Tourism is South Africa's fastest growing industry and contributes about 7,1% of the Gross Domestic Product.
South Africa is the fastest-growing tourism destination in the world, with 6,4 million tourists having travelled to the country during 2002.
Overseas arrivals increased by 20,1% (just over 1,8 million) during 2002.
All of South Africa's key markets posted double-digit growth for the year, with Europe up 24,2% and North America up 9,2%. There was also an increase of 20,7% in travel from Asia, and 14,5% from Australasia.
Africa, contributing the bulk of foreign arrivals into South Africa (1,06 million) grew by 2,1% with close to 35 000 additional arrivals from Kenya, identified as one of South Africa's key emerging markets.
The United Kingdom (UK) and Germany led the influx of European tourists with 442 910 and 248 990 arrivals respectively.
The majority of travellers from Asia were from China (some 36 957), representing an increase of 24,5% from 2001. Travel from Australia increased by 15,1%.
Arrivals from the United States of America (USA) increased by 7% - an increase that was very welcome given the tough conditions affecting travel from that market.
Tourism employs about 3% of South Africa's workforce and is regarded as potentially the largest provider of jobs and earner of foreign exchange.
December 2002 recorded the highest monthly foreign tourist arrivals. More than 650 683 foreign tourists visited the country in comparison with the 575 831 recorded in December 2001, recording a 15,8% growth - the highest since 1998.
Arrivals from Africa increased by 7,8% to almost 4,4 million, despite the significant decrease from Lesotho, though this was offset by significant increases from Zimbabwe (22,1%) and Botswana (21,6%).
Tourist arrivals from Europe increased by 10,9% over January to March 2002, North America increased by 8,9%, while those from Australia were up 13,5%. Asia enjoyed 19,4% growth, boosted in no small part by 14 339 Indian visitors cheering on their cricket team during the 8th International Cricket Council (ICC) Cricket World Cup.
The 2003 first quarterly tourist-arrival statistics showed an increase of 11,3% compared with the same period in 2002 (January to March).
South Africa maintained its 2002 performance in the first quarter of 2003, despite adverse global conditions which included the war on Iraq, recession in three of the world's major economies and the outbreak of Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome. This compared favourably with many of South Africa's competitors, who recorded sharp decreases across the board during the same period.
Tourism employs an estimated 3% of South Africa's workforce, and is regarded as potentially the largest provider of jobs and earner of foreign exchange. It is projected that in 2010, the South African tourism economy will employ more than 1,2 million people (directly and indirectly).
Tourism is the fourth-largest industry in South Africa, supporting some 6 500 accommodation establishments.
South Africa received several international tourism accolades in 2002.
In September 2002, South Africa was rated as a preferred tourist destination by the French travel industry, with over 21 000 tour operators and retail agents giving the country the thumbsup at TOP RESA, the annual travel and tourism trade show held in Deauville, France.
The United Kingdom (UK) travel publication Conde Nast Traveller awarded South Africa top place as the overall value-for-money long-haul destination.
The Conde Nast Awards are voted for by the readers of the influential magazine that focuses on well-travelled high-income earners in the UK.
Best Overall Tour Operators: South African Tourism has relationships with seven of the top 10: British Airways Holidays, Carrier, Trailfinders, Kuoni, ITC Classics, Abercrombie & Kent and Elegant Resorts.
positive global perceptions of peaceful political transition in South Africa. The fastest-growing segment of tourism in South Africa is ecological tourism (ecotourism), which includes nature photography, bird-watching, botanical studies, snorkelling, hiking and mountaineering.
National and provincial parks in South Africa, as well as private game reserves, involve local communities in the conservation and management of natural resources. These communities are not only benefiting financially from ecotourism, but are also becoming aware of their responsibility to the environment.
The high foreign-exchange value of ecotourism enables significant economic value to be assigned to ecological resources, in this way helping to promote their conservation.
Community tourism is becoming increasingly popular, with tourists wanting to experience South Africa in the many rural villages and townships across the country. (See Chapter 5: Arts and culture.
At national level, the Tourism Branch in the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism leads and directs tourism-policy formulation and implementation towards national tourism growth. It works in partnership with South African Tourism, the provincial tourism authorities, the tourism industry and other relevant stakeholders. It aims to ensure and accelerate the practical delivery of tourism benefits to the broad spectrum of South Africans, while maintaining sustainability and quality of life.
a special empowerment programme for capacity-building establishing a tourism-infrastructure investigations programme that will culminate in identified public-infrastructure-investment programmes mobilising funds to aggressively market South Africa as a tourism destination in international markets, through a focused marketing strategy launching a domestic tourism and travel campaign. A collaborative tourism action (cluster) process, which will provide the framework for taking tourism into the next millennium, has been launched. The process aims to achieve collective action among key stakeholders, to enhance tourism marketing, investment, skills and infrastructure development.
The Tourism Forum was established in December 1998 as an advisory body to the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism. It comprises leadership drawn from government, business, public institutions and labour, with the common purpose of ensuring growth and development of the tourism sector.
sustainable funding mechanisms information systems human resource development (HRD) programmes international marketing the Welcome Campaign.
The Department has embarked on a legislative reform process to reflect the guidelines set out in the White Paper.
The Tourist Guides Awards, which aim to recognise the contribution made by South Africa's tourist guides in promoting the country as a must-see destination, were launched at the Tourism Indaba in Durban in May 2003.
The initiator of the Awards, the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, will consult with relevant stakeholders to develop criteria for the competition.
The Department and the various provincial tourism authorities will be responsible for the co-ordination and launching of the Awards in their respective provinces.
The winners will be announced on World Tourist-Guide Day, 21 February 2004.
The Tourism Transformation Strategy was approved by Cabinet in November 2001. More emphasis is being placed on developing black-owned businesses within the tourism industry, by raising the proportion of government expenditure going to these businesses from 30% in 2001/02 to 50% in 2004/05.
A database of black-owned tourism enterprises was compiled to assist government departments with meeting affirmativeprocurement targets.
A public-private tourism transformation forum to promote Black Economic Empowerment (BEE) was established, with representatives from the Departments of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, of Trade and Industry and of Labour, the Tourism Business Council, the Development Bank of Southern Africa and the Industrial Development Corporation.
Other initiatives launched by the Department in 2002 to promote tourism included the formulation of an information booklet outlining the funding opportunities and assistance programmes available to small, medium and micro enterprises (SMMEs) within the tourism industry, the launch of a handbook on tourism-support programmes for SMMEs, and brochures and posters to create awareness about illegal tour guiding.
By early 2003, some R232 million had been committed and spent on tourism-development projects aimed at creating jobs and alleviating poverty in South Africa.
Almost R69 million had been invested in poverty-relief funding in respect of tourism, with over R10 million invested in the Free State alone.
By mid-2003, poverty-relief investment stood at a total of R290,6 million, of which R27,3 million was expected to be invested in the Free State. These poverty-relief projects promote the development of community-owned tourism products, such as lodges and the development of tourism infrastructure, including roads, information centres and tourism signage.
These poverty-relief projects are categorised into product development, infrastructure development, capacity-building and training, the establishment of SMMEs, and businessdevelopment projects.
Some 76 tourism craft projects, set up in all nine provinces in 2000/01, were expected to create 8 600 job opportunities.
Launched in December 1999 by the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Mohammed Valli Moosa, the Welcome Campaign encourages all South Africans to embrace tourism and share South Africa's rich natural and cultural heritage. The Campaign is run as a national general-awareness campaign, through roadshows and communityoutreach programmes.
South Africa's Tourism Month culminated in World Tourism Day celebrations in Upington in the Northern Cape on 26 September 2003.
The theme of World Tourism Day was Tourism as a Driving Force for Poverty Alleviation, Job Creation and Social Harmony.
The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, Mr Mohammed Valli Moosa, encouraged South Africans to travel and discover the beauty and diversity of the country, which is a preferred tourism destination.
One of the significant activities during Tourism Month 2003 was South African Tourism's groundbreaking partnership with South African Airways and the South African Broadcasting Corporation to bring focus to the nationwide Licence to Discover South Africa TV competition.
Other Tourism Month activities included local media tours, festivals, exhibitions, a schools' competition and the launching of several empowerment projects.
The success of South Africa's gravity-defying tourism growth bodes well for the industry's efforts in contributing to sustainable job creation and Gross Domestic Product growth.
Central to this commitment is the strategy of co-operation that has seen a total of 172 tourism projects funded by the Department since 2001.
Key events in which the Campaign has featured include the World Summit on Sustainable Development (WSSD) and the ICC Cricket World Cup.
Underpinning the Campaign is the message that tourism is the fastest-growing contributor to South Africa's future economic prosperity and plays a key role in job creation and socioeconomic upliftment.
Another facet of the Campaign is Tourism Month. This annual promotion, held in September, is designed to promote a culture of tourism among all South Africans.
SA Host, a basic customer-service training programme, was introduced in December 2001. The programme was originally developed in Canada and has been successfully run in 14 countries. It educates trainers to run the programme for learners who, if successful, are awarded a certificate and a lapel badge. SA Host's target was to train 5 000 learners by December 2003.
the Customer-Service Training Course and the Leader-Development Programme were aligned with the National Qualifications Framework a national trainer and three regional trainers were trained and are operating in Gauteng and the Western Cape some 30 trainers were trained to run the programme (63% previously disadvantaged, 70% female, and 70% in SMMEs).
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has provided funds to set up a further seven regional trainers throughout South Africa.
The launch of the Tourism Growth Strategy by South African Tourism in May 2002 gave proper direction and content to the industry. It also positioned Team South Africa and South Africa as a world-class destination. The Strategy seeks to increase tourist volumes, spend, and length of stay, and improve seasonality and geographic spread.
The Tourism Growth Strategy, which has been endorsed by the Cabinet, is based on detailed market research, and identifies priority markets for tourism and the target-market segments within these priority markets.
Priority markets have been identified in Europe (Britain, France, Italy, Germany, Spain and the Netherlands), Asia (India, China and Japan) and Africa (Southern African Development Community, Nigeria and Kenya).
increasing the length of time tourists spend in South Africa increasing the spending of tourists within South Africa ensuring that tourists travel throughout the country, and not just in a few provinces facilitating transformation and BEE in the tourism industry. The Cabinet approved the International Tourism Growth Strategy in June 2003. The Strategy includes an analysis of core markets and their segments, as well as broad proposals on matters like air travel. The Strategy also focuses on a marketing strategy, visa arrangements, security and local transport infrastructure.
The 2003 Tourism Indaba was held in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, during May 2003.
The Indaba, Africa's largest annual travel and tourism exhibition, showcases products from international and national tour operators, hotel groups, travel agents and tourism boards.
The 2003 Indaba recorded a 8,8% increase in the number of delegates attending (more than 1 700), 263 of which were small, medium and micro enterprises.
When Durban first hosted the event in 1990, some 200 companies and 527 international delegates and media attended.
critical economic-growth driver and source of employment opportunities.
South African Tourism has overseen the launch of four integrated global marketing campaigns featuring value-for-money packages during South Africa's traditional low season - the My South Africa Story Campaign in the USA, Live the Moment in India, The Great Urban Getaway Campaign in Kenya and Tanzania, and the Sunsation Campaign in the UK. Plans are in the pipeline to extend and expand these Campaigns into other core markets such as Germany and France.
South Africa has also made its mark as a world Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) destination.
South African Tourism has leveraged the opportunities afforded by a number of highprofile events, including the 2002 WSSD - the largest gathering of its kind in the history of the United Nations (UN).
This event demonstrated to the world that as a stable democracy, South Africa has the capacity to provide secure, state-of-the-art meeting places and support services for world leaders to hold high-level talks.
The success of the WSSD and a series of very successful major international conferences, hosted in different venues in South Africa, culminated in the hosting of the longest and largest Cricket World Cup in the history of the tournament.
Another highlight was the signing of the official Memorandum of Understanding between South Africa and the People's Republic of China, paving the way for increased tourism activity with what is forecast to be the world's largest tourist market by 2010.
South African Tourism's e-business platform was also successfully launched in 2002, with the number of website hits increasing from 12 000 at first, to more than two million per day. The programme has been expanded to include the development of a national database of over 30 000 products, indicative of the growth of this industry.
South Africa signed a Declaration of Intent on tourism co-operation with Spain in February 2003.
The signing is a confirmation of the importance that both countries bestow on tourism in terms of economic development, exploration of historical and cultural heritage, and cooperative relations.
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, the Business Trust, and Ebony Consulting International launched the R129-million TEP to promote growth in the tourism industry.
By September 2003, the TEP had assisted 1 200 SMMEs and created 10 000 jobs. The primary objective of the Programme is to develop skills capacity and the participation of 75% of historically disadvantaged enterprises within the tourism economy.
Tourism HRD is considered one of the pillars of the development of a new responsible tourism culture in South Africa.
