushveld and savanna, arid desert to luxuriant green forests. The diversity of plant species, especially the wild flowers of the Cape, is unrivalled anywhere in Africa.
Conservation areas are generally catergorised into national parks, game/nature reserves controlled by national, provincial or municipal authorities and privately owned reserves. Apart from protecting and conserving the country’s natural heritage, game and nature reserves also plays an importance of nature conservation in general. A large number of game and nature reserves offer special courses to groups under the guidance of trained guides and rangers. National Parks Addo Elephant National Park Agulhas National Park Augrabies Falls National Park Bontebok National Park Golden Gate Highlands National Park Kalahari Gemsbok National Park Karoo National Park Knysna National Lake Area Kruger National Park Marakele National Park Mountain Zebra National Park Namaqualand National Park Richtersveld National Park Cape Peninsula National Park Tsitsikamma National Park West Coast National Park Wilderness National Park Ecological Regions Six ecological regions mirror South Africa’s wildlife splendour and geographical range: The Savanna Biome, consisting of grassland and trees, incorporates the Northern Cape and Kalahari, the Central Bushveld and the Valley Bushveld to the South. The Kruger National Park the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park, and the Umfolozi and Hluhluwe reserves fall within it’s boundaries. The Nama-Karoo Biome combines the Namaland area of Namibia and the Karoo area of South Africa. The Karoo and Augrabies National Parks are part of this semi-desert-home to the bat-eared fox, black-backed jackal, ostrich and suricate. The Grassland Biome has summer rainfall with heavy thunderstorms, while frost occurs in winter. Perennial rivers are the Orange, Vaal and Pongola. Trees are scarce. The black wildebeest, blesbok and eland are endemic to the region. The Natal Drakensberg wilderness areas are part of the biome. The Northern Cape winter rainfall are or Succulent Karoo Biome has dry summers with soaring temperatures. Once a year, Namaqualand wild flowers cover the semi-desert with a multi-coloured spring carpet. National Parks falling within this area are the Richtersveld and the Namaqualand. The Fynbos Biome is one of 6 floral kingdoms of the world. More than 8500 fynbos species, such as proteas, ericas and heather, occur within an area of 70 000 km2 in the Western Cape – a winter-rainfall region with a Mediterranean climate. The Forest Biome includes the Western Cape Knysna forest where yellowwood and ironwood giants, fungi and lichens thrive in the humid climate. This is the habitat of the Knysna Loerie, Cape parrot, samango monkey, bushpig and blue duiker. Botanical and Zoological Gardens There are 8 National Botanical Gardens controlled and managed by the National Botanical Institute. They are: Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden – Western Cape , Cape Town Harold Porter National Botanical Garden – Western Cape, Betty’s Bay Karoo National Botanical Garden – Western Cape, Worcester Free State National Botanical Garden – Free State, Bloemfontein Natal National Botanical Garden – Kwazulu Natal, Pietermaritzburg Witwatersrand National Botanical Garden – Gauteng, Roodepoort Pretoria National Botanical Garden – Gauteng, Pretoria Lowveld National Botanical Garden – Mpumalanga, Nelspruit Botanical Society of South Africa The Botanical Society of South Africa is an independent non-governmental organization which has been involved in flora conservation activities since it’s formation in 1913. Mindful of the role of the people of South Africa as custodians of the world’s richest floral heritage, it is our mission to win the hearts, minds and material support of individuals and organizations for the conservation, cultivation, study and wise use of the indigenous flora and vegetation of South Africa. Besides the opportunity of contributing to and becoming part of the conservation effort, the benefits of becoming a member of the society are the following:
There is 12 branches throughout the country, of which most support the National Botanical Gardens. National Zoological Gardens The National Zoological Gardens of South Africa in Pretoria (the Pretoria Zoo) is considered one of the ten best zoos in the world. Caves One of South Africa’s major tourism attractions are the spectacular Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn. Other cave systems include the internationally famous archaeological site at the Sterkfontein Caves near Krugerdorp, the Sudwala and Echo caves near Kuruman in the Northern Cape, famous for it’s San rock art dating back 10 000 years. The Conservation of Rock Art South Africa has one of the world’s richest rock art treasures, with more than 15 000 art sites having been recorded. This cultural asset is being threatened by nature (decay through water, dust, etc) and by human ignorance, and if steps are