South Africa
History
The Dutch East India Company established a supply station at the Cape.
The Anglo-Zulu War was fought, including the Zulu victory at Isandlwana.
The Union of South Africa was formed under British dominion.
The National Party came to power and codified apartheid.
Nelson Mandela was released and the first democratic elections were held.
A new constitution with a bill of rights was adopted.
Part ofAfricaMore countries, cities and routes.Short facts
RegionSouthern Africa
LanguageAfrikaans, English
Time zoneSAST (UTC+2)
Drives onLeft
Worth seeing
- Table Mountain: The flat-topped massif above Cape Town and its national park.
- Kruger National Park: One of Africa's largest game reserves, on the Mozambique border.
- Robben Island: The prison island where Mandela was held, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Find a city in South Africa
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Cape Town
Durban
Hermanus
PretoriaPlanning questions
What is South Africa known for?Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, Robben Island.
What is the capital?Pretoria.
Which language is useful?Afrikaans, English.
When is the national day?27 April.
How should I browse it here?Start with the facts, jump to linked cities, then check events and topics.
Upcoming events
LIV Golf South Africa2026-03-19 - 2026-03-22 - Johannesburg - LIV Golf
Durban JulyJul 2026 · South Africa
Cape Town MarathonOct 2026 · South Africa
Hermanus Whale FestivalSep 2026 · South AfricaUse Pretoria as the first planning anchor for South Africa, then compare the city, food and worth-seeing notes on this page.
Food & drink
Street food
CoffeeKnown for
Table MountainKruger National ParkRobben IslandPretoriaStreet foodCoffee
Music & Culture