The Department has supported the full introduction of travel and tourism and hospitality studies as a subject in schools. Travel and tourism was introduced in 2000 in all schools wanting to offer the subject from Grades 10 to 12.
The South Africa Fundi Tourism Expert Course, launched at the Tourism Indaba 2003, is aimed at making international travel agents and tour operators experts on what the country has to offer, thereby increasing South Africa's market share.
The material of the eight-week course covers a wide spectrum of subjects, which include basic facts about South Africa, a comprehensive overview of South Africa's products, general infrastructure and detailed coverage of provinces, towns and cities.
hotels provision of short-stay accommodation restaurants, bars, canteens and other catering services travel agencies and related activities destination management motor-car rental services conservation, game parks and zoological establishments gaming and gambling. The South African Tourism Institute (SATI) was established with the assistance of the Spanish Government, which provided some R13 million for the project.
SATI initiated a number of projects that will create a supportive learning environment for teachers, high-school learners and employees in the tourism industry.
SATI focuses on teacher-development programmes with the intention of enhancing the delivery quality of the travel and tourism and hospitality subjects.
The project began with 14 schools and 800 learners in 1996, growing to 368 schools and 40 000 learners in 2002.
SATI trained over 600 educators on tourism, provided 200 learners from disadvantaged backgrounds with tourism internships, and created tourism awareness in over 540 schools.
There is also emphasis on capacity-building of Department of Education officials as well as educators.
A loan and bursary scheme established for higher education had benefited 45 students by mid-2002, with almost 90% of awards going to the previously disadvantaged. This scheme is operated by the National Student Financial Aid Scheme.
A SATI resource centre has been established, containing electronic and physical resources on many aspects of tourism and its related industries. The centre is open to the public. (See www.sati.web.za.
Other developmental projects are also under way that include working with tourism departments and industry to develop levels of customer service and staff training.
SATI, in conjunction with the Sunday Times and with the endorsement of the Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, launched an eight-week educational initiative, which allowed readers to set up and successfully operate their own bed-and-breakfast establishment or guest-house.
A partnership between the South African business community, via the Business Trust and the Department of Labour, is aiming to train 17 000 people, most of them unemployed, between 2000 and 2004. The Tourism Learnership Project aims to elevate skills, service and productivity levels in the tourism, conservation and hospitality subsectors. By August 2002, some 21 learnerships had been registered. The project is supported by almost 150 companies in developing the 1 500 employed and 2 000 unemployed learners.
Southern Africa has become one of the most popular big-game hunting regions in the world. It offers a great variety to trophy hunters, including the Big Five, namely elephant, white rhino, lion, leopard and buffalo, as well as 26 species of antelope.
Hunting proclamations of the various provinces differ and are promulgated annually. The hunting season is normally during the winter months, from May to the end of July.
Most species may be hunted legally by nonland-owners during the hunting season, provided they have the written consent of the landowner and a valid hunting permit issued by the appropriate conservation authority.
Trophy hunting by overseas clients is subject to uniform legislation throughout South Africa, and all hunters are required to be accompanied by registered professional hunters and have their hunts arranged by approved hunting outfitters.
All nine provinces provide schedules of ordinary, protected and specially protected game. Ordinary game may be hunted under licence during an open season. Protected game may be hunted only under permit and licence, the fee depending on the species. Specially protected game, which includes grysbok, klipspringer, red hartebeest, giraffe, black rhinoceros, pangolin and antbear, may not be hunted at all.
A learnership consists of structured workplace learning and structured off-the-job learning. On successful completion, a national qualification is awarded.
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has commissioned tourism hospitality, education and sports training authorities to train tour guides, with the specific aim of empowering the unemployed and previously disadvantaged individuals.
By May 2003, there were 5 645 registered tour guides in South Africa, 1 058 of whom were black.
Every person wishing to enter South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport for travel to South Africa and, where necessary, a visa.
The Immigration Act, 2002 (Act 13 of 2002), stipulates that all visitors to South Africa are required to have a minimum of one blank page (both back and front) in their passport to enable the entry visa to be issued.
If there is insufficient space in the passport, entry will be denied.
Enquiries can be directed to South African diplomatic representatives abroad or the Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria. Visas are issued free of charge. Visitors who intend travelling to South Africa's neighbouring countries and back into South Africa are advised to apply for multiple-entry visas. Passport-holders of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements. Tourists must satisfy immigration officers that they have the means to support themselves during their stay and that they are in possession of return or onward tickets. They must also have valid international health certificates.
Visitors from the yellow-fever belt in Africa and the USA, as well as those who travel through or disembark in these areas, have to be inoculated against the disease.
Malaria is endemic to parts of KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga and Limpopo. It is essential to take precautions when visiting these areas.
Foreign tourists visiting South Africa can have their value-added tax (VAT) refunded, provided the value of the items purchased exceeds R20. VAT is refunded on departure at the point of exit.
South Africa's transport infrastructure - airlines, railroads, roads, luxury touring buses (coaches) and motor cars - is such that tourists can travel comfortably and quickly from their port of entry to any other part of the country. A number of international airlines, including South African Airways, operate regular scheduled flights to and from South Africa. Several domestic airlines operate in the country. There are also mainline trains to all parts of the country. (See Chapter 22: Transport.
A brochure entitled Helpful Hints to Make Your Stay Enjoyable and Safe is distributed to tourists at international airports.
The tourist accommodation industry in South Africa provides a wide spectrum of accommodation, from formal hotels to informal holiday flats and cottages, game lodges and reserves, guest-houses, youth hostels and bed-andbreakfast establishments.
A variety of promotional material on South Africa is available. Comprehensive guides and maps cover all the regions and aspects of interest to tourists, including accommodation. Various useful tourism websites can be found on the Internet. (See also Suggested reading, p.616.
The Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA) was appointed in September 2000 to inspect the standards in the hospitality and accommodation industry.
The voluntary grading system, which was launched in 2001, uses internationally recognised star insignia to rate accommodation establishments initially, and will be extended to include relevant businesses in classified sectors of the tourism industry. Once graded, establishments will be encouraged to utilise the star system for marketing and advertising purposes.
Since its inception in 2001, the TGCSA has been directly responsible for an additional R76,5 million being invested in hotels, lodges, guest-houses, bed-and-breakfast and selfcatering establishments.
Management at 34 hospitality establishments that have adopted TGCSA's National Star-Grading Scheme decided to invest the R76,5 million in refurbishing and other infrastructure spending.
Grading assessors undergo training to receive the National Certificate in tourism grading. The awarding of such a qualification is a world-first. Assessors are then accredited with THETA and registered with the TGCSA before being recommended to the industry. Larger group hotels with their own internal assessors will also be accredited with THETA. Independent auditors conduct random audits. These auditors also assist in ensuring that the assessors adhere to a Code of Conduct.
By March 2003, more than 1 200 accommodation establishments had been graded as part of the Star-Grading System. Forty-eight independent assessors, including 15 from historically disadvantaged backgrounds, have been trained and accredited to undertake grading on behalf of the TGCSA. The star grading is the only system recognised by government and the Tourism Business Council.
By March 2003, the Council was working with representatives from the Meetings Incentive, Conference and Exhibitions Industry (MICE) industry to develop customer-orientated, practical and relevant star-grading criteria for the sector.
South Africa will be one of the first countries in the world to have national grading criteria for the MICE venues sector.
Implementation of the star-grading criteria for caravan and camping facilities was expected to commence during the middle of 2003.
The TGCSA is also in the process of developing star-grading criteria for backpacker and hostel establishments, conference venues, restaurants, tour operators and tourist transport service-providers.
By April 2003, the TGCSA was engaging representatives from the food and beverage industry (coffee shops, restaurants, bars, etc.) in developing star-grading criteria for the sector.
South African Tourism has launched several initiatives aimed at ensuring the safety of travellers to the country.
These include a partnership initiative with the oil company Engen and the Tourism Information and Safety Call Line, which provides tourists with information on what to do in an emergency and where to locate services.
The line, 083 123 2345 is operational 24 hours per day.
The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has established a National Tourism Safety Network, which is a multistakeholder structure comprising provincial representatives, the South African Police Service (SAPS), metro police, organised local government, community policing structures, South African Tourism and other key stakeholders.
The forum has so far developed a Tourism Safety Communications Strategy that is presently being implemented by provinces. It has also redrafted the National Tourism Safety Tips for visitors and established agreement in the industry to distribute only the new documents to tourists.
The Mpumalanga Provincial Government announced in April 2003 that it would be spending R1,4 million to establish permanent tourism-safety monitors.
The Tourism-Safety Monitors Project was launched in December 2002 as a pilot project aimed at preventing and curbing criminal attacks against both domestic and foreign visitors. Some 85 youth were trained and placed at more than 10 tourist points in the province.
The Western Cape Government established the Western Cape Tourism Safety Forum, a task team joining tourism bureaux, the SAPS and community-safety authorities.
Together they ensure that tourists who are involved in incidents of crime receive humanitarian support.
On 15 and 16 October 2003, the provincial Government hosted the Tourism Safety Conference in Cape Town to discuss issues around tourism safety.
The Conference harnessed the collective thinking of tourism and safety stakeholders to come up with consistent and co-ordinated actions.
The Western Cape continues to be one of the most favoured destinations for foreigners. It is estimated that tourism accounts for about 9,1% of the Western Cape's regional product and employs a similar proportion of the formal workforce.
The Western Cape Tourism Board serves eight different regions.
The Cape Metropolitan Area is divided into six different local areas, namely Cape Town, the South Peninsula, Blaauwberg, Helderberg, Tygerberg and Oostenberg. Tourist life in the city of Cape Town centres around the Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront, a working harbour offering everything from upmarket shopping malls, arts and craft markets, theatres and live music, to museums.
Major attractions in the city include the Bo-Kaap Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, the Company's Garden, the District Six Museum, flea markets, the Grand Parade, the Houses of Parliament, the South African Cultural History Museum and the South African National Gallery.
Also worth a visit are historical buildings in the Bo-Kaap and District Six.
The Gold of Africa Museum was opened in February 2002. Established by Anglo Gold, it is home to a celebrated collection of more than 350 gold artefacts.
Air flips and trips are available, as well as many boat and yacht trips from Table Bay Harbour, including trips to Robben Island (proclaimed a World Heritage Site and also the place where former President Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for a number of years), which is fast becoming one of South Africa's premier tourist attractions.
The Nelson Mandela Gateway to Robben Island is situated in the Clock Tower Precinct at the V&A Waterfront. The Gateway houses interactive multimedia exhibitions, an auditorium, boardrooms, a new Robben Island Museum shop and a restaurant.
Table Mountain is a popular site for visitors and provides the majestic backdrop to the vibrant and friendly Mother City. It can be reached by an ultra-modern cableway. The Mountain forms part of the Cape Peninsula National Park.
Newlands is home to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. In summer, various open-air concerts are held and visitors can bring their own picnic baskets.
At the South African Rugby Museum, visitors can view the history of the sport back to 1891.
The Rhodes Memorial is situated at Rondebosch on the slopes of Table Mountain. It was built of granite from the Mountain as a tribute to the memory of Cecil John Rhodes, Prime Minister of the Cape from 1890 to 1896.
The Buffelsfontein Visitor Centre at Cape Point, officially known as the Cape of Good Hope section of the Cape Peninsula National Park, was officially opened in January 2003.
The Centre houses a full complement of artefact displays, state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment and information material covering all aspects of the area's natural and cultural wealth.
buildings designed by Sir Herbert Baker.
At Cape Point, part of the Cape Peninsula National Park, there are many drives, walks, picnic spots and a licensed restaurant. Care has been taken to protect the environmental integrity of this 22 100-hectare (ha) reserve of indigenous flora and fauna.
Simon's Town's naval atmosphere and Historic Mile are major attractions in the area. A statue of the famous dog and sailor's friend, Able Seaman Just Nuisance, stands at Jubilee Square.
Other attractions include the South African Naval Museum and the Warrior Toy Museum. One of only two mainland jackass-penguin breeding colonies in the world can be found at Boulders Beach.
Hout Bay is well-known for its colourful working harbour. Seafood outlets, round-thebay trips to the nearby seal colony, shell and gift shops, and a famous harbourfront emporium attract many visitors. Duiker Island, opposite The Sentinel, is a seal and sea-bird sanctuary. The World of Birds Wildlife Sanctuary is one of the largest bird parks in the world and provides a home for some 3 000 birds. Visitors can walk through the large landscaped aviaries.
Against the backdrop of the magnificent Hottentots Holland and Helderberg Mountains, the Helderberg region is a paradise for tourists. Hiking and bird-watching in the Helderberg Nature Reserve, the historic Vergelegen Wine Farm and the Helderberg Wine Route offer something for everyone. Golfers can play a round at the popular Erinvale Golf Course, while a scenic viewpoint on Sir Lowry's Pass offers uninterrupted views across False Bay.