not taken the nucleus, or detail, of the art will disappear within a few years. Rocustos, an autonomous association, was established in 1994 through the initiative of the National Cultural History Museum in Pretoria for the appreciation, preservation and documentation of rock art. The association has more than 300 members and contributors throughout South Africa and also overseas. Rock art in South Africa was formerly not appreciated; it was regarded as being too indigenous. As a result, not enough effort was put into preserving it. Today, with tourism playing a key role in the country’s economy, an about-face in the way of thinking has taken place and rock art is justly regarded as a national asset. South Africa’s rock art treasure is being threatened because of lack of time and manpower; there is not enough time and people to timeously undertake the many tasks such as education / training and documentation. Rocustos’ members are an energetic and dedicated group of people who hold dear the preservation of rock art and who strive to convey this message. In it’s endeavour to make the people of South Africa aware of the importance of preserving these unique treasures, the association organizes outings to selected sites, exhibitions, congresses, workshops for communities and educational programmes for interested persons. The association is constantly looking for opportunities to present educational programmes, especially at schools. Land owners, teachers and tour leaders are encouraged to make contact so that information on the subject can be passed on to them. Likewise, people in possession of rock art information are urged to share this information with Rocustos in order to encourage preservation care and for it to be taken up in a data base for further planning. Eco-Tourism Eco-tourism is the fastest –growing segment of the South African tourism industry. It unlocks the natural and cultural assets of the environment to the visitors and generates foreign exchange for the promotion and conservation of the country’s ecological resources. Eco-tourism includes bird watching, nature photography, hiking and mountaineering, visits to cultural heritage villages and sites of San (bushman) rock art. TRAILING IN SOUTH AFRICA Hiking Trails The best way to explore the full spectrum and diversity of Southern Africa’s natural beauty is to do so on foot. South Africa offers a well developed hiking trail system covering thousands of kilometers, with options ranging from relaxing nature walks to strenuous, rugged wilderness trails. The National Hiking Way Board was established in 1975, envisaging a network of trails, the National Hiking Way System (NHWS), stretching from the Soutpansberg in the North to the Cederberg Wilderness Area in the South. The first official hiking trail in this proposed NHWS was the Fanie Botha Trail (Starting point: Sabie, Mpumulanga), opened in 1973. The ideal of a NHWS has since been abandoned due to the commercialization authorities and private landowners have established trails on land managed or owned by them, contributing largely to the success of this popular sport. Trail Types Trails can be broadly categorized into the following types: Nature and Historical Trails / Walks (Day Trails) These self guided interpretive trails usually have a specific educational objective. Examples are trails offered through the botanical gardens and areas of historical importance.Visitors are generally provided with educational brochures and maps describing the natural or historical features of the route. Nature and historical trails may range in length from a couple of hundred metres to several kilometers, but can usually be completed in less than a day. A number of these trails also offer facilities for disabled people. (Example: the fairy glenn routs in the Karoo National Botanical Garden, Worcester, Western Cape and the Durban Historical Walkabout, Durban, Kwazulu Natal). Backpacking Trails These are overnight trails (Self-guided), stretching over 2 or more days, where the hiker is expected to carry all essential equipment like food, cooking utensils, a sleeping bag etc. Overnight facilities range from lean to shelters , caves, rock overhangs and camping sites to mountain huts and farmhouses. Most overnight trails offer basic cooking and ablution facilities. Detailed maps with a route description are usually provided. Trails vary in their levels of difficulty, and the hiker is often expected to scramble up and down steep ravines, to cross rivers and streams (sometimes deep and fast flowing) and to cope with extreme weather conditions. (Examples: the Blyde River Hiking Trail, Graskop, Mpumulanga and the Rhebok Hiking Trail, Golden Gate National Park, Clarens, Free State). Wilderness Trails (Guided / Overnight) These trails are usually conducted under the guidance of an expert guide or game ranger (trails officer) and is mainly associated with areas such as National Parks and game reserves. These trails are physically less demanding as the hiker need to carry a heavy backpack as all the amenities such as food, drinks and bedding are usually provided and included in the fee. These type of trails should not be confused with game viewing tours. (Examples: Bushman Trail, Skukuza, Kruger National Park, Mpumulanga and the Rhino & elephant Trail, Lapalala Wilderness Area, Vaalwater, Northern Province). General Hints And Tips:
