South Africa Holidays 2012

Due to its diverse landscape, South Africa not only provides each visitor with a unique experience, but it also provides you with an unforgettable holiday. Most first time visitors head to the coast for their visit because of the fantastic golden beaches on offer. However, travelling further inland can also provide you with great rewards.

The National Parks are outstanding and teeming with the most exotic wildlife. The big cities, such as Cape Town which features the majestic Table Mountain are now cosmopolitan and exciting places to spend time. Robben Island also features highly on visitor's lists.

The Capital

South Africa has three capital cities and each one serves a different purpose. Cape Town is the legislative capital of South Africa and is one of the most populated cities in the country; Johannesburg is the only other city in South Africa with a larger population.

Bloemfontein is the judicial capital, while Pretoria is the executive capital. Cape Town and Johannesburg have the most to offer tourists. Cape Town is home to the beautiful Cape Town beaches, but also Table Mountain National Park.

Food and Culture

South Africa is a mix of cultures, which goes along with the ethnic diversity of the country. There are eleven different languages spoken in South Africa that are recognized in the constitution, but English is spoken most often in public and in business. No matter what the culture is religious beliefs, mainly Christianity, play a huge role in people’s daily lives. Nowhere does the culture of the area stand out better than in the food.

Among some of the most popular local cuisine is the braai or barbeque that includes spicy sausages and mielies, which is something like porridge. Curry and other types of Indian food are becoming quite popular, but are most often seen in Durban where the Indian population is larger.

Wildlife

South Africa is home to a variety of wildlife, including snakes, birds, predators, and plain animals. In South Africa alone there are 229 different species of mammals and 858 different species of birds.

You can easily catch a glimpse of the wildlife at one of South Americas National Parks. Although you might see snakes along your journey do not approach them because South Africa is home to some of the deadliest snakes in the world, including the Black and Green Mamba and the Cape Cobra.

Climate

One of the best things about South Africa is how you can find desert climate in one area, but travel northwest and you will find a subtropical climate. The varying climates are due in part to Atlantic and Indian Oceans that surround three sides of South Africa. Another reason for the varied climate is the rise in elevation as you travel inland towards the equator.

In the southwest part of South Africa you will find wet winters and hot, dry summers. The southwest is also known for its windy conditions all year long. If you go a bit east along the coast you will find a climate that provides rainfall throughout the year, which contributes to the lush green landscape of the area. Nam id, which is in the southern part of the state has an extreme desert climate, while you will find a subtropical climate along the Mozambique border.