In Oostenberg, visitors can enjoy some fine wine and flower farms, such as Zevenwacht Wine Estate with its graceful Cape Dutch homestead. At Tygerberg Zoo, visitors can see a collection of exotic animals. Endless stretches of quiet beaches provide popular surfing and windsurfing spots. Big Bay in Bloubergstrand is a surfer's paradise and is host to an international windsurfing event. Rietvlei Nature Reserve is a unique wetland area, boasting over 110 bird species, including pelicans and flamingos.
Century City with the massive Canal Walk shopping mall (over 350 stores) is a tourist haven.
Canal Walk Century City is the largest shopping centre in Africa, with close to 400 shops and home to the largest movie complex in South Africa.
A state-of-the-art olympic-size ice-rink, an amusement park and an upmarket casino are on offer at GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World.
Ratanga Junction, Africa's first full-scale theme park, is situated next to Century City. It offers adrenaline-pumping thrill rides, roller coasters, kiddie rides, and snake and bird shows.
Tygerberg is a vibrant and fast-growing area with a well-developed business centre, numerous sports fields, an international indoor cycle track, well-kept golf courses, a racecourse and a casino.
South Africa's Blue Train is one of the world's most luxurious railway services. The Train runs between Cape Town and Pretoria, to Hoedspruit in Mpumalanga and along a section of the Garden Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. A trip to the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe is also offered.
Each Blue Train compartment has a bathroom en suite, featuring either a bath or shower, a telephone, television and individually controlled air-conditioning. A video channel allows guests to access short documentaries about the area through which the Train is travelling, while a large screen in the club car provides an eye-view of the track ahead, courtesy of a camera mounted onto the front of the locomotive.
Features include CD players and video machines in the luxury compartments. Professionally trained personnel are on call for guests 24 hours a day.
The 380-m long Train has 18 carriages, accommodates 84 passengers and 27 staff members, and travels at a maximum speed of 110 km/h.
The Garden Route has a well-developed tourist infrastructure, making the region popular all year round.
The pont at Malgas is the only remaining pont in the country, ferrying vehicles and livestock across the Breede River. Whale-watching attracts tourists at Witsand and Port Beaufort from June to November. The area also has a few free-range ostrich farms.
The Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve outside Heidelberg comprises the popular Bushbuck Trail, a wilderness trail and two mountain-bike trails.
Riversdale is one of South Africa's most important fynbos export areas. Other attractions include the Julius Gordon Africana Museum.
At the historical Strandveld Architectural Heritage Site at Still Bay, visitors can watch tame eels being fed. Ancient fish-traps can be seen at Morris Point and the harbour.
At the aloe factories at Albertinia, aloe juices are extracted for medicine and highquality skin-care products.
Nearby, bungee-jumping on the Gourits River Gorge, hiking, mountain-biking and angling are popular pastimes.
At Mossel Bay, the Point, a well-liked area for surfers, also features a natural pool formed by rock - a popular swimming place at low tide. The St Blaize trail starts here and it is the ideal spot to watch the whales and dolphins at play in season. There is plenty to do in Mossel Bay, such as suntanning on the 24-km beach, shark diving and hiking.
The harbour at Mossel Bay is one of the most modern commercial and recreational harbours on the southern Cape coastline. The Information Centre at PetroSA (formerly Mossgas) informs visitors about the project and the production of synthetic fuels from Mossel Bay's offshore gas fields. Other attractions include the Attequas Kloof Pass, AngloBoer/South African War blockhouses and the Bartholomew Dias complex.
Great Brak River offers a historic village with many opportunities for whale and dolphin watching along the extensive coast. Game farms hosting four of the Big Five enrich the wild and bird life.
George is at the heart of the Garden Route and the mecca of golf in the southern Cape, as it is home to the renowned Fancourt Country Club and Golf Estate and various other acclaimed golf courses. Board the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe on its daily trip along the coastline between George and Knysna (except Sundays) at the Outeniqua Transport Museum, where one can enjoy a variety of enterprises. Visitors can also board the Power Van here, and enjoy a glimpse of the Garden Route Botanical Garden.
The George Museum with its timber history as theme offers ongoing exhibitions. The Montagu and Voortrekker Passes are national monuments, providing spectacular views of the Outeniqua Nature Reserve, which offers several hiking trails.
The George Airport, the Outeniqua Pass, the railway line and the N2 offer excellent access and make George the ideal hub from which to explore the Garden Route and Little Karoo.
Victoria Bay and Wilderness are popular for their safe bathing and unspoilt nature. Wilderness is the western gateway to the southern Cape lakes area. It's a nature lover's paradise, best known for its beaches, lakes, placid lagoon and lush indigenous forests. Bird watchers flock to the Langvlei and Rondevlei Bird Sanctuaries in the Wilderness National Park, which host over 230 different bird species. Other activities include biking, abseiling, horse-riding, paragliding, scenic drives, canoeing, scuba diving and fishing.
Sedgefield borders Swartvlei Lagoon, the largest natural inland saltwater lake in South Africa. Activities include beach horse-riding, hiking, angling and bird-watching.
Knysna has officially become South Africa's favourite destination. What makes it unique is the fact that the town nestles on the banks of an estuary, guarded by The Heads (two huge sandstone cliffs) surrounded by indigenous forests, tranquil lakes and golden beaches.
This natural wonderland is home to the largest and smallest of creatures, from the Knysna seahorse to the Knysna elephants, rare delicate butterflies and the endemic Knysna loerie, a colourful forest bird. Over 200 species can be found in the abundant fynbos and forest settings.
Knysna is also famous for its delectable home-grown oysters, enjoyed with locally brewed beer in quaint pubs and restaurants. An eclectic mix of art galleries showcases the diversity of talent in the area. The area also offers lagoon cruises, forest hikes, golf and adventure sports. A visit to the Knysna Quays is a must.
Plettenberg Bay is adventure country, offering boat-based whale watching, black water tubing, hiking, and forest and cycling trails. Look-Out Beach is one of the Blue Flag beaches in South Africa.
The Keurbooms River Nature Reserve at Plettenberg Bay offers a canoeing trail, and the Robberg Nature Reserve is a treasure trove of land, marine, geological and archaelogical wealth.
The Tsitsikamma National Park offers many scenic walks and trails, including the worldfamous Otter Trail. It also boasts the only underwater trail in Africa. The Park is South Africa's first proclaimed marine reserve.
There are several bungee-jumping spots in the area, including the highest bungee jump in the world at the Bloukrans River Bridge. Other popular activities include boat cruises, trout-fishing, whale watching, diving, sea-kayaking, gliding, golfing, abseiling and canoeing.
The Klein is a semi-desert area broken by unexpected lush river valleys. Excellent wines and port are produced in the Calitzdorp and De Rust areas.
Oudtshoorn, the world's ostrich-feather capital, is the region's main town. The Swartberg Nature Reserve and Pass are also worth a visit. The Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees is held in the town annually. Some 29 km from Oudtshoorn lie the remarkable Cango Caves, a series of spectacular subterranean limestone caverns. Bearing evidence of early San habitation, the 30-cave wonderland boasts magnificent dripstone formations. Between 200 000 and 250 000 people visit the Caves annually.
Amalienstein and Zoar are historic mission stations midway between Ladismith and Calitzdorp. Visitors can go on donkey-cart and hiking trails through orchards and vineyards, while the Seweweekspoort is ideal for mountain-biking, hiking, and protea and fynbos admirers.
Calitzdorp boasts four wine estates, three of which are open to the public. The spring water of the Calitzdorp Spa is rich in minerals and is reputed to have medicinal properties. The Gamka Mountain Reserve is home to the rare and endangered Cape mountain zebra.
De Rust lies at the southern entrance to Meiringspoort. The Meiringspoort Gorge extends 20 km through the Swartberg Mountain Range. Halfway through, a beautiful 69 mhigh waterfall can be seen. Wine farms in the area are open to the public.
Ladysmith is home to the Towerkop Cheese Factory. There are various hiking trails, mountain-biking trails and 4x4 trails in the area. The Anysberg, Klein Karoo and Towerkop Nature Reserves can also be visited.
Uniondale, on the main route between George and Graaff-Reinet, features the largest water-wheel in the country, the Old Watermill. Uniondale Poort is a scenic drive linking Uniondale with Avontuur in the Langkloof Valley.
At Vanwyksdorp, visitors can see how fynbos is dried and packed for the export market. Donkey-cart rides take visitors to AngloBoer/South African War grave sites.
The Central Karoo forms part of one of the world's most interesting and unique arid zones. This ancient, fossil-rich land with the richest desert flora in the world, also has the largest variety of succulents found anywhere on earth. There are over 9 000 plant species in the Karoo, and the Beaufort West area alone is home to more species than the whole of Great Britain.
Beaufort West, the oldest town in the Central Karoo, is often referred to as the 'Oasis of the Karoo'. The local museum features a display of awards presented to pioneer heart transplant surgeon, the late Prof. Chris Barnard, a son of this town. Close by is the Karoo National Park, which is home to a huge range of game as well as the highly endangered riverine rabbit.
The village of Matjiesfontein, a national monument, offers tourists a peek into the splendour of Victorian England. The village houses a small railway museum, a private motor museum and the largest privately owned museum in South Africa.
The vastness of the Great Karoo can best be experienced at Murraysburg, an ecotourist and hunter's paradise, while the geology of the region can be studied at Laingsburg, a tiny village once almost completely wiped out by floods.
Prince Albert is a well-preserved town which nestles at the foot of the Swartberg Mountains. The Fransie Pienaar Museum offers interesting cultural-history displays, a fossil room and an exhibit of the old gold-mining activities of the 19th century. The Museum has a license to distil and sell witblits (white lightening). Prince Albert is the closest town by road to Gamkaskloof.
The Hell, a little valley in the heart of the Swartberg Mountains, was the home of one of the world's most isolated communities for almost 150 years. Today, it is a nature reserve and national monument managed by Cape Nature Conservation. It is accessed from the peak of the Swartberg Pass.
Whether it is its magnificent natural beauty, its rich cultural heritage or its world-renowned wines, the Winelands region is synonymous with the best that the Cape has to offer. Splendid mountains, gabled Cape Dutch homesteads and lush vineyards provide a splendid backdrop to the towns of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek and the Dwarsrivier Valley.
Franschhoek, originally known as Oliphantshoek, was named after the arrival of Huguenots who were predominantly French. The Huguenot Monument was built in 1944 to commemorate the 250th anniversary of their arrival in 1688. The Huguenot Museum depicts the genealogical history of these families. Visitors can also enjoy various hiking trails and historical walks, as well as the Vignerons de Franschhoek wine route.
Paarl lies between the second-largest granite rock in the world and the Du Toit's Kloof Mountains and is famous for its architectural treasures found along a 1-km stretch of the Main Street featuring, among others, Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture.
The Afrikaanse Taalmonument is situated on the slopes of the Paarl Mountain while the Afrikaanse Taalmuseum is in the centre of the town.
Visitors can also visit various animal attractions like the Drakenstein Lion Park, Animal Zone or Le Bonheur Crocodile Farm. The Paarl Mountain and Nature Reserve, rich in its natural beauty, is known for its enormous 500 million-year-old granite rocks.
The Western Cape walked away with all the awards at the 2002 Engen Town of the Year Competition.
Cape Town was named the City of the Year, while the prize for the town category went to Knysna. Montagu, situated midway between Cape Town and Knysna, took the trophy for the village category.
Stellenbosch through the Helshoogte Pass, so named because of its dangerous curves.
Enter the Banhoek Valley, to which unruly slaves were banished from the castle in the late 1700s. These slaves found freedom in the secluded mountain areas. They interacted with other slaves on the already established farms and started their own settlements. Today Kylemore is one of these small dorpies. Further down the road is the little town of Pniel. When slaves were emancipated in 1834, those who were not tradesmen or entrepreneurs were quite adept at fruit farming, but had no land to tend. A concerned philanthrophic organisation bought land on which a mission station was established in 1843. Places of interest include the Freedom Monument, which was erected in 1992 - a symbol to commemorate the freed slaves who were the first settlers at the mission station.
Stellenbosch is the second-oldest town in South Africa, and is also known as the Eikestad (city of oaks). Various historical walks will delight visitors. Dorp Street consists of one of the longest rows of old buildings in the country. The Stellenbosch Village Museum consists of four homesteads and gardens ranging from the late 17th to the middle 19th centuries.
A number of nature reserves provide excellent hikes. The town hosts various festivals, including the Simon van der Stel Festival, which takes place in October each year to commemorate the birthday of the founder of Stellenbosch, and the Stellenbosch Food and Wine Festival.
At the Oude Libertas Amphitheatre, visitors can enjoy concerts, and ballet between December and March. The Spier Summer Arts Festival also livens up sultry summer nights from November to March at the Spier Wine Estate near Stellenbosch. The Stellenbosch Wine Route comprises over 100 wine estates.
