South Africa: 10 Curiosities To Know Before Visiting

Before you pack your bags and head to South Africa, there are several curiosities about this fascinating country that you should know. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and wildlife unlike anywhere else on earth, South Africa is a destination that promises to amaze every traveler.

As someone who's explored this diverse country, I've gathered key insights that will enhance your visit and help you navigate the nuances of local life, history, and attractions.

South Africa is often called the "Rainbow Nation" due to its vibrant mix of cultures, languages, and people. Whether you’re venturing into the cosmopolitan streets of Cape Town, the scenic Garden Route, or the iconic Kruger National Park, you’ll experience a unique blend of natural beauty and urban sophistication. But beyond the typical tourist spots, there are a few facts and tips that will make your trip smoother and more enriching.

For instance, did you know that South Africa has 11 official languages? Or that it’s home to the world-famous Table Mountain? As you plan your trip, understanding the local etiquette, safety tips, and cultural nuances will ensure you’re respectful and well-prepared. Let me share everything you need to know to make the most of your adventure in South Africa.

South Africa: 10 Curiosities To Know Before Visiting

1. A rainbow nation (in theory)

South Africa is known by the nickname “ Rainbow Nation ” because it is made up of diverse cultures and ethnic groups . This term was coined by Desmond Tutu , a South African archbishop known for his fight against Apartheid, the system of institutionalized racial segregation that was in force in South Africa until the 1990s.

The “Rainbow Nation” reflects the idea that the different cultures that make up the country live in harmony, uniting their differences to build an inclusive and multicultural society . Although we have to admit that, in our journey through the country we noticed that segregation continues. Socioeconomic injustice, unequal distribution of wealth and opportunities, as well as residential segregation are problems that influence people's daily lives.

Of course, incredible progress has been made since the end of Apartheid, but the road to equality is still long and we are only at the beginning of a new nation that, we are sure, will be much more inclusive in the future.

2. A beach full of penguins

Did you know that there are penguins in South Africa? Yes, and it is one of the curiosities of South Africa that we liked the most. It is the Cape penguin , the only species of penguin that lives on the African continent and a real sweetheart. They are found in several locations, one of the best places to get to know these friendly and peculiar animals up close is Boulder Beach , on the Cape Peninsula .

Here visitors have the opportunity to walk along wooden walkways that surround the beaches where African penguins live in their natural habitat, swimming in the sea and resting on the sand.

Cape penguins in South Africa

3. Sterkfontein Caves, the cradle of humanity

Sterkfontein Cave is a world-renowned archaeological site, thanks to the discoveries of Australopithecus africanus fossils , a fundamental discovery for understanding human evolution. Due to its importance, it was declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO . It is located north of Johannesburg, here you can see more information about these caves.

4. Table Mountain, a natural wonder

In Cape Town, you can see a curious mountain that has a distinctive flat shape … so flat that it has been named “Table Mountain”. It is considered one of the seven natural wonders of the world . The best thing is that you can reach its summit by a comfortable panoramic cable car that is a little scary, to be honest. And once at the top, you can enjoy some brutal views of the city and the South African coast.

Table Mountain in Cape Town

5. There are not 1, not 2, but 3 capitals

You heard right: South Africa has three capitals ! We'll give you a few seconds to check your geography level, although we're sure you won't get them right... They are: Pretoria is the administrative capital; Cape Town is the legislative capital; and Bloemfontein is the judicial capital.

6. Protea, the national flower

We went to South Africa with the intention of meeting the Big Five, but we have to admit that the first thing that blew us away was the incredible diversity of trees, plants and flowers . Of all the species, South Africa's national flower is the Protea , which is characterised by its dense petals that display a palette of colours from white and pink to shades of red and purple.

You can see this captivatingly beautiful flower at the Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden in Cape Town , where you will also learn that it is a super-resistant flower, perhaps that is why it was chosen to represent the country, as a symbol of tenacity and strength.

curiosities of South Africa national flower Protea

7. Rugby, much more than a sport

In South Africa, rugby is much more than just a sport, it is a bond that unites the entire nation and to explain it, there is nothing better than telling you the story of the '95 World Cup (briefly, don't worry hehe).

That World Cup was a crucial moment in South Africa 's history : it had just emerged from the apartheid era and Mandela, with the help of the Springbok captain, François Pienaar, managed to unite a divided country and send a message of hope and reconciliation to a broken post-apartheid South Africa. If you haven't already, we recommend watching the film "Invictus" , which talks precisely about that World Cup.

We were lucky enough to travel to South Africa during the 2023 World Cup held in France and we were able to see how the South African people lived it with a unique passion, wearing the Springboks jerseys on match days and celebrating as a united people. By the way, they were champions!

8. South Africa is a paradise for nature lovers

Beyond its cultural wealth, South Africa is a paradise for those looking to be surrounded by nature and especially… animals! In this incredible country it is possible to see the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhinoceros and leopard) in several national parks. Although you should not forget giraffes, hippos, crocodiles, zebras, antelopes, etc… You cannot leave without visiting the Kruger National Park , where you will see so many animals 🙂

You can't forget to watch the oceans either , because between June and November the coast of South Africa is filled with a curious and gigantic animal... We are talking about the southern right whale ! The best place to see them is Hermanus , where you can take a boat tour or simply stay stationed at one of its viewing points facing the bay.

lions in south africa

9. Load Shedding, one of the curiosities of South Africa that left us crazy

Something that struck us as very peculiar when travelling around South Africa was discovering (and experiencing) “load shedding”, a system for managing electricity demand . Basically, when the electricity grid is overloaded, scheduled power cuts are implemented to balance supply and demand. They take place in specific areas and at specific times in order to avoid massive blackouts.

The country's electricity infrastructure is not prepared for the economic and social growth it has experienced in recent years. We have experienced this several times, but the truth is that one gets used to it and, in addition, there is an APP ("Eskom Se Push") and a website to see when and where these "power cuts" will take place so you can organize yourself.

10. Raise your glass and toast

Did you know that South Africa is an exceptional wine destination ? South African wines span a wide variety of grape varieties, from classics like Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Chardonnay, to unique and indigenous varieties like Pinotage , which combines Pinot Noir and Cinsaut grapes.

The climate, the terrain and the landscape are ideal for producing a wine of excellent quality, and this did not go unnoticed by the French and Dutch settlers, who founded beautiful wineries , some of which have survived to this day. The best plan is to go to the Winelands area north of Cape Town ( Stellenbosch and Franschhoek ) and have a tasting session, which are also cheap.

So now you know, forget about the fridge magnet: the best souvenir to take home is a bottle of wine! Cheers!

Vineyards in Stellenbosch South Africa

We have reached the end of the post and we hope to have entertained you with these curious and peculiar facts about one of the most surprising, diverse and complete destinations that exist. Have you been there yet? Do you know more oddities and curiosities about South Africa ?

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