Basic Checklist Backpack (with hip belt); pack cover, sleeping bag, ground sheet, closed cell mattress, tent, comfortable walking shoes or boots, spare shoe laces, woollen / cotton socks, Balaclava, hat, shirts (at least two), jersey / jacket. Shorts (at least two pairs), underwear, sleepware / tracksuit, gloves, rain proof gear, swimming costume, cutlery, plate, mug, can opener, stove, pot, fuel for the stove, dishcloth, scourer, matches (place in waterproof container), food, emergency rations, water bottle (at least 2 liters), toilet paper, towel (small), soap (biodegradable), tooth paste, tooth brush, insect repellent, lip salve, sunscreen lotion, first aid kit, torch, batteries, candles, nylon cord (at least 4 – 5 meters). Please note that these are only basic suggestions and that further reading on the subject is advised. Specialist publications are available at most book- and outdoor stores. MOUNTAIN BIKING TRAILS Cycling and mountain biking are ideal to explore and experience South Africa’s natural assets. Over the past years numerous cycling / mountain biking trails and routes have been developed throughout the country, ranging from easy to very demanding . Unlike many other types of adventure sports, biking is something the whole family can enjoy and a large number of options are available. There is nothing to beat game viewing on bike or an easy Sunday afternoon ride through the vineyards of the Cape. Bikes can be hired from a number of establishments throughout the country. 4 x 4 Trails Much of South Africa’s beauty can be explored by ordinary vehicle, there are however a few places where the 4 x 4 and off road enthusiast can enjoy a true wilderness experience. Inconsiderate driving can cause major and irreversible damage to the environment and 4 x 4 owners should always keep this in mind. HORSE TRAILS Horse riding affords the adventurous a unique way of experiencing South Africa nature and wildlife. Wild animals are generally not frightened by the presence of horses and can, as a rule, not distinguish between horse and rider, thus offering the opportunity to approach them closely without causing any alarm. Several game reserves run one or multi day horse trails, while a number of tour and safari operators organize horseback safaris to game ranches and other areas of general interest. Most operators offer riding lessons at an additional fee or can arrange private tuition. HUNTING IN SOUTH AFRICA South Africa is well known for it’s wildlife heritage and supports more than 290 mammals and over 850 bird species – a remarkable one tenth of those known to man. The country is internationally regarded as a premier hunting destination. A well developed tourism and hunting infrastructure, a wide variety of species, including the Bif Five competitive prices compared to the rest of Africa, and a favourable exchange rate makes South Africa a good hunting proposition, while the scenic beauty, mild climate and hospitality add to the pleasure of the hunter. The number of species of game occurring naturally in the country and the choice of huntable species is probably greater than anywhere else in the world. Huntable Species There are approximately 69 huntable animals and bird species, including antelope and the Big 5 (elephant, white rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo). Due to an increasing awareness of the importance of environmental conservation and wildlife management, a wide selection of trophy animals are available to visiting sportsmen, including Rowland Ward and Safari Club International records. South Africa is the only country in Africa and the world where all of the Big 5 may still be hunted. The following species are endemic to South Africa and cannot be hunted anywhere else: Cape Mountain Zebra, Black Wildebeest, Cape Grysbok, bontebok, blesbok, blesbok, southern mountain reedbuck and the grey rhebok. The wide variety of huntable game birds include the following: ducks – 14 species, geese – 2 species, francolin – 8 species; guineafowl – 2 species; sandgrouse – 3 species; quail – 3 species and several types of pigeons and doves. Protected Game: Protected game may be hunted provided that a written application be submitted to the relevant authorities by the landowner and a permit issued to him or any other person nominated by him. Protected Gme Secies Include: Bushbaby, Samango monkey, Lesser bushbaby, Pangolin, Aardwolf, Brown hyaena, Mountain zebra, Hippopotamus, Giraffe, Nyala, Eland, Red duiker, Blue duiker, Southern reedbuck, Waterbuck, Sable antelope, Roan antelope, Gemsbok, Black wildebeest, Red