Wellington, which is steeped in history and tradition, has a magical atmosphere that will captivate you once you discover the town, its people and its myriad attractions. Apart from fine cuisine and pleasant accommodation, visitors can explore its rich inheritance of historic buildings, experience fynbos hikes, horse riding and mountain biking. Bain's Kloof Pass is regarded as the proud legacy of all inhabitants of the Drakenstein Valley and is of great importance for tourism.
Flower lovers will certainly enjoy the chrysanthemum show in May, the longest running such show in South Africa. More than 90% of South Africa's vine-cutting nurseries are found in Wellington. The town is also the home of South Africa's dried-fruit industry.
The Ikhwezi Community Centre, situated between Paarl and Wellington, empowers disadvantaged women and children through craft projects. Handmade articles such as beautifully coloured woven rugs and tapestries, patchwork quilts, hand-embroidered linen and children's clothing are sold at the Centre. Cultural dancing, a marimba band and traditional Xhosa and Malay food are available.
Homestays have been developed in the Winelands region, where guests can become part of the host's family and experience community life.
Kayamandi, Cloetesville, Idas Valley and Jamestown in the greater Stellenbosch area, offer cultural experiences, with the vibrant townships offering genuine African hospitality. With a local resident of the township as the guide, enjoy a drive around the township, take a tour of the hostels, experience African contemporary music, or simply sip a homemade beer.
The West Coast comprises the Olifants River Valley, the Swartland and the coastal areas bordering the Atlantic.
Within the first two months of the first good winter rains, wild flowers on the West Coast explode in a brilliant array of colour. The area is famous for its abundance of seafood and cultural-historical heritage sites.
The town of Darling draws visitors to its country museum and art gallery, annual wild flower and orchid shows, basket factory and wine cellars. The entertainment venue Evita se Perron is situated at the old Darling Railway Station and offers top entertainment from local entertainers.
The Hartbeeshuisie at Hopefield is a replica of the original reed-built houses of the area.
Langrietvlei, a national monument, boasts a Guernsey and Hereford stud, a honey farm and hiking trails.
Langebaan is a popular holiday destination. The West Coast National Park, an internationally renowned wetland which houses about 60 000 waterbirds and waders, attracts thousands of visitors each year.
The Park is also the site where the oldest anatomically modern fossilised human footprints, were discovered. The site at the farm Elandsfontein near Hopefield where the human skull cap referred to as the 'Saldanha Man' was discovered, and the Park, form part of the West Coast Fossil Route.
The West Coast Fossil Park is situated 110 km north of Cape Town. Visitors to the Park can learn about the animal life and climate changes that occurred in the Western Cape five million years ago. The Park is also used for research programmes.
The Langebaan Lagoon forms part of the Park and is zoned for specific activities. The Postberg section of the Park, across the Lagoon, is famous for its wild flowers, blooming mainly during August and September. Bird watching, fishing, hiking, horse-riding and whale watching (in spring) are some of the activities on offer.
Cape Columbine at Paternoster is the last manned lighthouse built on the South African coast. The Columbine Nature Reserve is home to many seabird species.
Saldanha is a water-sport enthusiast's paradise. Other attractions include Doc's Cave, a landmark on the scenic breakwater drive, and the Hoedjieskoppie Nature Reserve. There are various hiking trails in the SAS Saldanha Nature Reserve.
The annual Harvest Festival of the Sea at Saldanha commemorates those people who lost their lives at sea.
St Helena Bay is best known for the Vasco Da Gama Monument and Museum. Fishing (snoek in season), hiking, bird and whalewatching opportunities also draw many visitors.
Vredenburg, the business centre of the area, offers shopping opportunities, cinemas and other essential services. The golf course just outside the town is very popular and boasts a bird hide where various species can be viewed.
Lambert's Bay is a traditional fishing village with Bird Island as a tourist attraction. It is a breeding ground for jackass penguins, Cape cormorants and other sea birds. Visitors can also watch southern right whales from June to November.
The picturesque town of Doringbaai with its attractive lighthouse is popular for its seafood. The crayfish factory in town can be visited by appointment.
Strandfontein, situated about 8 km north of Doring Bay, is essentially a holiday and retirement resort. The interesting location of the town and its breathtaking view of the ocean present a priceless panorama.
At Velddrif/Laaiplek, visitors can indulge in some bokkom (a West Coast salted-fish delicacy) at factories along the Berg River. Tourists can also visit the salt-processing factory or the West Coast Art Gallery in town.
Yzerfontein is famous for its unspoilt beaches, fynbos, beautiful views and whalewatching. Another major attraction is the historical lime furnaces.
During winter, the Olifants River Valley is filled with the heady scent of orange blossoms. The citrus area in the Valley is the third-largest in South Africa. The wine route from Citrusdal to Lutzville boasts a selection of internationally acclaimed wines. The world-renowned rooibos tea is also produced here.
Citrusdal is famous for its citrus products and wines. The Citrusdal Museum depicts the pioneering days of the early colonists.
The Goede Hoop Citrus Co-op is the largest single packing facility in South Africa.
The annual Citrusdal Outdoor Calabash features, among others, 4x4 outings, lectures and visits to rock-art sites, and an arts and crafts market.
The Sandveldhuisie is a recently built example of a typical Sandveld dwelling. There are several recognised mountain-biking routes, walking, hiking and canoeing trails, and a skydiving club. The Cederberg Wilderness Area features the elephant's foot plant, the rare snow protea, and the best examples of San rock art in the Western Cape.
Visitors to Clanwilliam can visit the rooibos and velskoen factories, the grave of the well-known South African poet Louis Leipoldt, and the Englishman's Grave. Various historical buildings can also be viewed. The Clanwilliam and Bulshoek Dams are popular among watersport enthusiasts.
At Wupperthal, the oldest Rhenish Mission Station, at the foot of the Cederberg Mountains, a self-help footwear-development project is under way. Workers sell the velskoens to retailers, primarily in Gauteng and the Western Cape. Proceeds from 4x4 trails in the area go to community coffers for new hiking trails and building more overnight huts and guest-houses.
Graafwater is situated in an area well known for its potato produce. Tourists can visit the Heerenlogement, an overhang used as an overnighting site by early settlers.
Klawer was named after the wild clover growing in the area. During the flower season, the area is a kaleidoscope of colour. Visitors can go on a hiking trail along the Doring River, as well as on a river-rafting trail.
Lutzville and Koekenaap are synonymous with wine and flowers in season.
Visitors can also view the Sishen-Saldanha Railway Bridge. Where the railway line spans the Olifants River, it is divided into 23 sections, each 45 m long. The 14 100-ton deck was pushed into position over teflon sheets with hydraulic jacks from the bridgehead. It is the longest bridge in the world built using this method.
Vanrhynsdorp houses the largest succulent nursery in South Africa. The Latsky Radio Museum houses a collection of old valve radios, some dating back to 1924. Bird watching, mountain biking, day walks, hiking and 4x4 trails abound. The Troe-Troe and Rietpoort Mission Stations are a must-see for historians.
Vredendal is the centre of the Lower Olifants River Valley. Major attractions include marbleprocessing and manufacturing, industrial mines (dolomite and limestone), the KWV Grape Juice Concentrate Plant and Distillery, and the South African Dried Fruit Co-op. The town is also home to the Vredendal Wine Cellar, the largest co-operative wine cellar under one roof in the southern hemisphere.
The Swartland is best known for its wheat production.
Malmesbury is the biggest town in the Swartland. Major attractions include Bokomo Mills, the Malmesbury Museum, the Sugarbird glazed fruit factory and the historical walkabout.
The Riebeek Valley is known for its scenic beauty. The area has become a popular haven for well-known artists of various disciplines. Wines at various cellars and olives can be tasted. Steeped in South African history, it is the birthplace of both Genl Jan Smuts and Dr DF Malan. Smuts House is open to the public.
Elands Bay is a popular holiday resort and surfer's paradise. Khoi and San rock art can be viewed at Elands Bay Caves.
Moorreesburg and Koringberg are major wheat-distributing towns. Visitors can visit the Wheat Industry Museum, one of only three in the world. Bird watching, hiking, 4x4 routes, clay-pigeon shooting, mountain-bike trails, canoeing and waterskiing at Misverstand are popular activities in and around the town.
Piketberg offers arts and craft, fauna and flora, wine culture and recreation.
The Goedverwacht and Wittewater Moravian Mission Stations are situated close to Piketberg.
Porterville is famous for its Disa Route (best in January and February). The Groot Winterhoek Mountain Peak in the Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area is the secondhighest in the Western Cape. There are several walking trails. The Dasklip Pass is popular with hang-gliders.
The Hangklip-Kleinmond area comprises Kleinmond, Betty's Bay, Pringle Bay and Rooiels. It is a popular holiday region, ideal for whale watching, and includes the Kleinmond Coastal Nature Reserve and the Harold Porter Botanical Garden.
The Penguin Reserve at Stoney Point is one of two breeding colonies of the jackass penguin on the African continent.
South Africa's first international biosphere reserve, the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve, was proclaimed by the UN Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation in 1999. The 90 000-ha Reserve includes 23 000 ha of marine environment. It runs along the coast from Gordon's Bay to the Bot River Vlei, stretching 2 km out to sea, and inland to the Groenlandberg, the mountains near Grabouw.
Hermanus is a popular holiday resort, famous for the best land-based whale watching in the world. The coastline offers miles of white sandy beaches, restaurants, sports facilities and a unique 12-km cliff path.
Stanford is one of the few villages in South Africa where the market square has been retained. The central core of the village has been proclaimed a national conservation area. A total of 124 bird species has been recorded to date.
Gansbaai is known for its excellent rock and boat angling, diving, shark-cage diving and whale watching. The Danger Point Lighthouse, named as such because of the ships that have been wrecked and lives that have been lost on this dangerous coast is open to the public.
De Kelders is the only freshwater cave on the African coast. Spectacular views of southern right whales can be enjoyed from the cliffs at De Kelders and along the coast to Pearly Beach. Also popular are white shark tours, diving safaris and fishing trips.
Elim was founded by German missionaries in 1824, with its only inhabitants being members of the Moravian Church. Visitors are welcome to attend services. The Old Watermill (1833) has been restored and declared a national monument.
Popular sites in Napier include the Militaria Museum and Rose Boats and Toy Museum. At the latter, unique handmade tin-plate steamboats can be seen driven by copper and brass rose boats. Old toys and trains are also on display.
Kleinsanddrif farm, situated half-way between Bredasdorp and Napier, offers guided tours by tractor and trailer up the picturesque mountain range. Fynbos and many species of birds, including the engandered blue crane, South Africa's national bird, can be seen.
At Bredasdorp, the historical farm Nacht Wacht can be visited for a real Overberg farm experience.
De Mond Nature Reserve boasts rare bird species including the Damara tern and giant tern.
Geelkop Nature Reserve, which is about 450 ha in size, derives its name from the mass of yellow flowering plants, particularly leucadendrons, which cover the hill during spring. The Reserve offers a half-day hiking trail and scenic circular drives.
The lighthouse at L'Agulhas, which forms part of the Agulhas National Park, is the country's second-oldest working lighthouse. It celebrated its 150th anniversary in 1999. It houses a restaurant and a museum. About 1 km from the lighthouse is the southernmost point of Africa, Cape Agulhas. This is also the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans.
The Agulhas National Park is home to a rich and diverse plant population, which includes some 2 000 indigenous species comprising more than 110 Red Data Book species. The Agulhas Plain is home to a variety of wetlands, as well as the endangered Cape platanna and microfrog, and rare coastal birds such as the African oystercatcher. The Darmara fern finds the area ideal for breeding.
Visitors can also view the ancient tidal fish traps constructed by the Khoi-Khoi people.
Struisbaai has the longest white coastline in the southern hemisphere. Hiking trails are on offer and boat-based whale watching can be enjoyed from the Struisbaai Harbour.
Arniston was named Waenhuiskrans by the local fishers in honour of the huge sea cave capable of housing several ox-wagons. For outsiders it was named after the Arniston, a ship wrecked here in 1815. The Waenhuiskrans Cave can be explored at low tide.
The De Hoop Nature Reserve on the way to Swellendam includes an internationally renowned wetland and bird sanctuary. The marine reserve is a winter retreat for the southern right whale and the Western Cape's only Cape griffen vulture colony. There is a mountain-bike trail and an environmental education centre. The red Bredasdorp lily and many species of protea and erica are found in the Heuningberg Nature Reserve.
Swellendam is well-known for its youngberries and eclectic architecture. The Drostdy Museum consists of a group of buildings containing a huge selection of period furniture.
The Bontebok National Park, about 7 km from Swellendam, provides sanctuary to, among others, the threatened bontebuck.
Suurbraak is a mission village situated in the folds of the Langeberg Mountains, alongside the Buffelsjachts River about 5 km from the majestic Tradouw Pass.
