Geographic Location
Location in Africa: South Africa is located at the southernmost tip of the African continent, bordered by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, and Eswatini. Lesotho is an independent country entirely surrounded by South Africa.
Latitude and Longitude: Between 22°S and 35°S, and 17°E and 33°E.
Size: 1,221,037 square kilometers.
Population
Population: Estimated at over 60 million.
Economy
GDP:
- Nominal GDP: Approximately $400 billion.
- GDP per capita: Around $6,670.
National Symbols
Anthem: “National Anthem of South Africa” (a hybrid of “Nkosi Sikelel’ iAfrika” and “Die Stem van Suid-Afrika”).
National Pledge: South Africa does not have an official national pledge.
Culture and Customs
Ethnic Groups: A diverse mix of African (79.5%), White (9.2%), Mixed Race (8.9%), and Asian (2.5%) populations.
Languages: 11 official languages, including Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans, and English.
Religion: Predominantly Christian, with other faiths such as Islam, Hinduism, and traditional African beliefs.
Customs: South Africa is known as the “Rainbow Nation” due to its cultural diversity. Traditional music, dance, and cuisine vary widely across ethnic groups. Braai (barbecue) is a popular culinary tradition.
Main Airports
- O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB): Located in Johannesburg, the largest and busiest airport.
- Cape Town International Airport (CPT): Serves the Western Cape region.
- King Shaka International Airport (DUR): Located in Durban.
Popular Tourist Destinations
- Kruger National Park: Famous for its wildlife and safari experiences.
- Table Mountain: A landmark in Cape Town offering stunning views.
- Robben Island: A UNESCO World Heritage site and former prison of Nelson Mandela.
- Garden Route: A scenic coastal drive with diverse landscapes.
- Drakensberg Mountains: Known for hiking and breathtaking scenery.
Events and Festivals
- Heritage Day (September 24): Celebrates the country’s cultural diversity.
- Cape Town International Jazz Festival: A major music event.
- Comrades Marathon: An iconic ultramarathon.
- National Arts Festival: Held annually in Makhanda (Grahamstown).
Practical Information
Calling Code: +27.
Country Domain: .za.
Currency: South African Rand (ZAR)