hartebeest, Bontebok, Tsessebe, Klip springer, Oribi, Mountain reedbuck and Hartmann’s zebra. Protected Wild Animals Protected wild animals may not necessarily include endangered species, but the hunting of such species is controlled by way of a closed or partially closed season or other measures. Protected wild animals may only be hunted by a person in possession of a permit. Bird Hunting South Africa offers a wide variety of game birds, some 14 huntable species of duck, 2 or geese, 10 partridge species, 2 pheasant sized birds, pigeons, doves and quail. Bird hunting can be done in conjunction with rifle hunts and there are also a number of outfits offering bird only safaris – shooting over dogs, shooting driven birds and shooting over decoys. Hunting And The Law Although each of the 9 provinces in South Africa has it’s own ordinance governing legality of hunting, there are some common guidelines, which are probably valid on a national basis. Prospective hunters are, however, strongly to approach the relevant Department of Nature Conservation and Environmental Affairs of the particular province in which they are planning to hunt in order to obtain the latest local requirements. OTHER ATTRACTIONS Flea Markets Flea markets are to be found in almost all South Africa’s major cities and towns, such as Pretoria, Cape Town, Durban, Port Elizabeth and Johannesburg to name but a few. Flea markets operate mainly during weekends, giving small entrepreneurs the chance to sell anything, and shoppers the opportunity to pick up a wide range of items at amazingly cheap prices. Waterfront Development Certain coastal cities have successfully developed their harbour areas and waterfronts into major tourist attractions, re-introducing some fascinating activities and drawing many shops, restaurants, art and craft dealers and musicians. One of the most famous is Cape Town’s Victorian & Alfred Waterfront, counted amongst the world’s best. Located on an artificial lake, the Randburg Waterfront, near Johannesburg, boasts the country’s largest selection of food outlets in one centre. The complex also offers a multitude of pubs, live music venues, 10 cinemas, a cast children’s entertainment area and the world’s largest musical fountain. Theatre The Civic Theatre in Johannesburg, the Nico Malan in Cape Town, the Playhouse in Durban, the Sand Du Plessis in Bloemfontein and a large variety of smaller theatres offer entertainment ranging from opera to contemporary theatre. SPORT After many years of isolation South Africa was re-admitted to the international sporting arena after the first democratic election of 1994. The International Olympic committee (IOC) recognized the National Olympic Committee of South Africa (NOCSA) as the country’s sole controlling body for Olympic sport in 1994. the National Sports Congress (NSC), which represents non-olympic sports, has since firmly established itself as the country’s major umbrella sport organization. To promote better liasison between the Government and the sport fraternity, a National Sports Forum was established during 1994. the Department of Sport and Recreation, the NSC and NOCSA are equally represented in the forum. Highlights On The Sporting Calender South African sport is very competitive, with a number of sporting highlights taking place every year. Golf South African Open Golf Championship (part of the European PGA Tour) and the Million Dollar Golf Challenge (Sun City in December). Cricket World Cup 2003 Cycling Argus, Pick ‘n Pay 105 km Cycle tour, Rapport Tour Marathons Castle Lite Two Oceans Marathon (April), Comrades Marathon (89 km) – June, Canoeing Duzi Canoe Marathon Soccer African Cup Soccer Horse Riding J&B Metropolitan Handicap (Cape Town), Rothmans July Handicap – July (Durban), Surfing Gunston 500 Surfing Championship (July), Athletics All African Games Rugby Annual Tri-Nations Series between South Africa, Australia and New Zealand; Major South African provincial regions participate in the annual Super 12 rugby competition held amongst the Southern hemisphere regional teams i.e Australia and New Zealand. MARINE SPORT FISHING AND DIVING IN SOUTH AFRICA South Africa boasts a coastline of 3000 km, with a great variety of natural habitats, ranging from tropical coral reefs, long sandy beaches and rocky headlands to submarine canyons, rich offshore banks, pinnacles and help forests. Straddling two great oceans and washed by two of the largest ocean currents known – the Agulhas and the Benguela – the diversity and variety of it’s marine life is spectacular. More than 2500 species of fish are known; whales, seals and dolphins abound and some of the world’s largest fisheries are based along this coastline. Sport Fishing The South African Federation of Sea Angling controls sport fishing (of which there are 4 disciplines i.e Spear fishing, Light tackle boat, shore angling and Deep sea angling) in South Africa. Sport fishing holds many new and unique opportunities, often allowing anglers to be in a more remote and p |