Barrydale can be approached from three directions: the Overberg and Garden Route via the magnificent Tradouw Pass, Montagu and the fertile Tradouw Valley, or Oudtshoorn through the starkly beautiful Klein Karoo. Known for its world-class wine, Barrydale offers the visitor fruit and fresh air in abundance.
Situated on the N2, about 160 km from Cape Town, Riviersonderend offers beautiful mountain and river scenery, a nine-hole golf course and sightings of the blue crane.
Caledon is famous for its natural mineral waters, hot springs and wild-flower shows. The Southern Associated Maltsters is the only malt producer for the South African lager beer industry and the largest in the southern hemisphere.
Genadendal is the oldest Moravian village in Africa, with church buildings and a school dating back to 1738. The Genadendal Mission and Museum Complex documents the first mission station in South Africa.
Greyton is a peaceful town in a beautiful mountain setting where various outdoor activities can be enjoyed.
The Theewaterskloof Dam outside Villiersdorp is the seventh-largest dam in the country. The Villiersdorp Wild Flower Garden and Nature Reserve boasts an indigenous herb garden and a reference library.
The Grabouw/Elgin district produces about 60% of South Africa's total apple exports. The Valley is also renowned for cultivating fresh chrysanthemums, roses and proteas. The Elgin Apple Museum is one of only two in the world. Houwhoek Pass is a beautiful mountain pass and the Elgin Valley road-side farm stalls are known for their fresh produce. Sir Lowry's Pass offers spectacular views of False Bay from Gordon's Bay to Cape Point.
At the foot of the majestic Langeberg Mountains lies Ashton, an important wineproducing and food-processing centre. Besides being home to four wineries and two large canneries, Ashton also offers cruises down the Breede River, amazing rock formations at the spectacular Cogmans Kloof, and beautiful day walks in the surrounding foothills, allowing the visitor to take a closer look at the region's fynbos.
Known as 'beautiful valley', Bonnievale lies in a fertile valley along the Breede River. Lush vineyards and peach and apricot orchards meander through the town against the backdrop of imposing mountains. The tranquil atmosphere, moderate climate, scenic beauty, excellent wines and well-known Bonnievale sausage all make for an enchanting visit. Other attractions include the Myrtle Rigg Church, the Parmalat Cheese Factory, and cruises on the Breede River.
The vast fertile basin in which Ceres lies is one of the richest agricultural areas in the Western Cape. Surrounded by mountains that are heavily capped with snow in winter, Ceres is encircled by streams from the Breede River. Hiking trails, 4x4 routes, mountain biking and nature reserves are on offer.
De Doorns is situated in the heart of the Hex River Valley, the largest producer of table grapes in southern Africa. The many historical buildings and homesteads, San rock paintings, the kaleidoscope of autumn colours and the Hex River 4x4 Route are all ingredients that make a visit to the Valley a truly unforgettable experience. The legend of the heks or witch of the Hex River Valley adds to the mystery surrounding this breathtaking area.
The picturesque village of Gouda is renowned for the Parrotts Den Pub, a living museum, in the Gouda Hotel.
McGregor has a wealth of fascinating whitewashed, thatched cottages and well-preserved Victorian houses, making it one of the bestpreserved examples of mid-19th century architecture in the Western Cape. Besides the Boesmanskloof Hiking Trail, there are other walks and hikes, bird watching and fabulous star-filled night skies.
Montagu, gateway to the Klein Karoo, lies in a fertile valley and is blessed with typical Klein Karoo landscapes as well as the spectacular Cogman's Kloof with its unique rock formations. Renowned for its muscadel wines, mineral springs and unique tractor-trailer rides that take the visitor to the summit of the Langeberg Mountains for a breathtaking view of the Robertson and Koo Valleys, Montagu also offers hiking trails, 4x4 routes, mountain biking and some of the best rock climbing in the world.
Prince Alfred Hamlet is the gateway to the Gydo Pass, known for its scenic views. This quaint village lies in an important deciduousfruit-farming area.
Hidden amidst vineyards and wine estates lies the picturesque town of Rawsonville, renowned for its array of award-winning wines. Tourists can enjoy an afternoon drive along the awe-inspiring Slanghoek Valley, with its lush vineyards and breathtaking views, or relax in the warm-water mineral springs at Goudini Spa.
Known as 'the valley of wine and roses', Robertson is one of the most beautiful areas in South Africa. Surrounded by vineyards, orchards, delectable fruit and radiant roses, Robertson produces connoisseur-quality wines and is also known for its thoroughbred horses.
Known for its hiking trail and Vermeulens Velskoen Factory, Saron, meaning 'the plains', has a charm of its own.
When the railway to the north was built, Touwsriver became the first major locomotive depot after Cape Town. The Astronomical Survey Monument serves as a reminder of the British expedition that studied the transit of Venus in 1882. The nature reserve is a hiker's paradise and home to abundant wildlife. San paintings can be seen in this area, also known for its Karoo hospitality.
The picturesque village of Tulbagh is known for its heritage and historical homesteads. Church Street, home to 32 national monuments, constitutes the largest concentration of national monuments in one street in South Africa. Other attractions include wineries, hiking trails, mountain biking, horse riding, fishing or a train ride through the scenic Nuwe Kloof Pass.
Wolseley is situated on an extraordinary watershed. This phenomenon, one of only a few in the world, together with the various hiking trails, mountain biking, trout-fishing, farm visits, wine-tasting and waterfalls, make a visit to the town an unforgettable experience. An added attraction is the blockhouses dating back to the Anglo-Boer/South African War.
In the heart of the Breede River Valley lies Worcester, encircled by majestic mountains. Museums, art galleries and the town's architectural heritage make it well worth a visit. Visitors can experience life as the pioneers lived, in years gone by, at the Kleinplasie Living Open-Air Museum. Brandies and worldrenowned wines can be enjoyed. The indigenous semi-desert vegetation as well as the landscaped gardens of the Karoo National Botanical Gardens will enthral the visitor with their beauty. Hiking trails, fishing opportunities and 4x4 routes abound.
The Augrabies Falls National Park remains one of the main attractions of the Northern Cape. The province also boasts four of the country's major parks, namely the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, and Richtersveld, Namaqua and TankwaKaroo National Parks. Gameviewing drives reveal a variety of bird life, and animals such as klipspringers, steenbuck, various wildcats and otters. The popular three-day Klipspringer Trail encompasses all the major landmarks in the southern section of the Park, including some amazing rock formations.
The Big Hole in Kimberley is the largest hand-dug excavation in the world. The Kimberley Tram Service dates from the beginning of the century and still transports passengers from the City Hall to the Mine Museum.
Underground mine tours are a big attraction, as are the famous ghost tours, during which many historical buildings are seen from a different perspective.
Hand and mechanical diamond-digging by private diggers can be viewed by appointment.
The McGregor Museum houses invaluable collections of the archaeological finds in the area, as well as San art works. A San settlement can be visited.
The house where Sol Plaatje (African National Congress founding member and human-rights activist) lived in Kimberley, houses a library of Plaatje's and other black South African writers' works and several displays, including a portrayal of black involvement in the Anglo-Boer/South African War.
A life-sized statue of Plaatje was erected in the Garden of Remembrance at the new Northern Cape Legislature during 2003.
A township tour to Galeshewe provides a fresh perspective on South Africa's sociohistorical realities. Pan African Congress founder, Robert Sobukwe's house in Galeshewe is also worth a visit.
A cultural centre at Wildebeestkuil outside Kimberley features !Xun and Khwe artwork for sale and a tour of rock engravings by this indigenous people.
A short distance from Kimberley is the mining town Barkley West, which, due to its proximity to the Vaal River, is a favourite spot for many a water-sport enthusiast and angler.
Tucked along the Vaal River near Barkley West lies the Vaalbos National Park. Named after the camphor bush which is dominant in the region, the Park conserves part of a transitional vegetation zone where typical Karoo and Kalahari thornveld and grassveld meet.
The Park is not only home to large raptors, but is also a breeding centre for endangered African herbivores such as rhino, roan, sable and disease-free buffalo.
The Orange River Wine Cellars Co-op in Upington offers wine-tasting and cellar tours.
The South African Dried Fruit Co-operative is the second-largest and one of the most modern of its kind in the world. Tours of the plant are offered.
Moffat's Mission in Kuruman is a tranquil place featuring the house of missionary Robert Moffat, the church he built, and several other buildings. Moffat translated the Bible into Setswana - the first African language in which the Bible was made accessible.
The printing press on which he printed the first 2 000 copies can still be viewed. The church can seat 800 people and is still in use. David Livingstone married Moffat's daughter and started many famous travels from this mission station.
The Wonderwerk Cave at Kuruman features extensive San paintings that may be viewed by appointment.
The Kalahari Raptor Centre cares for injured birds and many of these majestic birds can be seen at close quarters.
Hand-built irrigation canals at Kakamas are still in use today. The Orange River Wine Cellar Co-op Rockery Route runs between Keimoes and Kakamas.
Kanoneiland is a settlement on the biggest island in the Orange River, in the Green Kalahari region.
At Keimoes, the Orange River flows at its widest. The Tierberg Nature Garden offers spectacular views of the Keimoes Valley and the many islands in the Orange River. The original irrigation canal system is still in use. The Orange River Wine Cellar Co-op's largest cellar is situated here.
Kenhardt is the oldest town in the Lower Orange River area. The Quiver Tree Forest and Kokerboom Hiking Trail consist of between 4 000 and 5 000 quiver trees. The Verneukpan Tourist Route leads visitors to the rare phenomenon of the remains of a permanent San settlement and the track on which Sir Malcolm Campbell once attempted to shatter the land-speed record.
Namaqualand, the land of the Nama and San people, annually puts on a spectacular show in spring. A floral splendour covers vast tracts of desert. The flowers sprout and survive for a brief period before they wilt and disappear just as suddenly, in the face of blistering heat and dry conditions.
Another marvel is the Witsand Nature Reserve about 70 km west of Postmasburg. A 100-m high dune of brilliant white sand can be seen. It stretches for about 9 km and is about 2 km wide. The dunes are in vivid contrast to the red Kalahari sand, olive-green thorns and hazy blue Langberg Mountains.
The province offers several hiking trails, horse trails, mountain biking, canoeing, whiteriver rafting and combination trails.
The Eerste Raadsaal (First Parliament Building) was built in 1849 as a school. It is Bloemfontein's oldest surviving building still existing in its original condition and is still in use as the seat of the Provincial Legislature.
The National Afrikaans Literary Museum and Research Centre houses a repository of works by prominent Afrikaans authors. Exhibits in the Afrikaans Music Museum and the Theatre Museum (part of the Centre) include old musical instruments, sheet music, costumes, photographs and furniture.
The National Museum is notable for its wide collection of fossils, cultural-historical exhibits and archaeological displays, including the Florisbad skull, which was discovered in the 1930s at the Florisbad spring, about 50 km north of Bloemfontein.
The National Women's Memorial is a sandstone obelisk, 36,5 m high, which commemorates the women and children who died in concentration camps during the AngloBoer/South African War from 1899 to 1902. The War Museum not only gives insight into the War through its unique art collection, dioramas and exhibits, but also brings the visitor closer to understanding the background against which the War took place. Visitors are also afforded a glimpse into life in the concentration and prisoner-of-war camps. The research library contains an extensive collection of Africana.
The Old Presidency dates back to 1885 and was the official residence of three Presidents of the former Republic of the Orange Free State. The Presidency houses a museum depicting their respective terms of office, and a cultural centre for art exhibitions, theatrical productions and musical events.
King's Park Rose Garden contains over 4 000 rose bushes. Bloemfontein hosts an annual rose festival.
The Observatory Theatre in Bloemfontein's game reserve is a unique attraction.
The Sand du Plessis Theatre and art gallery at Oliewenhuis are also worth visiting.
Bethulie used to be a London Missionary Society station. The original mission buildings still stand.
The Pellissier House Museum depicts the history of events in the area.
The Gariep Dam, more than 100 km long and 15 km wide, is part of the Orange River Water Scheme. Situated between the Dam and Bethulie lies the Gariep Dam Nature Reserve. On the southern side of the Dam lies the Oviston Nature Reserve.
Philippolis was founded as a London Missionary Society station in 1824 and was the first mission station in the province.
The Tussen-die-Riviere Nature Reserve reputedly supports more game than any other sanctuary in the Free State. It is reserved for hunters in autumn and winter.
Trails in the region include horse trails, hikes, mountain-bike trails and day walks.
The Basotho Cultural Village in the QwaQwa National Park is a living museum where visitors can witness the Sotho traditions and lifestyles in the chief's kraal.
Clocolan is known for its cherry trees, with its blossoms providing a spectacular sight in spring. San rock paintings and engravings are found in the area.
Clarens is often described as 'the jewel of the Free State', owing to the spectacular scenery. San paintings are found on farms in the area. Close by, the Highlands Route meanders along the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. One can also explore the magnificent mountain scenery by bike.
