AFRICA

Discover the Hidden Quirks of South Africa

South Africa

About

South Africa is the most southerly country on the continent of Africa. This is a unique country, as it is the only country in the world that has 3 capital cities: Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein. South Africa is known for its glorious wildlife and safari’s, natural beauty and cultural diversity.

Johannesburg is a great place to experience art and culture in South Africa. It has an abundance of live shows and mesmerising art galleries, which really brings the city to life and gives it its own unique personality. For an unforgettable experience, a day trip from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park is a must-do. Take an exciting safari and see Africa’s wildest and most endangered animals up close and in their natural habitat. While in Johannesburg, why not step back in time and visit The Cradle of Humanity which is located just outside the city. This historic site contains remains of fossils and hominids dating back to 2-3 million years ago. This is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and gives a fascinating look into human history and what our ancestors looked like.

Another fascinating city in South Africa is Cape Town. Known for its scenic seaside views and harbour, Cape Town is a lively city with an energetic atmosphere. It brings a feel-good factor to any tourist visiting. The city is covered with stunning natural landscapes, such as the iconic Table Mountain. Hike or take a cable car to the top of the mountain and take a birds-eye view of the whole of Cape Town in all its glory. Visit for sunrise and be breath-taken from the picturesque scenes. To experience the city entirely, wander around Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Here you can shop in the local markets and enjoy the buzzing atmosphere.

Just like Cape Town, Durban is also a coastal city. Durban is famous for its heavenly soft beaches and Indian influence. The Golden Mile is a stretch of beaches along the east side of Durban and is the perfect place to relax and work on your tan. Due to the cities balmy weather, walking along the three miles of beaches feels like paradise. It will make for an excellent experience for all. A must visit while in Durban is Victoria Street Market which displays a colourful array of stalls and art. It emphasises the Indian influence on the city. Here you can buy the best Asian spices and jewellery while basking in the vibrant atmosphere of this seaside city.

Things to Know Before You Go

  • The main languages of South Africa are English and Afrikaans.
  • The official currency used is the South African Rand (R).
  • Major airports include OR Tambo International Airport (JNB), Cape Town International Airport (CPT), and King Shaka International Airport (DUR).
  • Water is drinkable in major cities, but make sure to check if it is safe to drink in smaller towns.
  • South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere: December to February is summer, March to May is autumn, June to August is winter, and September to November is spring.
  • In Cape Town, summer months average at daily highs of 26°C/79°F and lows of 16°C/61°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 18°C/64°F and lows of 7°C/45°F.
  • In Johannesburg, summer months average at daily highs of 25°C/77°F and lows of 14°C/57°F. In winter months there are average daily highs of 17°C/63°F and lows of 4°C/39°F.
  • South Africa drives on the left side of the road.
  • When parking your car, make sure to tip the car guards. As you pull into park somewhere, someone in a yellow/orange vest may start asking you for money. They keep your car safe. If you do not tip them, they may damage your vehicle.
  • The drinking age is 21.
  • Power plugs are of type C, D, M, and N. Voltage is 230 V and frequency is 50 Hz.

The Quirky and Unusual

Cango Caves

Situated 29km from Oudshoorn in Cango Valley lies the Cango Caves. Cango is a Bushman word meaning water between the hills. These caves were discovered in the 1700s and are Africa’s largest caves, perfect for both thrill-seekers and lovers of natural beauty!

There are two tour options available: the heritage tour and the adventure tour. If you want to explore beautiful stalactites and stalagmites, learn some history about the caves, and wander through the wide-open underground wander, then the heritage tour is for you! This tour is an easy walk which takes you through the first six largest halls, through to the African Drum room.

For the thrill-seekers, check out the adventure tour. On this challenging tour, you will venture through narrow corridors and exciting tunnels. As some of the tunnels are very narrow, you can measure yourself in a tunnel-model before buying a ticket to see if you will fit through! It is required that you wear non-slip footwear.

Address: 84 Kerk Street, Oudtshoorn, 6620, South Africa

Coordinates: -33.5869, 22.1983

ABC Travel

18 Upper Mount Street,
Dublin 2.
Eircode: D02 ER26

Telephone: 086 8522 189
E-mail: kieran@concise.ie

 

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