Ficksburg is known for its cherry and asparagus farms. A cherry festival is held annually in November. The town is a gateway to the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho.
The Golden Gate Highlands National Park is known for its beautiful scenery and is a very popular holiday destination. A vulture restaurant enables visitors to observe these scavengers closely. San paintings can also be viewed.
The Highlands Route follows the Lesotho border via Ladybrand and ends at Zastron in the south. San caves and rock art are some of the main features of the Route.
The Seekoeivlei Nature Reserve is listed as a Wetland of International Importance and is home to endangered bird species such as the blue and wattled cranes.
Bethlehem lies on the banks of the Jordaan River and was founded by the Voortrekkers during the 1840s. The museum in Miller Street depicts the history of the area. The banks of the Jordaan River form part of the Pretoriuskloof Nature Reserve - a sanctuary for birds and small game.
Van Reenen's Pass winds through the Drakensberg, and was originally used by migrating herds of zebra, hartebeest, blesbuck and wildebeest. The Llandaff Oratory in the nearby village of Van Reenen is believed to be the smallest Roman Catholic church in the world.
At Harrismith there are various memorials in honour of those who fought in the AngloBoer/South African War and World War I. Of particular interest is a memorial for the Scots Guards and Grenadier Guards. Platberg, the 2 394-m 'flat mountain', is the town's landmark. A well-known race, claimed by some to be the toughest in the country, is run annually up, along and back down the mountain. Sterkfontein Dam is ideal for water sports and fishing. Other attractions include the Kerkenberg Monument, Harrismith Wildflower Gardens, and the blockhouse which was used to guard water supplies during the AngloBoer/South African War.
The Riemland Museum in Heilbron depicts the heritage and the agricultural activities of the region.
The QwaQwa district is a traditional home to the Southern Sotho people. Karakul carpets, mohair, wall hangings, copper, glassware and brass are made and sold at Phuthaditjhaba. The Metsi Matsho and Fika Patso Dams are renowned for trout fishing.
Welkom is known for its gold mines. It is also the only city in the country that makes use of traffic circles instead of traffic lights.
Winburg is the oldest town and first capital of the former Republic of the Orange Free State. The Voortrekker Museum, using life-size models, depicts the daily routine of the trekkers. A concentration camp cemetery is situated close by.
Sasolburg originated in 1954 with the establishment of Sasol, the synthetic fuel producer.
The Eastern Cape is situated along the southeastern coast of South Africa and is the only province in South Africa, and one of the few places on earth, where all eight biomes (major vegetation types) converge.
With approximately 820 km of unspoilt coastline, the beaches of the Eastern Cape are among the most impressive anywhere, stretching from the Tsitsikamma National Park along the south coast, through St Francis Bay, Jeffreys Bay and Algoa Bay, up to the pristine Wild Coast and south-eastern coast to Port Edward. Added to the diverse coastal experiences are a number of national parks and private game reserves, which collectively cover an area greater than the Kruger National Park.
East London, South Africa's only river port, was originally established as a supply port to serve the military headquarters at King William's Town. The city's own waterfront development, Latimer's Landing, is situated on the banks of the Buffalo River. The East London Aquarium houses approximately 400 different species of marine and freshwater animals.
The East London Museum depicts the natural environment and rich heritage of the region. Best known for the prehistoric coelacanth, the Museum also displays reconstructions of the extinct dodo of Mauritius, along with the only extant dodo egg in the world.
Port Elizabeth is a superb holiday destination, offering a diverse mix of eco-attractions. The Algoa Bay National Sailing Week is held annually in May. There are various scubadiving sites. Other attractions include national parks and game reserves; the traditional healing village, Kaya Lendaba; bird watching; air tours; canoeing; various mountain-bike and horse-riding trails; and organised outdoor excursions. Tourists can visit various museums and memorials, go on the Donkin Heritage Trail, take a ride on the famous Apple Express and visit the Oceanarium.
Tucked away in the dense valley-bushveld of the Eastern Cape is the Addo Elephant National Park, which provides sanctuary to some 350 elephants, as well as buffalo, black rhino, plenty of birds and several species of antelope.
Grahamstown is sometimes referred to as the City of Saints, because of the more than 40 churches found in the town. The National Arts Festival is held annually. Every year during this time, Grahamstown is transformed into a dedicated arts venue where performers, visual artists, audiences, writers and craftspeople fuse in a celebration of creative energy. In 2002, the Festival was attended by 102 000 people, representing an increase of 5,2% compared with 2001.
Other attractions include various museums and historical buildings, the oldest post-box in South Africa, botanical gardens, the Cathedrals of St Michael and St George, nature reserves and hiking trails.
The Wild Coast draws many anglers. Catches include musselcracker and sardines. Southern right whales and their calves are regularly spotted from May to November. Common and bottlenose dolphins are often seen close to shore. Coffee Bay is popular among surfers, anglers and shell collectors. The new alignment of the N2 national route along the Wild Coast and the establishment of the Pondoland National Park will open up investment opportunities.
To the south, the Hole in the Wall is a prominent landmark. Waves continuously crash through the huge hole in the cliff. The coast on both sides of the cliff is notorious for the number of ships that have been wrecked there. In addition to fishing, the giant sand dunes and rich oyster beds, the Wild Coast is renowned for its beautiful beaches.
Visitors to the rural village of Qunu are shown the plot where former President Mandela's childhood home once stood, as well as his parents' graves.
Inland, the Owl House in Nieu-Bethesda displays the creative talent of the late Helen Martins. Statues of mermaids, wise men, camels and churches create a wonderland in the garden. Everything was built with broken bottles, bits of mirror and cement.
Over 200 houses in Graaff-Reinet have been restored to their original Victorian look, and have been proclaimed national monuments. The Old Library Museum houses the Lex Bremner Fossil Collection of Karoo reptile fossils and a collection of Khoi and San art reproductions. Urquhart House has a popular genealogical research centre.
The first evidence of the presence of dinosaurs in South African can be viewed at Maclear.
The Eastern Cape has a variety of official conservation areas such as the Mkambati Nature Reserve, Mountain Zebra National Park and Addo Elephant National Park.
Limpopo is well endowed with cultural diversity, historic sites and tourist attractions.
The Nylsvley Nature Reserve has one of the greatest concentrations of waterfowl and bushveld birds in South Africa. More than 400 species frequent the area.
The Mokopane vicinity has several nature reserves. The Arend Dieperink Museum has a fine cultural-historical collection and the Makapan Caves are notable for their fossils. The Caves are being developed into an archaeological site.
The Makapansgat Caves and limeworks near Mokopane represent an archeological site of global importance.
The Thabazimbi district has a large concentration of private game reserves and is one of the fastest-growing ecotourism areas in the country. The Marakele National Park is home to some rare yellowwood and cedar trees and the world's largest colony of Cape vultures. It is a leader in the conservation of the black rhino outside of the Kruger National Park and the KwaZulu-Natal parks.
Bela-Bela is known for its hot springs. There are a number of game reserves and leisure resorts in the area.
The springs at Tshipise attract more than a million visitors every year.
The Waterberg Range is rich in indigenous trees, streams, springs, wetlands and bird life. Cliffs known as 'the palace of the vultures' harbour a large breeding colony of Cape vultures. Modimolle is the main town in this region.
The Bakone Malapa Open-Air Museum outside Polokwane is a traditional Northern Sotho kraal. Men and women practise traditional skills such as making baskets, clay pots, furniture and utensils, and preparing hides.
Zion City at Moria near Polokwane is the headquarters of the Zion Christian Church, which attracts more than a million pilgrims every Easter.
Polokwane itself hosts a great variety of museums and art galleries.
The Mapungubwe Archaeological Site, situated 80 km west of Musina, lies within the boundaries of the Vhembe/Dongola National Park. It is one of the richest of its kind in Africa. Excavations in the 1930s uncovered a royal graveyard, which included a number of golden artefacts.
The Schoemansdal Voortrekker Town and Museum, west of Louis Trichardt, is built on the site of an original Voortrekker village and depicts their lifestyle between 1848 and 1852.
Also worth visiting is the Big Tree (the largest known baobab in southern Africa), Tshatshingo potholes, the mystical lake of Dzivhafundudzi and the holy forest at Phiphidi.
The Modjadji Nature Reserve, north of Tzaneen, is named after the legendary Rain Queen, Modjadji, who is believed to have settled in the area early in the 16th century. The Reserve encompasses the world's largest concentration of the cycad species Encephalartos transvenosus, also known as the Modjadji palm.
The Hans Merensky Nature Reserve and Mineral Spa on the southern banks of the Great Letaba River supports a large variety of game. More than 200 bird species have been recorded there.
At the Tsonga Kraal Open-Air Museum, arts, crafts and traditional huts reflect the Tsonga lifestyle of 100 years ago.
The Kruger National Park (northern section) is one of South Africa's biggest tourist attractions. The Park is home to a huge number and wide variety of amphibians, reptiles and birds, and 147 mammal species, including the Big Five.
Thulamela, in the northern part of the Kruger National Park, was opened to guided groups in June 1997. This followed seven years of archaeological excavations, which brought to light the skeletons of two ancient royals and a multitude of artefacts, including gold bangles, beads and a double gong.
North West has five geographically distinct areas, namely the Central, Eastern, Bophirima, Rustenburg and Southern districts.
The Historic Route of Mafikeng includes an Anglo-Boer/South African War siege site, the Molema House where Sol Plaatje lived while writing his Mafikeng Diary, and the Mafikeng Museum.
The Lichtenburg Game Breeding Centre and the Botsalano Game Reserve are well worth a visit.
The Groot Marico region is known as mampoer country and visitors can embark on a mampoer and tobacco route. The Kortkloof Cultural Village is dedicated to the Tswana people.
Other attractions include the Wondergat, the Bosbult Monument which commemorates a battle during the Anglo-Boer/South African War, the Kaditshwene Iron Age Village Ruins and various hiking trails.
The Hartbeespoort Dam is a popular spot for weekend outings, breakfast runs and yachting. The Hartbeespoort Cableway offers a breathtaking view of the Dam and surrounding areas.
The Hartbeespoort Reptile and Animal Park is situated on the banks of the Dam.
Cultural experiences in the area include the popular Mapoch and Gaabo Motho Cultural Villages as well as the Ring Wagon Inn.
The De Wildt Cheetah Breeding and Research Centre specialises in the breeding of cheetah and other endangered wildlife species. Other places of interests include the Borakalalo Game Reserve, the Margaret Roberts Herb Farm and the Phaladingwe Nature Trail.
The Vredefort Dome is a crater 40 km across, caused by the collision of a meteorite with the earth many years ago. It features unique fauna and flora. A variety of hiking and mountain-bike trails are offered.
The Taung Skull Site and the Blue Pools are renowned for the Taung skull found in the Buxton quarries. This region is popular with adventure-seekers - especially the 4x4 routes and hunting farms.
The Pilanesberg National Park supports over 7 000 head of game, including the Big Five and 350 bird species. Guided day and night game drives are available.
The Madikwe Game Reserve is home to the biggest game-relocation programme ever. Over 10 000 animals of 27 major species have been reintroduced under Operation Phoenix. A hot-air balloon ride, day and night game drives and bushwalks are available. Sun City and the Palace of the Lost City are very popular tourist attractions offering gambling, golf, extravaganza shows, water sport and an artificial sea.
There are various hiking trails in the region. The Heritage Route starts at the Sterkfontein Caves World Heritage Site and ends at Pilanesberg.
The OPM Prozesky Bird Sanctuary in Potchefstroom has over 200 bird species and is situated adjacent to the Mooi River. The Oudorp Hiking Trail takes visitors through the old part of Klerksdorp where 12 Voortrekker families settled.
Other attractions in the region include the Potchefstroom Lakeside Resort, the Faan Meintjies Nature Reserve in Klerksdorp, mine tours at Orkney, the Diggers Route at Wolmaransstad, and the Bloemhof Dam Nature Reserve.
epitomises every traveller's dream of the true African experience. Located in the north-eastern part of South Africa, the province is bordered by Mozambique to the east and the Kingdom of Swaziland to the south and east.
The climate and topography vary from cool highland grasslands at 1 600 m above sea level, through the middleveld and Escarpment, to the subtropical Lowveld towards the Kruger National Park and many private game reserves. Scenic beauty, climate and wildlife, voted the most attractive features of South Africa, are found in abundance in the province.
Attractions range from game viewing and bird watching to scenic drives across the valleys and peaks of the vast Drakensberg Escarpment, and include agritourism and industrial tourism, adventure tourism and cultural experiences. Historical sites and villages, old wagon routes and monuments mark events and characters who passed this way in search of adventure and wealth.
The cultural heritage of the province is varied and exciting. The Ndebele beadwork and house-painting in the north-west, the arts and crafts of the Lowveld and the different traditional villages all over the province offer a unique insight into the history of the people.
The Maputo Development Corridor links Gauteng with the Maputo Harbour in Mozambique, opening new tourism opportunities for Mpumalanga.
Its serenity and natural ambience, enthralling landscapes, majestic waterfalls, kaleidoscope of cultures, imposing mountains, unequalled scenic beauty, and enchanting flora and fauna make Mpumalanga a favourite tourist destination.
Mpumalanga offers attractions and activities ranging from game viewing, bird watching, trout fishing, white-water river rafting, hiking, paragliding, abseiling, 4X4 trails, hot-air ballooning and riveting cultural villages to historical sites and monuments testimony to events of yesteryears.
The province has recently been demarcated into tourism regions, each with its own unique features and an array of attractions to ensure a rewarding holiday to visitors.
Nelspruit is the capital of Mpumalanga and the commercial and administrative hub of the Lowveld. The Nelspruit Historical Trail is an hour-long route stretching from the Promenade Centre to the Civic Centre.
The Blue Train runs between Pretoria and Nelspruit from May to September on a trip called the Lowveld Experience. Rovos Rail's trains also visit Nelspruit.
The Green Heritage Hiking Trail in the Nelspruit Nature Reserve is one of several walks in the Reserve and one of many in the region.
Not to be missed is the Lowveld Botanical Garden, as well as the Reptile Park, both situated near the Emnotweni Casino. The Lowveld National Botanical Garden features many rare Lowveld species, which include the country's best collection of indigenous ferns, 500 tree species and the famous rare cycads.
The Sudwala Caves, PR Owen Dinosaur Park, and the artists' village of White River should also not be missed.
Barberton features many reminders of the early gold-rush era. Museums include Belhaven, Fernlea House and Stopforth House. The only known verdite deposits in the world are found in the rocks of the Barberton district. Verdite has been used by sangomas for promoting fertility. An annual Diggers Festival is held in September.
The Blyderivierspoort Nature Reserve near Graskop is characterised by striking rock formations and a rich diversity of plants. Within the Reserve, the Bourke's Luck Potholes were formed by river erosion and the action of flood water.
The spectacular Blyde River Canyon is a 26-km-long gorge carved out of the face of the Escarpment, and is one of the natural wonders of Africa. The Canyon is the thirdlargest in the world but the only green canyon, and hosts three rivers which feed the Blydepoort Dam at Swadini. God's Window provides a magnificent view of miles of thickly forested mountains, the green Lowveld and the Canyon. The Blyderivierspoort Hiking Trail is one of the most popular in the country. A number of other hiking trails are also available.
The southern section of the Kruger National Park falls within this region. The Park is a major tourist attraction, locally and internationally. The main camps have an excellent range of facilities. Game viewing is easier in winter, and guided wilderness trails as well as hiking trails are available. Tourists are also taken on open-vehicle game drives.
Kaapsehoop is a quaint historical village known for the wild horses that frequent the district. Blue swallows are regular visitors from September to April.
The Lydenburg Museum is situated in the Gustav Klingbiel Reserve, which is the site of archaeological ruins from the Later Iron Age. The Lydenburg Heads were discovered in this area.
The Mac Mac Pools and Falls outside Sabie are worth a visit. The 69-km Prospector's Trail starts at the Mac Mac Forest Station and leads to the Bourke's Luck Potholes.
At the Montrose Falls in Schoemanskloof, the Crocodile River cascades 12 m into a series of rock pools. It is also the starting point of the annual Lowveld Crocodile Canoe Marathon, held in February.
Pilgrim's Rest is a living museum and a replica of the early gold-mining town. The Alanglade House Museum offers guided tours of the former mine-manager's house, while the Diggings Museum just outside the town arranges guided tours of gold-panning activities. This area was the setting for Jock of the Bushveld, the novel by Sir Percy Fitzpatrick about the experiences of a man and his dog as they share adventures in the world of African gold-mining. The Dredzen Shop Museum consists of a store stocked with a range of items in use nearly a century ago. The Pilgrim's Rest Festival is held annually in December.
Mount Sheba Nature Reserve, south of Pilgrim's Rest, is best known for its indigenous forest - one of few left in the region.
Sabie is the centre of the largest man-made forest in South Africa.
The Cultural-Historical Forestry Museum depicts various aspects of the country's forestry industry. The Bridal Veil, Horseshoe and Lone Creek Falls just outside Sabie are worth a visit.
The Highlands Meander is a mecca for flyfishers. It is in the placid and pristine waters of this region that one can find various stocks of fish, with trout as the major drawcard. The Meander offers a myriad of activities like rock climbing, bird watching, mountain biking and an abundance of historical sites.
It is in this region at the Verloren Vlei Nature Reserve (Dullstroom) that one can have the rare glimpse of the three endangered crane species (the blue, wattled and crowned cranes).
The Loskop Dam Nature Reserve is one of the country's largest reserves and offers game watching, boating and fishing.
The Highlands Meander is famous for its trout-fishing opportunities. Bird-watching, walking trails and horse trails are also popular. The Steenkampsberg Nature Reserve, outside Dullstroom, provides sanctuary for the rare wattled crane. The annual Trout Festival is held in October.
Horse-riding and trout-fishing are popular in the Highlands Meander area. A large number of hiking trails are available, such as the Elandskrans Trail, which includes a 30-minute train ride between Waterval-Boven and Waterval-Onder.
It is in this region of cultural heartland that one can immerse oneself in the true cultural heritage of Mpumalanga. Here, one can learn about the proud and welcoming amaNdebele people, revered for the striking geometric patterns on their houses and clothing. This region also has illuminating historical sites like Botshabelo Historical Village.
Cosmos country covers parts of what is known as the energy belt of Mpumalanga, which is home to a number of power stations that supply most of the energy to other African countries. This region also boasts the world's largest underground coal-mining complex and the Sasol plant renowned for its technology of extracting oil from coal, a unique process in the world.
The carpet of cosmos flowers that blossoms in late summer also lures visitors to this region.
Wild frontier is deemed the cradle of life, owing to the astonishing archaelogical discoveries dating back to almost three billion years ago in the imposing mountains of this region.
Visitors to this region can have a rare glimpse of the inimitable San paintings embossed in some rocks.
The region also holds rich historical sentiments centered around the monument of Samora Machel constructed in the village of Mbuzini. Due to the location of this region, visitors can have a rare opportunity to visit two other countries (Swaziland and Mozambique) in a short space of time.
Grass and wetlands is indeed a paradise, with a variety of bird species to see. This region stretches across the deep valleys and mountains of the east where thermal springs bubble to the surface.
There are 270 pans and lakes within a 20-km radius of Lake Chrissie. In this region visitors can take part in the unusual 'frogging expedition' or simply gaze at the stars during 'star gazing weekends'.
This region offers visitors plenty attractions, from the daring explorations of the Sudwala Caves, the natural ambience of the Lowveld Botanical Garden, and the nostalgic horse rides in the historical village of Kaapsehoop, to the craftsmen and artists' haven of White River, or the glimpse of a collection of reptiles at the Crocriver Enviro Park, which is Africa's largest reptile park.
The region also features the Kruger National Park, which stretches across Mpumalanga into Limpopo.
Adventurers can take part in the four night/five-day Lebombo 4X4 Overland Trail, which stretches from the Crocodile River in the south to the mighty Limpopo.
The Gauteng Provincial Government is to contribute more than R300 million over the next few years towards developing tourism sites in the province. These include a Big Five nature reserve east of Pretoria, developing infrastructure in the Leeufontein Nature Reserve and Roodeplaat Dam Reserve, and improving the Cradle of Humankind Heritage Site near Krugersdorp.
Gauteng offers a vibrant business environment and many tourist attractions, including a rainbow of ecological and cultural diversity.
The Vaal Dam covers some 300 km2 and is a popular venue for water sport. Numerous resorts line the shore. The Dam also attracts a great diversity of birds.
Vanderbijlpark was built during the late 1940s by the Iron and Steel Corporation to accommodate its employees.
The Sterkfontein Caves near Krugersdorp are the site of the discovery of the skull of the famous Mrs Ples (now believed to be Mr Ples), an estimated 2,5-million-year-old hominid fossil, and Little Foot, an almost complete hominid skeleton some 3,3-million years old.
The Caves comprise a series of caverns with many stalactites and stalagmites and a huge underground lake. Guided tours are available. The Wonder Cave, about two billion years old, is one of South Africa's most impressive natural assets. In 1999, Sterkfontein and its environs were declared a World Heritage Site.
The Krugersdorp Game Reserve provides sanctuary for several game species, including four of the Big Five. The African Fauna and Bird Park houses various species of wildlife and birds.
The South African National Railway and Steam Museum at Randfontein Estates Gold Mine outside Krugersdorp houses some of the country's old steam locomotives, a dieselelectric locomotive, and more than 50 vintage passenger coaches. Train rides are offered once a month.
A team of Lippizaner stallions performs every Sunday at the South African National Horsemanship Centre, Kyalami, near Johannesburg.
Visitors to Roodepoort can go on walks and trails through the Kloofendal Nature Reserve, or enjoy a picnic or show at the popular Kloofendal Amphitheatre. The Witwatersrand National Botanical Garden boasts a 70-m high waterfall.
Forty kilometres north of Pretoria lies a ring of hills a kilometre in diameter and 100 m high. These hills are the walls of an impact crater left by an asteroid that hit there some 200 000 years ago. The Tswaing Meteorite Crater is similar in size to the well-known Barringer meteor crater in Arizona, USA. The Crater walls at Tswaing were originally about twice as high as they are today.
There is a museum adjacent to the Crater. A path leads from the museum to the Crater, along the rim, and down to the central lake. The Crater is covered with indigenous trees and bushes and attracts a variety of bird life.
The old mining town of Cullinan developed around the Premier Diamond Mine and many turn-of-the-century houses still stand. The Mine has produced some of the world's most famous diamonds, including the Cullinan, the world's largest at 3 106 carats.
The Willem Prinsloo Agricultural Museum outside Cullinan centres around a farmstead dating from 1880. Traditional farming activities are demonstrated, and annual events include a prickly-pear festival, a mampoer festival and the Agricultural Museum Show.
The Adler Museum of the History of Medicine depicts the history of medicine, dentistry and pharmacy in South Africa. The Pharmacy Museum in Melrose houses a large variety of medicines, including more than 670 traditional medicines that have been collected throughout southern Africa.
There is also a display of old prescription books and dictionaries used by pharmacists in 1755.
Museum Africa in Newtown tells the story of life in South Africa from the Stone Age to the Nuclear Age and beyond. The museum is located in the old fruit-and-vegetable building next to the Market Theatre.
The Market Theatre Complex comprises three theatres, an art gallery, restaurants and pubs. Kippies Jazz Bar is a popular venue for live jazz.
Lesedi Cultural Village in the Swartkops Hills north of Johannesburg gives visitors the opportunity to meet families of different tribes. Visitors can spend the night with a family of their choice.
The Phumanegna Zulu Kraal is an authentic Zulu kraal with traditional Zulu people living and working there.
The Melville Koppies in Johannesburg was once the site of a Stone Age African village and iron-smelting works. The flora includes 80% of the species recorded on the Witwatersrand. It is open to the public from September to April.
Gold Reef City is a reconstruction of Johannesburg during the gold-rush era. Attractions include a Victorian funfair, pubs, miners' houses, a brewery, restaurants, a hotel and a stock exchange. Visitors can take a trip down an old mine shaft and watch molten gold being poured.
The Apartheid Museum near Gold Reef City tells the story of the legacy of apartheid through exhibitions consisting of film footage, photographs, text panels and artifacts.
At Santarama Miniland and Entertainment World visitors can explore models of South Africa's most popular beacons, such as Robben Island, Johannesburg International Airport, East London Harbour, the Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town, and the Union Buildings in Pretoria.
The South African Museum of Military History houses an impressive collection of weaponry and uniforms from the two World Wars. The South African Transport Museum (Heidelberg) relates to all aspects of South Africa's transport services.
A large, well-established park surrounds Zoo Lake, which is frequented by breeding bird colonies. Other attractions include jazz concerts, rowing boats for hire, a tea garden and a restaurant.
Soweto (an acronym for South Western Townships) is a popular tourist destination. It is estimated that some 1 000 foreign tourists visit Soweto every day.
The two-bedroom house where former President Mandela lived before his incarceration has been declared a national monument and converted into a museum.
Another venue worth visiting is the Hector Petersen Museum, which commemorates the people who died following the student uprising of 16 June 1976. The museum was named after the young boy, who was the first person to be shot dead by police on that day.
Many historical buildings can be seen in the city, which is known for its jacaranda trees.
Church Square is centred around a statue of Paul Kruger, President of the former Zuid-Afrikaansche Republiek, and includes buildings such as the Old Raadsaal and the Palace of Justice.
The Kruger House Museum contains the personal belongings of President Kruger. Melrose House is a beautiful example of Victorian architecture. The Peace Treaty of Vereeniging, which ended the Anglo-Boer/ South African War, was signed here in 1902.
Demonstrations at the Pioneer Open-Air Museum include milking cows, making butter and candles, baking bread and grinding coffee beans.
Other museums include the Police Museum, the Science and Technology Museum, the Coert Steynberg Museum and the Transvaal Museum of Natural History.
The Voortrekker Monument also houses a museum and commemorates the Great Trek. Some 260 steps lead to the dome, where spectacular views of the city can be enjoyed.
Fort Schanskop has been refurbished and boasts a 375-seat amphitheatre.
The Union Buildings were designed by Sir Herbert Baker and completed in 1913. They were the setting for the presidential inauguration of Nelson Mandela in 1994, and of Thabo Mbeki on 16 June 1999.
The Sammy Marks Museum just outside Pretoria dates from 1885. Rooms in the house are filled with Victorian paintings, furniture, silver and porcelain. There is a tea garden and restaurant on the premises.
The General Smuts House Museum in Irene, south-east of Pretoria, contains the original furnishings of the Smuts family. A popular arts and craft market is held here on certain Saturdays.
The Rietvlei Nature Reserve is notable for its 73 grass types, 147 different herbs, a large number of game and over 140 bird species. In July 2000, five hippos were released into the Reserve, the first hippos to roam the area in more than 100 years.
The Mapoch Ndebele Village, north of Pretoria, is being restored by its residents and the National Cultural History Museum. To develop the project into a viable, living tourist village, the 50 families staying there have undergone tourist-guide and business training. It is the first living cultural village in South Africa owned and managed by its residents.
Mamelodi is a dynamic black community set against the majestic backdrop of the Magalies-berg mountain range. The township was established on the farm Vlakfontein in 1945, whose name was changed to Mamelodi in 1962. The Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism, together with the Mamelodi Heritage Forum, launched the Mamelodi Heritage Route at the Solomon Mahlangu Freedom Square in Mamelodi, in September 2000.
KwaZulu-Natal continues to attract the largest number of local tourists, catering for 44% of the domestic-tourist market in 2000.
The Tourist Junction in Durban's historical station building provides access to tourist information, accommodation bookings for Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife (formerly KwaZulu-Natal Nature Conservation Service) and South African National Parks, and theatre bookings.
The Golden Mile skirts the main beaches of the Indian Ocean. Attractions include an amusement centre, paddling pools, paved walkways and fountains.
The Durban area has more than 50 reserves, developed parks and specialised gardens, the most renowned being the Municipal Botanical Garden.
Seaworld on Durban's beach front is home to a wide variety of sea life, including sharks, dolphins and seals. Fish and sharks are hand-fed, and dolphin and seal shows are held daily.
The Fitzsimons Snake Park offers lectures and venom-milking demonstrations.
MiniTown is a model city depicting Durban's best-known buildings.
Museums include the Natural History Museum, the Natural Science Museum, the Old House Museum and the Old Fort.
The Shree Ambalavaanar Alayam Temple (The Second River Temple) in Cato Manor was the first Hindu temple on the African continent. It is a national monument.
The Juma Mosque is the largest mosque in the southern hemisphere. Daily tours are available.
Annual events in and around the city include the popular Comrades Marathon between Durban and Pietermaritzburg, an international surfing competition, and the July Handicap horse-race.
Umhlanga Rocks, just north of Durban, is notable for its ski-boating facilities. The annual Ski Boat Festival takes place in April. The Natal Sharks Board offers shark dissections and interesting displays. Guided tours of the Hawaan Forest are on offer. Hawaan is the last relic of coastal forest in the region and contains rare indigenous trees.
The Umgeni River Bird Park overlooks the Umgeni River and ranks among the world's best. Many varieties of birds, indigenous and exotic, inhabit walk-in aviaries.
The coastline between the Umdloti and the Tugela Rivers is aptly called the Dolphin Coast, as Indian Ocean bottlenose dolphins can be seen here all year round. The larger humpback dolphins are also found here, but are rarely seen.
Many of the first Indian immigrants settled here, and the area's markets, mosques and temples bring an authentic eastern flavour to the region.
Tongaat is an area where sugar was first planted in 1854. The town's Indian ambience is accentuated by two prominent Hindu temples - the Juggernath Puri and Vishwaroop temples.
Other coastal towns on the Dolphin Coast include Shaka's Rock, Salt Rock, Ballito, Verulam, Stanger, Darnall and Umdloti.
The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park is one of the largest game parks in South Africa and hosts the Big Five as well as the elusive cheetah and wild dogs.
The eMakhosini Valley, birthplace of King Shaka, is the venue for a new tourism- and economic-development project. Known as Makhosini, 'the Valley of Zulu Kings', the joint public-private sector project aims to preserve the culture and history of the Zulu people. The project was launched in October 1998. Construction of the first lodge in the Valley, called Nexele's House, started at the end of March 2000. Tourism KwaZulu-Natal has injected a sum of R1,36 million as seed capital for the development of the lodge.
The eMakhosini Memorial Site, where seven Zulu Kings are buried, was unveiled in May 2003.
Ulundi lies at the hub of the old Zulu Kingdom. The KwaZulu Cultural Museum houses interesting displays relating to Zulu history and archaeology. The beehive huts and the layout of the original Zulu village have been reproduced.
Umgungundlovu used to be the royal capital of King Dingaan and is being reconstructed. A tour provides the opportunity to observe Zulu building techniques and experience the social life of the Zulu people.
Authentic Zulu villages such as Shakaland, Kwabhekithunga Kraal and Stewart's Farm offer accommodation and the opportunity to experience traditional Zulu culture.
The Lubombo Corridor is one of the Spatial Development Initiatives spearheaded by government to unlock economic potential in previously neglected areas. The Corridor will stretch from the St Lucia Wetland Park in KwaZulu-Natal, along the Indian Ocean coastline, to Ponta do Ouro in Mozambique, and will embrace the Jozini Dam and game reserves in Swaziland. The area supports 3 048 different plant and animal species and six ecosystems. In addition to 25 major tourist attractions, there are 11 game reserves and the World Heritage Site, the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, as well as Border Cave, which is in a cliff-face in the Lubombo mountains, near the Swaziland border. The Cave has long been one of the most important sites for archaeologists seeking the beginnings of modern human beings.
The Greater St Lucia Wetlands have some of the highest forested dunes in the world. The St Lucia Lake and its surroundings comprise a wetland of global importance. It is a fishing and bird-watcher's paradise.
The Kosi Bay Nature Reserve is part of the Coastal Forest Reserve between Mozambique and Sodwana Bay. The adjacent Indian Ocean provides exciting snorkelling and fishing opportunities. On offer is a four-day guided walking trail around the estuarine system. Lake Sibaya is South Africa's largest natural freshwater lake, covering some 77 km2. Bird-watching and walks through the coastal forest are major attractions.
Sibaya Lake Lodge, the first South African ecotourism development jointly owned by private enterprise and the local community, was officially launched in September 1999. The development is administered by the Kwa-Chithumuzi Tourism and Development Trust.
Maputuland is a region of coral, unspoilt beaches, freshwater lakes, sand forests, wetland systems and bushveld. Activities include game-viewing, snorkelling, diving, boat cruises, canoeing and walking safaris.
The coral reef in the Sodwana Bay National Park attracts hundreds of scuba-divers throughout the year, and in summer powerboaters arrive for some of the best marlinfishing in the world.
The Banana Express is a narrow-gauge steam train running between Port Shepstone and Paddock and back (39km) twice a week. A shorter route is also available.
Amanzimtoti is popular for its safe swimming beaches and various other activities and attractions.
The Hibiscus Coast stretches between Umkomaas and the Wild Coast. Margate is the largest resort town along this Coast, and is very popular during the holidays. The Hibiscus Festival is held in July.
The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve encompasses forest, rivers, rapids and ravines.
Prolific bird life, including five kingfisher species and seven eagle species, inhabits the Reserve, along with a variety of mammals.
Port Edward is known for its safe swimming and good fishing opportunities. Nearby, the Umthamvuna Nature Reserve is noted for its beautiful scenery, bird life and many rare plant species.
The Shell Museum at Shelly Beach is well worth a visit to see its large display of shells.
Other popular coastal towns include Port Shepstone, Ramsgate, St Michael's-on-Sea, Uvongo and Scottburgh.
Sardine fever strikes the South Coast around the end of June every year, with people flocking to the beaches to scoop the sardines up, while anglers wait for the game fish to arrive.
Pietermaritzburg boasts various museums, including the Voortrekker Museum, the Natal Museum and the Natal Steam Railway Museum, which offers steam-train rides on the second Sunday of every month.
The Albert Falls Public Resort Nature Reserve and the Albert Falls Dam provide opportunities for sailing, canoeing and fishing.
Bird watching, horse riding and hiking are also popular pastimes.
The Howick Falls are situated in the Valley Nature Reserve, where the river tumbles down 100 m in a single fall. The Midlands Meander is a scenic drive between Hilton and Mooi River with about 70 ports of call en route, ranging from art studios, potters and painters, to herb gardens and cheese-makers.
Midmar Dam is zoned for yachting and powerboating. The 1000-ha Midmar Game Park is inhabitated by rhino, zebra, a wide variety of antelope species, and waterfowl.
Ezemvelo KwaZulu-Natal Wildlife's trout hatcheries are located in the Kamberg Reserve.
The Lotheni Nature Reserve is notable for its trout-fishing facilities (angling permits are required). Relics of the area's history have been preserved in the Settler Museum.
The Himeville Nature Reserve has two lakes stocked with trout. The Swamp Nature Reserve close by attracts a variety of waterfowl, including the rare wattled crane.
The Ndedema Gorge is located in the Mdedelelo Wilderness Area near Cathedral Peak, and contains examples of Khoi and San art.
Sani Pass is the only road between KwaZulu-Natal and the Kingdom of Lesotho. The Giant's Cup Hiking Trail, starting at the foot of the Pass, is described as one of South Africa's finest. Giant's Castle Game Reserve is especially known for its more than 5 000 San paintings on the walls of the caves. The Bushman Site Museum is well worth a visit.
The Reserve is a bird-watcher's paradise, and a bird hide facilitates the viewing of cliffdwelling species.
The Royal Natal National Park offers many scenic highlights, including the Amphitheatre, Mont-aux-Sources and the Tugela Falls.
The Kamberg Rock Art Centre, situated in the Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, offers visitors a glimpse of more than 40 000 San Bushman images.
The Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park is one of 23 World Heritage Sites worldwide.
The 230 000 ha of protected area contains 500 known sites of San rock art. The Kamberg San Rock Art Trail and Interpretive Centre offer visitors information about the world of the San, and the opportunity to walk to the game pass shelter to view outstanding examples of their art in the company of a trained guide.
The Drakensberg mountain range forms the north-western border of KwaZulu-Natal.
A variety of wildlife including antelope, predators, small mammals and reptiles can be seen here.
The whole area is a bird sanctuary, and the endangered lammergeier (or bearded vulture) can be spotted. The highest concentration of walks and trails in South Africa is found here.
Many of these trails lead to sites once inhabited by the San, whose legacy of rock art can be viewed.
White and black rhino, elephant, crocodile, giraffe, cheetah and leopard, among others, can be seen at the Itala Game Reserve.
The KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Route has the highest concentration of battlefields and related military sites in South Africa. The Battlefields Route starts at Estcourt and winds north through Colenso and Ladysmith to Newcastle and Volksrust, and eastwards to Utrecht, Glencoe, Dundee, Nqutu, Paulpietersburg, Vryheid, Babanango and Ulundi.
All the towns along the Route have their unique charm and range of attractions: arts and craft, scenic hiking trails, farm resorts, Zulu culture and roadside stalls. Game viewing, natural hot springs, horse trails and water sport can also be enjoyed.
The Chelmsford Nature Reserve near Newcastle is a bird-watcher's paradise.
Power boating and carp fishing are added attractions. Game includes springbuck, zebra, rhino and blesbuck. Other attractions in Ladysmith include the Statue of Fandhi, the All Saints Church, the Soofi Mosque and the Spioenkop Dam and Nature Reserve.
Near Dundee, tourists can visit various battlefields, including Blood River, Isandlwana, Rorke's Drift and Talana. The Talana Museum depicts various facets of the coal industry, as well as local Zulu, Boer and British history.
Rorke's Drift was the setting for one of the most famous battles of the War. The main attrraction is the Rorke's Drift Battle Museum.
Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism Eastern Cape Provincial Government Free State Provincial Government Gauteng Provincial Government KwaZulu-Natal Provincial Government Limpopo Provincial Government Mpumalanga Provincial Government Northern Cape Provincial Government North West Provincial Government South African National Parks South African Tourism Western Cape Provincial Government www.gov.
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